Best Campgrounds near Bound Brook, NJ

Central New Jersey offers tent and RV camping opportunities at several developed campgrounds within 30 miles of Bound Brook. Round Valley State Park Campground near Lebanon provides primitive camping accessible only by hiking or boating, offering a wilderness experience unusual for the region. Other established options include Spruce Run Recreation Area, Cheesequake State Park Campground, and Turkey Swamp Park, which accommodate both tent and RV camping with varying levels of amenities including electric hookups, water access, and picnic areas.

Camping season at most parks typically runs from April 1 through October 31, with limited or no availability during winter months. Many campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly for weekend stays during summer. "The hike to get to the campground is a bit long (4 miles; we did it in ~2h). Since there were 95 degrees, it was challenging," noted one Round Valley visitor, highlighting the importance of preparation for hike-in sites. Weather conditions can change rapidly, especially at Round Valley Reservoir where wind warnings may affect water activities. Most developed campgrounds provide drinking water and toilet facilities, though amenities vary significantly between primitive and fully-developed sites.

Waterfront camping receives consistently positive reviews, particularly at Round Valley State Park where sites along the reservoir offer scenic views and direct water access. According to one visitor, "The sites were big enough for play and privacy. The water was clean and provided a lovely view in the morning and it was quiet and dark as expected by sundown." Mixed-use campgrounds like Turkey Swamp Park and Spruce Run Recreation Area provide options for both tent camping and RVs with hookups, allowing for various camping styles. Campers seeking more amenities might prefer Mountainview Campground or Cheesequake State Park, while those wanting a more rustic experience gravitate toward primitive sites. Wildlife viewing, fishing, and hiking opportunities supplement the camping experience throughout the region, with many sites offering direct trail access.

Best Camping Sites Near Bound Brook, New Jersey (121)

    1. Round Valley State Park Campground

    25 Reviews
    Lebanon, NJ
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (908) 236-6355

    "The crystal-clear water is home to huge lake trout and the forests are bursting with wildlife. The sunsets across the lake are to die for."

    "Once you get to the campground trail it’s pretty easy going on asphalt surface."

    2. Cheesequake State Park Campground

    19 Reviews
    Matawan, NJ
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (732) 566-2161

    $200 / night

    "I stayed at Cheesequake at the beginning of August and had a very positive experience."

    "This park is on the list of 50 top NJ Hikes, and it has a few great trails. The trails range from easy to moderate with quite a few lookout locations."

    3. Spruce Run Recreation Area

    15 Reviews
    Bethlehem, NJ
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (908) 638-8572

    "Park employees and park police drive around through the day. Some big groups of campers got a little rowdy at night. The bathrooms were absolutely disgusting."

    "The actual site was nice and was close to the bathrooms. There was plenty of shade as the sun moved throughout the day."

    4. Turkey Swamp Park

    29 Reviews
    Freehold, NJ
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (732) 462-7286

    $42 - $79 / night

    "We stayed in New Jersey for our 5th campground on the East Coast: Turkey Swamp Park in Freehold. This is a County park.

     Near some Revolutionary War battlefields.

     I really liked this park!"

    "Heavily wooded and supremely quiet, it’s located not far from anywhere you’d want to be. 30 minutes to the shore. Every site is a pull-through, large and spacious with great woodland views. 30amp and"

    5. Mountainview Campground

    16 Reviews
    Bloomsbury, NJ
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (908) 996-2953

    "We were kindly escorted to our site (a nice refreshing change from having to wander around to find the sites ourselves), which was the one farthest away from the entrance."

    "Close by to a couple of nice state parks. Cute sheep and goats that wander about during the day! Sweet little spot, we'll definitely be back!"

    6. Camp Carr Campground

    4 Reviews
    Clinton, NJ
    19 miles
    Website

    $37 / night

    "Both times it was a positive experience. Excellent view of the South Branch and extremely relaxing. Only negative was the rest rooms closed sometime soon after the day camps let out."

    "We’re total newbs but we had a great time parked next to the raritan river. Spot 21 was open on the one side since they weren’t allowing tents during Covid."

