Best Campgrounds near Monroe, NJ

Central New Jersey camping options within 30 minutes of Monroe include county-managed facilities and private resorts with varying amenities. Turkey Swamp Park in Freehold Township offers a well-rated camping experience with pull-through sites, forest views, and a 17-acre lake for fishing and non-motorized boating. Nearby Cheesequake State Park Campground provides shaded sites with small forested buffers between neighbors, though highway noise from the Garden State Parkway can occasionally be heard. Private campgrounds like Butterfly Camping Resort and Timberland Lake Campground cater to families with amenities such as swimming pools, playgrounds, and organized activities during the main camping season.

Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from April through October, with a few extending into November or December. Sandy soil conditions are common throughout the area, which can create muddy situations after rainfall. According to camper Cynthia K., "The sites are all pull-through with lots of vegetation for privacy, but none of the roads are paved. All are packed sand." Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for weekend stays during summer months when facilities reach capacity. Alcohol policies vary significantly between public and private campgrounds, with most county and state parks prohibiting alcohol while private resorts typically allow it. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the region, though WiFi quality varies considerably between facilities.

Waterfront sites receive consistently positive reviews, with campers highlighting the convenience for kayaking and fishing. At Wharton State Forest's Goshen Pond area, Anna D. noted, "Our site was right next to the Mullica River with excellent views just a couple steps from the tent. We were able to put our kayaks in right next to the site." Many campgrounds feature mature shade trees and natural vegetation that provide privacy between sites. RV campers should research carefully, as some parks have limited maneuverability for larger rigs. Laura M. observed at one state park, "The campground as a whole and the individual sites are kind of tricky for bigger rigs. We are in a 26ft class C and we squeezed through, but I can imagine a big class A or 5th wheel having a tough time."

Best Camping Sites Near Monroe, New Jersey (84)

    1. Turkey Swamp Park

    29 Reviews
    Freehold, NJ
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (732) 462-7286

    $42 - $79 / night

    "We stayed in New Jersey for our 5th campground on the East Coast: Turkey Swamp Park in Freehold. This is a County park.

     Near some Revolutionary War battlefields.

     I really liked this park!"

    "Heavily wooded and supremely quiet, it’s located not far from anywhere you’d want to be. 30 minutes to the shore. Every site is a pull-through, large and spacious with great woodland views. 30amp and"

    2. Cheesequake State Park Campground

    19 Reviews
    Matawan, NJ
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (732) 566-2161

    $200 / night

    "I stayed at Cheesequake at the beginning of August and had a very positive experience."

    "This park is on the list of 50 top NJ Hikes, and it has a few great trails. The trails range from easy to moderate with quite a few lookout locations."

    3. Timberland Lake Campground

    12 Reviews
    Cream Ridge, NJ
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (732) 928-0500

    "They do their own haunted walk through that is just awesome! Everyone decorates. They have a dj every Saturday! Plenty of activities for the kids. They have cool raffles!"

    "As a kid - close to 6 flags where we had season passes... it was Jellystone yogi bear at the time. Very close to 6 flags great adventure."

    4. Allaire State Park - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

    18 Reviews
    Allenwood, NJ
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (732) 938-2371

    "Lots of walking paths surround the park & you are also close to Belmar, Point Pleasant, Manasquan (all fun shore towns)."

    "Nice state park with trails nearby."

    5. Pine Cone Resort

    7 Reviews
    Freehold, NJ
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (732) 462-2230

    "No hiking trails. No pond or lake for fishing. 50 per night"

    6. Butterfly Camping Resort

    10 Reviews
    Toms River, NJ
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (732) 928-2107

    $64 - $78 / night

    "Fishing lake is on the smaller side, but people were catching fish. Definitely in our top 5 New Jersey Campgrounds."

    "4½ Stars Quick Weekend Getaway  We stayed at Butterfly Camping Resort in Jackson, New Jersey, for a 2-night weekend in late-August. We’re so glad we did! "

    7. Tip Tam Camping Resort

    9 Reviews
    Toms River, NJ
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (732) 363-4036

    "It feels like you're camping out in a field with mostly sand around. But having said that, I'd still recommend it for all of the positive they do have."

    "Just from walking around I saw the two pools, an RC track, bocci, shuffle and board. They did have organized activities set up as well."

    8. Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area

    19 Reviews
    Atlantic Highlands, NJ
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (347) 630-1124

    $30 - $50 / night

    "Once you are there, you can walk right across the street to a bayside inlet and sandy shore that is not highly trafficked because no one can park there except those using the campground."

    "Rangers at the entrance regulate admittance thus, providing a safe environment within the confines of the base."

    9. Adventure Bound Camping (Tall Pines)

    3 Reviews
    Roosevelt, NJ
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (856) 451-7479

    "My wife and I, residing near the Commodore Barry, sought a brief respite. Our thirteen-year-old son was unable to join us, so we proceeded without him."

