M
Michael M.
Scout
ScoutTurkey Swamp Park
Water/power at the campsite, and and centrally located dump station. Lots of trees and nice separation of sites
Tent Camping near Franklin Park, NJ
27 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Search destinations
Add dates
Tent campsites within easy reach of Franklin Park, New Jersey include established state park grounds and primitive backcountry options. Round Valley State Park Campground offers tent-specific sites accessible by hiking in approximately 3-5 miles or boating across the reservoir. Washington Crossing State Park provides tent camping opportunities, though its sites are temporarily closed for the 2024 season. Sandy Hook—Gateway National Recreation Area features walk-in tent camping within the Gateway National Recreation Area system.
Most tent camping areas near Franklin Park require campers to prepare for primitive conditions. Round Valley's tent sites include fire rings and picnic tables but minimal other amenities. Sites may require a significant hike with camping gear, sometimes over rocky and challenging terrain. At Sandy Hook, campers must use provided wheelbarrows to transport gear approximately a quarter mile from parking areas to tent sites. Potable water access varies widely between campgrounds, with some offering pumps or spigots while others require filtering water from natural sources. Bear activity has been reported at several locations, necessitating proper food storage in provided bear boxes or following hang protocols.
Tent-only camping experiences in this region offer varying levels of seclusion and natural surroundings. Sites at Round Valley State Park provide lakeside settings with opportunities for fishing and water access. The backcountry tent camping atmosphere creates separation from day-use areas and provides a more immersive wilderness experience despite being relatively close to urban areas. Sandy Hook offers a unique beach-adjacent tent camping experience, though campers should be prepared for potential wildlife encounters including raccoons and insects. As noted in feedback on The Dyrt, "The sites were big enough for play and privacy. The water was clean and provided a lovely view in the morning and it was quiet and dark as expected by sundown."
Best Tent Campgrounds near Franklin Park (27)
1. Round Valley State Park Campground
"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."
"Unlike traditional campgrounds, the campsites are accessible only by hiking or boating, so getting anywhere here requires some planning and a willingness to travel light."
2. Washington Crossing State Park - TEMP CLOSED FOR 2024
"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."
"The areas for that seemed well groomed, bathrooms were acceptable, and there was plenty of space. Some nice trees not too close allowed for good shade, without feeling like in a forest."
from $50 - $100 / night
Check Availability3. Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area
"There are 20 tent sites spread across four loops. There is NO beach access. Some sites have shelters, others do not. Pay attention when reserving. All sites have a fire pit and picnic table."
"Bathrooms are serviceable overall (no showers as others have noted), and the place is intermittently staffed; bring everything you need."
from $30 - $50 / night
Check Availability4. Pleasant Valley Lavender
"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"
from $35 - $50 / night
Check Availability5. Tip Tam Camping Resort
"Just from walking around I saw the two pools, an RC track, bocci, shuffle and board. They did have organized activities set up as well."
"It feels like you're camping out in a field with mostly sand around. But having said that, I'd still recommend it for all of the positive they do have."
6. NWS Earle RV Park
"Small campground W/ 8 spaces in the main area and 7 in an adjacent area. All spaces are level concrete With fill hookups and attached concrete patio."
7. Staten Island — Gateway National Recreation Area - CLOSED for 2025
"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"
from $30 / night
Check Availability8. Pine Cone Campgrounds
9. Batona — Wharton State Forest
"Bears frequent this campground so be bear aware and practice proper food storage. "
"The Batona Campground is in the northern area of the Wharton State Forest and is a bit removed from most trails and other campgrounds in the park."
10. Fort Washington State Park Campground
"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"
"The give you firewood—-if you bring your own, leave with any left over."
from $28 - $72 / night
Check Availability
Drive Time
- 24 min from Trenton, NJ
- 47 min from Philadelphia, PA
- 48 min from New York, NY
- 1 hr 17 min from Allentown, PA
Recent Tent Camping Photos near Franklin Park, NJ
45 Photos of 27 Franklin Park Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Pleasant Valley LavenderE
Round Valley State Park Campground
Tip Tam Camping Resort
Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area
Camp Starry Night at Gulyan Farms
Kittatinny Valley State Park Campground
Wooded Campground
Batona — Wharton State ForestM
Campgaw Mountain Reservation
Camp Mohican Outdoor Center — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Kirkrige Shelter / Kittatinny Mountain — Appalachian National Scenic Trail
Walter's Boat In Campsites — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Tent Camping Reviews near Franklin Park, NJ
637 Reviews of 27 Franklin Park Campgrounds
Stuart K.
