Equestrian camping options in the Fanwood, New Jersey region are extremely limited, with most campgrounds within a 40-mile radius lacking horse-specific facilities. The area sits at approximately 160 feet above sea level in Union County, characterized by suburban development interspersed with small wooded areas. Fall temperatures typically range from 45-65°F, making it comfortable for camping, though sites with equestrian access require significant travel.
What to do
Trail exploration: Turkey Swamp Park in Freehold Township offers various activities beyond standard camping. According to Dan W., "Plenty to do over a 2 night stay. Archery, boating, fishing, and hiking. Boat rental rates are acceptable and there are four different styles to choose from." The park features multiple short trails suitable for day hiking.
Water recreation: Spruce Run Recreation Area provides water-based activities on its reservoir. "You can bring a camper, tent, or use one of the cabins. Many sites have a lovely water view of the reservoir. Several playgrounds, boat launches, and life guarded swimming area," notes Jocelyn G. The park offers fishing and sailing opportunities.
Historical sites: Visit the historic areas near Allaire State Park, which features a working village and antique train. Beau B. explains, "Working village and antique train are available most of the year. there are also lots of festivals throughout the summer months." The park's trail system includes both paved paths and single-track options.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Turkey Swamp Park earns praise for its secluded campsites. Katheryn N. describes, "Sites are in the woods and widely spaced apart to give you privacy and the feeling of being out in the Forrest." The campground features both tent and RV sites with electric and water hookups.
Lake views: Campers appreciate the waterfront sites at Ocquittunk campground in Stokes State Forest. Catherine S. notes, "The sites had a fire ring with a cooking grate and a picnic table and were well spaced out from other sites. The views of the lake are nice, very peaceful." Some sites feature tent platforms for more comfortable setup.
Proximity to NYC: Liberty Harbor RV Park offers convenient access to New York City. Emily L. states it's "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." The urban-adjacent location provides a unique camping experience.
What you should know
Limited horse facilities: None of the campgrounds near Fanwood provide dedicated horse corrals or equine accommodations. Campsites like Mountainview Campground offer primitive camping options but lack horse-specific amenities. Christina H. notes, "This place was just so calming and quiet, it was really just such a relaxing place to be."
Bathroom conditions: Facility quality varies widely between campgrounds. Jules T. reports at Spruce Run, "The bathrooms were absolutely disgusting. I thought with COVID they were cleaning them more, but for the entire weekend, someone's #2 remained all over the toilet, floor, and corner wall."
Noise factors: Some campgrounds experience noise issues. At Spruce Run, Douglas P. observed, "It was very loud and rowdy into the late night. There were campers making lots of noise, arming/disarming their car alarms, slamming doors, cars driving in/out, bright lights flashing, etc. all PASSED 2am!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Stokes State Forest offers family-friendly amenities. Adeline M. shares, "At the entrance of the campground, there is a bathhouse with running water, bathrooms, and potable water. The campground was full of mostly families." The campground provides various accommodation types.
Bug preparation: Pack appropriate insect repellent, especially for wooded sites. 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."
Weather planning: Temperatures can fluctuate significantly in spring and fall. Frank J. notes at Spruce Run: "Showers were cold water only and very cold at that. Late at night you can hear the drone of a major highway." Consider these factors when planning family camping trips.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Liberty Harbor RV Park, Keith and Tia S. advise, "Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room. If it's packed, your neighbor with be within inches of your rig." The park provides basic RV essentials despite limited space.
Water and electric availability: Check hookup availability before booking. Joe R. points out at Liberty Harbor, "Sites kind of level and very close. Power and water, and convenient dump station if staying and needing to dump." Many parks offer only partial hookups.
Low clearance awareness: Some campgrounds have challenging access. At Turkey Swamp Park, Shawn notes, "Nice, remote, private. Some sites unlevel. Bring a LONG water hose." Consider your vehicle's clearance needs when selecting a campground.