    10. Pleasant Valley Lavender

    1 Review
    Aberdeen, NJ
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (732) 740-4832

    $35 - $50 / night

    "So pleasant to sleep near the blooming fields. Campsite is tucked in the woods with. Tent camping in peace and quiet with easy access to major roads and highways to explore central NJ"

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Recent Reviews near Monroe, NJ

570 Reviews of 84 Monroe Campgrounds


  • Gennifer K.
    Oct. 12, 2025

    Sea Pirate Campground

    Lots to do

    The park was great. Very close to local sites like Tuckerton Seaport. Lots of activities on site including fishing, a heated pool, hot tub, and a couple of playgrounds. Bathrooms were very clean and well maintained. They had several activities and sent text reminders of what was going on

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Village Scene Park

    Tucked-Away Community Vibe

    I’m following up on my review from over a year ago with updated insights, additional photos and a quick breakdown of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS: 

    HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Convenient suburban location near Philadelphia yet surprisingly quiet; (2) Full-hookup RV sites with 30 / 50 amp, water, and sewer; (3) Affordable rates compared to other campgrounds in the region; (4) Smaller, tight-knit atmosphere with friendly long-term residents; (5) Pet-friendly, with walking areas and green space; and (6) Nearby restaurants include Franconi’s Pizzeria for classic pies and cheesesteaks and Appalachian Brewing Company with pub fare and house-brewed beers. 

    LOWLIGHTS: (1) Sites are narrow and can feel cramped, so don’t expect big pull-throughs; (2) Limited amenities with no pool, clubhouse, or playground; (3) Grounds feel more like a residential mobile home park than a campground; (4) Some infrastructure is dated and could use upgrades; and (5) Not much in the way of natural scenery because, um, this is urban camping. 

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Fort Washington State Park Campground

    Where George Washington Would've Ditched His Tent PPE

    I’m following up on my review from over a year ago with new photos, updated weathered campers’ tales and a quick snapshot of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS:

    HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Rustic group camping nestled in nearly 500 acres of lush forest that is perfect for history buffs and nature lovers alike; (2) Potable water and non-flush restrooms available year-round, because even Revolutionary War re-enactors need coffee breaks; (3) Over 3.5 miles of trails leading to Hawk Watch observation decks, which birders will marvel at and the rest of us will simply appreciate the vista; (4) Group tenting area that fits 20 to 100 people that is ideal for clans, clubs or covert woodland think tanks; and (5) Convenient to Philly (25 min), great for escaping crowds while still being able to Uber for donuts.

    LOWLIGHTS: (1) No RV or tent-by-the-river solo camping: group-only policy means solo adventurers need to carpool or carry heavy guilt; (2) Bathrooms are primitive and non-flush, so BYOTP as it’s campground chic here, not hotel lobby convenient; (3) Carry-in / carry-out trash policy means becoming one with your garbage until civilization or squirrels show up; (4) Cell service is ‘iffy’ at best, depending on how hard the woods are trying to keep you offline; and (5) No campfire tales about campers as noise is limited and so are late-night s'mores sessions.

    Happy Camping!

  • S
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Turkey Swamp Park

    Private wooded sites

    Nice, remote, private. Some sites unlevel. Bring a LONG water hose. Nice lake. Showers and washers and dryers.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Liberty Harbor RV Park

    Functional with excellent access to the City

    Very plain & functional, no frills but right on the harbor & on the very edge of Jersey City, close to a ferry & the train that takes u across to New York City. Shopping & restraunts are right next door. We brought scooters & had a great stay! Plus you can see the Statue of Liberty from there!

  • Aly E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Batona — Wharton State Forest

    Good spot to sleep

    The camp road was kinda hard to get around direction wise you couldn’t tell what was a road and what was a campsite. It was Saturday night and only two other campers but one was a huge group but thankfully not too loud. Two pit toilets that was pretty bad shape but we are used to disperse camping without toilets so we didn’t complain.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Washington Crossing State Park - TEMP CLOSED FOR 2024

    History and Camping with Revolutionary Limits

    Washington Crossing Historic Park, straddling Pennsylvania and New Jersey along the Delaware River, is one of those rare places where you can literally camp in history. The Pennsylvania side is all about historic buildings, museums and picnic spots, while the New Jersey side (Washington Crossing State Park) offers organized group tent camping. This isn’t the place for a cushy RV getaway or individual tenters looking to sneak in for the night, but rather a structured, group-style camping steeped in Revolutionary War atmosphere. First impressions? More Boy Scout jamboree than weekend getaway, but if you’re here for camaraderie and heritage, you’ve hit the mark.