LegendWashington Crossing State Park - TEMP CLOSED FOR 2024
Revolutionary History near Delaware River
Nestled along the picturesque Delaware River in beautiful Bucks County, Washington Crossing Historic Park is one of those destinations where American history practically jumps out from behind every tree. This sprawling, beautifully preserved historic park commemorates George Washington's daring Christmas night crossing of the Delaware in 1776, with charming colonial buildings, expansive green spaces, shaded walking paths and lovely riverfront scenery. Divided into Upper and Lower sections, the park offers plenty to explore, from historic homesteads and interpretive exhibits to scenic picnic areas and the impressive Bowman's Hill Tower. Unfortunately, while the park delivers a wonderful outdoor experience, traditional overnight camping isn't part of the equation unless your a Boy Scout or accompanying one of their troops.
HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Spectacular Revolutionary War history at the very site of Washington's legendary Delaware River crossing; (2) Beautifully maintained grounds featuring mature trees, open lawns and scenic riverfront views; (3) Fascinating colonial-era buildings, historic demonstrations and educational exhibits that bring America's founding history to life; (4) Wonderful recreational opportunities, including walking, cycling, fishing, kayaking and picnicking; and (5) Convenient proximity to charming New Hope, the Delaware Canal towpath and Bowman's Hill Tower, offering plenty of opportunities to extend your adventure.
LOWLIGHTS: (1) No conventional public tent or RV camping, with overnight group camping restricted to organized Scout groups by prior arrangement; (2) No dedicated RV campsites, electrical hookups, water connections or dump station; (3) Park grounds generally close at sunset, limiting opportunities to linger into the evening; (4) Some historic buildings and attractions require admission fees or operate on limited schedules; and (5) Periodic restoration projects and special events can restrict access to certain areas, while the historic Washington Crossing Bridge's three-ton weight limit makes it unsuitable for larger RVs.
Happy Camping!
Maria Mercedes M.LegendRound Valley State Park Campground
Peaceful Wilderness Escape for Adventurous Families
There's something wonderfully special about escaping into nature where the only sounds are rustling leaves, birds singing and the gentle movement of water along the shoreline. Nestled among the wooded hills surrounding the beautiful Round Valley Reservoir, this rustic SP campground offers families a chance to disconnect from everyday distractions and enjoy a little wilderness adventure together. Unlike traditional campgrounds, the campsites are accessible only by hiking or boating, so getting anywhere here requires some planning and a willingness to travel light. Once you've arrived, you'll find secluded, wooded campsites with picnic tables, fire rings and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Amenities are basic, with pit toilets and no showers, but the beautiful reservoir, scenic hiking trails, fishing and kayaking opportunities more than make up for the lack of modern conveniences. Our kids loved exploring the woods, spotting wildlife and gathering around a crackling campfire at night to share stories beneath the stars. For families comfortable with the hike, I'd recommend choosing one of the campsites along the reservoir shoreline for the lovely water views and peaceful surroundings. Just remember that swimming is limited to the park's designated beach area. Round Valley isn't your typical family campground, but for adventurous families who enjoy hiking, camping under the stars and making wonderful memories together, it's a beautiful place to experience nature at its finest!
- bbob J.
GuideAtsion Family Camp — Wharton State Forest
Pine Barrens New Jersey
This campground is part of the Wharton State Forest and has several campgrounds in the area. Great wooded sites right on a lake. Pretty good separation between sites with good tree separation between sites. Some road noise not overly affecting site.
- DDiane M.Scout
Brendan Byrne State Forest
Just ok
Restrooms are filthy with mold and mildew.
Water puddled on the restroom floor.really gross.
Cabin was mostly clean. The windows were full of dirt and bugs on the tracks.mattresses were terrible.The fireplace was nice. Kitchen was clean.
Can t wait to move on to a cleaner park.
Edwin R.ScoutCheesequake State Park Campground
Park uses county cops to shut down park by 9pm.
