Best Campgrounds near Edison, NJ

Developed campgrounds within an hour of Edison, New Jersey provide camping opportunities for urban-adjacent outdoor recreation. Cheesequake State Park Campground, located approximately 15 miles northeast in Matawan, offers tent and RV sites in a wooded setting. Other nearby options include Turkey Swamp Park in Freehold Township with tent, RV, and cabin accommodations, and Pleasant Valley Lavender, providing tent-only sites in a unique setting with lavender fields. While not wilderness camping, these established campgrounds allow convenient access to nature without lengthy travel from metropolitan areas.

Camping availability follows seasonal patterns, with most public campgrounds operating from April through October. Cheesequake State Park, Round Valley Recreation Area, and Spruce Run Recreation Area typically operate from April 1 to October 31, while Turkey Swamp Park extends slightly longer from April 1 to November 15. Facilities vary widely between locations, with some offering electric hookups, showers, and sanitary dump stations while others provide more primitive experiences. Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for weekend stays during summer months when metropolitan residents seek outdoor escapes. Some campgrounds restrict alcohol consumption and have specific pet policies. One camper noted, "The campsite was nice and was drive up. It was partially shaded which offered some privacy."

Several visitors highlight the mixed-use nature of these camping areas, which balance outdoor recreation with proximity to urban amenities. Campers mention the convenience of having multiple activities available, including hiking trails, swimming areas, and fishing opportunities at locations like Cheesequake State Park. Urban proximity does create some challenges, as highway noise can be noticeable at certain campgrounds. As one reviewer explained, "The park is bisected by the Garden State Parkway. While the campsite is fairly well protected from highway noise, you're still going to hear it at least a little." For those seeking more isolation, Round Valley Recreation Area offers boat-in and hike-in camping that provides greater separation from developed areas. Most campgrounds maintain bathroom and shower facilities, though visitor feedback suggests quality and cleanliness vary considerably between locations.

Best Camping Sites Near Edison, New Jersey (92)

    1. Cheesequake State Park Campground

    19 Reviews
    Matawan, NJ
    10 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."

    2. Turkey Swamp Park

    29 Reviews
    Freehold, NJ
    23 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"

    3. Round Valley State Park Campground

    25 Reviews
    Lebanon, NJ
    24 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."

    4. Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area

    19 Reviews
    Atlantic Highlands, NJ
    22 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."

    5. Liberty Harbor RV Park

    15 Reviews
    Jersey City, NJ
    23 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."

    6. Pleasant Valley Lavender

    1 Review
    Aberdeen, NJ
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (732) 740-4832

    $35 - $50 / night

    "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"

    7. Staten Island — Gateway National Recreation Area - CLOSED for 2025

    4 Reviews
    Bayonne, NJ
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (718) 354-4655

    $30 / night

    "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"

    8. Allaire State Park - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

    18 Reviews
    Allenwood, NJ
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (732) 938-2371

    "Lots of walking paths surround the park & you are also close to Belmar, Point Pleasant, Manasquan (all fun shore towns)."

    "Nice state park with trails nearby."

    9. Timberland Lake Campground

    12 Reviews
    Cream Ridge, NJ
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (732) 928-0500

    "They do their own haunted walk through that is just awesome! Everyone decorates. They have a dj every Saturday! Plenty of activities for the kids. They have cool raffles!"

    "As a kid - close to 6 flags where we had season passes... it was Jellystone yogi bear at the time.

    Very close to 6 flags great adventure."

    10. Collective Governors Island

    6 Reviews
    Jersey City, NJ
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 445-2033

    $529 - $1200 / night

    "The article also mentions the benefits of camping on Governor Island, such as feeling close to nature, relaxing and enjoying a peaceful space, away from the noise of the city."

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Recent Reviews near Edison, NJ

598 Reviews of 92 Edison Campgrounds


  • 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!

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    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.

  • R
    Sep. 16, 2025

    Tohickon Family Campground

    Wonderful campground!

    Great camping, great hiking, pretty close to stores if you need anything. Staff is incredible!! Very polite, helpful, and just all around awesome People!!! They make sure your stay is exactly what you’d want it to be.. getting here was a little tricky having to go around the covered bridge but not anything that would ever deter me and my family from coming back. Overall very impressed!! They even were able To get us in very last minute WITH full hook ups for my trailer!!!!

  • Jessica V.
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Tohickon Family Campground

    Great weekend spot

    We went with friends for a weekend. Both families have little kids and it was a great spot with a playground, construction digging area, and a bunch of activities for the kids to do. We went in September so the pool was closed but it looked like a nice size. Full hook ups which was great! Also they have a nice stream that everyone went fishing at. They are building some new sites at the end of the property.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Round Valley State Park Campground

    Get Your Hard-Core Hiking In To Enjoy This CG

    Located just south of I78 and near the small hamlets of Clinton and Lebanon, what I love most about Round Valley SP is the fact that it has its very own eponymous fresh water reservoir, which spanning some 2,350 acres and is 180 feed deep in the middle, this body of water provides a solid amount of upside for anyone wanting to kayak, canoe or swim. One of the greatest assets at this particular SP CG are the wonderful rangers who keep this place in such tip-top condition year-round. From the North Picnic Area, Bray’s Hill Preserve and Round Valley Beachhead to the East Picnic Area, Round Valley Farm on the eastern side of the reservoir as well as Round Valley Rec Area, there’s a lot to explore at this SP.

    One interesting fact about this place– believe it or not– it is the only NJ SP that actually offers up true wilderness camping(a.k.a. primitive), which can only be accessed by hiking 3 to 6 miles– or if you come with your own boat, you can access by water– and can be found on the SE corner of the reservoir. There is a second area nearby called Spruce Run Recreation Area that can be accessed by driving to this location, which is on the other side of I78 NW of Round Valley SP. That said, if you’re looking to camp here at Round Valley, I highly recommend you boat in as the hiking path is incredibly difficult to manage without hauling all of your camping gear, so coming in with a ton of gear is even more difficult/ prohibitive.