    Facilities are deliberately minimal. On the Pennsylvania side, camping is limited to a handful of Scout-designated sites with portable toilets, no running water and zero frills. Across the river in New Jersey, the official group camping area provides open tent-only sites with no hookups, no pets and strict quiet hours. Think old-school camping: fire rings, pit toilets and a heavy dose of ‘leave no trace’ ethos. Reservations are required, permits are non-negotiable and the max stay tops out at 14 nights. What you do get is a wide, peaceful forest setting with plenty of space for tents, youth groups or scout troops along with the kind of simplicity that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

    Beyond the tent pads, the surrounding parks are rich with history and outdoor options. On the Pennsylvania side, you’ll find the visitor center, historic McConkey’s Ferry Inn, Bowman’s Hill Tower, and interpretive programs that bring the Revolutionary War era to life. Picnic areas and a boat launch offer ways to enjoy the Delaware River. In New Jersey, miles of wooded trails lead you through rolling hills and historic landscapes, perfect for hiking and birdwatching. It’s a spot where history buffs, scouts and nature seekers can all find common ground.

    Insider Tips? Here’s a handful: (1) The best group sites are the ones tucked furthest from the trailhead as (surprise, surprise) they’re quieter and offer more privacy; (2) Stock up before arriving, as there are no supply stores inside the park, so head on over to nearby Weis Markets in Langhorne or ShopRite in Fairless Hills, both of which are on the PA-side; (3) Be sure to bring all your own water as none is available onsite; (4) Kayakers should launch from the Pennsylvania side’s boat access for an iconic paddle on the Delaware River; (5) Visit the park’s historic reenactments, especially the Christmas Day Crossing event as it’s easily the most memorable history lesson you’ll ever get outdoors; and (6) When you’re done camping, fuel up at It’s Nutts Restaurant on the Jersey side in Titusville for classic diner-style comfort food or Francisco’s on the River for Italian fare with Delaware River views.

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Alverthorpe Private Park

    Urban Camping Bliss

    I’m following up on my review from over a year ago with some refreshed insight, additional photos and, well, because once wasn’t enough, here’s a quick reel of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS: 

    HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Hidden slice of suburban woodland tucked just outside Philly that is serene enough to reset your social media–addled brain; (2) Flat, open terrain scattered with tall shade trees makes pitching your tent feel practically pastoral; (3) Surprisingly solid cell signal (T-Mobile, Verizon, AT&T all wave hello), which is rare in inner-density camping and handy for emergency pizza delivery orders; (4) Short walk to a quaint lake and four-sided chimney for marshmallow toasting that offers low-key charm with built-in ambiance; and (5) Tons of shade completely shroud the entire campground area, so no need to bring those pesky shelters for added coverage. 

    LOWLIGHTS: (1) No restroom drama on the way in, but once you’re past the control building, basic camping reality bites; (2) Ancient shelter and group pavilion are charming in a ‘needs new plumbing’ sort of way; (3) Reaching the camping area involves navigating uneven steps as you won’t be able to drive to your actual campsite, which is great for adventure, but bad for sprained ankles; (4) Feels like a weekend-only myth where the park closes on holidays and deals in ‘control building hours’; and (5) This place is known to be full of litter and in dire need of some ground maintenance, so you might just want to bring an extra garbage bag and a rake to help out.

    Happy Camping!

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 17, 2025

    Liberty Harbor RV Park

    friendly staff at the office

    Gave us a welcome folder with lots of helpful info, can walk to get food up the street, short drive to Liberty Park where we got out and walked at night to admire the city skyline and Statue of Liberty at night. They have hook ups and big laundry room.


Guide to Monroe

Camping near Monroe, New Jersey offers numerous options for nature enthusiasts looking for weekend getaways throughout the year. The region's sandy soil conditions, typical of the New Jersey Pinelands, influence campsite conditions and create unique drainage characteristics. During summer months, temperatures typically range from 75°F to 90°F, making water activities particularly popular at campgrounds with lakes.

What to do

Archery practice: Turkey Swamp Park provides an archery range for target practice. Patrick M. notes, "Bring your bow and shoot at the hay barrels. Ice skate on the lake in the winter or just enjoy a gorgeous walk in the woods."

Kayaking opportunities: Many campers enjoy paddling at Turkey Swamp Park. Dan W. shares, "Boat rental rates are acceptable and there are four different styles to choose from. Campsites are roomy with electric and water hookups."

Biking trails: Allaire State Park features various biking options from easy to challenging. Beau B. explains, "Mountain Biking from easy, paved trails to several miles of single track with everything in between. Working village and antique train are available most of the year."

Swimming and recreation: Most campgrounds operate pools seasonally. At Butterfly Camping Resort, Caitlin F. reports, "There's a pond to fish, trails to walk/bike, basketball, sand volleyball, the list goes on and on. Both nights we were there, there were events being put on."

