Camping options near Marlboro, New Jersey range from county parks to private RV resorts within a 30-mile radius. The region sits at an elevation of about 100 feet above sea level with sandy loam soil typical of New Jersey's inner coastal plain. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder 60-75°F temperatures with occasional rainfall.
What to do
Fishing and boating: Turkey Swamp Park in Freehold Township features a lake where campers can fish or rent various watercraft. "Fishing, Tent Camp, Van Camping, Open Field, BBQ, Kayaking, Canoeing. The list goes on. I've been here a few times, every time I'm here I barely touch my phone," notes one visitor to Turkey Swamp Park.
Hiking trails: Several parks offer hiking opportunities through wooded areas. "There are several short (longest one is 2.5 miles) hiking trails that are fairly well-marked but can be a bit confusing at times. Some sections of the trails were muddy due to swamps and bogs but passable," according to a Turkey Swamp Park camper.
Archery: Turkey Swamp Park provides an archery range for visitors. "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," reports a camper.
City excursions: RV campers can use Liberty Harbor RV Park as a base for visiting New York City. "This is a pricey park, but options are limited. As in almost non existent. This is a prime location for visiting the city or heading down the shore. The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8," notes a visitor to Liberty Harbor RV Park.
What campers like
Spacious wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the privacy of wooded sites at county parks. "Sites are in the woods and widely spaced apart to give you privacy and the feeling of being out in the Forrest. There are tent and RV sites and you are allowed to have a tent on the site with an RV at no extra charge," explains a visitor at Turkey Swamp Park.
Beach proximity: Some campgrounds offer easy access to the Jersey Shore. A camper at Military Park NJ National Guard Training Center RV Sites shares, "Free beach just a few moments' walk down the road. Close to shore towns & many restaurants. Plenty of space for kids to play in the field/grass area."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers are frequently mentioned in positive reviews. "The bathrooms and showers are clean and well maintained. There is pretty lake with good fishing and they sell bait at the Ranger office," notes a Turkey Swamp Park visitor.
Easy access to attractions: Proximity to theme parks is a plus for some campers. A visitor at Indian Rock RV Resort and Campground reports, "We stayed two nights at this park because we wanted to spend a day at Six flags. Check in process was painless and the woman at the front desk was super nice and helpful."
What you should know
Insect considerations: Some wooded campgrounds have significant tick populations. "I was so excited when we got here. The sites are spacious and it's really beautiful. But by the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2," warns a Turkey Swamp Park camper.
Water hookups: Water connection setups vary by campground. At Turkey Swamp Park, a reviewer advises, "Bring a LONG water hose," indicating that water spigots may be some distance from RV parking spots.
Road conditions: Some parks have unpaved access roads. A camper at Turkey Swamp notes, "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."
Location accuracy: When researching campgrounds, verify current locations and amenities. A visitor to Skyline RV Camp - Non-Waterfront cautions, "Be advised that Skyline RV Camp has moved... There no longer is a waterfront view of the NYC skyline when camping at Skyline RV. The website views are misleading."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated children's play areas. A Turkey Swamp Park visitor mentions, "Centralized playground for the kids with bathrooms and showers next door."
Age-appropriate facilities: Turkey Swamp Park provides varied recreational options for different age groups. "There are age-appropriate playgrounds both in the campground and by the office," notes a camper.
Bug management: Be prepared for insects, especially during warm months. "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! The campground was super clean too," shares a Turkey Swamp Park visitor.
Nature engagement: Many campgrounds offer educational opportunities for children. At Allaire State Park, visitors can experience a "Working village and antique train are available most of the year. there are also lots of festivals throughout the summer months."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Site measurements are important considerations for larger RVs. At NWS Earle RV Park, a camper reports, "Power is at the far back & sewage is in the middle (left to right). A longer camper will be parked over the sewage connection."
Urban RV considerations: When RV camping near New York City, expect different experiences than traditional campgrounds. A Liberty Harbor visitor explains, "It is just a gravel parking lot, with water and electricity. There is a dump station, but not the easiest to use."
Navigational challenges: Some RV campers note transportation logistics can be tricky. "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 a Liberty Harbor RV Park camper.
Reservation timing: For rv camping near Marlboro, New Jersey, advance booking is essential. At Military Park NJ National Guard Training Center, a visitor notes, "9 sites total & they are often booked, so need to do so in advance."
