M
Michael M.
Scout
ScoutTurkey Swamp Park
Water/power at the campsite, and and centrally located dump station. Lots of trees and nice separation of sites
Camping near Hamilton Square, NJ
2 campgrounds with availability this weekend
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Campgrounds near Hamilton Square, NJ range from developed RV parks with full hookups to primitive tent sites, with several options within a 30-minute drive, including Turkey Swamp Park and Timberland Lake Campground. These locations primarily offer developed camping with a mix of tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals. Most campgrounds in this region maintain seasonal operations, typically opening from early spring through late fall, with Brendan Byrne State Forest standing as one of the few year-round options for campers seeking off-season accommodations.
Camping availability varies significantly by season, with most facilities operating from April through October or November. The moderate climate makes spring and fall particularly pleasant for outdoor recreation. One visitor noted, "They do their own haunted walk through that is just awesome! Everyone decorates. Very close to Six Flags Great Adventure." Reservations are strongly recommended for weekend stays and holiday periods, especially at popular locations like Timberland Lake and Turkey Swamp Park. Many campgrounds in the area offer both primitive tent sites and full-hookup RV sites, though regulations and amenity availability differ between public and private facilities.
The mixed-use campgrounds near Hamilton Square typically feature lake access, swimming facilities, and family-oriented activities. Several facilities include amenities like showers, electric hookups, and sanitary dump stations, making them suitable for both tent and RV camping. Campground reviews highlight varying experiences with site quality and maintenance. One camper observed that Timberland Lake Campground has "a pretty lake, a bridge and is very woodsy, not just a camper parking lot like some other campgrounds." Sites with water views are consistently rated higher and tend to book quickly during summer months. Washington Crossing State Park, temporarily closed for 2024, has historically offered more primitive tent camping experiences for those seeking less developed options, though without electrical hookups or shower facilities.
Best Campgrounds near Hamilton Square (103)
1. Turkey Swamp Park
"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!"
"Electrical and water are at the outer edge of each site so you might want an extension cord and/or hose."
Check Availabilityfrom $42 - $79 / night
2. 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. They have cool raffles!"
"As a kid - close to 6 flags where we had season passes... it was Jellystone yogi bear at the time. Very close to 6 flags great adventure."
3. Washington Crossing State Park - TEMP CLOSED FOR 2024
"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."
"I always look forward to going because it is consistently clean, great for riding bikes and taking pets for a walk and children for a stroll PLUS it is significant historically and it is enjoyable for"
Check Availabilityfrom $50 - $100 / night
4. Lowe's - W Windsor
"Located just off US Route 1 in the upscale Princeton area, this spacious Lowe's serves up a surprisingly pleasant patch of pavement for weary road warriors looking to catch some shut-eye."
"Despite being conveniently located right off US1 and just 15 to 20 minutes west of I95 – as this retailer is located in a fairly normal-paced suburban location, you are going to like that yes, while there"
5. Brendan Byrne State Forest
"Campsite decent size, but some don't have clear boundaries to neighbors, and sometimes not optimally configured (e.g., the site next door's fire pit was placed on the edge of its site/right next to my"
"First off, I will start by saying you have to drive a good amount of distance to get into the campground and that is something I really enjoyed!"
Check Availabilityfrom $3 - $60 / night
6. Butterfly Camping Resort
"Fishing lake is on the smaller side, but people were catching fish. Definitely in our top 5 New Jersey Campgrounds."
"4½ Stars Quick Weekend Getaway We stayed at Butterfly Camping Resort in Jackson, New Jersey, for a 2-night weekend in late-August. We’re so glad we did! "
Check Availabilityfrom $64 - $78 / night
7. Cheesequake State Park Campground
"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."
Check Availabilityfrom $200 / night
8. Adventure Bound Camping (Tall Pines)
"My wife and I, residing near the Commodore Barry, sought a brief respite. Our thirteen-year-old son was unable to join us, so we proceeded without him."
9. Round Valley State Park Campground
"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. Indian Rock RV Resort and Campground
"We had a bad luck of the draw being next to a very loud, inebriated family with unruly dogs but luckily they only were there the one night."
"Unfortunately, the bathhouse near our site had no hot water, but they were working on it, so I’m sure it won’t be for long. Well stocked store. It was our very first camping day."
Check Availabilityfrom $78 - $98 / night
Drive Time
- 7 min from Trenton, NJ
- 33 min from Philadelphia, PA
- 1 hr from New York, NY
- 1 hr 21 min from Allentown, PA
Recent Camping Photos near Hamilton Square, NJ
218 Photos of 103 Hamilton Square Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Timberland Lake Campground
Adventure Bound Camping (Tall Pines)
Turkey Swamp ParkJ
Butterfly Camping Resort
Tip Tam Camping Resort
Brendan Byrne State ForestL
Pleasant Valley LavenderE
Cheesequake State Park CampgroundK
Inn the WoodsN
Allaire State Park - TEMPORARILY CLOSED
Tohickon Valley County Park
Camp Carr Campground
Recent Reviews near Hamilton Square, NJ
697 Reviews of 103 Hamilton Square Campgrounds
Stuart K.
