Best Campgrounds near Perth Amboy, NJ

Campgrounds within 30 miles of Perth Amboy, New Jersey provide a range of mixed-use camping experiences in an otherwise developed urban corridor. Cheesequake State Park Campground, located 10 miles south of Perth Amboy, offers tent and RV sites in a wooded setting despite its proximity to the Garden State Parkway. Turkey Swamp Park and Sandy Hook—Gateway National Recreation Area provide additional developed camping options with varying amenities. Most locations maintain seasonal operations, with many campgrounds closing for winter months between November and April.

Many state park campgrounds require advance reservations through the New Jersey State Park Service, especially during summer months when waterfront locations fill quickly. Access roads are generally well-maintained, though traffic congestion can be heavy on summer weekends. "The campsite was nice and was drive up. It was partially shaded which offered some privacy," reported one visitor at Cheesequake State Park. While most campgrounds feature basic amenities like restrooms, showers and drinking water, amenity quality varies considerably across locations. Cell phone coverage is generally good throughout the region due to the metropolitan location, though some forested areas may experience limited service.

Developed campgrounds in this region typically feature a mix of tent and RV sites, with some locations like Turkey Swamp Park also offering cabin rentals. Several visitors mentioned highway noise as a consideration at Cheesequake, with one camper noting, "The park is bisected by the Garden State Parkway. While the campsite is fairly well protected from highway noise, you're still going to hear it at least a little." Pleasant Valley Lavender offers a more secluded tent camping experience with proximity to lavender fields. For RV campers seeking urban convenience, Liberty Harbor RV Park in Jersey City provides full hookups with Manhattan skyline views. Most developed campgrounds in the region include picnic tables, fire rings, and access to potable water, with varying levels of electric and sewer connections depending on the specific site.

Best Camping Sites Near Perth Amboy, New Jersey (72)

    1. Cheesequake State Park Campground

    19 Reviews
    Matawan, NJ
    5 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."

    2. Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area

    19 Reviews
    Atlantic Highlands, NJ
    15 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."

    3. Turkey Swamp Park

    29 Reviews
    Freehold, NJ
    22 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"

    4. Liberty Harbor RV Park

    15 Reviews
    Jersey City, NJ
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (201) 516-7500

    $145 - $180 / night

    "This is all about location. The closest RV park to NYC. It's basically a parking lot with a dump station. Not much else. Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room."

    "Basicly a parking lot, but the location can't be beat. 2 ferries that run to Manhattan. Path train is a 12 minute walk away that will take you yyo manhatten."

    5. Staten Island — Gateway National Recreation Area - CLOSED for 2025

    4 Reviews
    Bayonne, NJ
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (718) 354-4655

    $30 / night

    "You have a clear view of the Narrow bridge and at night the city lights light up your surroundings light a nigh light. The camp here has 7 campsites here and it fill up really fast."

    "this place is awesome when it comes to finding an affordable place to stay while in NY, this camp ground isnt your usual forest camp sites, however there are some beautiful views, and it is located in"

    6. Pleasant Valley Lavender

    1 Review
    Aberdeen, NJ
    10 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"

    7. Collective Governors Island

    6 Reviews
    Jersey City, NJ
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 445-2033

    $529 - $1200 / night

    "The article also mentions the benefits of camping on Governor Island, such as feeling close to nature, relaxing and enjoying a peaceful space, away from the noise of the city."

    8. Allaire State Park - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

    18 Reviews
    Allenwood, NJ
    25 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."

    9. Round Valley State Park Campground

    25 Reviews
    Lebanon, NJ
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (908) 236-6355

    "The crystal-clear water is home to huge lake trout and the forests are bursting with wildlife. The sunsets across the lake are to die for."

    "Once you get to the campground trail it’s pretty easy going on asphalt surface."

    10. Pine Cone Resort

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

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

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Recent Reviews near Perth Amboy, NJ

466 Reviews of 72 Perth Amboy Campgrounds


  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 2, 2025

    Skyline RV Camp - Waterfront

    Waterfront Skyline Views, Clean Bathrooms

    A little intimidating driving in to a nondescript gate at the end of a narrow street but the overall experience exceeded expectation. It’s essentially a spacious parking lot with electrical pedestals but the view of the skyline across the water is spectacular and there’s a metro station within a 10-minute walk. The area feels safe and is pedestrian friendly, even at night (we were there Halloween night and we took our kids out trick-or-treating just outside the gate). During the day, I saw another RV patron walking to do their laundry just outside the complex on the next street over (I didn’t ask where exactly). On-site bathrooms were warm and clean. There were portable showers available but beware the broken shower head holders and lack of shelving/hooks for towels & clothing. This was a minor issue considering the convenience of RV accommodations so easily accessible within the NYC region, would definitely recommend. I couldn’t find a map prior to my booking but would suggest requesting the highest number site available for best direct views.

  • 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!

  • 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!

  • 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.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Round Valley State Park Campground

    Get Your Hard-Core Hiking In To Enjoy This CG

    Located just south of I78 and near the small hamlets of Clinton and Lebanon, what I love most about Round Valley SP is the fact that it has its very own eponymous fresh water reservoir, which spanning some 2,350 acres and is 180 feed deep in the middle, this body of water provides a solid amount of upside for anyone wanting to kayak, canoe or swim. One of the greatest assets at this particular SP CG are the wonderful rangers who keep this place in such tip-top condition year-round. From the North Picnic Area, Bray’s Hill Preserve and Round Valley Beachhead to the East Picnic Area, Round Valley Farm on the eastern side of the reservoir as well as Round Valley Rec Area, there’s a lot to explore at this SP.

