The area around New Egypt, New Jersey offers camping options within the Pine Barrens region, characterized by sandy soil, pitch pine forests, and oak-dominated uplands. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall provide more moderate conditions between 50-70°F. Campgrounds in this region maintain standard quiet hours from 10pm to 6am with fire restrictions during dry periods.
What to do
Kayaking and boating opportunities: At Turkey Swamp Park, visitors can enjoy the lake with multiple watercraft options. "Fishing, Tent Camp, Van Camping, Open Field, BBQ, Kayaking, Canoeing. The list goes on," notes reviewer Tylen L. "In the summer, canoe, kayak, paddle boats, and row boats are available for rental," adds Lee D.
Archery practice: Turkey Swamp Park offers an archery range for visitors wanting to practice their skills. As Patrick M. points out, "Bring your bow and shoot at the hay barrels." The range provides a designated space for archery enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Winter activities: Seasonal opportunities include ice skating during colder months. "Ice skate on the lake in the winter or just enjoy a gorgeous walk in the woods," mentions Patrick M. from Turkey Swamp Park, indicating year-round recreational options beyond summer camping.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the secluded nature of sites at Mountainview Campground. "This place was actually fantastic, I don't really have anything negative to say about it. The whole scene was exactly what I love about camping, a nice little remote campground in the mountains," writes Christina H. The campground offers "plenty of open field as well as wooded areas," according to Mario M.
Wildlife viewing: Natural surroundings provide opportunities to observe local fauna. Christina H. at Mountainview Campground shares: "Shortly after we settled into our tent did we hear foxes fighting right outside our tent, the snorts of deer, and there were bats right above us all night making noise!"
Stargazing conditions: Clear skies away from urban light pollution create excellent stargazing conditions. "Great spot for stargazing. Owners are very nice," reports Scott A. about Mountainview Campground, highlighting a popular evening activity for many campers.
What you should know
Tick prevention essential: Multiple reviews mention tick encounters during warmer months. 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, Megan S. advises: "Ticks were very active on this visit be sure to remember your bug spray and tuck your pants in your socks!"
Bathroom facilities vary: Campground bathroom quality differs significantly across locations. Jules T. found that at Spruce Run Recreation Area, "The bathrooms were absolutely disgusting...someone's #2 remained all over the toilet, floor, and corner wall." Conversely, Turkey Swamp Park receives praise: "Bath/Shower House: Very clean. Soap and paper towels are provided."
Road conditions and access: Access roads to some campgrounds may present challenges. Christina H. notes at Mountainview Campground: "The drive to our site had some inclines and was relatively rocky and some vehicles would surely struggle." Being prepared for dirt or unimproved roads is advisable.
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. At Allaire State Park, Beau B. mentions, "Working village and antique train are available most of the year. There are also lots of festivals throughout the summer months." Turkey Swamp Park provides "age-appropriate playgrounds both in the campground and by the office."
Bug management strategies: Families should prepare for insects, though experiences vary. JAEWOOK P. reports about Turkey Swamp Park: "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!" This contrasts with tick reports at other times.
Cabin alternatives: For families not ready for tent camping, cabins provide a comfortable option. At Brendan Byrne State Forest, Patrick M. recalls: "I grew up at this camp ground. Spent every summer here." Allaire State Park offers cabins that are "no frills yet very nice no electricity they are equipped with 4 bunks a LG picnic table and a wood stove for heat," according to Erik M.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Spruce Run Recreation Area offers limited water and electric hookups. Ruette W. explains: "There are some RV sites with water & electric which are not on the water, but in the parking lot. I would consider getting one on the water to enjoy the water and one in the parking lot to hook up the RV."
Tree clearance considerations: When selecting sites for larger rigs, consider overhead obstacles. 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."
Water accessibility: RVers should note water fill locations at campgrounds. Frank J. shares about Spruce Run: "Reasonable cost from NJ state website. I paid $41 for 2 days. Campsites well spaced apart." While no dedicated equestrian camping facilities exist near New Egypt, RVers interested in horse trails should contact ranger stations directly about trailer parking options.
