91 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
State parks and county-managed recreation areas within a 30-mile radius of Iselin, New Jersey provide a range of camping experiences from wooded tent sites to full-hookup RV accommodations. Cheesequake State Park Campground in Matawan offers shaded sites with electric hookups and is operational from April through October. Turkey Swamp Park in Freehold Township features pull-through sites with vegetation providing privacy between campsites, along with cabins for those seeking more comfort. For RV travelers, Liberty Harbor RV Park in Jersey City provides urban camping with Manhattan skyline views and convenient access to public transportation into New York City. Pleasant Valley Lavender offers a unique tent camping experience tucked into wooded areas adjacent to fragrant lavender fields, combining natural surroundings with proximity to major highways.
Most campgrounds in the region require reservations, particularly during the peak summer season from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The camping season typically runs from April through October, with some facilities closing during winter months. Highway noise can be a consideration at certain locations, as noted by one camper at Cheesequake State Park: "While the campsite is fairly well protected from highway noise, you're still going to hear it at least a little." Weather conditions include humid summers with temperatures regularly reaching the 90s, and spring rainfall that can create muddy conditions on unpaved campground roads. Cell service varies significantly between locations, with better connectivity at sites closer to urban areas and more limited service in rural settings.
Campers frequently mention the balance between natural settings and urban proximity as a distinctive feature of camping in this region. Turkey Swamp Park receives particular praise for its layout and amenities, with one visitor noting, "The sites are all pull-through with lots of vegetation for privacy. We had a site on the perimeter with forest views." Water features are common attractions, with many campgrounds offering fishing lakes, boat rentals, and water activities. Bathroom and shower facilities receive mixed reviews across locations, with cleanliness and maintenance varying widely. Weekend crowding is consistently mentioned in reviews, with Fridays and Saturdays bringing significantly more campers than weekdays, making midweek visits preferable for those seeking quieter experiences.
"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."
from $200 / night
Check Availability"This is all about location. The closest RV park to NYC. It's basically a parking lot with a dump station. Not much else. Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room."
"Basicly a parking lot, but the location can't be beat. 2 ferries that run to Manhattan. Path train is a 12 minute walk away that will take you yyo manhatten."
from $145 - $180 / night
Check Availability"Once you are there, you can walk right across the street to a bayside inlet and sandy shore that is not highly trafficked because no one can park there except those using the campground."
"Sites are walk-in (only about¼ mile) and carts are available to haul gear. Two water spigots and bathrooms with flush toilets are also on-premise. No electric, hook-ups, or showers."
from $30 - $50 / night
Check Availability"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!"
"Electrical and water are at the outer edge of each site so you might want an extension cord and/or hose."
from $42 - $79 / night
Check Availability"You have a clear view of the Narrow bridge and at night the city lights light up your surroundings light a nigh light. The camp here has 7 campsites here and it fill up really fast."
"this place is awesome when it comes to finding an affordable place to stay while in NY, this camp ground isnt your usual forest camp sites, however there are some beautiful views, and it is located in"
from $30 / night
Check Availability"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."
"So pleasant to sleep near the blooming fields. Campsite is tucked in the woods with. Tent camping in peace and quiet with easy access to major roads and highways to explore central NJ"
from $35 - $50 / night
Check Availability"Lots of walking paths surround the park & you are also close to Belmar, Point Pleasant, Manasquan (all fun shore towns)."
"Nice state park with trails nearby."
"Located in the Skylands of New Jersey, Mahlon Dickerson Campgound is a perfect place to spend a few nights or a couple of weeks. The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large."
"It's beautiful and quiet, and close to beautiful hiking trails, lakes, and other outdoor recreation opportunities."
from $529 - $1200 / night
Check Availability
ScoutRestrooms are filthy with mold and mildew.
Water puddled on the restroom floor.really gross.
Cabin was mostly clean. The windows were full of dirt and bugs on the tracks.mattresses were terrible.The fireplace was nice. Kitchen was clean.
Can t wait to move on to a cleaner park.