LegendWashington Crossing State Park - TEMP CLOSED FOR 2024
Revolutionary History near Delaware River
Nestled along the picturesque Delaware River in beautiful Bucks County, Washington Crossing Historic Park is one of those destinations where American history practically jumps out from behind every tree. This sprawling, beautifully preserved historic park commemorates George Washington's daring Christmas night crossing of the Delaware in 1776, with charming colonial buildings, expansive green spaces, shaded walking paths and lovely riverfront scenery. Divided into Upper and Lower sections, the park offers plenty to explore, from historic homesteads and interpretive exhibits to scenic picnic areas and the impressive Bowman's Hill Tower. Unfortunately, while the park delivers a wonderful outdoor experience, traditional overnight camping isn't part of the equation unless your a Boy Scout or accompanying one of their troops.
HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Spectacular Revolutionary War history at the very site of Washington's legendary Delaware River crossing; (2) Beautifully maintained grounds featuring mature trees, open lawns and scenic riverfront views; (3) Fascinating colonial-era buildings, historic demonstrations and educational exhibits that bring America's founding history to life; (4) Wonderful recreational opportunities, including walking, cycling, fishing, kayaking and picnicking; and (5) Convenient proximity to charming New Hope, the Delaware Canal towpath and Bowman's Hill Tower, offering plenty of opportunities to extend your adventure.
LOWLIGHTS: (1) No conventional public tent or RV camping, with overnight group camping restricted to organized Scout groups by prior arrangement; (2) No dedicated RV campsites, electrical hookups, water connections or dump station; (3) Park grounds generally close at sunset, limiting opportunities to linger into the evening; (4) Some historic buildings and attractions require admission fees or operate on limited schedules; and (5) Periodic restoration projects and special events can restrict access to certain areas, while the historic Washington Crossing Bridge's three-ton weight limit makes it unsuitable for larger RVs.
Happy Camping!
- Stuart K.Legend
Lowe's - W Windsor
Upscale Parking Paradise at This Home Fixer-Upper
Located just off US Route 1 in the upscale Princeton area, this spacious Lowe's serves up a surprisingly pleasant patch of pavement for weary road warriors looking to catch some shut-eye. Set back roughly 80 yards from the highway, this big blue home improvement retailer offers a generously sized parking lot with relatively manageable traffic, good maneuverability and a quieter atmosphere than you might expect from such a busy suburban retail corridor. The western and southern edges of the lot are particularly appealing for an overnight stay, and with Trader Joe's, Starbucks and several other retailers nearby, convenience certainly isn't in short supply. Better yet, the store management was friendly and accommodating when we called ahead to arrange our overnight visit.
HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Spacious, paved parking lot with plenty of room to maneuver larger rigs; (2) Convenient access to US Route 1 and nearby I-95; (3) Western and southern parking areas offer quieter spots away from the busiest customer traffic; (4) Excellent nearby conveniences, including Trader Joe's, Starbucks and several dining options; and (5) Friendly store management that welcomed our overnight stay, plus surprisingly good opportunities for outdoor recreation nearby.
LOWLIGHTS: (1) Some daytime retail traffic and occasional road noise, although nothing terribly disruptive; (2) No RV hookups, dump station or dedicated overnight camping facilities; (3) Parking areas closest to the store can become crowded during business hours; (4) Limited greenery and little of the scenery you'd expect from a traditional campground; and (5) While the overnight experience was excellent, this is still a commercial parking lot rather than a destination for an extended stay.
Happy Overnighting!
Maria Mercedes M.LegendRound Valley State Park Campground
Peaceful Wilderness Escape for Adventurous Families
There's something wonderfully special about escaping into nature where the only sounds are rustling leaves, birds singing and the gentle movement of water along the shoreline. Nestled among the wooded hills surrounding the beautiful Round Valley Reservoir, this rustic SP campground offers families a chance to disconnect from everyday distractions and enjoy a little wilderness adventure together. Unlike traditional campgrounds, the campsites are accessible only by hiking or boating, so getting anywhere here requires some planning and a willingness to travel light. Once you've arrived, you'll find secluded, wooded campsites with picnic tables, fire rings and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Amenities are basic, with pit toilets and no showers, but the beautiful reservoir, scenic hiking trails, fishing and kayaking opportunities more than make up for the lack of modern conveniences. Our kids loved exploring the woods, spotting wildlife and gathering around a crackling campfire at night to share stories beneath the stars. For families comfortable with the hike, I'd recommend choosing one of the campsites along the reservoir shoreline for the lovely water views and peaceful surroundings. Just remember that swimming is limited to the park's designated beach area. Round Valley isn't your typical family campground, but for adventurous families who enjoy hiking, camping under the stars and making wonderful memories together, it's a beautiful place to experience nature at its finest!
