Turkey Swamp Park Campground sits on over 2,000 acres of forested land in Monmouth County. The park's sand and gravel forest ecosystem supports diverse wildlife including white-tailed deer, eastern box turtles, and barred owls. Seasonal camping runs April 1 through November 15, with temperatures ranging from spring lows around 45°F to summer highs in the mid-80s. The campground features 64 wooded campsites arranged in five loops, with dirt roads and pull-through driveways on most sites.
What to do
Archery practice: Turkey Swamp Park offers an archery range for visitors seeking to practice their skills. "You can bring your bow and shoot at the hay barrels," notes Patrick M., who visits the park annually to enjoy various outdoor activities.
Boating options: The park's lake provides multiple paddling options with seasonal rentals. "In the summer, canoe, kayak, paddle boats, and row boats are available for rental," reports Lee D. after visiting in April. The lake serves as a centerpiece for recreation throughout the campground.
Hiking trails: Several marked trails wind through the wooded landscape. "Several short (longest one is 2.5 miles) 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," shares Lee D. about the trail conditions.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Turkey Swamp Park receives consistent praise for its campsite layout. "Sites are in the woods and widely spaced apart to give you privacy and the feeling of being out in the Forrest," explains Katheryn N., highlighting the natural setting that draws repeat visitors.
Clean facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained amenities. "The bathrooms and showers are clean and well maintained," notes Katheryn N., while Lee D. adds, "Bath/Shower House: Very clean. Soap and paper towels are provided."
Family-friendly atmosphere: The park caters well to families with children. "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!" shares JAEWOOK P., reflecting on their camping experience with young children.
What you should know
Tick awareness: Some campers have reported tick issues during warmer months. "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," warns LAURA Y. after a recent visit to Turkey Swamp Park.
Shower facilities: The central shower house is located in D Loop, potentially requiring a walk from other camping areas. "Since it is located in the D Loop it would have been helpful to have pathways leading from the other loops," suggests Lee D., noting this design limitation.
Site conditions: All campsites have dirt surfaces and driveways. "All roads and camper pads are dirt," explains Lee D., which may present challenges during wet weather, though they're typically well-maintained in dry conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playgrounds available: Timberland Lake Campground, another glamping option close to Parlin, New Jersey, offers playground facilities. "Plenty of activities for children of all ages. Play ground, basket ball, beautiful pool and for an extra fee beach access," notes Jim C., highlighting the recreational options.
Consider seasonal events: Timberland Lake Campground hosts special weekend activities. "We went to timberland lake last fall. it happened to be the Halloween weekend which was full of excellent activities from pumpkin painting to piñatas and tricker treating," shares Ann Marie M. about their family experience.
Easy fishing access: Kids can fish directly from waterfront sites at some campgrounds. "The kids could fish right off the dock on the back," mentions Aaron E. after staying at Timberland Lake Campground, making it convenient for families to enjoy fishing without traveling from their site.
Tips from RVers
Water hookups: At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, RV campers should note the water connection situation. "Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that. Our site (15) said 75' however the 50' hose reel made it to our rv connection," shares antruze, providing helpful information about water access.
Navigating larger rigs: Some campgrounds accommodate larger RVs better than others. "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill," notes Nancymike K. about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, confirming its suitability for bigger recreational vehicles.
Electric options: When considering glamping near Parlin, New Jersey, check for appropriate power connections. "There is electric and water hookups for your RV which is great!" mentions Paulene-Amanda M. about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, though specific amp services may vary by site.