ScoutOn Friday, September 4, 2026, I rented a trailer and brought my family to Cheesequake State Park to celebrate our 10th wedding anniversary over the extended Labor Day weekend. Around 9:20 PM—well before the park's designated 10:00 PM quiet hours—we were sitting inside our canopy, playing Jenga, and listening to low background music. Two officers from the Matawan Police Department approached our campsite. They were polite and courteous, simply offering a standard reminder to wrap things up by 10:00 PM. Before they could leave, however, a third, senior officer intervened. Wanting to"show them how it's done," he made the two polite officers return and stand by to watch as he demonstrated how to aggressively harass campers. Flashlight in hand, the senior officer approached with an immediate hostile attitude, treating us like criminals as he demanded to know who rented the site. He began reiterating rules and claimed we had too many vehicles. We had three cars, one belonging to my brother-in-law's girlfriend, who was visiting with her daughter. She had paid the$10 visitor fee at the main office and was instructed by staff to obtain the gate access code from us, the primary renters, if she got locked in. No staff member ever informed her of an 8:00 PM visitor departure deadline, leading us to reasonably assume visitors were permitted until quiet hours began at 10:00 PM. The officer rudely snapped that she had been given wrong information. The senior officer then used profanity in front of three small children, aggressively telling her to ("get her shit and get the fuck out!") in that manner or use profanity, the officer went from hostile to furious. He angrily declared that these were official violations and threatened that he could be issuing us tickets instead. Desperately searching for anything and everything to throw at us, he demanded that we turn off our idling car—which was supplying power to our campsite—and instructed us to make sure the campfire was doused before shutting down for the night. He then proceeded to shine his flashlight into our private setup—including our canopy, tents, and the inside of our trailer—searching for any other possible violation while the two polite officers were forced to watch. What was supposed to be a special 10th wedding anniversary celebration with my family was completely ruined by a senior officer misusing his authority to put on an unnecessary display of intimidation. Worse than just ruining our night, he spent that evening teaching those two police officers how to be bad cops. He corrupted two officers in real time, demonstrating firsthand exactly why most people have lost faith in the police force. The next day we was ready for them. We turned off our lights and quietly by the fire while they went next door to harass an asian family that had just set up camp and had their leds lights on.
GuideBooked the day before—even on the holiday weekend! Just 1.5 hours outside of NYC, site was a bit close to the neighbors (fire pit was very far back and basically in the neighbors’ campsite, but we put up a “privacy clothesline” and hung a tarp over it for a bit of extra coverage.
The staff was friendly and helpful, they said it was the busiest they’ve seen the campground all year (there were lots of large groups but everyone seemed to settle down by 9:30pm
Poison ivy was EVERYWHERE at our site so make sure to stick to the open areas and the paths. Lots of families around, we felt very safe Bathrooms were fine—it was my impression they’re usually cleaner but the high traffic of the weekend left a bit to be desired, (lots of families around=dirty diapers in the bathroom trash bin) but it’s camping! I’m not gonna argue w a flushing toilet!
GuideBeautiful campground but made the mistake of going on a holiday weekend, the campgrounds next to us were screaming and blasting music all day and throughout the night so we ended up leaving early. A beautiful campground when there aren’t noisy capers ruining it.
ScoutAs far as experience it was good. The main issue was the campsite where we were was uneven and caused many of the sleeping arrangements that we had to be not level. This seems to be a specific issue to the group campsite number two as when we went inwards it seemed like everything else was much better.
ScoutNo hookups. It was wooded, quiet and dark at night. I used the dump station on my way out. The first time I ever saw a poop fountain. The sewer opening sticks up above ground level. The cover swivels away, so I couldn't put it on top of my hose. And then, when I tried to rinse it, there was nowhere for it to go, because the inlet is elevated.
TravelerWe’ve been to Camp Taylor twice now for tent camping: September 2021 and May 2023. We stayed at the rustic tent sites both times, and there was room for 2 cars and 2 tents. Depending on how you want your setup, there are some that are more secluded and others that are close together and would be great for group camping.
The staff are all lovely and take the time to explain the rules both in-person at check-in and on the forms they provide at the time of booking. They are not hiding how seriously they take rules like quiet hours, and it will keep campers like me coming back. If you are respectful of the folks around you and especially during the posted quiet hours, you will have no problems.
The office and shop keep supply of snacks, firewood, and gifts. There are flush toilets mapped in spots of the tent sites (SUCH a pleasant surprise! I was expecting a porta-potty or vault toilet), and hot showers are available at the same complex as the office.
ScoutI spent 4 days and 3 nights with my 6th grade Girl Scouts. We were at sites 23 and 24 which worked out great because they back up against each other. The bathrooms were super clean and well maintained. There are outlets at the bathroom building by the sink to charge any electronics. The playground is adequate and the field is big for playing. There are many things to do close by too like the observatory, Round Valley beach, Grounds for Art, etc. We all really enjoyed ourselves and plan on returning.
ScoutStayed three nights in a tent and enjoyed it very much. Sites have electrical hookups, shared water connections, large picnic table, and fire ring with adjustable grate. Electrical and water are at the outer edge of each site so you might want an extension cord and/or hose. Bathrooms are clean; showers have separate stalls but they’re clustered together (not the most private). There are hiking and biking trails, a lake, and archery park. Staff are friendly. Office is open through 9pm, and firewood, ice, and bait for fishing are available. Site C3 is in an okay spot; it’s close to the bathroom and laundry room, but also right next to the playground. We were able to visit the beach; easy 25 minute drive to Asbury Park.