    7. Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area

    19 Reviews
    Atlantic Highlands, NJ
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (347) 630-1124

    $30 - $50 / night

    "Once you are there, you can walk right across the street to a bayside inlet and sandy shore that is not highly trafficked because no one can park there except those using the campground."

    "Rangers at the entrance regulate admittance thus, providing a safe environment within the confines of the base."

    8. Liberty Harbor RV Park

    15 Reviews
    Jersey City, NJ
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (201) 516-7500

    $145 - $180 / night

    "This is all about location. The closest RV park to NYC. It's basically a parking lot with a dump station. Not much else. Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room."

    "Basicly a parking lot, but the location can't be beat. 2 ferries that run to Manhattan. Path train is a 12 minute walk away that will take you yyo manhatten."

    9. Mahlon Dickerson Reservation

    18 Reviews
    Jefferson, NJ
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (973) 697-3140

    "Located in the Skylands of New Jersey, Mahlon Dickerson Campgound is a perfect place to spend a few nights or a couple of weeks. The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large."

    "It's beautiful and quiet, and close to beautiful hiking trails, lakes, and other outdoor recreation opportunities."

    10. Panther Lake Camping Resort

    17 Reviews
    Andover, NJ
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (973) 347-4440

    "Panther lake was a pretty good campground with lots of spots to camp at. Our campsite had a picnic bench and a fire ring. They offer both RV and primitive camping."

    "The Lake is the gem of the campground with a really nice beach, good for fishing and kayaking. The negatives were the bathrooms. They are very primitive and quite dirty."

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Recent Reviews near Bound Brook, NJ

792 Reviews of 121 Bound Brook Campgrounds


  • Ali P.
    Oct. 16, 2025

    Homestead Campground

    Here for a week

    Beautiful park. Looks like only 2 of the spots are for campers, rest are full time residents. The farther back you go in the park the worse condition the rv are. At time of visit the closest bathroom was under repair, it happens. Aggravating issues: Dump station has no water. People walk their dogs right thru your camp site and then don’t pick up after them.

    But yea, beautiful place

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Village Scene Park

    Tucked-Away Community Vibe

    I’m following up on my review from over a year ago with updated insights, additional photos and a quick breakdown of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS: 

    HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Convenient suburban location near Philadelphia yet surprisingly quiet; (2) Full-hookup RV sites with 30 / 50 amp, water, and sewer; (3) Affordable rates compared to other campgrounds in the region; (4) Smaller, tight-knit atmosphere with friendly long-term residents; (5) Pet-friendly, with walking areas and green space; and (6) Nearby restaurants include Franconi’s Pizzeria for classic pies and cheesesteaks and Appalachian Brewing Company with pub fare and house-brewed beers. 

    LOWLIGHTS: (1) Sites are narrow and can feel cramped, so don’t expect big pull-throughs; (2) Limited amenities with no pool, clubhouse, or playground; (3) Grounds feel more like a residential mobile home park than a campground; (4) Some infrastructure is dated and could use upgrades; and (5) Not much in the way of natural scenery because, um, this is urban camping. 

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Fort Washington State Park Campground

    Where George Washington Would've Ditched His Tent PPE

    I’m following up on my review from over a year ago with new photos, updated weathered campers’ tales and a quick snapshot of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS:

    HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Rustic group camping nestled in nearly 500 acres of lush forest that is perfect for history buffs and nature lovers alike; (2) Potable water and non-flush restrooms available year-round, because even Revolutionary War re-enactors need coffee breaks; (3) Over 3.5 miles of trails leading to Hawk Watch observation decks, which birders will marvel at and the rest of us will simply appreciate the vista; (4) Group tenting area that fits 20 to 100 people that is ideal for clans, clubs or covert woodland think tanks; and (5) Convenient to Philly (25 min), great for escaping crowds while still being able to Uber for donuts.

    LOWLIGHTS: (1) No RV or tent-by-the-river solo camping: group-only policy means solo adventurers need to carpool or carry heavy guilt; (2) Bathrooms are primitive and non-flush, so BYOTP as it’s campground chic here, not hotel lobby convenient; (3) Carry-in / carry-out trash policy means becoming one with your garbage until civilization or squirrels show up; (4) Cell service is ‘iffy’ at best, depending on how hard the woods are trying to keep you offline; and (5) No campfire tales about campers as noise is limited and so are late-night s'mores sessions.

