Cabin camping options near Belmar, New Jersey include rustic accommodations with basic amenities across several state and county parks. The region sits within the coastal plain where sandy soil and pine forests create distinctive camping conditions. Most cabins in this area operate seasonally, with summer being the peak period when temperatures average 75-85°F during the day and 60-70°F at night.
What to do
Hiking trails: Brendan Byrne State Forest offers extensive trail networks through the Pine Barrens. "Lots of good hiking trails, most the sites have pretty decent privacy from the other ones," notes camper Dan M. The forest maintains year-round accessibility with trails ranging from beginner to moderate difficulty levels.
Mountain biking: Allaire State Park features diverse biking terrain from paved paths to technical routes. "Mountain Biking from easy, paved trails to several miles of single track with everything in between," reports Beau B. The park maintains well-marked bike trails suitable for various skill levels.
Water activities: Turkey Swamp Park provides lake access for fishing, kayaking and canoeing. "Plenty to do over a 2 night stay. Archery, boating, fishing, and hiking. Boat rental rates are acceptable and there are four different styles to choose from," writes Dan W. The lake permits non-motorized watercraft with rentals available during summer months.
What campers like
Private sites: The wooded campsites at Turkey Swamp Park offer good separation between neighbors. "Nice, remote, private. Some sites unlevel. Bring a LONG water hose," advises Shawn. Many campers appreciate the natural buffer between sites that provides additional privacy.
Winter camping options: Brendan T. Byrne State Forest remains open year-round, accommodating cold-weather enthusiasts. "We go every year. It has everything the outdoorsman could ask for. Bring your bow and shoot at the hay barrels. Ice skate on the lake in the winter or just enjoy a gorgeous walk in the woods," shares Patrick M.
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance receives consistent praise from visitors. "The bathrooms and showers here were in really good condition, well cleaned and stocked, and was pleasant to use!" notes Dorian P. Most parks provide flush toilets and hot showers, though availability may be limited during off-season months.
What you should know
Tick awareness: Several campsites report heavy tick presence during warmer months. "By the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2. That was so crazy because we were just sitting by our camper," warns Laura Y. about Turkey Swamp Park. Proper repellent and regular tick checks are essential.
Limited equestrian facilities: Horse campgrounds near Belmar, New Jersey are scarce, with most parks offering general camping without dedicated equestrian amenities. While some trails may accommodate horses, specialized corrals or designated horse camping areas are not widely available at state parks in this region.
Fire restrictions: Some campgrounds enforce specific burning hours. "Only weird rule I saw was that fires can only go from 6pm till 7am which was odd but wasn't a deal breaker," mentions Dorian P. Fire regulations vary by location and season, with some parks requiring purchase of firewood on-site.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Liberty Harbor RV Park provides urban camping with nearby attractions for children. "Very plain & functional, no frills but right on the harbor & on the very edge of Jersey City, close to a ferry & the train that takes u across to New York City. Shopping & restraunts are right next door. We brought scooters & had a great stay!" shares Emily L.
Bug preparation: Parents should pack appropriate insect protection, especially during summer. "We went camping with our 2- and 3-year-old kids. We were worried about bugs, but we didn't even use mosquito repellent and didn't get a single bite!" reports Jaewook P. about their September visit to Turkey Swamp Park.
Cabin alternatives: For families seeking equestrian-friendly accommodations near Belmar, private horse farms occasionally offer cabin rentals with corral access, though these require advance booking and typically cost $75-125 per night. While state parks don't feature dedicated horse campgrounds near Belmar, private facilities may accommodate both riders and mounts.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Turkey Swamp Park offers pull-through sites with essential hookups. "Spacious campsite, although the closest water spigot wasn't working. Not a big problem as there are plenty of others," notes Megan S. RVers recommend requesting sites away from the main road for reduced noise.
Water connections: Several campers mention the need for extra-long water hoses at certain parks. "Sites are in the woods and widely spaced apart to give you privacy and the feeling of being out in the Forrest. Sites are a little bit close to each other. Noisy with highway traffic. Well maintained though," observes Katheryn N.
Urban access: For RVers wanting to explore both beach and city, positioning is important. "This is a prime location for visiting the city or heading down the shore. The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8," explains Joe R. about Liberty Harbor RV Park, noting the balance between accessibility and basic amenities.
