Camping near Monroe, New Jersey offers numerous options for nature enthusiasts looking for weekend getaways throughout the year. The region's sandy soil conditions, typical of the New Jersey Pinelands, influence campsite conditions and create unique drainage characteristics. During summer months, temperatures typically range from 75°F to 90°F, making water activities particularly popular at campgrounds with lakes.
What to do
Archery practice: Turkey Swamp Park provides an archery range for target practice. Patrick M. notes, "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."
Kayaking opportunities: Many campers enjoy paddling at Turkey Swamp Park. Dan W. shares, "Boat rental rates are acceptable and there are four different styles to choose from. Campsites are roomy with electric and water hookups."
Biking trails: Allaire State Park features various biking options from easy to challenging. Beau B. explains, "Mountain Biking from easy, paved trails to several miles of single track with everything in between. Working village and antique train are available most of the year."
Swimming and recreation: Most campgrounds operate pools seasonally. At Butterfly Camping Resort, Caitlin F. reports, "There's a pond to fish, trails to walk/bike, basketball, sand volleyball, the list goes on and on. Both nights we were there, there were events being put on."
What campers like
Wooded privacy: Many campers appreciate natural separation between sites. At Turkey Swamp Park, Lee D. explains, "Sites are all level, very generous in size, and reasonably spaced apart for privacy. A lantern hook, picnic table, and fire ring complete each site."
Year-round options: Some parks offer extended camping seasons. Allaire State Park remains open through winter, with Patrick M. noting, "I have stayed in all the spots they offer, yurt, cabin and the pull up sites. Getting a cabin in the winter and going for a snowy hike is wonderful there."
Dog-friendly facilities: Pet owners value accommodations for their animals. At Butterfly Camping Resort, Caitlin F. mentions, "There was also a dog park which was very nice!"
Laundry access: Some campgrounds provide laundry facilities. Lee D. found at Turkey Swamp Park, "There is a dump station and laundry facility with brand-new washers and dryers (however, you need to pay using an app on your phone)."
What you should know
Sand management: Sandy soil conditions require preparation. At Timberland Lake Campground, Robyn W. advises, "Two things I loved: 1. Cost 2. Shade. One thing didn't love: 1. Sand… so hard even with rugs to pull out of trailer."
Bathroom facilities vary: Quality and amenities differ between parks. At Cheesequake State Park, Katrina Z. found, "Bathrooms were clean but there wasn't soap in any of the dispensers."
Tick awareness: Some parks report significant tick populations. Laura Y. warns about Turkey Swamp Park, "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."
Road noise: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds. At Cheesequake State Park, Stacey R. states, "The Parkway is right there so it's not a nice quiet place." Theresa G. suggests, "Used a fan in the trailer to block out the sound of traffic with the exception of some sports cars/motorcycles speeding loudly."
Tips for camping with families
Organized activities: Many campgrounds schedule family events. At Tip Tam Camping Resort, Dave B. shares, "There are a lot of activities within the campground as well that were impressive. Just from walking around I saw the two pools, an RC track, bocci, shuffle and board."
Bug management: Insect populations vary by season. Jaewook P. had a positive experience at Turkey Swamp Park, noting, "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!"
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas. Katheryn N. reports at Turkey Swamp Park, "There are playgrounds and picnic areas as well."
Early morning noise: Some campgrounds become active early. Bill V. cautions about Tip Tam, "The only downside I saw was people here are up way too early. 7am place was already loud. 7:45am a propane truck pulled in to fill the propane and was extremely loud."
Tips from RVers
Campsite surfaces: Soil conditions impact setup. At Adventure Bound Camping, Matt S. notes, "The entire park was dirty sand with weeds growing everywhere."
Site dimensions: Larger rigs face challenges at some locations. Beth R. experienced at Adventure Bound, "Tight site & hard to get in/out for big rigs."
Hookup locations: Utility placements vary significantly. Jean T. advises at Turkey Swamp Park, "Be sure to bring extra hose because the water spigot is a distance from the electric."
Seasonal differences: Campground conditions change throughout the year. Dave B. observes, "As it is very early in the season the pools were not yet open but appear to be very nice."
