Best Campgrounds near Hillsborough, NJ

Campgrounds near Hillsborough, New Jersey range from state park facilities to private resorts, with most offering seasonal access from April through October. Round Valley State Park Campground provides primitive boat-in and hike-in tent camping along a reservoir, while Turkey Swamp Park offers full-hookup RV sites, tent camping, and cabin rentals. Many camping areas in this region are situated around lakes and reservoirs, providing both water recreation opportunities and wooded settings within reasonable driving distance of New York City.

Access to most campgrounds is straightforward via paved roads, though sites like Round Valley require either hiking or boating to reach camping areas. The camping season generally runs April through October, with many facilities closing for winter. Several campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly for weekend stays during summer months. Electric hookups and water connections are available at most developed campgrounds, though primitive options exist for those seeking a more rustic experience. Cell service varies throughout the region, with better coverage at campgrounds closer to towns. "Round Valley is certainly a must see for any type of outdoors person, or someone who appreciates relaxation in a gorgeous landscape. It is a semi-mountainous, forested setting with a very large 'lake', which is really a man-made reservoir in the middle of a valley."

Campgrounds in the Hillsborough vicinity frequently feature a mix of tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals, catering to various camping preferences. Several visitors note the spaciousness and privacy of sites at Turkey Swamp Park, where pull-through sites are surrounded by vegetation for privacy. Water access represents a significant draw for many campers, with fishing, kayaking, and canoeing available at Round Valley Recreation Area and Spruce Run Recreation Area. According to one camper, "Turkey Swamp Park has 2283 acres, a 17-acre lake, some hiking trails and a nice campground. The sites are all pull-through with lots of vegetation for privacy." While most campgrounds maintain clean facilities, several reviews mention that quieter, more nature-immersive experiences can be found at the boat-in and hike-in sites compared to the more developed camping areas that accommodate RVs with full hookups.

Best Camping Sites Near Hillsborough, New Jersey (108)

    1. Round Valley State Park Campground

    25 Reviews
    Lebanon, NJ
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (908) 236-6355

    "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."

    "Once you get to the campground trail it’s pretty easy going on asphalt surface."

    2. Cheesequake State Park Campground

    19 Reviews
    Matawan, NJ
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (732) 566-2161

    $200 / night

    "I stayed at Cheesequake at the beginning of August and had a very positive experience."

    "This park is on the list of 50 top NJ Hikes, and it has a few great trails. The trails range from easy to moderate with quite a few lookout locations."

    3. Turkey Swamp Park

    29 Reviews
    Freehold, NJ
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (732) 462-7286

    $42 - $79 / night

    "We stayed in New Jersey for our 5th campground on the East Coast: Turkey Swamp Park in Freehold. This is a County park.

     Near some Revolutionary War battlefields.

     I really liked this park!"

    "Heavily wooded and supremely quiet, it’s located not far from anywhere you’d want to be. 30 minutes to the shore. Every site is a pull-through, large and spacious with great woodland views. 30amp and"

    4. Spruce Run Recreation Area

    15 Reviews
    Bethlehem, NJ
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (908) 638-8572

    "Park employees and park police drive around through the day. Some big groups of campers got a little rowdy at night. The bathrooms were absolutely disgusting."

    "The actual site was nice and was close to the bathrooms. There was plenty of shade as the sun moved throughout the day."

    5. Washington Crossing State Park - TEMP CLOSED FOR 2024

    9 Reviews
    Titusville, NJ
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (609) 737-0623

    $50 - $100 / night

    "Washington Crossing Historic Park, straddling Pennsylvania and New Jersey along the Delaware River, is one of those rare places where you can literally camp in history."

    "I always look forward to going because it is consistently clean, great for riding bikes and taking pets for a walk and children for a stroll PLUS it is significant  historically and it is enjoyable for"

    6. Mountainview Campground

    16 Reviews
    Bloomsbury, NJ
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (908) 996-2953

    "We were kindly escorted to our site (a nice refreshing change from having to wander around to find the sites ourselves), which was the one farthest away from the entrance."