On Friday, September 4, 2026, I rented a trailer and brought my family to Cheesequake State Park to celebrate our 10th wedding anniversary over the extended Labor Day weekend. Around 9:20 PM—well before the park's designated 10:00 PM quiet hours—we were sitting inside our canopy, playing Jenga, and listening to low background music. Two officers from the Matawan Police Department approached our campsite. They were polite and courteous, simply offering a standard reminder to wrap things up by 10:00 PM. Before they could leave, however, a third, senior officer intervened. Wanting to"show them how it's done," he made the two polite officers return and stand by to watch as he demonstrated how to aggressively harass campers. Flashlight in hand, the senior officer approached with an immediate hostile attitude, treating us like criminals as he demanded to know who rented the site. He began reiterating rules and claimed we had too many vehicles. We had three cars, one belonging to my brother-in-law's girlfriend, who was visiting with her daughter. She had paid the$10 visitor fee at the main office and was instructed by staff to obtain the gate access code from us, the primary renters, if she got locked in. No staff member ever informed her of an 8:00 PM visitor departure deadline, leading us to reasonably assume visitors were permitted until quiet hours began at 10:00 PM. The officer rudely snapped that she had been given wrong information. The senior officer then used profanity in front of three small children, aggressively telling her to ("get her shit and get the fuck out!") in that manner or use profanity, the officer went from hostile to furious. He angrily declared that these were official violations and threatened that he could be issuing us tickets instead. Desperately searching for anything and everything to throw at us, he demanded that we turn off our idling car—which was supplying power to our campsite—and instructed us to make sure the campfire was doused before shutting down for the night. He then proceeded to shine his flashlight into our private setup—including our canopy, tents, and the inside of our trailer—searching for any other possible violation while the two polite officers were forced to watch. What was supposed to be a special 10th wedding anniversary celebration with my family was completely ruined by a senior officer misusing his authority to put on an unnecessary display of intimidation. Worse than just ruining our night, he spent that evening teaching those two police officers how to be bad cops. He corrupted two officers in real time, demonstrating firsthand exactly why most people have lost faith in the police force. The next day we was ready for them. We turned off our lights and quietly by the fire while they went next door to harass an asian family that had just set up camp and had their leds lights on.
Thomas B.
RangerTohickon Family Campground
Simple, peaceful FHU
We stayed just a couple nights here on our way north. The camp host was helpful before our stay and during check-in. Our site was pretty isolated from the others, so it was very quiet (no complaints here). There is a decent mix of sunny sites by the river and shady sites under the trees. The weather was perfect mid September. There wasn't anything spectacular for me, but it was a good experience and it was a nice taste of fall PA scenery. Beware that the roads are tight for a big rig. Side note, it did seem like most campers lived there.
- KKelly B.Guide
Stephens State Park Campground
Great last min getaway
Booked the day before—even on the holiday weekend! Just 1.5 hours outside of NYC, site was a bit close to the neighbors (fire pit was very far back and basically in the neighbors’ campsite, but we put up a “privacy clothesline” and hung a tarp over it for a bit of extra coverage.
The staff was friendly and helpful, they said it was the busiest they’ve seen the campground all year (there were lots of large groups but everyone seemed to settle down by 9:30pm
Poison ivy was EVERYWHERE at our site so make sure to stick to the open areas and the paths. Lots of families around, we felt very safe Bathrooms were fine—it was my impression they’re usually cleaner but the high traffic of the weekend left a bit to be desired, (lots of families around=dirty diapers in the bathroom trash bin) but it’s camping! I’m not gonna argue w a flushing toilet!
Adeline M.GuideBrendan Byrne State Forest
Beautiful campground, loud campers
Beautiful campground but made the mistake of going on a holiday weekend, the campgrounds next to us were screaming and blasting music all day and throughout the night so we ended up leaving early. A beautiful campground when there aren’t noisy capers ruining it.
Guide to Franklin Park
Tent camping near Franklin Park, New Jersey provides access to the Pine Barrens ecosystem and coastal camping environments within relatively close driving distance. The region sits at low elevations (generally under 200 feet above sea level) with sandy soil conditions that create quick-draining campsites. Seasonal temperature variations range from winter lows averaging 25°F to summer highs in the mid-80s, with higher humidity during summer camping months.
