111 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Campgrounds near Clark, New Jersey range from state parks to private campgrounds within a short drive of the urban area. Cheesequake State Park Campground, located about 10 miles southeast of Clark in Matawan, offers tent and RV sites with electric hookups in a wooded setting. Turkey Swamp Park in Freehold Township provides pull-through sites with forest views, as well as cabin rentals. The region includes several water-oriented camping areas, with Round Valley State Park offering boat-in and hike-in tent sites around its reservoir, while Sandy Hook at Gateway National Recreation Area provides oceanfront camping.
Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally, typically from April through October or November. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for weekend stays during summer months. "Sites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large," noted one visitor about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation. Many campgrounds enforce quiet hours and have restrictions on alcohol consumption, with several state parks prohibiting it entirely. Cell service varies considerably across the region, with some campgrounds offering limited connectivity. Weather conditions can change rapidly, particularly at waterfront locations like Sandy Hook, where wind warnings should be heeded by boaters and campers alike.
Campers consistently praise the natural settings available despite proximity to urban areas. Several visitors mentioned the contrast between developed amenities and natural surroundings as a key benefit. "This is a really nice campground with inviting pool and facilities," wrote one camper about Butterfly Camping Resort. Waterfront sites at Round Valley State Park receive particularly high ratings for their scenic views and access to fishing. The region's campgrounds vary significantly in privacy levels, with some offering well-separated sites with vegetation buffers, while others have more open layouts. Wildlife sightings are common, with deer, various birds, and small mammals frequently observed at campgrounds throughout the area. Traffic noise can be an issue at some locations, particularly those near major highways like Cheesequake State Park, which sits near the Garden State Parkway.
"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."
from $200 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $145 - $180 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $30 - $50 / night
Check Availability"You have a clear view of the Narrow bridge and at night the city lights light up your surroundings light a nigh light. The camp here has 7 campsites here and it fill up really fast."
"this place is awesome when it comes to finding an affordable place to stay while in NY, this camp ground isnt your usual forest camp sites, however there are some beautiful views, and it is located in"
from $30 / night
Check Availability"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."
"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!"
"Electrical and water are at the outer edge of each site so you might want an extension cord and/or hose."
from $42 - $79 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $529 - $1200 / night
Check Availability"So pleasant to sleep near the blooming fields. Campsite is tucked in the woods with. Tent camping in peace and quiet with easy access to major roads and highways to explore central NJ"
from $35 - $50 / night
Check Availability"A little intimidating driving in to a nondescript gate at the end of a narrow street but the overall experience exceeded expectation."
from $130 / night
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RangerWe camped here in our pop up for our Anniversary in November. We were impressed with the cleanliness and available amenities for the time of year we were camping in! Close proximity to DWG and PA AND NJ attractions.
TravelerAnother great experience. Sites were large. Staff was friendly with many different things for kids to do. Great base camp for local hikes.
ScoutAs far as experience it was good. The main issue was the campsite where we were was uneven and caused many of the sleeping arrangements that we had to be not level. This seems to be a specific issue to the group campsite number two as when we went inwards it seemed like everything else was much better.
GuideTwo night stay, large loud parties make it hard to enjoy but once most of them left it was nice to walk down to the river. Bath house with toilets and showers, not all lights working. No swimming access but boat access and trails for hiking.
ScoutNo hookups. It was wooded, quiet and dark at night. I used the dump station on my way out. The first time I ever saw a poop fountain. The sewer opening sticks up above ground level. The cover swivels away, so I couldn't put it on top of my hose. And then, when I tried to rinse it, there was nowhere for it to go, because the inlet is elevated.
TravelerWe’ve been to Camp Taylor twice now for tent camping: September 2021 and May 2023. We stayed at the rustic tent sites both times, and there was room for 2 cars and 2 tents. Depending on how you want your setup, there are some that are more secluded and others that are close together and would be great for group camping.
The staff are all lovely and take the time to explain the rules both in-person at check-in and on the forms they provide at the time of booking. They are not hiding how seriously they take rules like quiet hours, and it will keep campers like me coming back. If you are respectful of the folks around you and especially during the posted quiet hours, you will have no problems.
The office and shop keep supply of snacks, firewood, and gifts. There are flush toilets mapped in spots of the tent sites (SUCH a pleasant surprise! I was expecting a porta-potty or vault toilet), and hot showers are available at the same complex as the office.
ScoutI spent 4 days and 3 nights with my 6th grade Girl Scouts. We were at sites 23 and 24 which worked out great because they back up against each other. The bathrooms were super clean and well maintained. There are outlets at the bathroom building by the sink to charge any electronics. The playground is adequate and the field is big for playing. There are many things to do close by too like the observatory, Round Valley beach, Grounds for Art, etc. We all really enjoyed ourselves and plan on returning.
ScoutStayed three nights in a tent and enjoyed it very much. Sites have electrical hookups, shared water connections, large picnic table, and fire ring with adjustable grate. Electrical and water are at the outer edge of each site so you might want an extension cord and/or hose. Bathrooms are clean; showers have separate stalls but they’re clustered together (not the most private). There are hiking and biking trails, a lake, and archery park. Staff are friendly. Office is open through 9pm, and firewood, ice, and bait for fishing are available. Site C3 is in an okay spot; it’s close to the bathroom and laundry room, but also right next to the playground. We were able to visit the beach; easy 25 minute drive to Asbury Park.
