RV campgrounds near New Brunswick, New Jersey typically range from basic urban parking areas to more spacious wooded facilities within 35 miles of the city. These campgrounds serve travelers exploring both Philadelphia and New York City, with seasonal availability varying widely by location. Turkey Swamp Park operates from April through mid-November, while other facilities like Liberty Harbor maintain year-round operations despite the Northeast's cold winters.
What to do
Lake activities at Turkey Swamp Park: The 64-acre park offers fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and paddle boating during summer months. "There is a lake with a boat dock and a small boardwalk. In the summer, canoe, kayak, paddle boats, and row boats are available for rental," reports a visitor to Turkey Swamp Park.
Hiking opportunities: Turkey Swamp features several short trails with the longest extending 2.5 miles. "Several short hiking trails that are fairly well-marked but can be a bit confusing at times. Some sections of the trails were muddy due to swamps and bogs but passable," notes one camper.
Archery practice: Some campgrounds offer unexpected activities. "Bring your bow and shoot at the hay barrels," suggests a regular visitor to Turkey Swamp Park who adds, "It has everything the outdoorsman could ask for."
Visit Six Flags: Indian Rock RV Resort provides convenient access to the popular theme park. "We stayed two nights at this park because we wanted to spend a day at Six flags... 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," a visitor explains.
What campers like
Wooded sites with privacy: Many campers appreciate the natural setting at Turkey Swamp. "Sites are in the woods and widely spaced apart to give you privacy and the feeling of being out in the Forest," explains one reviewer who also notes, "you are allowed to have a tent on the site with an RV at no extra charge."
City access from Jersey City: Liberty Harbor RV Park offers unmatched urban proximity. "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," shares one camper who adds, "We brought scooters & had a great stay!"
Military facilities: Active and retired military personnel have dedicated options. At NWS Earle RV Park, "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)," notes a reviewer who adds, "Laundry facilities are free for use and in like new condition."
Beach proximity: Coastal camping options exist within driving distance. At the National Guard Training Center RV Sites, "Free beach just a few moments' walk down the road. Close to shore towns & many restaurants," reports a visitor who secured "site #1 with our 21' travel trailer" and enjoyed "an unobstructed view of Stockton Lake & the horizon over the ocean."
What you should know
Limited sewer hookups: Many campsites lack individual sewer connections. At Liberty Harbor RV Park, "There is a dump station, but not the easiest to use," according to one camper.
Seasonal pest concerns: Some parks have significant tick populations. "By the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2... I could not enjoy myself after having 3 biting me at one time," warns a Turkey Swamp visitor.
Water connection challenges: Water hookup placement varies by campground. At Turkey Swamp Park, one camper notes you should "Bring a LONG water hose" to ensure connectivity.
Reservation requirements: For military parks like Range 14 Camp, advance booking is essential. "Clean and gravel. Lots of military training nearby but overall a quiet stay," notes a visitor to this utilitarian facility.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Turkey Swamp Park offers multiple play areas for children. "There are age-appropriate playgrounds both in the campground and by the office," notes a visitor who appreciated the family-friendly amenities.
Bug preparation: Family camping requires proper insect management. At Turkey Swamp, experiences vary widely, as one family reports: "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!"
Bathroom proximity: When camping with children, consider site location relative to facilities. At Turkey Swamp, there is "Only one bathroom, bit of a walk but clean and many amenities available within," advises a camper.
Cell service for teens: Village Scene Park offers WiFi, though reviewers note it's "quite low speed." For better connectivity, Liberty Harbor RV Park's proximity to urban areas ensures stronger cellular coverage.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: While several parks accept large RVs, site dimensions vary significantly. Liberty Harbor accommodates big rigs but spaces are tight. "If it's packed, your neighbor with be within inches of your rig," warns one RVer.
Navigation challenges: Access roads can be problematic for larger rigs. For Village Scene Park, "You'll be driving down tree-lined, shady streets one moment and the very next, you'll happen across this unusual spot," making arrival potentially tricky.
Hookup positioning: RVers should prepare for unusual utility layouts. At NWS Earle, "A longer camper will be parked over the sewage connection," requiring appropriate hose length and configuration planning.
Security considerations: Many RV parks in the area have security measures. Liberty Harbor offers 24-hour security personnel, while military installations like Range 14 Camp provide added safety through access control.
