Matawan area camping options extend beyond established tent sites, with additional opportunities for wilderness-style camping experiences within 30 miles. The region sits at the edge of New Jersey's coastal plain, transitioning to the more elevated terrain of the Watchung Mountains to the northwest. Seasonal considerations impact site availability, with warm summer months requiring advance reservations at most locations near Matawan.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Round Valley State Park Campground features wilderness camping sites that require effort to reach. "The hike is a 3 mile minimum 6 max. The view was KILLER. The water is crystal clear, the area is clean," notes one visitor at Round Valley State Park Campground.
Historical exploration: Washington Crossing State Park offers camping amid Revolutionary War history. A reviewer reports, "Washington's crossing is beautiful and historic. We often bike along the canal there. There are farms and animals to see, hikes along the Delaware river, Bowman's tower with a great view of the surrounding area and much more," at Washington Crossing State Park.
Military history sites: Staten Island Gateway National Recreation Area provides urban camping with unique historical elements. One camper shares, "There are abandoned buildings here and you can do urban exploring. There are rangers taking you on a trek and exploring the abandoned building." The site offers unusual proximity to urban amenities while maintaining a camping atmosphere.
What campers like
Wilderness paddling options: For those seeking tent camping near Matawan with water access, Round Valley offers boat-in camping alternatives. "We paddled in, the water is very clean and crystal clear," reports one camper who appreciated the pristine reservoir conditions.
Private forest settings: Jenny Jump State Forest provides secluded tent camping experiences. "The space was reasonably priced, but we did have to pay an extra $5/day for our dog. However, we didn't mind as it was so private we felt like we had the entire Park to ourselves," says a visitor at Jenny Jump State Forest.
Rustic, primitive sites: Batona Campground in Wharton State Forest offers true wilderness-style tent camping. A camper notes, "If you want off the beaten path and not close to anyone... this is IT! You might even see the Jersey Devil :)" at Batona — Wharton State Forest.
What you should know
Site accessibility challenges: Most wilderness tent sites require significant effort to reach. At Round Valley, a visitor cautions: "Some of the sites are at least 3 miles to get to unless you take a boat across. Beautiful peaceful and primitive. The reservoir can turn into the Bermuda Triangle at any moment-- be careful."
Water access limitations: Despite proximity to water features, swimming access varies by location. At Staten Island — Gateway National Recreation Area, one visitor notes: "This campground is amazing. You have a clear view of the Narrow bridge and at night the city lights light up your surroundings light a night light."
Reservation requirements: The best tent camping near Matawan, New Jersey requires planning. "There are 8 shelters at Jenny Jump State Park. Shelter 2 is a minute walk from the restroom with sink/shower and water. Shelters 7 & 8 are even closer while 4 & 5 are the furthest," explains a camper detailing the specific layout useful for choosing sites.
Tips for camping with families
Cabin alternatives: Jenny Jump offers shelter options beyond tent camping. "The 'shelter' is what we would describe as a 'cabin'; four walls, a roof, locking door, locking windows, large picture frame front window, four beds(two bunks), a wood burning stove, and a porch," describes one family.
Easy trail access: For families seeking the best tent camping near Matawan with minimal hiking, Batona Campground provides accessible options. "Best part of this campground is trailheads begin directly from campsites. Trails vary in length but all are flat and easily accessible," notes a visitor.
Kid-friendly activities: Tip Tam Camping Resort offers amenities designed for children. "The place was fun.. they have peddle cars and playgrounds. They deliver wood to your site by the truck full! Nice little store and staff are all friendly," shares a reviewer at Tip Tam Camping Resort.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most wilderness campgrounds near Matawan limit RV amenities. A visitor to NWS Earle RV Park reports, "Small campground W/ 8 spaces in the main area and 7 in an adjacent area. All spaces are level concrete With full hookups and attached concrete patio."
Size restrictions: Larger RVs face significant limitations at most tent-focused campgrounds. At Batona, a camper warns: "Site are suitable for tents or small campers. The unpaved road into the site is narrow and tree lined. A larger RV would not fit."
Early morning noise: RV campers should prepare for campground routines. At Tip Tam, a visitor noted: "The only downside I saw was people here are up way too early. 7am place was already loud. 7:45am a propane truck pulled in the full the propane and was extremely loud. 8am people with leaf blowers and chopping wood. Don't expect to sleep past 7:30am."
