Brendan Byrne State Forest and Turkey Swamp Park provide equestrian camping facilities within the New Jersey Pine Barrens region. The sand-based soil in this area creates favorable riding conditions year-round, with minimal mud even after rainfall. Both parks maintain dedicated hitching posts at campsites designated for horses, though riders must bring their own portable corrals or tethering equipment as permanent corrals are not available.
What to do
Trail riding in the Pine Barrens: Brendan Byrne State Forest offers extensive sand trails suitable for both novice and experienced riders. "The sand trails at Brendan Byrne State Forest are accessible to horses, creating extensive riding opportunities through the pine barrens," notes a park visitor. Marked trails range from 2-10 miles.
Archery practice: Turkey Swamp Park maintains a dedicated archery range for campers. "Bring your bow and shoot at the hay barrels," suggests Patrick M. who visits annually. The range includes multiple distance markers and is open during daylight hours.
Winter activities: Unlike many New Jersey campgrounds, Turkey Swamp Park offers winter programming. "Ice skate on the lake in the winter or just enjoy a gorgeous walk in the woods," adds Patrick M.. The park maintains ice thickness monitoring for safety during cold months.
What campers like
Seclusion from urban areas: The remote location provides genuine wilderness camping. "It's far away from traffic noise. You can't hear any cars or any other noise from civilization at all. It's at least 10 miles away from anything more than a single house in the woods, 5 miles away from the main road," reports Benjamin K. about Brendan Byrne State Forest.
Private, wooded campsites: Turkey Swamp Park offers spacious sites with natural screening. "Sites are in the woods and widely spaced apart to give you privacy and the feeling of being out in the Forest," notes Katheryn N..
Diverse water recreation: Beyond horseback riding, many campers appreciate water activities. "Turkey Swamp is a great spot, a lot of different things to do. Fishing, Tent Camp, Van Camping, Open Field, BBQ, Kayaking, Canoeing. The list goes on," states Tylen L..
What you should know
Seasonal water access: Water spigots may not all function year-round. "Spacious campsite, although the closest water spigot wasn't working. Not a big problem as there are plenty of others," notes Megan S. about Brendan Byrne State Forest.
Tick prevention essential: The Pine Barrens ecosystem harbors ticks, particularly in warmer months. "Ticks were very active on this visit, be sure to remember your bug spray and tuck your pants in your socks!" warns Megan S. Equestrian campers should check horses thoroughly after trail rides.
Campfire restrictions: Some horse campgrounds maintain strict fire regulations. "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. Rangers enforce these rules with regular patrols.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Turkey Swamp Park provides play equipment convenient to camping areas. "There are age-appropriate playgrounds both in the campground and by the office," notes Lee D..
Bug management strategies: Families can camp comfortably with proper preparation. "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 Jaewook P. about their fall visit.
Multiple tent options: Sites accommodate various sleeping arrangements. "Plenty of room for a few tents at each site," confirms Lindsay D. about Brendan Byrne State Forest, making it suitable for families needing separate tents for children or extended family members.
Tips from RVers
Water hose requirements: RV campers should prepare for distant hookups. "Bring a LONG water hose," advises Shawn about Turkey Swamp Park. Standard 25-foot hoses may not reach hookups at all sites.
Site leveling challenges: Not all sites provide naturally level parking. "Some sites unlevel," notes Shawn, suggesting RVers bring additional leveling blocks or hydraulic leveling systems.
Convenient facilities despite primitive hookups: Even without full hookups, amenities remain accessible. "Centralized playground for the kids with bathrooms and showers next door. Staff was awesome! Attentive and outgoing," reports Dan W. about his RV stay at Turkey Swamp Park.
