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.
What to do
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."
What campers like
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."
What you should know
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."
Tips for camping with families
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.
Tips from RVers
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."
