Turkey Swamp Park offers camping from April 1 to November 15 with 64 sites set in five loops. The campground features pull-through driveways with dirt roads and camper pads throughout. Sites include water and electric hookups, though none have sewer connections at the individual sites. Most campsites near Millstone are within wooded areas providing shade and privacy, with temperatures ranging from 40°F in early spring to mid-80s during summer months. The region receives moderate rainfall year-round with humidity peaking in July and August.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Turkey Swamp Park has a lake stocked for fishing where campers can try their luck. "The office is open until 9 pm and sells ice, firewood, and bait," notes Lee D., making it convenient for impromptu fishing trips.
Water activities: Several campgrounds offer water-based recreation during summer months. At Spruce Run Recreation Area, visitors can enjoy the reservoir. One camper reports, "You can launch your kayak easily from the shore" and "Boats/Kayaks can be rented."
Hiking and biking: Trail systems throughout the region provide options for all skill levels. "There are 21 marked trails that cover over 63 miles within the boundaries of Stokes State Forest. Twelve miles are part of the Appalachian Trail," mentions one visitor who hiked the Tillman Ravine trail. The campground is approximately 55 miles from Millstone.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campers consistently mention site size as a positive feature. At Mountainview Campground, "Our spot was #27 and pretty spacious" with "the landing for the camper was even with gravel and the rest of the site was mostly even," according to Sarah.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers rate highly among reviews. "The bathrooms were clean. Showers were a little spidery but kind of expected at a campground," says Megan S. about Brendan Byrne State Forest. Another reviewer noted the campground has "Good bathrooms/showers."
Privacy between sites: The spacing between campsites receives positive comments. "Campsite was very spacious and had a platform where we were able to fit two tents. There was plenty of space on the site for more tents," reports E.M.V. about Stokes State Forest, adding that "Campsite was very spacious... Very comfortable site, quiet but still with plenty of amenities."
What you should know
Wildlife encounters: Ticks are common in many New Jersey campgrounds. At Turkey Swamp Park, Laura Y. warns "By the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2." Similarly at Brendan Byrne State Forest, a camper advises "Ticks were very active on this visit be sure to remember your bug spray and tuck your pants in your socks!"
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during summer months. Brendan Byrne State Forest has strict rules about site usage. One camper learned "if using an RV in a tent site you are not allowed to add another tent to the site. There is a two tent limit per site despite the site allowing up to 6 people."
Noise considerations: Highway sounds can impact some campsites. At Spruce Run, Jules T. notes, "The only con to this campground is its proximity to the highway. You can hear 78, especially at night once the campground settles down." Similarly, at Allaire State Park, a reviewer mentioned "Noisy with highway traffic."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. Turkey Swamp Park features "age-appropriate playgrounds both in the campground and by the office," making it convenient for families with young children to keep kids entertained without leaving the camping area.
Bug management: Allaire State Park and other locations require preparation for insects. One visitor notes "Ticks galore" after camping in July, suggesting families bring appropriate repellents and conduct regular tick checks. For younger children, enclosed screened areas are recommended.
Weather preparedness: Temperatures can fluctuate significantly, especially in spring and fall. At Stokes State Forest, W.L. experienced unexpected conditions: "We went in November when there was a light rain that turned into a thunderstorm with hail and sleet!" Pack extra layers and waterproof gear for children regardless of forecast.
Tips from RVers
Water and electric hookups: At Liberty Harbor RV Park, "The sites had electric and water and were in a fenced off section of the marina parking area," notes Kevin A. However, another visitor cautions that at some parks "Not all the sites had Water & electric hook ups."
Site levelness: Several RVers mention the importance of checking site grades. At Spruce Run, Douglas P. advises "If bringing your RV, the safest bet is to reserve a spot with no shade as the other spots often times have very low hanging tree limbs." This prevents potential damage to your vehicle.
Dump station availability: While several parks offer dump stations, their convenience varies. At Liberty Harbor, Shawn B. reports "There is a dump station, but not the easiest to use," suggesting RVers plan accordingly for waste disposal timing to avoid waiting in line.
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