Turkey Swamp Park offers wooded glamping sites with private fire rings 20 miles southwest of Highlands, New Jersey. The campground contains 64 sites spread across five loops with full hookups and dirt roads throughout the grounds. Most sites are level, spacious, and maintain reasonable privacy between neighbors, with accommodations ranging from tent camping to cabins with modern amenities.
What to do
Archery practice: Turkey Swamp Park provides dedicated archery facilities for target practice. "We go every year. It has everything the outdoorsman could ask for. Bring your bow and shoot at the hay barrels," notes Patrick M., who also enjoys winter activities at the park.
Water recreation: The lake at Turkey Swamp Park offers multiple water-based activities. "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," shares Tylen L., who disconnects from technology when visiting.
Hiking network: Round Valley Recreation Area features extensive trails through wooded terrain, many accessible directly from the campground. According to Stuart K., "From the North Picnic Area, Bray's Hill Preserve and Round Valley Beachhead to the East Picnic Area, Round Valley Farm on the eastern side of the reservoir as well as Round Valley Rec Area, there's a lot to explore at this SP."
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Brendan Byrne State Forest receives praise for its well-designed camping areas. "Very Decent Camp in the Pine Barrens, Lots of potable water hydrants around the campground so not far of a walk to fill any water needs you may have. Showers and bathrooms are ok, kept pretty clean," reports Dan M.
Wilderness isolation: Round Valley Recreation Area stands out for its remote camping experience. "Located just south of I78 and near the small hamlets of Clinton and Lebanon, what I love most about Round Valley SP is the fact that it has its very own eponymous fresh water reservoir, which spanning some 2,350 acres and is 180 feed deep in the middle," explains a review from Stuart K.
Seasonal festivities: Timberland Lake Campground offers themed weekend activities throughout the camping season. "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," shares Jessica D.
What you should know
Transportation logistics: Washington Crossing State Park requires preparation for accessing camping areas. "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., who recommends bringing all your water.
Wildlife concerns: Some campsites have seasonal tick issues. According to Laura Y. at 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."
Bathroom conditions: Facilities vary widely between parks. At Pine Cone Campgrounds, Bradley B. notes: "The stall doors are quite small and lack privacy, which can be a discomfort for many guests. Moreover, only one stall has a functioning lock, which can be inconvenient during peak times."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: The swimming facilities at Turkey Swamp Park work well for young families. "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.
Yurt accommodations: Allaire State Park offers alternative lodging options suitable for families. "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 wonderful there," recommends Patrick M.
Educational opportunities: Washington Crossing provides historical learning experiences. "Visit the park's historic reenactments, especially the Christmas Day Crossing event as it's easily the most memorable history lesson you'll ever get outdoors," suggests Stuart K.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Camp Carr Campground has limited facilities for large rigs. "I live 15 miles from this campground and have paddled by it over 50 times. Recently purchased a used popup camper and needed a local campground to become familiar with setting it up," notes Jim B., who cautions about the restroom closures after day camps let out.
Campsite selection: At Turkey Swamp Park, certain loops offer better facilities. "Sites in Loops B-E all have pull-thru driveways. 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," according to Lee D.
Surface considerations: Several campgrounds have sandy pads that affect camping comfort. At Adventure Bound Camping, Beth R. points out challenges: "Pros: 50 AMP, sewer & water hookup, Nice amenities. Cons: Sand sites, Overpriced, Tight site & hard to get in/out for big rigs."