    When you finally do arrive to this primitive CG immersed in NJ’s thick wild foliage, you’ll experience waterfront bliss with a crystalline bevy of trout-infused reservoir water, and you won’t get much in the way of amenities, apart from a few random water pumps and some rocks piled in a circle that, um, I guess makes up a fire ring. While there are backwoods-style bathroom pits, these are very ill-managed and you’ll come across the‘stank’ well before actually even arriving here, so we just didn’t use them. There’s picnic tables, but the one we had was in pretty rough condition. The thing I found odd about the place is that after hiking so far in to get to this location, you’re not allowed to swim in the reservoir, which kind of defeats the entire point IMHO. That said, the views are amazing and because there’s nothing else in these parts, you will experience true peace in nature.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few:(1) Whether hiking or kayaking to this CG, you will want to bring as little with you as possible– packing too much to come here just isn’t worth the work;(2) We found parking in the Southern Lot to be perfectly fine and while we were initially worried about leaving our vehicle parked there for a few nights, we were reassured by the park rangers who patrol the lot constantly;(3) While the water in the reservoir may look crystal clear, it is not crystal clean and I would STRONGLY encourage anyone who thinks that it is OK to drink from the reservoir to at least use a Life Straw to ensure they don’t get sick;(4) I have hiked throughout the entire US and consider myself somewhere between a moderate to skilled hiker and I found these trails challenging and uneven, so while the hike we made was only 3 miles, it was not easy and I would be worried about someone breaking an ankle getting to this CG– so at a minimum, ensure you are wearing proper hiking boots. Seriously, for what this SP puts you through to access this CG one really needs to question why they’re being charged anything at all in the first place.

    Happy Camping!


Guide to Edison

Camping near Edison, NJ, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From serene lakeside spots to family-friendly campgrounds, there’s something for everyone looking to escape the city.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Harriman State Park - Beaver Pond. One camper mentioned, "Going for a hike here in the morning before heading out" made their stay memorable.
  • Fishing: Enjoy fishing at Turkey Swamp Park. A visitor noted, "The lake for kayaking and paddle boats to rent" adds to the fun.
  • Wildlife Watching: At Atsion Family Camp - Wharton State Forest, campers have spotted various wildlife. One reviewer shared, "We saw lots of bear scat, and passed a super chill doe and her two fawns casually grazing next to the trail."

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."
  • Friendly Staff: Many visitors rave about the helpful staff at Mountain Vista Campground. One camper remarked, "The staff are wonderful, the whole campsite is very dog friendly."
  • Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy the spaciousness at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation. A reviewer noted, "The sites are spaced well and have a nice bonus of large fire rings set back in the woods."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Be mindful of noise at High Point State Park Campground. One camper 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 basic facilities. A visitor mentioned, "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 noted, "The path is not the best, filled with a ton of rocks."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with amenities like playgrounds. At Camp Taylor Campground, one family enjoyed the "small arcade and playground."
  • Plan for Quiet Hours: Respect quiet hours to ensure everyone has a good time. A camper at Beaver Pond Campground mentioned, "Quiet hours were strictly enforced, which we appreciated."
  • Pack Essentials: Bring along items like tablecloths for picnic tables. One camper at Worthington State Forest Campground advised, "Bring a table cloth! They have a lot of rules... that they clearly do not enforce."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Stokes State Forest noted, "The campsites themselves are a little too close together in some spots."
  • Road Conditions: Be prepared for unpaved roads at places like Turkey Swamp Park. One camper mentioned, "None of the roads are paved. All are packed sand."
  • Electric Hookups: Look for campgrounds that offer electric hookups. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, a reviewer appreciated the "level padded sites with electric and water."

Camping near Edison, NJ, has its quirks, but with the right preparation, it can be a fantastic outdoor adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any RV camping options near Edison, NJ?

Butterfly Camping Resort in Jackson offers excellent RV accommodations with pull-through sites featuring full hookups (50-amp electric, water, sewer, and cable). Sites are spacious, shaded, and many include natural separation between neighbors. The resort provides numerous amenities including a fishing lake, playground, and organized activities for families. Another option for RV travelers is Mahlon Dickerson Reservation in the Skylands region, which features paved, mostly level sites with water and electric hookups plus a dump station. For those needing just an overnight stop, several Walmart locations in the region permit RV parking, though always check with management first.

What state parks offer tent camping near Edison, NJ?

Stephens State Park Campground offers tent camping in a lovely wooded setting, though it may not be suitable for larger RVs. The park has designated pet-friendly sites and provides a peaceful natural environment. For those willing to drive a bit further, Round Valley State Park Campground is another excellent option for tent campers. Note that Allaire State Park, which would normally be a good option, is temporarily closed. When planning your visit, be aware that New Jersey state parks often have seasonal availability, with most facilities fully operational from April through October. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for summer weekends when sites fill quickly.

What are the best campgrounds near Edison, NJ?

Several excellent campgrounds are located within reasonable driving distance from Edison, NJ. Turkey Swamp Park in Freehold offers a beautiful 2,283-acre setting with a 17-acre lake, hiking trails, and spacious campsites. It's particularly appealing for those interested in Revolutionary War history sites nearby. Another top option is Great Divide Campground near Newton, which provides a scenic environment with a small lake and wooded surroundings. Both offer well-maintained facilities and serve as excellent bases for exploring central and northern New Jersey. Availability is typically best during weekdays, as weekends can fill up quickly, especially during summer months.