Camping spots near Iselin, New Jersey range from quiet wooded sites to urban camping options with Manhattan skyline views. Many campgrounds in this region are located on lakes or reservoirs, offering water activities during summer months when temperatures average in the mid-80s. The region features a mix of county parks and state-managed recreation areas, most requiring advance booking from spring through fall.
Hiking trails: At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, numerous trails surround the campground for all skill levels. One camper noted, "We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful."
Historical exploration: Staten Island Gateway National Recreation Area offers unique urban camping with historical elements. A visitor commented, "There are abandoned buildings here and you can do urban exploring. There are rangers taking you on a trek and exploring the abandoned building."
Water activities: Turkey Swamp Park provides multiple options for water recreation. A camper shared, "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."
Urban day trips: Many campers use these locations as base camps for city excursions. At Liberty Harbor RV Park, a camper explained, "Very easy to hop on transit to get to New York City. There is a ferry 100-yards away that takes you to Wall Street M-F."
Privacy between sites: Campers consistently mention site layout and privacy at certain parks. At Turkey Swamp Park, a reviewer wrote, "Sites are level and well maintained. They also allowed us to put the car tent on the same site as a friend's camper."
Natural swimming areas: Several parks offer swimming options during summer months. A camper at Cheesequake State Park mentioned, "Bonus here, they do have a swimmable lake on the property. However, the water is pretty dirty. My friends and I walked out with green dirt on us. No worries it rinses right off in the shower!"
Year-round options: Unlike many seasonal campgrounds, some parks offer extended camping seasons. At Allaire State Park, one camper described their experience: "Getting a cabin in the winter and going for a snowy hike is wonderful there."
Accessible camping for beginners: Cheesequake State Park Campground works well for those new to outdoor recreation. A camper remarked, "This is a great site for those who are not avid campers. It's close to town if you forget something and it has all the facilities you may need, bathroom, shower, etc."
Noise considerations: Highway noise affects some camping experiences in the region. At Allaire State Park, a camper noted, "Close to the parkway, constant road noise. Okay bathrooms, flush toilets, sinks, showers, electric outlet."
Wildlife awareness: Several parks report active wildlife. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, a visitor mentioned, "There are a lot of bear warnings here so that gave us a bit of pause with our three little boys."
Variable site quality: Even within the same campground, site locations can significantly affect experience. At Liberty Harbor RV Park, a camper advised, "Sites kind of level and very close. Power and water, and convenient dump station if staying and needing to dump."
Limited facilities at some locations: Not all campgrounds offer full amenities. For Round Valley State Park Campground, a camper explained, "When you finally do arrive to this primitive CG immersed in NJ's thick wild foliage, you'll experience waterfront bliss with a crystalline bevy of trout-infused reservoir water, and you won't get much in the way of amenities."
Choose accessible locations: For families with young children, select campgrounds with amenities nearby. At Cheesequake State Park, a visitor shared, "This is a great site for those who are not avid campers. It's close to town if you forget something."
Look for insect-free periods: Timing can affect comfort levels for families. At Turkey Swamp Park, one camper reported, "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!"
Check playground availability: Several parks offer dedicated play areas. At Pleasant Valley Lavender, a unique option exists where "Campsite is tucked in the woods. Tent camping in peace and quiet with easy access to major roads and highways to explore central NJ."
Reserve during weekdays: Weekday visits typically mean quieter camping experiences and better site availability, especially important for families needing specific amenities or locations within campgrounds.
Hookup availability: Water and electric options vary widely. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, a camper noted, "Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that. Our site (15) said 75' however the 50' hose reel made it to our rv connection."
Urban RV camping considerations: For those wanting city access, specific challenges exist. A Liberty Harbor RV Park visitor advised, "Getting in and out of the city is an adventure. Stay right off the highway to avoid the $30 tunnel toll. Follow RV life pro and not Waze."
Site spacing and privacy: Some RV parks offer better separation between sites than others. At Turkey Swamp Park, "This campground has all pull-through sites. Nicely wooded with water and electric. Be sure to bring extra hose because the water spigot is a distance from the electric."
Dump station access: Plan for proper waste management. One Liberty Harbor camper mentioned, "There is a dump station, but not the easiest to use. Power and water, and convenient dump station if staying and needing to dump."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Iselin, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, Iselin, NJ offers a wide range of camping options, with 91 campgrounds and RV parks near Iselin, NJ and 1 free dispersed camping spot.
Which is the most popular campground near Iselin, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Iselin, NJ is Cheesequake State Park Campground with a 3.6-star rating from 21 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Iselin, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Iselin, NJ.
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