What campers like

Wooded privacy: Many campers appreciate natural separation between sites. At Turkey Swamp Park, Lee D. explains, "Sites are all level, very generous in size, and reasonably spaced apart for privacy. A lantern hook, picnic table, and fire ring complete each site."

Year-round options: Some parks offer extended camping seasons. Allaire State Park remains open through winter, with Patrick M. noting, "I have stayed in all the spots they offer, yurt, cabin and the pull up sites. Getting a cabin in the winter and going for a snowy hike is wonderful there."

Dog-friendly facilities: Pet owners value accommodations for their animals. At Butterfly Camping Resort, Caitlin F. mentions, "There was also a dog park which was very nice!"

Laundry access: Some campgrounds provide laundry facilities. Lee D. found at Turkey Swamp Park, "There is a dump station and laundry facility with brand-new washers and dryers (however, you need to pay using an app on your phone)."

What you should know

Sand management: Sandy soil conditions require preparation. At Timberland Lake Campground, Robyn W. advises, "Two things I loved: 1. Cost 2. Shade. One thing didn't love: 1. Sand… so hard even with rugs to pull out of trailer."

Bathroom facilities vary: Quality and amenities differ between parks. At Cheesequake State Park, Katrina Z. found, "Bathrooms were clean but there wasn't soap in any of the dispensers."

Tick awareness: Some parks report significant tick populations. Laura Y. warns about Turkey Swamp Park, "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."

Road noise: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds. At Cheesequake State Park, Stacey R. states, "The Parkway is right there so it's not a nice quiet place." Theresa G. suggests, "Used a fan in the trailer to block out the sound of traffic with the exception of some sports cars/motorcycles speeding loudly."

Tips for camping with families

Organized activities: Many campgrounds schedule family events. At Tip Tam Camping Resort, Dave B. shares, "There are a lot of activities within the campground as well that were impressive. Just from walking around I saw the two pools, an RC track, bocci, shuffle and board."

Bug management: Insect populations vary by season. Jaewook P. had a positive experience at Turkey Swamp Park, noting, "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!"

Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas. Katheryn N. reports at Turkey Swamp Park, "There are playgrounds and picnic areas as well."

Early morning noise: Some campgrounds become active early. Bill V. cautions about Tip Tam, "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 to fill the propane and was extremely loud."

Tips from RVers

Campsite surfaces: Soil conditions impact setup. At Adventure Bound Camping, Matt S. notes, "The entire park was dirty sand with weeds growing everywhere."

Site dimensions: Larger rigs face challenges at some locations. Beth R. experienced at Adventure Bound, "Tight site & hard to get in/out for big rigs."

Hookup locations: Utility placements vary significantly. Jean T. advises at Turkey Swamp Park, "Be sure to bring extra hose because the water spigot is a distance from the electric."

Seasonal differences: Campground conditions change throughout the year. Dave B. observes, "As it is very early in the season the pools were not yet open but appear to be very nice."

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best campgrounds in Monroe?

The Monroe area boasts several exceptional campgrounds worth exploring. Turkey Swamp Park stands out with its 2,283-acre property featuring a 17-acre lake, hiking trails, and spacious campsites. For those seeking a family-friendly environment, Atsion Family Camp in Wharton State Forest offers tent and trailer sites plus cabins for rent. The region includes options ranging from full-service RV resorts to more rustic experiences. For nature enthusiasts wanting a true wilderness experience, backpacking to Lower Forge Camp provides riverside camping with boat access options. Each location offers unique environments from wooded settings to lake views, with varying levels of amenities and accessibility.

What amenities are available at Monroe camping sites?

Monroe area camping sites offer diverse amenities to meet different camping needs. Mahlon Dickerson Reservation provides paved, level sites with water and electric hookups, a dump station, and wooded surroundings. Many campgrounds feature clean restroom facilities, like Butterfly Camping Resort which also offers a playground, fishing lake, and family activities. Amenities generally include basic utilities (water, electric), designated camping pads, picnic tables, and fire rings. Some parks provide additional recreational facilities such as hiking trails, lakes for fishing and boating, playgrounds, and shower facilities. Premium sites at certain campgrounds may include full hookups with sewer and cable TV connections.

What are the best times of year for tent camping in Monroe?

The ideal times for tent camping in Monroe are late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) when temperatures are mild and comfortable for outdoor activities. These seasons offer pleasant daytime temperatures typically between 65-80°F and cooler nights that are perfect for campfires and sleeping. Sea Pirate Campground is popular during summer months, though be prepared for occasional heat and humidity. Stephens State Park Campground offers beautiful fall foliage viewing opportunities. Summer camping (July-August) is viable but prepare for potentially hot, humid conditions and more crowded facilities. Winter camping is possible for experienced campers but requires proper cold-weather gear. Always check for seasonal closures, as some campgrounds operate only from April through October.