RV camping near Freehold, New Jersey takes advantage of central New Jersey's flat coastal plain terrain. The area sits about 200 feet above sea level with mixed deciduous forest and wetland habitats throughout Monmouth County. Summer temperatures average 80-85°F, while camping season extends from April through mid-November when temperatures remain moderate.
What to do
Archery practice: Turkey Swamp Park offers an archery range where visitors can bring their bows and practice shooting at hay barrels. "We go every year... Bring your bow and shoot at the hay barrels," notes one camper about this activity that's included with your stay.
Water recreation: The lake at Turkey Swamp Park provides multiple boating options from spring through fall. "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," writes a reviewer who enjoyed water activities.
NYC sightseeing: For campers wanting urban experiences, Liberty Harbor RV Park in Jersey City serves as a convenient base. "Very easy to hop on transit to get to New York City," reports one camper. Another adds, "there is a ferry 100-yards away that takes you to Wall Street M-F... and the path that can take you to WTC or 33rd Street area is only a mile away."
Winter activities: Some parks offer year-round options beyond standard camping season. A visitor to Turkey Swamp Park mentioned you can "ice skate on the lake in the winter or just enjoy a gorgeous walk in the woods," making this a four-season destination.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the space and separation at Indian Rock RV Resort. One reviewer noted their "site was a big pull through site" while another mentioned the campground was "well run" and "many campers here are seasonal or long term stays and were very quiet and respectful."
Natural setting: The wooded environment at Turkey Swamp Park receives consistent praise. According to one camper, "Sites are in the woods and widely spaced apart to give you privacy and the feeling of being out in the forest." Another adds, "Nice, remote, private... Nice lake. Showers and washers and dryers."
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance matters to visitors. A reviewer at Indian Rock mentioned "The hostess was very friendly and helpful," while noting "the bathhouse near our site had no hot water, but they were working on it." At Turkey Swamp Park, campers report "The bathrooms and showers are clean and well maintained."
Short drives to attractions: Reviewers value the location of Indian Rock for its proximity to Six Flags Great Adventure. "We stayed two nights at this park because we wanted to spend a day at Six flags... We would camp here again to go to six flags because it was easy to drive back a few minutes after a long day at the park."
What you should know
Shared water connections: At Turkey Swamp Park, water hookups require planning. "Bring a LONG water hose. Nice lake," advises one camper, referencing the shared water spigots that service multiple sites.
Ticks in wooded areas: Natural settings come with wildlife considerations. One Turkey Swamp Park visitor reported: "By the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2... I could not enjoy myself after having 3 biting me at one time."
Military base campground access: NWS Earle RV Park in nearby Colts Neck provides a unique option for eligible personnel. A visitor described it as a "Small campground W/ 8 spaces in the main area and 7 in an adjacent area. All spaces are level concrete With full hookups and attached concrete patio."
Winter camping limitations: Most campgrounds in the region close seasonally. While Turkey Swamp Park operates April 1 to November 15, and Indian Rock RV Resort runs May 1 to September 30, few options exist during winter months.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Turkey Swamp Park offers multiple play areas for children. "There are age-appropriate playgrounds both in the campground and by the office," notes a reviewer who appreciated these amenities.
Bug preparation: One family with young children had a surprisingly positive experience: "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!" However, experiences vary by season and weather conditions.
Bathroom proximity considerations: Choose sites strategically based on facilities. A Turkey Swamp Park camper mentioned the bathhouse is "located in the D Loop" and "it would have been helpful to have pathways leading from the other loops," suggesting families select sites accordingly.
Kid-friendly activities: Military Park NJ National Guard Training Center provides open spaces for children. "Plenty of space for kids to play in the field/grass area," writes one visitor, though they caution about "TONS of geese everywhere."
Tips from RVers
RV sites with adequate spacing: For larger rigs, site dimensions matter. At NWS Earle RV Park, a reviewer noted "Power is at the far back & sewage is in the middle (left to right). A longer camper will be parked over the sewage connection."
Military facility considerations: Military campgrounds have unique features. At NWS Earle, "The bathhouse has one male and one female stall each. Laundry facilities are free for use and in like new condition," according to a camper who stayed there.
Shared dump station logistics: Crystal Springs Lodges & RV Resort in Cream Ridge accommodates large motorhomes with 50-amp service, while Turkey Swamp Park provides a shared dump station. Plan your arrival and departure timing accordingly to avoid waiting during busy checkout periods.
Raised sewer connections: At Military Park NJ National Guard Training Center, one RVer noted a design challenge: "Only annoying thing was the sewer hookup is about 18 inches off the ground so you need to lift the hose when emptying the tanks to ensure it actually fully drains."