    Happy Camping!

  • Missy R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Dingmans Campground — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

    Beautiful, wooded, campsites

    I’m stopping through for the night and so grateful that I did. This campground is lovely. The spots are wooded so you have a bit of privacy. And you are so close to activities throughout the park. I’m changing my schedule to enjoy the campground and park a bit tomorrow.

  • S
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Turkey Swamp Park

    Private wooded sites

    Nice, remote, private. Some sites unlevel. Bring a LONG water hose. Nice lake. Showers and washers and dryers.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Liberty Harbor RV Park

    Functional with excellent access to the City

    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! Plus you can see the Statue of Liberty from there!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Washington Crossing State Park - TEMP CLOSED FOR 2024

    History and Camping with Revolutionary Limits

    Washington Crossing Historic Park, straddling Pennsylvania and New Jersey along the Delaware River, is one of those rare places where you can literally camp in history. The Pennsylvania side is all about historic buildings, museums and picnic spots, while the New Jersey side (Washington Crossing State Park) offers organized group tent camping. This isn’t the place for a cushy RV getaway or individual tenters looking to sneak in for the night, but rather a structured, group-style camping steeped in Revolutionary War atmosphere. First impressions? More Boy Scout jamboree than weekend getaway, but if you’re here for camaraderie and heritage, you’ve hit the mark.

    Facilities are deliberately minimal. On the Pennsylvania side, camping is limited to a handful of Scout-designated sites with portable toilets, no running water and zero frills. Across the river in New Jersey, the official group camping area provides open tent-only sites with no hookups, no pets and strict quiet hours. Think old-school camping: fire rings, pit toilets and a heavy dose of ‘leave no trace’ ethos. Reservations are required, permits are non-negotiable and the max stay tops out at 14 nights. What you do get is a wide, peaceful forest setting with plenty of space for tents, youth groups or scout troops along with the kind of simplicity that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

    Beyond the tent pads, the surrounding parks are rich with history and outdoor options. On the Pennsylvania side, you’ll find the visitor center, historic McConkey’s Ferry Inn, Bowman’s Hill Tower, and interpretive programs that bring the Revolutionary War era to life. Picnic areas and a boat launch offer ways to enjoy the Delaware River. In New Jersey, miles of wooded trails lead you through rolling hills and historic landscapes, perfect for hiking and birdwatching. It’s a spot where history buffs, scouts and nature seekers can all find common ground.

    Insider Tips? Here’s a handful: (1) The best group sites are the ones tucked furthest from the trailhead as (surprise, surprise) they’re quieter and offer more privacy; (2) Stock up before arriving, as there are no supply stores inside the park, so head on over to nearby Weis Markets in Langhorne or ShopRite in Fairless Hills, both of which are on the PA-side; (3) Be sure to bring all your own water as none is available onsite; (4) Kayakers should launch from the Pennsylvania side’s boat access for an iconic paddle on the Delaware River; (5) Visit the park’s historic reenactments, especially the Christmas Day Crossing event as it’s easily the most memorable history lesson you’ll ever get outdoors; and (6) When you’re done camping, fuel up at It’s Nutts Restaurant on the Jersey side in Titusville for classic diner-style comfort food or Francisco’s on the River for Italian fare with Delaware River views.

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Alverthorpe Private Park

    Urban Camping Bliss

    I’m following up on my review from over a year ago with some refreshed insight, additional photos and, well, because once wasn’t enough, here’s a quick reel of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS: 

    HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Hidden slice of suburban woodland tucked just outside Philly that is serene enough to reset your social media–addled brain; (2) Flat, open terrain scattered with tall shade trees makes pitching your tent feel practically pastoral; (3) Surprisingly solid cell signal (T-Mobile, Verizon, AT&T all wave hello), which is rare in inner-density camping and handy for emergency pizza delivery orders; (4) Short walk to a quaint lake and four-sided chimney for marshmallow toasting that offers low-key charm with built-in ambiance; and (5) Tons of shade completely shroud the entire campground area, so no need to bring those pesky shelters for added coverage. 

