RV campgrounds near Long Branch, New Jersey provide diverse options for motorhome travelers within easy reach of both coastal attractions and urban experiences. The area sits at the gateway to the Jersey Shore, with most campgrounds positioned within 30 miles of Long Branch's beaches. Sandy soil conditions are common throughout the region's campgrounds, particularly in the Pine Barrens area where several RV parks are located.
What to do
Fishing and boating activities: Turkey Swamp Park features a lake with fishing opportunities and boat rentals. "There is a lake with a boat dock and a small boardwalk. In the summer, canoe, kayak, paddle boats, and row boats are available for rental," notes a visitor at Turkey Swamp Park.
Hiking trail exploration: Several campgrounds offer hiking opportunities with varying difficulty levels. At Allaire State Park, you'll find "several miles of single track with everything in between" according to one reviewer who appreciated the variety of trails from "easy, paved trails" to more challenging options.
Archery practice: Some county parks provide unique outdoor activities beyond standard camping. "Bring your bow and shoot at the hay barrels," suggests a regular visitor to Turkey Swamp Park, highlighting one of the less common recreational options available at campgrounds in the region.
City exploration: For campers interested in urban adventures, Liberty Harbor provides convenient access to Manhattan. A camper reported, "The ferry is 100-yards away that takes you to Wall Street M-F. There is a great market about 1/4 of a mile away, and the path that can take you to WTC or 33rd Street area is only a mile away."
What campers like
Spacious, wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the privacy offered at certain campgrounds. A visitor to Turkey Swamp Park commented that "Sites are in the woods and widely spaced apart to give you privacy and the feeling of being out in the Forrest. Sites are all level, very generous in size, and reasonably spaced apart."
Clean facilities: Reviewers frequently mention bathroom quality as an important factor. At Liberty Harbor RV Park, a visitor noted "The bath house was above average and heated. The laundry was helpful and was acceptable," providing practical information about facility conditions.
Proximity to attractions: Location advantage ranks highly among camper preferences. A military veteran staying at NWS Earle RV Park appreciated that "It's only an hour from Manhattan & 20 more minutes from the shore. If you're planning a visit to either this campground is cheap, clean & quiet."
Four-season availability: Unlike many seasonal options, some parks remain open year-round. An Allaire State Park visitor highlighted winter camping benefits, mentioning "the bathrooms were clean and warm" during a snow event, making it viable for off-season camping.
What you should know
Limited availability: Reservations fill quickly at popular locations, particularly for waterfront sites. At Military Park NJ National Guard Training Center, a camper advised, "9 sites total & they are often booked, so need to do so in advance."
Terrain considerations: Sandy soil conditions affect several campgrounds in the area. Turkey Swamp Park has "all roads and camper pads are dirt" which "were well-maintained and in dry weather, not a problem, but probably not if it was rainy."
Wildlife awareness: Ticks can be problematic at woodland campgrounds. One Turkey Swamp Park camper reported, "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."
Variable service quality: Experiences can differ widely between campgrounds. At Liberty Harbor, a visitor noted that "the laundry was not working properly and ate a good $5 of our quarters. We went to the office where the security guard told us that they cannot do anything."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. Turkey Swamp Park features "age-appropriate playgrounds both in the campground and by the office," providing recreation options within safe distance of campsites.
Educational opportunities: Historical sites at some parks offer learning experiences. A visitor to Allaire State Park mentioned the "working village and antique train are available most of the year" and "lots of festivals throughout the summer months," providing cultural activities for families.
Beach proximity: For families seeking water activities, some campgrounds offer convenient coastal access. A reviewer at Indian Rock RV Resort mentioned they "stayed two nights at this park because we wanted to spend a day at Six flags," highlighting the convenience of using campgrounds as bases for day trips to attractions.
Multi-accommodation options: Several parks accommodate various camping styles at the same site. At Turkey Swamp Park, "you are allowed to have a tent on the site with an RV at no extra charge," offering flexibility for larger family groups with different shelter preferences.
Tips from RVers
Sewage connection height: Infrastructure design varies between campgrounds. Military Park campers should note that "the sewer hookup is about 18 inches off the ground so you need to lift the hose when emptying the tanks to ensure it actually fully drains."
Urban navigation challenges: City-adjacent campgrounds require careful driving planning. For RVers heading to Liberty Harbor, "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," advises an experienced camper.
Water hose requirements: Utility placement affects equipment needs. A Turkey Swamp Park visitor suggests visitors "Bring a LONG water hose" due to the distance between hookups and parking areas at certain sites.
Site levelness: Terrain variations can affect comfort. While many sites offer level pads, a Turkey Swamp reviewer noted "Some sites unlevel," suggesting RVers should come prepared with leveling blocks even at established campgrounds.