    "Close by to a couple of nice state parks. Cute sheep and goats that wander about during the day! Sweet little spot, we'll definitely be back!"

    7. Camp Carr Campground

    4 Reviews
    Clinton, NJ
    17 miles
    Website

    $37 / night

    "Both times it was a positive experience. Excellent view of the South Branch and extremely relaxing. Only negative was the rest rooms closed sometime soon after the day camps let out."

    "We’re total newbs but we had a great time parked next to the raritan river. Spot 21 was open on the one side since they weren’t allowing tents during Covid."

    8. Tohickon Valley County Park

    10 Reviews
    Point Pleasant, PA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (215) 597-0754

    "Easy to drive in and out. No “camp store/ features” but there’s a local pool with swing sets within walking distance and lots of manageable trails along the cliffs."

    "The Delaware Canal is nearby with the tow path for biking. That makes this a nice Bikepacking stop."

    9. Timberland Lake Campground

    12 Reviews
    Cream Ridge, NJ
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (732) 928-0500

    "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. They have cool raffles!"

    "As a kid - close to 6 flags where we had season passes... it was Jellystone yogi bear at the time. Very close to 6 flags great adventure."

    10. Ringing Rocks Family Campground

    13 Reviews
    Kintnersville, PA
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 982-5552

    "Store has most, if not all you essentials. ( had to get an extension cord because I forgot one of mine) so, if everything was positive, why did I give it four stars??"

    "There are many beautiful sights around including the Delaware River, ringing rocks Park, and Nockamixon. The park is clean and well-maintained, the facilities are clean as well."

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Recent Reviews near Hillsborough, NJ

736 Reviews of 108 Hillsborough Campgrounds


  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Village Scene Park

    Tucked-Away Community Vibe

    I’m following up on my review from over a year ago with updated insights, additional photos and a quick breakdown of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS: 

    HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Convenient suburban location near Philadelphia yet surprisingly quiet; (2) Full-hookup RV sites with 30 / 50 amp, water, and sewer; (3) Affordable rates compared to other campgrounds in the region; (4) Smaller, tight-knit atmosphere with friendly long-term residents; (5) Pet-friendly, with walking areas and green space; and (6) Nearby restaurants include Franconi’s Pizzeria for classic pies and cheesesteaks and Appalachian Brewing Company with pub fare and house-brewed beers. 

    LOWLIGHTS: (1) Sites are narrow and can feel cramped, so don’t expect big pull-throughs; (2) Limited amenities with no pool, clubhouse, or playground; (3) Grounds feel more like a residential mobile home park than a campground; (4) Some infrastructure is dated and could use upgrades; and (5) Not much in the way of natural scenery because, um, this is urban camping. 

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Fort Washington State Park Campground

    Where George Washington Would've Ditched His Tent PPE

    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 500 acres of lush forest that is perfect for history buffs and nature lovers alike; (2) Potable water and non-flush restrooms available year-round, because even Revolutionary War re-enactors need coffee breaks; (3) Over 3.5 miles of trails leading to Hawk Watch observation decks, which birders will marvel at and the rest of us will simply appreciate the vista; (4) Group tenting area that fits 20 to 100 people that is ideal for clans, clubs or covert woodland think tanks; and (5) Convenient to Philly (25 min), great for escaping crowds while still being able to Uber for donuts.

    LOWLIGHTS: (1) No RV or tent-by-the-river solo camping: group-only policy means solo adventurers need to carpool or carry heavy guilt; (2) Bathrooms are primitive and non-flush, so BYOTP as it’s campground chic here, not hotel lobby convenient; (3) Carry-in / carry-out trash policy means becoming one with your garbage until civilization or squirrels show up; (4) Cell service is ‘iffy’ at best, depending on how hard the woods are trying to keep you offline; and (5) No campfire tales about campers as noise is limited and so are late-night s'mores sessions.

    Happy Camping!