    One interesting fact about this place– believe it or not– it is the only NJ SP that actually offers up true wilderness camping(a.k.a. primitive), which can only be accessed by hiking 3 to 6 miles– or if you come with your own boat, you can access by water– and can be found on the SE corner of the reservoir. There is a second area nearby called Spruce Run Recreation Area that can be accessed by driving to this location, which is on the other side of I78 NW of Round Valley SP. That said, if you’re looking to camp here at Round Valley, I highly recommend you boat in as the hiking path is incredibly difficult to manage without hauling all of your camping gear, so coming in with a ton of gear is even more difficult/ prohibitive.

    When you finally do arrive to this primitive CG immersed in NJ’s thick wild foliage, you’ll experience waterfront bliss with a crystalline bevy of trout-infused reservoir water, and you won’t get much in the way of amenities, apart from a few random water pumps and some rocks piled in a circle that, um, I guess makes up a fire ring. While there are backwoods-style bathroom pits, these are very ill-managed and you’ll come across the‘stank’ well before actually even arriving here, so we just didn’t use them. There’s picnic tables, but the one we had was in pretty rough condition. The thing I found odd about the place is that after hiking so far in to get to this location, you’re not allowed to swim in the reservoir, which kind of defeats the entire point IMHO. That said, the views are amazing and because there’s nothing else in these parts, you will experience true peace in nature.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few:(1) Whether hiking or kayaking to this CG, you will want to bring as little with you as possible– packing too much to come here just isn’t worth the work;(2) We found parking in the Southern Lot to be perfectly fine and while we were initially worried about leaving our vehicle parked there for a few nights, we were reassured by the park rangers who patrol the lot constantly;(3) While the water in the reservoir may look crystal clear, it is not crystal clean and I would STRONGLY encourage anyone who thinks that it is OK to drink from the reservoir to at least use a Life Straw to ensure they don’t get sick;(4) I have hiked throughout the entire US and consider myself somewhere between a moderate to skilled hiker and I found these trails challenging and uneven, so while the hike we made was only 3 miles, it was not easy and I would be worried about someone breaking an ankle getting to this CG– so at a minimum, ensure you are wearing proper hiking boots. Seriously, for what this SP puts you through to access this CG one really needs to question why they’re being charged anything at all in the first place.

    Happy Camping!

  • J
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Turkey Swamp Park

    Fantastic camping ground

    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! The campground was super clean too. It was perfect!

  • Bob F.
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Moon Valley Campground

    Very unique smaller private campground

    This was a great campsite nestled in the foothills of Northern NJ on the NY border. Small, clean with great views and great location for hiking , cruising etc. Bring your tent or use the existing glamping tents. Headed back for a fall weekend in the "dome" which has incredible views. Try it you won't be sorry.

  • Carrie H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 12, 2025

    Panther Lake Camping Resort

    Horrid showers

    Probably the worst shower ever. The lights are timed. The water is a button. The space is small as hell.


Guide to Perth Amboy

Camping near Perth Amboy, New Jersey, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled weekend, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Worthington State Forest Campground. One camper mentioned, "The trails are nice and well marked," making it easy to enjoy the scenery.
  • Fishing: At Turkey Swamp Park, you can fish in the lake. A visitor shared, "The lake has fishing & boat rentals," perfect for a relaxing day by the water.
  • Swimming: While some campgrounds don’t allow swimming, Camp Taylor Campground has a swimming beach nearby. One family said, "The kids had such a blast," enjoying the water activities.

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms. A review for Stokes State Forest noted, "The bathrooms were nice and had flush toilets."
  • Privacy: Many sites offer a sense of seclusion. A camper at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation said, "The sites are spaced well and have a nice bonus of large fire rings."
  • Friendly staff: Campers often mention helpful staff. A visitor at Mountain Vista Campground remarked, "The staff are wonderful," enhancing the overall experience.

What you should know:

  • Noise levels: Some campgrounds have strict noise policies. A group at High Point State Park faced eviction due to noise complaints, highlighting the importance of keeping it down.
  • Limited amenities: Not all campgrounds have showers or electric hookups. A camper at Atsion Family Camp mentioned, "The bathrooms are the typical old NJ state park setup."
  • Wildlife warnings: Be aware of wildlife, especially bears. A visitor at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation noted, "There are a lot of bear warnings here," so take precautions.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose family-friendly sites: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. One family at Camp Taylor Campground enjoyed the "small arcade and playground."
  • Plan for meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals since some campgrounds lack cooking facilities. A camper at Turkey Swamp Park appreciated the "clean and well-stocked restrooms."
  • Pack games and activities: Keep kids entertained with games. A visitor at Mountain Vista Campground mentioned, "Lots of stuff to do for kids including a game room."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Stokes State Forest noted, "The camping areas are split between two different entrances," which can affect accessibility.
  • Be prepared for rough roads: Some campgrounds have unpaved roads. A visitor at Atsion Family Camp mentioned, "The roads are soft sand and can get rough after a rainstorm."
  • Bring extra supplies: Stock up on essentials before arriving. A camper at High Point State Park suggested, "You need to create your own system at your campsite" for washing dishes.

Camping around Perth Amboy, NJ, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Perth Amboy, NJ?

According to TheDyrt.com, Perth Amboy, NJ offers a wide range of camping options, with 72 campgrounds and RV parks near Perth Amboy, NJ and 1 free dispersed camping spot.

Which is the most popular campground near Perth Amboy, NJ?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Perth Amboy, NJ is Cheesequake State Park Campground with a 3.7-star rating from 19 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Perth Amboy, NJ?

According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Perth Amboy, NJ.