RangerThis is an A.T. shelter and campsite. First come, first served. Privy was nice. Flat tentsites for 6 or more. Good for Hammocking also.
Camping near Clark, New Jersey offers diverse outdoor experiences within an hour's drive of the urban area. The region features a mix of county parks, state recreation areas, and private campgrounds at elevations ranging from sea level at coastal sites to approximately 1,100 feet in the northwestern highlands. Most camping areas experience a humid subtropical climate with average summer temperatures around 85°F and winter lows near 25°F.
Hiking accessible trails: At Cheesequake State Park Campground, the trail system accommodates various skill levels. "The trails range from easy to moderate with quite a few lookout locations. The elevation of the trails is not too strenuous. While also walking the trails, people are able to come across many picnic and resting areas," notes one visitor.
Kayaking on pristine waters: Round Valley State Park Campground features a 2,350-acre reservoir that reaches 180 feet deep. "The water is crystal clear, the area is clean. There's bathrooms and pumps but we just filtered the water from the reservoir instead which tasted a million times better than the well water," explains a camper who enjoyed the waterfront access.
Urban exploration: For those seeking proximity to New York City, several camping options provide access to urban attractions. One visitor to Liberty Harbor RV Park noted, "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."
Secluded sites despite urban proximity: Turkey Swamp Park offers woodland camping despite being relatively close to urban centers. "Sites are in the woods and widely spaced apart to give you privacy and the feeling of being out in the Forrest. Sites are tent and RV sites and you are allowed to have a tent on the site with an RV at no extra charge," remarks one visitor.
Waterfront camping: The boat-in campsites at Round Valley State Park receive consistently positive feedback. "Beautiful and quaint..a nice place to get away and enjoy some nature," mentions one camper, while another adds, "Really nice spot to camp very peaceful and quit. Gorgeous sunset, beautiful views."
Diverse recreational options: Many camping areas offer multiple activities beyond just camping. At Panther Lake Camping Resort, visitors appreciate the range of amenities: "Big campground, lots of sites, nice pool, big community hot tub, boating is great, good fishing, nice playground, basketball court and great amenities."
Road noise varies by location: Traffic noise can impact campground experiences, especially at sites near highways. A camper at Cheesequake State Park shared, "We camped here once because it was easy for part of our family to get to from NYC. Sites were a little too close together... If you're truly looking to get away from it all I would go elsewhere since the parkway runs through/over the park, you will hear traffic noises."
Seasonal pests: Some camping areas have significant tick populations. One visitor to Turkey Swamp Park warned, "I was so excited when we got here. The sites are spacious and it's really beautiful. But by the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2."
Weather considerations: Coastal camping areas can experience sudden weather changes and wind. At Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area, campers should prepare for maritime conditions. "The sunset was a real treat!! Rangers at the entrance regulate admittance thus, providing a safe environment within the confines of the base. With views from the campsite looking out to the sea, the skyline of NYC on the left & NJ on the right, it was awe inspiring," notes one visitor.
Beginner-friendly options: Several sites cater to first-time campers. "This is a great site for those who are not avid campers. It's close to town if you forget something and it has all the facilities you may need, bathroom, shower, etc. The best part is all the trails. Great place for hiking," says one camper about Cheesequake State Park.
Kid-specific activities: Many campgrounds offer dedicated children's areas and activities. At Turkey Swamp Park, "There are playgrounds and picnic areas as well," and another camper mentioned, "Plenty to do over a 2 night stay. Archery, boating, fishing, and hiking."
Water recreation for children: Several best places to camp near Clark, New Jersey offer swimming and boating opportunities that appeal to families. A visitor to Panther Lake Camping Resort shared, "The lake and pool were a big plus, especially for hot days. While I did not take advantage, you are allowed to rent boats and take them out on the lake."
Site size and access: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation receives positive feedback for its spacious RV sites. "Sites were a little too close together and one of the sites we reserved was filled with broken glass, we did call the park office and they promptly sent someone out to clean it up," mentions one RVer. Others note, "The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large. Water and electric hookups and a dump station."
Water connection planning: Some campgrounds have unusual water hookup systems. "Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that. Our site (15) said 75' however the 50' hose reel made it to our rv connection," explains a visitor to Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Full hookup availability: When evaluating camping options near Clark, know that full hookups are limited. At Panther Lake Camping Resort, "Only a handful of full hook up sites surrounded by seasonal cottages. Other area of the place had water and electric but it would be hard to get in/out of if it had rained a lot as it was all on soft grass."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Clark, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, Clark, NJ offers a wide range of camping options, with 111 campgrounds and RV parks near Clark, NJ and 2 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Clark, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Clark, NJ is Cheesequake State Park Campground with a 3.7-star rating from 20 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Clark, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Clark, NJ.
What parks are near Clark, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 parks near Clark, NJ that allow camping, notably Gateway National Recreation Area and Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.
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