Camping near Matawan, New Jersey offers convenient access to both shore destinations and city attractions. The region sits at low elevations between 20-100 feet above sea level with a humid subtropical climate, resulting in hot summers and mild winters. Most RV campgrounds within a 30-mile radius of Matawan operate seasonally from spring through fall due to potential freezing temperatures in winter.
What to do
Hiking and biking trails: Turkey Swamp Park features several short trails with the longest extending 2.5 miles through wooded areas. "There are lots of trails and the packed dirt roads are nice for bike riding," reports one camper who enjoyed the natural setting.
Water recreation: Allaire State Park provides access to fishing spots and canoe routes. "We found this campground one night when we were in NJ. It ended up snowing that night. The bathrooms were clean and warm. There is a lot to do in the area," writes a winter visitor who appreciated the year-round amenities.
City excursions: Liberty Harbor RV Park offers quick access to Manhattan. "This is all about location. The closest RV park to NYC. It's basically a parking lot with a dump station. Not much else. Pluses, minutes walk to the Statue of Liberty, Liberty Science Center. Two blocks away from NJ Path train into Manhattan or take the ferry to Wall Street!" notes one reviewer highlighting the convenience.
What campers like
Spacious wooded sites: Many campers praise Turkey Swamp Park for its layout and natural setting. "Sites are in the woods and widely spaced apart to give you privacy and the feeling of being out in the Forrest. Sites 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 satisfied camper.
Convenient coastal access: Military Park NJ National Guard Training Center RV Sites offers proximity to beaches. "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," notes a reviewer who stayed in a travel trailer.
Quiet environment: Despite being close to urban areas, some RV campgrounds maintain peaceful atmospheres. "We stayed here in November-December to do some exploring around Jersey. Not a lot going on at the fam camp. Clean and gravel. Lots of military training nearby but overall a quiet stay," writes a visitor to Military Park Fort Dix Range 14 Camp.
What you should know
Limited winter options: Most RV campgrounds near Matawan close seasonally. Indian Rock RV Resort operates only from May through September, while Turkey Swamp Park runs from April through mid-November.
Reservation requirements: Peak summer weekends fill quickly at popular campgrounds. At Indian Rock RV Resort, a camper noted: "Many campers here are seasonal or long term stays and were very quiet and respectful. We would camp here again to go to six flags because it was easy to drive back a few minutes after a long day at the park."
Variable amenities: Bathhouse facilities differ widely across campgrounds. "The bathhouse has on male and one female stall each. Laundry facilities are free for use and in like new condition," reports a visitor to NWS Earle RV Park regarding the limited but well-maintained facilities.
Tick awareness: Wooded sites can harbor ticks during warm months. "I have been RVing for 2-3 years and this is the first time this many ticks ambushed us. I could not enjoy myself after having 3 biting me at one time," warns a camper who visited Turkey Swamp Park.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Turkey Swamp Park offers multiple recreation choices. "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," explains a family who enjoyed their visit with children.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. "There is a nice lake with good fishing and they sell bait at the Ranger office. There are playgrounds and picnic areas as well," notes a Turkey Swamp Park visitor.
Bug preparation: Pack insect repellent for summer stays. "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 family who had a positive experience despite bug concerns.
Tips from RVers
Hookup positioning: At some RV campgrounds Matawan, New Jersey visitors frequent, utility connections require planning. "All spaces are level concrete With fill hookups and attached concrete patio. Power is at the far back & sewage is in the middle (left to right). A longer camper will be parked over the sewage connection," advises an RVer who stayed at NWS Earle RV Park.
Access challenges: Some parks have tight entry roads. "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," recommends a Liberty Harbor visitor navigating the urban setting.
Site selection strategy: For more space at crowded parks, location matters. "Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room. If it's packed, your neighbor with be within inches of your rig," suggests an experienced RVer about Liberty Harbor RV Park.
