Camping near South Amboy, New Jersey offers both primitive and full-service options within a relatively compact geographic area. Located at the confluence of Raritan Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, South Amboy's camping destinations experience typical mid-Atlantic weather patterns with high humidity in summer and frequent rainfall in spring. Most campgrounds in this region sit at elevations under 200 feet, with relatively flat terrain making them accessible for various camping setups.
What to do
Kayaking on the reservoir: At Round Valley State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy crystal-clear waters perfect for paddling. One camper noted, "Beautiful and quaint..a nice place to get away and enjoy some nature." The reservoir spans 2,350 acres with a depth of 180 feet, making it ideal for various water activities.
Archery practice: Turkey Swamp Park offers dedicated archery facilities with hay bale targets. A visitor mentioned, "Bring your bow and shoot at the hay barrels," adding that the park has "everything the outdoorsman could ask for." The archery range remains open during regular park hours and doesn't require prior reservations.
Beach access: Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area provides ocean access with lifeguards during summer months. The campground is located approximately 25 miles from South Amboy and offers swimming opportunities from Memorial Day through Labor Day. A camper reported, "Ocean is close with lifeguards. Good fishing and pleasant people."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacious layout at Turkey Swamp Park, where the sites provide good separation. As one camper described, "Sites are all level, very generous in size, and reasonably spaced apart for privacy." Each site includes a lantern hook, picnic table, and fire ring on level ground.
Urban camping with views: Liberty Harbor RV Park offers unique camping with Manhattan skyline views. Located in Jersey City, approximately 30 miles from South Amboy, this campground provides an urban alternative. A visitor noted, "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!"
Rustic wilderness options: For those seeking a more primitive experience, Round Valley State Park Campground requires effort to reach but rewards with solitude. "Located just south of I78 and near the small hamlets of Clinton and Lebanon, what I love most about Round Valley SP is the fact that it has its very own eponymous fresh water reservoir," one camper shared. Sites are accessible only by hiking 3-6 miles or by boat.
What you should know
Noise levels vary significantly: Many campgrounds near South Amboy experience traffic noise due to proximity to major roads. At Cheesequake State Park Campground, a camper mentioned, "Stayed in the family campground in a travel trailer. Used a fan in the trailer to block out the sound of traffic with the exception of some sports cars/motorcycles speeding loudly."
Campground access limitations: Some campgrounds have restricted entry methods. At Sandy Hook, vehicles aren't permitted in the camping area. A reviewer explained, "No cars are permitted in the campground, so you will have to lug your gear to your spot so choose wisely my friends!"
Seasonal pest concerns: Ticks are prevalent in warmer months at many campgrounds in the region. One camper at Turkey Swamp Park 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."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Cheesequake State Park Campground works well for novice campers due to its accessibility and facilities. "This is a great site for those who are not avid campers. It's close to town if you forget something and it has all the facilities you may need, bathroom, shower, etc.," noted one visitor. The park also features several hiking trails suitable for children.
Playground access: Turkey Swamp Park includes age-appropriate playgrounds both in the campground and near the office. A reviewer mentioned, "Centralized playground for the kids with bathrooms and showers next door." The playgrounds are suitable for various age groups and remain open during daylight hours.
Unique camping experiences: Pleasant Valley Lavender offers a distinctive camping setting among flowering fields. "So pleasant to sleep near the blooming fields. Campsite is tucked in the woods," reported one camper. The lavender typically blooms from June through July, providing a sensory experience for children.
Tips from RVers
Parking limitations: At Liberty Harbor RV Park, sites can be extremely tight. One RVer warned, "Sites kind of level and very close. If it's packed, your neighbor will be within inches of your rig." The campground recommends selecting end-row sites when possible for additional space.
Dump station access: Turkey Swamp Park offers a dump station, but timing matters. A camper noted, "On a slow checkout day, you might get lucky enough to not wait in line for the dump station." The campground allows dump station use even for non-campers for a small fee.
Water hookup preparation: At Allaire State Park, water hookups are available but may require additional equipment. While the campground is currently closed for renovations, when open it offers RV camping with water and electric. A camper mentioned sites are "well maintained" with hookups, though sometimes requiring longer hoses than standard.
