Camping spots near Island Heights, New Jersey offer a mix of wooded environments and sandy terrain typical of the Pine Barrens region. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with high humidity, while spring and fall provide more moderate camping conditions between 55-75°F. Most campgrounds in this area feature sandy soil that can create challenges during setup and breakdown, especially after rainfall.
What to do
Water recreation at Turkey Swamp Park: The park features a lake with multiple boat options and fishing opportunities. "Kayaking, Canoeing. The list goes on. I've been here a few times, every time I'm here I barely touch my phone," notes one visitor to Turkey Swamp Park.
Winter activities: Several campgrounds remain open year-round with seasonal recreation options. At Turkey Swamp Park, one camper mentions, "Ice skate on the lake in the winter or just enjoy a gorgeous walk in the woods."
Archery practice: Some campgrounds provide specialized facilities beyond standard hiking and swimming. "Bring your bow and shoot at the hay barrels," recommends a Turkey Swamp Park visitor.
Safari viewing: Unique to this area is proximity to wildlife viewing opportunities. At Timberland Lake Campground, "There is a road that goes between the campground and the Safari you can drive, walk, or bicycle down and see the animals!"
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the natural separation between sites. At Butterfly Camping Resort, "The sites had good tree coverage and we didn't feel like we were right on top of the next site."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses rank high in camper satisfaction. At Tip Tam Camping Resort, visitors note "The bathrooms and showers are kept clean," adding that "the staff and campers are very friendly."
Family-friendly activities: Organized events enhance the camping experience. One Butterfly Camping Resort visitor shared, "Both nights we were there, there were events being put on (a tractor ride, kickball, and a pool movie night)."
Natural surroundings: The pine forest environment creates a genuine outdoor experience. A visitor to Brendan Byrne State Forest commented, "Camped here many of times. Very Decent Camp in the Pine Barrens, Lots of potable water hydrants around the campground so not far of a walk to fill any water needs you may have."
What you should know
Sandy terrain challenges: The Pine Barrens soil composition affects campsite conditions. At Timberland Lake Campground, a visitor observed, "Sand... so hard even with rugs to pull out of trailer."
Bug preparedness: Ticks and other insects are common in this region. "By the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2," reported one Turkey Swamp Park visitor.
Seasonal availability: Operating seasons vary significantly. Bass River State Forest is open year-round, while Butterfly Camping Resort operates only from "Apr 15 - Oct 6."
Bathroom distance: Consider proximity to facilities when selecting your site. One Baker's Acres visitor mentioned, "Our campsite was a good 7 minute walk from the nearest bathroom which was a bit far."
Tips for camping with families
Pool options: Several campgrounds feature swimming facilities for children. At Baker's Acres, "My husband and daughter enjoyed the pool. The playground was nice. We enjoyed the scavenger hunt and Saturday night entertainment."
Halloween events: Fall camping offers special seasonal activities. At Timberland Lake Campground, "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."
Safety considerations: Look for campgrounds with controlled traffic. At Baker's Acres, "There were very few golf carts and all the cars drove cautiously. We felt our daughter was safe to ride her bike."
Kid-friendly environments: Some campgrounds specifically cater to younger campers. At Baker's Acres Campground, a visitor mentioned, "I started going to this campground when I was two! It really is a home away from home. The owners treat you like family, the campground is beautiful & there is so much to do for the kids and adults!!!"
Tips from RVers
Site width challenges: Many campgrounds have tree-lined roads that can be difficult for larger rigs. At Butterfly Camping Resort, one RVer noted, "I am a little concerned about moving to the site they want me to move to in the Spring the corners around the campground seem tight with trees."
Hookup variations: Electric service differs between campgrounds. Turkey Swamp Park offers "electric and water hookups" but doesn't have sewer connections at individual sites.
Level site availability: Check ahead for site conditions. At Timberland Lake Campground, a visitor shared, "Our site(#90) was a level pull-thru with 50-amp electric, water, sewer, and cable. It was roomy, shady, and easy to pull in and out."
Road conditions: Internal campground roads vary in quality. At Tip Tam Camping Resort, "Some people might complain about the condition of the roads. We didn't mind them - it kept people from driving too fast."
