Turkey Swamp Park provides spacious campgrounds in central New Jersey, situated within Freehold Township at approximately 100 feet elevation. Tent sites and RV-friendly areas sit amid a mixed hardwood forest that creates a moderate microclimate—cooler in summer and sheltered in spring and fall. Campsites feature dirt pads arranged along one-way loops with varying levels of tree coverage depending on your site selection.
What to do
Hiking and nature trails: Round Valley State Park Campground offers multiple trail options through diverse terrain. A camper noted, "The hike up in the cushetunk mountain is really nice as well. If you're looking for a getaway without doing backcountry planning this is the place." The longest trail stretches nearly 3 miles from the camping area to the reservoir.
Waterfront activities: Spruce Run Recreation Area provides direct water access for kayaking and swimming. "I did my first solo tent camping by the reservoir and it was perfect. There was so much to see and hiking trails in the campground and nearby," shares one visitor. Waterfront campsites include their own dock access for fishing and boat launching.
Winter recreation: Ice skating becomes available at Turkey Swamp Park during winter months when the lake freezes sufficiently. A camper reports, "We go every year. It has everything the outdoorsman could ask for. Ice skate on the lake in the winter or just enjoy a gorgeous walk in the woods." Park staff monitor ice thickness and post safety notices during the cold season.
What campers like
Spacious, wooded sites: Brendan Byrne State Forest offers campsites with natural separation. "Sites are spaced out enough to offer privacy. Good trees for hammocking! Plenty of room for a few tents at each site," one visitor explains. Most sites accommodate 2-3 tents comfortably with ample space for gear.
Family-friendly atmosphere: Turkey Swamp Park maintains strict quiet hours and family-oriented policies. A reviewer notes, "Sites in Loops B-E all have pull-thru driveways. Sites are all level, very generous in size, and reasonably spaced apart for privacy." The designated family camping areas enforce noise restrictions after 10pm.
Clean facilities: Glamping close to Jamesburg, New Jersey often includes access to well-maintained bathrooms. One camper at Turkey Swamp commented, "Very clean. Soap and paper towels are provided. The only thing missing were hooks or shelves for toiletries but there was a large bench that could be used."
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds in the Jamesburg area operate from April through November. Round Valley State Park Campground has specific timing: "The park remains open seasonally from April 1 to October 31, with glamping accommodations available throughout this period."
Wildlife encounters: Ticks are common in warmer months. A camper at Turkey Swamp warned, "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." Always bring insect repellent containing DEET and check for ticks daily.
Water conditions: Round Valley's reservoir offers pristine waters for swimming and fishing. "The water is crystal clear, the area is clean. There's bathrooms and pumps but we just filtered the water from the reservoir instead which tasted a million times better than the well water."
Tips for camping with families
Age-appropriate activities: Timberland Lake Campground schedules regular children's events. "We went to timberland lake last fall. It happened to be the Halloween weekend which was full of excellent activities from pumpkin painting to piñatas and tricker treating," reports one parent. Check activity calendars when making reservations.
Playground options: Turkey Swamp Park maintains multiple playground areas designed for different age groups. According to a visitor, "There are age-appropriate playgrounds both in the campground and by the office." The main playground near the office accommodates children 5-12, while smaller play areas within camping loops cater to toddlers.
Rental equipment: For families seeking luxury glamping near Jamesburg, New Jersey, gear rentals save packing space. One camper shares, "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."
Tips from RVers
Water connections: Mountainview Campground provides hookups but with some limitations. A visitor notes, "The power station was well intact with 15/20, 30, and 50amp. Overall it was a nice stay and served our purpose." Many sites require longer-than-standard water hoses due to spigot placement.
Site leveling: Turkey Swamp has generally level sites but preparation helps. "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." Pack leveling blocks for potential adjustments on dirt pads.
Road conditions: Interior roads at some campgrounds present challenges for larger rigs. "They do also offer golf cart rental for those wanting explore the park. The park consists of permanent trailers, many tents for places to camp." Choose sites near main roads for easier access with larger vehicles.