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Turkey Swamp Park

    Private wooded sites

    Nice, remote, private. Some sites unlevel. Bring a LONG water hose. Nice lake. Showers and washers and dryers.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Liberty Harbor RV Park

    Functional with excellent access to the City

    Very plain & functional, no frills but right on the harbor & on the very edge of Jersey City, close to a ferry & the train that takes u across to New York City. Shopping & restraunts are right next door. We brought scooters & had a great stay! Plus you can see the Statue of Liberty from there!

  • Aly E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Batona — Wharton State Forest

    Good spot to sleep

    The camp road was kinda hard to get around direction wise you couldn’t tell what was a road and what was a campsite. It was Saturday night and only two other campers but one was a huge group but thankfully not too loud. Two pit toilets that was pretty bad shape but we are used to disperse camping without toilets so we didn’t complain.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Washington Crossing State Park - TEMP CLOSED FOR 2024

    History and Camping with Revolutionary Limits

    Washington Crossing Historic Park, straddling Pennsylvania and New Jersey along the Delaware River, is one of those rare places where you can literally camp in history. 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. 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. First impressions? More Boy Scout jamboree than weekend getaway, but if you’re here for camaraderie and heritage, you’ve hit the mark.

    Facilities are deliberately minimal. On the Pennsylvania side, camping is limited to a handful of Scout-designated sites with portable toilets, no running water and zero frills. Across the river in New Jersey, the official group camping area provides open tent-only sites with no hookups, no pets and strict quiet hours. Think old-school camping: fire rings, pit toilets and a heavy dose of ‘leave no trace’ ethos. Reservations are required, permits are non-negotiable and the max stay tops out at 14 nights. What you do get is a wide, peaceful forest setting with plenty of space for tents, youth groups or scout troops along with the kind of simplicity that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

    Beyond the tent pads, the surrounding parks are rich with history and outdoor options. On the Pennsylvania side, you’ll find the visitor center, historic McConkey’s Ferry Inn, Bowman’s Hill Tower, and interpretive programs that bring the Revolutionary War era to life. Picnic areas and a boat launch offer ways to enjoy the Delaware River. In New Jersey, miles of wooded trails lead you through rolling hills and historic landscapes, perfect for hiking and birdwatching. It’s a spot where history buffs, scouts and nature seekers can all find common ground.

    Insider Tips? Here’s a handful: (1) The best group sites are the ones tucked furthest from the trailhead as (surprise, surprise) they’re quieter and offer more privacy; (2) Stock up before arriving, as there are no supply stores inside the park, so head on over to nearby Weis Markets in Langhorne or ShopRite in Fairless Hills, both of which are on the PA-side; (3) Be sure to bring all your own water as none is available onsite; (4) Kayakers should launch from the Pennsylvania side’s boat access for an iconic paddle on the Delaware River; (5) 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; and (6) When you’re done camping, fuel up at It’s Nutts Restaurant on the Jersey side in Titusville for classic diner-style comfort food or Francisco’s on the River for Italian fare with Delaware River views.

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Alverthorpe Private Park

    Urban Camping Bliss

    I’m following up on my review from over a year ago with some refreshed insight, additional photos and, well, because once wasn’t enough, here’s a quick reel of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS: 

    HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Hidden slice of suburban woodland tucked just outside Philly that is serene enough to reset your social media–addled brain; (2) Flat, open terrain scattered with tall shade trees makes pitching your tent feel practically pastoral; (3) Surprisingly solid cell signal (T-Mobile, Verizon, AT&T all wave hello), which is rare in inner-density camping and handy for emergency pizza delivery orders; (4) Short walk to a quaint lake and four-sided chimney for marshmallow toasting that offers low-key charm with built-in ambiance; and (5) Tons of shade completely shroud the entire campground area, so no need to bring those pesky shelters for added coverage. 

