Many camping areas near Helmetta, New Jersey sit within the Atlantic coastal plain, with elevations ranging from 20 to 100 feet above sea level. The region features a mix of pine forests, wetlands, and watershed areas that create diverse camping environments. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with moderate humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions with temperatures between 50-70°F.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Turkey Swamp Park, anglers can fish in a stocked lake with various amenities. "The office is open until 9 pm and sells ice, firewood, and bait," notes Lee D., who visited in April and found the campground only "about 20% occupied" resulting in "a quiet stay."
Seasonal activities: Spruce Run Recreation Area offers water activities during summer months and peaceful camping in spring and fall. "You can launch your kayak easily from the shore. The sites are large, many have nice mix of sun and shade," explains Ruette W., who has camped there many times over a ten-year period.
Archery practice: Some parks provide designated archery areas for visitors who bring their own equipment. "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," suggests Patrick M. about Turkey Swamp Park.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: At Allaire State Park, campers appreciate different accommodation options. "I have stayed in all the spots they offer, yurt, cabin and the pull up sites. It is well maintained with numerous trails to hike. Getting a cabin in the winter and going for a snowy hike is wondrful there," says Patrick M.
Wildlife encounters: Some camping areas offer chances to see local wildlife in their natural habitat. "We heard foxes fighting right outside our tent, the snorts of deer, and there were bats right above us all night making noise! For some of us, this is what camping is all about," reports Christina H. about her experience at Mountainview Campground.
Rural tranquility: Camps located farther from urban areas provide more isolation. "The whole scene was exactly what I love about camping, a nice little remote campground in the mountains. We couldn't have picked a better time of the year too, the fall leaves were so vibrant," Christina H. adds about Mountainview Campground.
What you should know
Tick preparation: Some campgrounds report higher tick populations, requiring extra precautions. "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," warns Laura Y. after camping at Turkey Swamp Park.
Bathroom conditions: Facilities vary considerably between campgrounds. "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," reports Jules T. about Spruce Run Recreation Area.
Site selection: For travelers seeking horse-friendly campgrounds near Helmetta, New Jersey, options are limited. While no dedicated equestrian facilities exist at the campgrounds, Brendan Byrne State Forest offers trails that might accommodate day rides. "Campsites are spaced out enough to offer privacy. Good trees for hammocking! Plenty of room for a few tents at each site," notes Lindsay D.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Spruce Run Recreation Area offers multiple recreation options for families. "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," explains Jocelyn G.
Bug management: Some campgrounds report fewer insect problems than expected. "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," shares Jaewook P. about their experience at Turkey Swamp Park.
Playground access: Several campgrounds include dedicated play areas for children. "There are age-appropriate playgrounds both in the campground and by the office," notes Lee D. about the amenities at Turkey Swamp Park, making it convenient for families with children of different ages.
Tips from RVers
Hookup planning: At Brendan Byrne State Forest, RVers should prepare for fewer amenities. "Nice and quiet, sites are spaced out enough to offer privacy. Good trees for hammocking! Plenty of room for a few tents at each site," notes Lindsay D., though the campground lacks electric hookups.
Site selection strategy: RVers at Spruce Run Recreation Area should choose carefully. "If bringing your RV, the safest bet is to reserve a spot with no shade as the other spots often times have very low hanging tree limbs," advises Douglas P., who experienced challenges with the tree coverage.
Water connections: Plan ahead for water access at certain sites. "Be sure to bring extra hose because the water spigot is a distance from the electric. Sites are level and well maintained," recommends Jean T. about her camping experience at Turkey Swamp Park.