What to do
Hiking the Batona Trail: At Batona — Wharton State Forest, trails begin directly from campsites. "Trailheads begin directly from campsites. Trails vary in length but all are flat and easily accessible," notes meghan G. The campground's location provides immediate access to the historic Batona hiking route through the Pine Barrens.
Pine Barrens exploration: Wharton State Forest offers distinctive environments with specialized flora. "It is so easy to get lost in these woods and I LOVE IT! I grew up near the pine barrens and would camp here many times with friends. If you want off the beaten path and not close to anyone... this is IT!" shares Alyssa D.
Beach access from camp: When staying at Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area, ocean swimming is available within walking distance. "Sandy Hook has all the necessities you need, bathroom, shower, and the occasional food truck. There is even a trail that runs parallel to the beach making it a scenic ride," explains Maggie A.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Many campsites near Franklin Park offer secluded spots. At Jenny Jump State Forest, "the sites are hit or miss in terms of comfort, some have large, flat, clear spaces for multiple tents, some you have to wedge a tent to avoid rocks," according to Seth K. The campground layout creates separation between sites.
Water access: Water features are available at multiple campgrounds. At Round Valley State Park Campground, "Really nice spot to camp very peaceful and quit. Gorgeous sunset, Beautiful views. Really helpful people at the office," shares T K. The reservoir offers swimming and fishing opportunities.
Natural surroundings: Local campgrounds feature distinctive environments. "Beautiful and quaint..a nice place to get away and enjoy some nature," writes Ryan M. about Round Valley. The surrounding forest creates natural buffers between camping areas and civilization despite proximity to urban centers.
What you should know
Access challenges: Some campgrounds require significant hiking or boating to reach sites. "The hike is a 3 mile minimum 6 max. The view was KILLER," explains James R. about Round Valley. Plan transportation accordingly and pack appropriately for the distance to your site.
Water management: Water access varies seasonally at many locations. At Batona campground, "Water is seasonal. Be bear aware," warns Trip Over Life. Bring filtration systems or extra water during drier periods.
Weather considerations: The region experiences significant seasonal variations. "The sites were big enough for play and privacy," shares a camper. Summer humidity can be challenging while spring and fall offer more moderate temperatures.
Permit requirements: Most established campgrounds require advance reservations. Washington Crossing State Park operates under strict permit systems for group 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," explains Stuart K.
Tips for camping with families
Shelter options: For families new to camping, consider shelter-based options. At Jenny Jump State Forest, "This is the first time we decided to forgo tent camping and reserve a shelter at a state park. We had a much better experience than we were expecting! The 'shelter' is what we would describe as a 'cabin'; four walls, a roof, locking door, locking windows, large picture frame front window, four beds(two bunks), a wood burning stove, and a porch," shares Dwight D.
Activity planning: Look for campgrounds with built-in recreation options. "The place was fun.. they have peddle cars and playgrounds. They deliver wood to your site by the truck full! Nice little store and staff are all friendly," reports Jenn M. about Tip Tam Camping Resort.
Unique experiences: Consider specialty campgrounds for memorable family outings. At Pleasant Valley Lavender, "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," writes Ellen K.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose locations that accommodate your specific vehicle needs. At Tip Tam Camping Resort, "The sites are nice and clean. The bathrooms and showers are kept clean. Over all a good place," reports Bill V., though he cautions about early morning noise.
Hookup availability: Check what utilities are available before booking. "Small campground with only 8 spaces in the main area and 7 in an adjacent area. All spaces are level concrete With full hookups and attached concrete patio. Power is at the far back & sewage is in the middle (left to right). A longer camper will be parked over the sewage connection," advises Jeffrey about NWS Earle RV Park.
Parking considerations: Many tent-focused campgrounds have limited vehicle access. The road into Batona campground is "about 1 mile of loose sand. It can be accessed by a standard vehicle. Sites are suitable for tents or small campers. The unpaved road into the site is narrow and tree lined. A larger RV would not fit," explains meghan G.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent
campsite near Franklin Park, NJ?
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Franklin Park, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Franklin Park, NJ is Round Valley State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 26 reviews.
What is the best site to find
tent camping near
Franklin Park, NJ?
What is the best site to find tent camping near Franklin Park, NJ?
TheDyrt.com has all 27 tent camping locations near Franklin Park, NJ, with real photos and reviews from campers.
Keep Exploring