    LOWLIGHTS: (1) No restroom drama on the way in, but once you’re past the control building, basic camping reality bites; (2) Ancient shelter and group pavilion are charming in a ‘needs new plumbing’ sort of way; (3) Reaching the camping area involves navigating uneven steps as you won’t be able to drive to your actual campsite, which is great for adventure, but bad for sprained ankles; (4) Feels like a weekend-only myth where the park closes on holidays and deals in ‘control building hours’; and (5) This place is known to be full of litter and in dire need of some ground maintenance, so you might just want to bring an extra garbage bag and a rake to help out.

    Happy Camping!

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 17, 2025

    Liberty Harbor RV Park

    friendly staff at the office

    Gave us a welcome folder with lots of helpful info, can walk to get food up the street, short drive to Liberty Park where we got out and walked at night to admire the city skyline and Statue of Liberty at night. They have hook ups and big laundry room.

  • R
    Sep. 16, 2025

    Tohickon Family Campground

    Wonderful campground!

    Great camping, great hiking, pretty close to stores if you need anything. Staff is incredible!! Very polite, helpful, and just all around awesome People!!! They make sure your stay is exactly what you’d want it to be.. getting here was a little tricky having to go around the covered bridge but not anything that would ever deter me and my family from coming back. Overall very impressed!! They even were able To get us in very last minute WITH full hook ups for my trailer!!!!


Guide to Hillsborough

Camping near Hillsborough, New Jersey, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Many campgrounds have great trails. For example, at Round Valley State Park Campground, one camper mentioned, "The hike in was a tough one! Weather was 95 and sunny on the hike in, which didn't make it any easier."
  • Fishing and Boating: At Turkey Swamp Park, you can enjoy fishing and boat rentals. A visitor shared, "The lake has fishing & boat rentals. No gas motors."
  • Exploring Historical Sites: Allaire State Park has a historical village where you can learn about the past. One reviewer said, "In addition to their tent sites and group gathering areas, we enjoy all the activities!"

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, a visitor noted, "The campground is clean, paved nicely and well run."
  • Spacious Campsites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. A camper at Mountainview Campground said, "Sites are huge and very private. You didn’t even know that there were people around you."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention helpful staff. At Great Divide Campground, one visitor remarked, "The customer service is fantastic."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may lack certain amenities. A camper at Spruce Run Recreation Area mentioned, "Showers were cold water only and very cold at that."
  • Noise Levels: Be prepared for some noise from nearby highways. A visitor at Cheesequake State Park Campground noted, "While the campsite is fairly well protected from highway noise, you're still going to hear it at least a little."
  • Wildlife Caution: Some areas have wildlife warnings. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, a camper said, "There are a lot of bear warnings here so that gave us a bit of pause with our three little boys."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. Turkey Swamp Park has a playground, and a reviewer said, "There’s a nice playground in the campground."
  • Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals. A camper at Driftstone Campground mentioned, "The store has a little of everything."
  • Pack for Comfort: Bring extra blankets and pillows for a cozy stay. A visitor at Mountainview Campground said, "The cleanest port-a-potty and bath house I have ever used!"

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookups: Make sure your site has the right hookups. A camper at Great Divide Campground noted, "The RV sites were all full hookup on our loop."
  • Be Prepared for Muddy Roads: Some campgrounds have unpaved roads. A visitor at Turkey Swamp Park mentioned, "None of the roads are paved. All are packed sand."
  • Arrive Early: Popular campgrounds can fill up fast. A camper at Round Valley State Park Campground said, "The necessary carry in and out for 3 miles is a huge downfall."

Camping near Hillsborough, New Jersey, has something for everyone. Whether you're hiking, fishing, or just enjoying the outdoors, you'll find a spot that fits your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Hillsborough, NJ?

According to TheDyrt.com, Hillsborough, NJ offers a wide range of camping options, with 108 campgrounds and RV parks near Hillsborough, NJ and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Hillsborough, NJ?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Hillsborough, NJ is Round Valley State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 25 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Hillsborough, NJ?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Hillsborough, NJ.

What parks are near Hillsborough, NJ?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 parks near Hillsborough, NJ that allow camping, notably Gateway National Recreation Area and Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.