    LOWLIGHTS: (1) No restroom drama on the way in, but once you’re past the control building, basic camping reality bites; (2) Ancient shelter and group pavilion are charming in a ‘needs new plumbing’ sort of way; (3) Reaching the camping area involves navigating uneven steps as you won’t be able to drive to your actual campsite, which is great for adventure, but bad for sprained ankles; (4) Feels like a weekend-only myth where the park closes on holidays and deals in ‘control building hours’; and (5) This place is known to be full of litter and in dire need of some ground maintenance, so you might just want to bring an extra garbage bag and a rake to help out.

    Happy Camping!

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 17, 2025

    Liberty Harbor RV Park

    friendly staff at the office

    Gave us a welcome folder with lots of helpful info, can walk to get food up the street, short drive to Liberty Park where we got out and walked at night to admire the city skyline and Statue of Liberty at night. They have hook ups and big laundry room.


Guide to Bound Brook

Camping near Bound Brook, New Jersey, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful getaway or an adventure-filled weekend, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Camp Taylor Campground. A guest said, "Bathrooms were very clean and shower area as well."
  • Privacy: Many enjoy the spacious sites at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation. One camper remarked, "The sites are spaced well and have a nice bonus of large fire rings set back in the woods."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Families love the activities at Turkey Swamp Park. A reviewer mentioned, "The kids immediately took to exploring the creek and woods behind our campsite."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Be mindful of noise at High Point State Park Campground. One visitor shared a frustrating experience: "We received complaints about the volume of our music and karaoke around 7 pm."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Worthington State Forest Campground, have fewer amenities. A camper noted, "The bathrooms are very outdated and not cleaned often enough."
  • Access Issues: At Round Valley State Park Campground, the hike to the campground can be challenging. One reviewer said, "The hike in was a tough one! Weather was 95 and sunny on the hike in."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose the Right Campground: Look for family-friendly spots like Camp Taylor Campground. A parent shared, "The family that operates this place are the friendliest and most accommodating hosts."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have activities planned. One family enjoyed the "small arcade and playground" at Camp Taylor, which kept the kids entertained.
  • Pack Essentials: Bring along items like a tablecloth for picnics. A camper at Beaver Pond Campground advised, "Their picnic tables also are disgusting, bring a table cloth!"

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Pickerel Point Campground mentioned, "We always prefer parks to private RV parks."
  • Be Prepared for Terrain: Some campgrounds have rough roads. A camper at Atsion Family Camp noted, "The roads are soft sand and can get rough after a rain storm."
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Stock up on firewood and other essentials. A visitor at Turkey Swamp Park mentioned, "The lake has fishing & boat rentals."

Camping near Bound Brook, New Jersey, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I go car camping in Bound Brook?

Car camping is available near Bound Brook at several well-maintained campgrounds. Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers paved, level sites with water and electric hookups that are perfect for car camping. The wooded, large sites accommodate vehicles comfortably. Another option is Stephens State Park Campground, a lovely location for car camping with easy access, though it may not be ideal for larger vehicles. Both locations provide convenient car access while still delivering a genuine outdoor experience.

Are there any camping sites with lake access in Bound Brook?

While there aren't campgrounds with lake access in Bound Brook itself, several options are available within driving distance. Butterfly Camping Resort offers a fishing lake where campers have success catching fish, plus it features large sites separated by trees and shrubs. For a larger water experience, Turkey Swamp Park in Freehold provides camping near its 17-acre lake, perfect for fishing and paddling. Both locations offer water recreation opportunities while maintaining wooded, peaceful camping environments.

What are the closest campgrounds to Bound Brook?

The closest campgrounds to Bound Brook include Spruce Run Recreation Area near Clinton, offering drive-in sites with water and toilet facilities. Great Divide Campground near Newton is another accessible option, featuring scenic surroundings with a small lake and pond in a wooded setting. For those willing to travel slightly farther, Cheesequake State Park Campground provides a convenient camping experience with basic amenities. Each offers unique advantages depending on your specific camping preferences.