Turkey Swamp Park and Spruce Run Recreation Area offer distinct glamping opportunities close to Perth Amboy, New Jersey. Located within a 45-minute drive of Perth Amboy, these destinations provide wooded camping environments with varying levels of amenities. The region experiences mild springs and falls with summer temperatures typically ranging from 75-90°F, making late spring through early fall the optimal camping season for most visitors.
What to do
Archery practice at Turkey Swamp Park: The park maintains an archery range for visitors looking for target practice. "We go every year l. It has everything the outdoorsman could ask for. Bring your bow and shoot at the hay barrels," notes Patrick M., who also recommends winter activities.
Kayaking at multiple access points: Turkey Swamp Park offers lake access for paddlers with various rental options. "Turkey Swamp is a great spot, a lot of different things to do. Fishing, Tent Camp, Van Camping, Open Field, BBQ, Kayaking, Canoeing. The list goes on," shares Tylen L.
Ice skating in winter months: For off-season visitors, some parks offer winter activities. "Ice skate on the lake in the winter or just enjoy a gorgeous walk in the woods," suggests Patrick M. about Turkey Swamp Park, indicating year-round recreational possibilities beyond the main camping season.
Visit historic sites near Collective Governors Island: This unique destination provides access to historic landmarks with ferry transportation required. The island's location offers an unusual combination of nature and historical exploration opportunities all accessible by foot once on the island.
What campers like
Spacious sites with natural privacy: Campgrounds in the region often feature wooded separation between sites. At Round Valley State Park Campground, one camper noted: "Beautiful and quaint..a nice place to get away and enjoy some nature," while another mentioned, "This place was just so calming and quiet, it was really just such a relaxing place to be."
Clean facilities with modern amenities: Many campgrounds maintain well-serviced bathrooms and shower facilities. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, a visitor observed: "Very clean and quiet. 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."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural setting provides chances to observe local fauna. "Only 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!" reported a camper at Mountainview Campground, highlighting the nature immersion experience available.
What you should know
Weather impacts: Summer humidity can affect comfort levels and attract insects. At Turkey Swamp Park, one camper warned: "I was so excited when we got here. The sites are spacious and it's really beautiful. But by the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2."
Reservation requirements: Most glamping sites near Perth Amboy require advance booking, especially during peak seasons from May through September. Sites with lake views or premium amenities fill earliest.
Access challenges for remote sites: Some parks require physical effort to reach campsites. At Round Valley Recreation Area, a visitor explained: "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...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."
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. At Timberland Lake Campground, a visitor noted: "This campground is conveniently located near six flags (5min), Sesame Place (40 min) and Philadelphia (60 min). Campground has friendly staff and plenty of activities for children of all ages. Play ground, basket ball, beautiful pool and for an extra fee beach access."
Seasonal activities for children: Many parks schedule family-oriented events throughout camping season. "We LOVE camping here in the fall!! 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," shares Jessica D. about Timberland Lake Campground.
Bug preparation strategies: Parents should pack appropriate insect repellent based on season. "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!" reports JAEWOOK P. about Turkey Swamp Park, though experiences vary by season.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: RVers should research site dimensions and access roads before booking. At Allaire State Park, one camper advised: "Nice state park with trails nearby," while another mentioned specific amenities: "Flush toilets, sinks, showers, electric outlet."
Hookup distances and equipment needs: Water connections sometimes require extended hoses. "Be sure to bring extra hose because the water spigot is a distance from the electric. sites are level and well maintained," notes Jean T. about Turkey Swamp Park.
Road condition awareness: Several campgrounds have unpaved access roads. One visitor at Turkey Swamp Park observed: "As soon as you turn off the main road to the park, all roads are dirt, which was a bit surprising. They were well-maintained and in dry weather, not a problem, but probably not if it was rainy."
