Several RV campgrounds near Carteret, New Jersey range from basic urban parking areas to wooded county parks within 40 miles of the city. Most facilities operate seasonally from April through November, with limited year-round options. Winter temperatures in the region average 25-40°F, while summer months typically see 70-85°F with moderate humidity levels, affecting camping comfort.
What to do
Kayaking at Turkey Swamp Park: The 64-site county park features a lake with kayak and canoe rentals during summer months. "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," notes one Turkey Swamp Park visitor.
Hiking at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation: This Morris County park offers multiple trail options through wooded terrain. "We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful," shares a camper at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation. Trail difficulty ranges from beginner to intermediate with distances between 1-3 miles.
Beach access from military facilities: Some military campgrounds provide beach access. "Free beach just a few moments' walk down the road. Close to shore towns & many restaurants," reports a visitor to Military Park NJ National Guard Training Center.
What campers like
Privacy and space: Many campers appreciate the wooded sites at county parks. "Sites are in the woods and widely spaced apart to give you privacy and the feeling of being out in the Forrest," notes a Turkey Swamp Park reviewer.
Urban access with rural feel: Several campgrounds balance natural settings with city proximity. "If you're planning a visit to either this place is cheap, clean & quiet," says one visitor about NWS Earle RV Park, referencing Manhattan and shore accessibility.
Concrete pads at military facilities: Military sites often feature quality infrastructure. "Small campground W/ 8 spaces in the main area and 7 in an adjacent area. All spaces are level concrete With fill hookups and attached concrete patio," describes one camper about NWS Earle RV Park.
What you should know
Urban RV parking limitations: The closest campground to NYC is primarily a parking area. "This is a pricey park, but options are limited. As in almost non existent. 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 a camper at Liberty Harbor RV Park.
Seasonal restrictions: Several facilities close during winter. "The campground is only about 20% occupied when we were there at the end of April, so our stay was a quiet one," notes a Turkey Swamp Park visitor about shoulder season camping.
Variable cell service: Reception can change drastically between locations. "AT&T coverage" at Mahlon Dickerson is reportedly adequate according to visitors, though specifics vary by carrier.
Tick activity: Some wooded areas report significant insect issues. "By the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2," warns a Turkey Swamp Park camper.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Several parks offer dedicated play areas. "Centralized playground for the kids with bathrooms and showers next door," mentions a Turkey Swamp Park visitor. The park also features "age-appropriate playgrounds both in the campground and by the office."
Kid-friendly hiking: Look for shorter trails suitable for young hikers. "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 a Indian Rock RV Resort family in September.
Site selection for families: Corner and end sites often provide more space. "Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room. If it's packed, your neighbor with be within inches of your rig," advises a Liberty Harbor visitor.
Tips from RVers
Utility connections: Pay attention to hookup placement. "Power is at the far back & sewage is in the middle (left to right). A longer camper will be parked over the sewage connection," notes an Earle RV Park visitor about site layout challenges.
Extra water hose needed: Some parks have distant water connections. "Be sure to bring extra hose because the water spigot is a distance from the electric," advises a Turkey Swamp camper. However, "The water hoses provided are plenty long. We didn't need to use our hose at all, just the filter," notes a Mahlon Dickerson visitor.
Navigation challenges: Some RV campgrounds near Carteret require careful route planning. "Getting in and out of the city is an adventure. Stay right off the highway to avoid the $30 tunnel toll. Follow RV life pro and not Waze," suggests a Liberty Harbor RV Park visitor.
