Cabins at Brendan Byrne State Forest offer rustic comfort with several configurations available for rental. The campground features two small cabin loops with more privacy than the main camping area. Sites 1-13 provide the highest degree of seclusion in the forest. Campers note the strategic location about 10 miles into the Pine Barrens creates a genuine woodland experience. Water access points are distributed throughout the camping area, though some spigots may be non-functional during certain periods. Turkey Swamp Park provides cabin rentals with amenities suitable for families and groups seeking a more developed camping option near Freehold Township.
What to do
Explore hiking networks: Brendan Byrne State Forest offers extensive trail systems through varied terrain. Camper Benjamin K. notes, "There are probably hundreds of miles of trails through the woods and bogs to explore. Can't tell you how much I love it. Could spend a whole vacation just with these trails and never leave this state park."
Fishing opportunities: Turkey Swamp Park maintains a well-stocked lake for anglers. "There is pretty lake with good fishing and they sell bait at the Ranger office," writes Katheryn N. The park sells fishing supplies on-site, eliminating the need to bring specialized equipment.
Paddling rentals: Seasonal boat rentals provide water recreation options. "In the summer, canoe, kayak, paddle boats, and row boats are available for rental," explains Lee D. about Turkey Swamp Park. The small lake offers calm waters ideal for beginners and families.
Winter recreation: For cold-weather camping, several areas remain open year-round. "Getting a cabin in the winter and going for a snowy hike is wondrful there," writes Patrick M. about Allaire State Park, which maintains heated bathroom facilities during winter months.
What campers like
Secluded camping experience: Brendan Byrne State Forest provides a genuine wilderness feel despite its location. "First off, I will start by saying you have to drive a good amount of distance to get into the campground and that is something I really enjoyed! Made me feel super secluded and disconnected from the outside!" reports Dorian P.
Clean bathroom facilities: Well-maintained amenities enhance the camping experience. "The bathrooms and showers here were in really good condition, well cleaned and stocked, and was pleasant to use!" notes Dorian P. about Brendan Byrne State Forest. Showering facilities include hot water, though campers report varying levels of cleanliness.
Spacious sites: Turkey Swamp Park offers generously sized camping areas. "Sites are in the woods and widely spaced apart to give you privacy and the feeling of being out in the Forrest," states Katheryn N. These sites accommodate both RVs and tents on the same site without extra fees.
Variety of activities: Multi-use recreational options suit different interests. "We go every year l. It has everything the outdoorsman could ask for. Bring your bow and shoot at the hay barrels. Ice skate on the lake in the winter or just enjoy a gorgeous walk in the woods," writes Patrick M. about Turkey Swamp Park.
What you should know
Tick awareness: Insects can be problematic in warmer months. "By the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2," cautions Laura Y. about Turkey Swamp Park. Proper clothing and repellent are essential during peak season.
Campground rules: Regulations may restrict certain activities. "Only weird rule I saw was that fires can only go from 6pm till 7am which was odd but wasn't a deal breaker," notes Dorian P. about Brendan Byrne State Forest. Site restrictions also apply to tent setups and RV combinations.
Noise levels: Highway proximity affects some locations. Allaire State Park campsites experience "Noisy with highway traffic" according to Justin S., though the campground itself is "Well maintained."
Water access points: Water spigots require planning at some locations. "Spacious campsite, although the closest water spigot wasn't working. Not a big problem as there are plenty of others," reports Megan S. about Brendan Byrne State Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Turkey Swamp Park offers dedicated play areas. "Centralized playground for the kids with bathrooms and showers next door," notes Dan W. The park features age-appropriate equipment both near the camping area and by the main office.
Bug management: Insect presence varies by season. "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!" reports Jaewook P. about Turkey Swamp Park during late summer.
Law enforcement presence: Security measures provide safety. Jesse G. notes that at Brendan Byrne State Forest, "They do patrol the sites with a police presence in the evening," which may reassure families with children.
Site selection for privacy: Camping loops offer varying degrees of seclusion. "Sites in the smaller loop (1-13) offer more privacy than those in the larger loops," according to multiple campers. Families seeking quiet should request these sites when booking.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Multiple sites offer full-service connections. "Campsites are roomy with electric and water hookups," mentions Dan W. about Turkey Swamp Park. The park also provides sewer connections at designated sites for extended stays.
Dump station access: Waste disposal facilities operate seasonally. Both Brendan Byrne State Forest and Turkey Swamp Park maintain sanitary dump stations, though hours may be restricted during off-peak seasons.
Road conditions: Access roads may present challenges. "As soon as you turn off the main road to the park, all roads are dirt, which was a bit surprising. They were well-maintained and in dry weather, not a problem, but probably not if it was rainy," cautions Lee D. about Turkey Swamp Park.
Horse campgrounds near Lacey, New Jersey: While most campgrounds permit horses on trails, dedicated equestrian camping facilities are limited. Patrick M. notes about Turkey Swamp Park: "Bring your bow and shoot at the hay barrels. Ice skate on the lake in the winter or just enjoy a gorgeous walk in the woods." Trail rides are available seasonally at several locations, but specialized equestrian camping near Lacey requires advance arrangements.
