Camping cabins near Hazlet, New Jersey provide convenient access to both the Jersey Shore and nature parks within a 30-minute drive radius. The region experiences hot, humid summers with average July temperatures around 85°F and mild winters, making spring and fall ideal camping seasons. Cabin rental options range from rustic accommodations to those with modern conveniences across several campgrounds in Monmouth County.
What to do
Water activities at Turkey Swamp Park: Visitors can enjoy fishing, kayaking, and canoeing on the park's lake. "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. I've been here a few times, every time I'm here I barely touch my phone," notes Tylen L. about Turkey Swamp Park.
Winter activities: When staying at cabin rentals during colder months, some parks offer seasonal activities. "We go every year. It has everything the outdoorsman could ask for. Bring your bow and shoot at the hay barrels. Ice skate on the lake in the winter or just enjoy a gorgeous walk in the woods," shares Patrick M. about Turkey Swamp Park.
Hiking options: Explore trails throughout parks near Hazlet for various skill levels. "Several short (longest one is 2.5 miles) hiking trails that are fairly well-marked but can be a bit confusing at times. Some sections of the trails were muddy due to swamps and bogs but passable," describes Lee D. at Turkey Swamp Park.
Archery opportunities: Some parks offer archery facilities for visitors. "Archery, boating, fishing, and hiking. Boat rental rates are acceptable and there are four different styles to choose from," notes Dan W. about recreational options at Allaire State Park.
What campers like
Spacious cabin sites: Sites often provide ample space between cabins. "Sites are all level, very generous in size, and reasonably spaced apart for privacy. A lantern hook, picnic table, and fire ring complete each site," explains Lee D. about the camping experience.
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms at cabin sites. "The bathrooms and showers are clean and well maintained. There is pretty lake with good fishing and they sell bait at the Ranger office," mentions Katheryn N. about Timberland Lake Campground.
Natural surroundings: Wooded areas provide a sense of seclusion. "Sites are in the woods and widely spaced apart to give you privacy and the feeling of being out in the Forrest," notes Katheryn N. about Turkey Swamp Park cabins.
Family-friendly amenities: "We LOVE camping here in the fall!! 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," reports Jessica D. about Timberland Lake Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal pest concerns: Ticks can be problematic during warmer months. "I was so excited when we got here. The sites are spacious and it's really beautiful. But by the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2," warns Laura Y. about Pine Cone Resort.
Road conditions: Some campgrounds have unpaved access roads. "As soon as you turn off the main road to the park, all roads are dirt, which was a bit surprising. They were well-maintained and in dry weather, not a problem, but probably not if it was rainy," mentions Lee D.
Site surface types: Many cabin sites and surrounding areas consist of sand or dirt. "The site was sandy. The whole place is sandy. This is messy, especially after a bit of rain(which we had), and makes it a constant challenge to keep the sand out of the RV," notes Matt S.
Booking requirements: Reservations are often essential, especially for cabins which are limited in number. "The campground is in five loops with the bathhouse located in the D Loop. There are also three cabins," points out Lee D. about the limited cabin availability.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Family-friendly parks offer structured activities. "When it comes to getting to the usual american camping experience, this is not the place for you, however when it comes to sleeping near the city on a budget, this place will most likely work," advises Jill R. about Camp Gateway Staten Island.
Bug preparation: Bring appropriate repellents. "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! The campground was super clean too. It was perfect!" shares Jaewook P.
Bathroom considerations: For families with young children, bathroom proximity matters. "Since it is located in the D Loop it would have been helpful to have pathways leading from the other loops. Did not use the shower so cannot comment," notes a visitor about bathroom access.
Playground options: "There are age-appropriate playgrounds both in the campground and by the office," mentions Lee D., highlighting the family amenities available at Butterfly Camping Resort.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Water and electric connections vary by site and campground. "Our site(#90) was a level pull-thru with 50-amp electric, water, sewer, and cable. It was roomy, shady, and easy to pull in and out. The hook-ups were all well-maintained and worked fine," explains Matt S.
Water connections: "Bring a LONG water hose. Nice lake. Showers and washers and dryers," advises Shawn, noting that water hookups may require longer-than-standard hoses at some sites.
Site selection: Consider your specific needs when booking. "The site was level and meticulously maintained, as were the dirt roads. The atmosphere was tranquil and relaxing," reports Howard P. about his camping experience.
Laundry facilities: Some cabin campgrounds provide laundry options. "There is a dump station and laundry facility with brand-new washers and dryers (however, you need to pay using an app on your phone)," mentions Lee D. about amenities available at Turkey Swamp Park.
