Brendan Byrne State Forest provides established equestrian camping 45 minutes from Eagleswood, New Jersey. The forest sits within the distinctive Pine Barrens ecosystem, characterized by sandy soil, pitch pine forests, and cedar swamps. Winter camping offers more solitude with temperatures averaging 30-45°F, while summer brings humid conditions with temperatures reaching 85-95°F and increased insect activity.
What to do
Hiking on non-motorized trails: Turkey Swamp Park offers several short hiking trails with the longest being 2.5 miles. "Several short hiking trails that are fairly well-marked but can be a bit confusing at times. Some sections of the trails were muddy due to swamps and bogs but passable," notes Lee D.
Mountain biking opportunities: Allaire State Park features trails for all skill levels. "Mountain Biking from easy, paved trails to several miles of single track with everything in between," reports Beau B. The park's trail system accommodates beginners and experienced riders.
Fishing in Pine Barrens waters: Turkey Swamp Park has a lake with good fishing opportunities. "There is pretty lake with good fishing and they sell bait at the Ranger office," shares Katheryn N. Freshwater species include bass, sunfish, and catfish.
Winter recreation: The parks remain open year-round with seasonal activities. "Getting a cabin in the winter and going for a snowy hike is wondrful there," says Patrick M. about Allaire State Park. Winter temperatures typically range from 25-40°F.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Brendan Byrne State Forest offers well-spaced camping areas. "Sites are spaced out enough to offer privacy. Good trees for hammocking! Plenty of room for a few tents at each site," explains Lindsay D.
Clean facilities: Brendan Byrne State Forest maintains its amenities well. "Very well maintained campsites and facilities," notes Marcus N. Showers and restrooms receive regular cleaning, though some campers mention occasional spiders.
Proximity to nature: Turkey Swamp Park provides a forested setting. "Sites are in the woods and widely spaced apart to give you privacy and the feeling of being out in the Forrest," says Katheryn N. The wooded setting provides shade and natural surroundings.
Varied accommodation options: Several parks offer alternatives to tent camping. "I've stayed in the cabins here a couple times. Love the area lots to do hiking fishing nature walks, something for everyone. Cabins are no frills yet very nice," explains Erik M. about Allaire State Park.
What you should know
Tick prevalence: Summer months bring increased tick activity. "Ticks were very active on this visit be sure to remember your bug spray and tuck your pants in your socks!" warns Megan S. about Brendan Byrne State Forest. Some campers report multiple tick encounters during warmer months.
Seasonal closures: Some campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Turkey Swamp Park runs from April 1 to November 15, while others remain open year-round. Check availability before planning winter equestrian camping trips near Eagleswood.
Campfire regulations: Turkey Swamp Park provides fire rings at each site, but some parks have time restrictions. "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. about Brendan Byrne State Forest.
Road conditions: Access roads may present challenges in wet weather. "As soon as you turn off the main road to the park, all roads are dirt, which was a bit surprising. They were well-maintained and in dry weather, not a problem, but probably not if it was rainy," notes Lee D. about Turkey Swamp Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: Multiple parks offer dedicated play areas. "Centralized playground for the kids with bathrooms and showers next door," mentions Dan W. about Turkey Swamp Park. The playgrounds provide activities for younger campers.
Bug preparation essential: Allaire State Park and other Pine Barrens locations require insect precautions. "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!" shares JAEWOOK P. about Turkey Swamp Park. Results vary seasonally.
Water activities: Several parks feature lakes for recreation. "Kayaking/Canoeing, fishing, and swimming. In the summer, canoe, kayak, paddle boats, and row boats are available for rental," notes Lee D. about Turkey Swamp Park. Water activities provide family-friendly entertainment during warmer months.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV sites with utilities are limited at some campgrounds. "Campsites are roomy with electric and water hookups. They don't have primitive campsites so your stuck paying the higher rate even though you don't need the hookups," explains Dan W. about Turkey Swamp Park. Connection types vary by location.
Water hose requirements: Turkey Swamp Park campers should plan accordingly. "Nice, remote, private. Some sites unlevel. Bring a LONG water hose," advises Shawn. Many parks have water spigots that aren't immediately adjacent to each site.
Campsite rules: Know specific regulations regarding setup. "If using an RV in a tent site you are not allowed to add another tent to the site. There is a two tent limit per site despite the site allowing up to 6 people," explains Jesse G. about Brendan Byrne State Forest.