- bbob J.
GuideAtsion Family Camp — Wharton State Forest
Pine Barrens New Jersey
This campground is part of the Wharton State Forest and has several campgrounds in the area. Great wooded sites right on a lake. Pretty good separation between sites with good tree separation between sites. Some road noise not overly affecting site.
- DDiane M.Scout
Brendan Byrne State Forest
Just ok
Restrooms are filthy with mold and mildew.
Water puddled on the restroom floor.really gross.
Cabin was mostly clean. The windows were full of dirt and bugs on the tracks.mattresses were terrible.The fireplace was nice. Kitchen was clean.
Can t wait to move on to a cleaner park.
Edwin R.ScoutCheesequake State Park Campground
Park uses county cops to shut down park by 9pm.
On Friday, September 4, 2026, I rented a trailer and brought my family to Cheesequake State Park to celebrate our 10th wedding anniversary over the extended Labor Day weekend. Around 9:20 PM—well before the park's designated 10:00 PM quiet hours—we were sitting inside our canopy, playing Jenga, and listening to low background music. Two officers from the Matawan Police Department approached our campsite. They were polite and courteous, simply offering a standard reminder to wrap things up by 10:00 PM. Before they could leave, however, a third, senior officer intervened. Wanting to"show them how it's done," he made the two polite officers return and stand by to watch as he demonstrated how to aggressively harass campers. Flashlight in hand, the senior officer approached with an immediate hostile attitude, treating us like criminals as he demanded to know who rented the site. He began reiterating rules and claimed we had too many vehicles. We had three cars, one belonging to my brother-in-law's girlfriend, who was visiting with her daughter. She had paid the$10 visitor fee at the main office and was instructed by staff to obtain the gate access code from us, the primary renters, if she got locked in. No staff member ever informed her of an 8:00 PM visitor departure deadline, leading us to reasonably assume visitors were permitted until quiet hours began at 10:00 PM. The officer rudely snapped that she had been given wrong information. The senior officer then used profanity in front of three small children, aggressively telling her to ("get her shit and get the fuck out!") in that manner or use profanity, the officer went from hostile to furious. He angrily declared that these were official violations and threatened that he could be issuing us tickets instead. Desperately searching for anything and everything to throw at us, he demanded that we turn off our idling car—which was supplying power to our campsite—and instructed us to make sure the campfire was doused before shutting down for the night. He then proceeded to shine his flashlight into our private setup—including our canopy, tents, and the inside of our trailer—searching for any other possible violation while the two polite officers were forced to watch. What was supposed to be a special 10th wedding anniversary celebration with my family was completely ruined by a senior officer misusing his authority to put on an unnecessary display of intimidation. Worse than just ruining our night, he spent that evening teaching those two police officers how to be bad cops. He corrupted two officers in real time, demonstrating firsthand exactly why most people have lost faith in the police force. The next day we was ready for them. We turned off our lights and quietly by the fire while they went next door to harass an asian family that had just set up camp and had their leds lights on.
Thomas B.
RangerTohickon Family Campground
Simple, peaceful FHU
We stayed just a couple nights here on our way north. The camp host was helpful before our stay and during check-in. Our site was pretty isolated from the others, so it was very quiet (no complaints here). There is a decent mix of sunny sites by the river and shady sites under the trees. The weather was perfect mid September. There wasn't anything spectacular for me, but it was a good experience and it was a nice taste of fall PA scenery. Beware that the roads are tight for a big rig. Side note, it did seem like most campers lived there.
- KKelly B.Guide
Stephens State Park Campground
Great last min getaway
Booked the day before—even on the holiday weekend! Just 1.5 hours outside of NYC, site was a bit close to the neighbors (fire pit was very far back and basically in the neighbors’ campsite, but we put up a “privacy clothesline” and hung a tarp over it for a bit of extra coverage.
The staff was friendly and helpful, they said it was the busiest they’ve seen the campground all year (there were lots of large groups but everyone seemed to settle down by 9:30pm
Poison ivy was EVERYWHERE at our site so make sure to stick to the open areas and the paths. Lots of families around, we felt very safe Bathrooms were fine—it was my impression they’re usually cleaner but the high traffic of the weekend left a bit to be desired, (lots of families around=dirty diapers in the bathroom trash bin) but it’s camping! I’m not gonna argue w a flushing toilet!
Guide to Hamilton Square
Camping sites near Hamilton Square, New Jersey span across several state forests and private facilities, with the New Jersey Pine Barrens creating distinctive camping environments throughout the region. Elevations remain relatively flat around 100 feet above sea level, contributing to easy access but also occasional drainage issues during heavy rainfall. The proximity to both Atlantic coastal influences and inland waterways creates unique microclimates at various campgrounds.
What to do
Hiking and trail exploration: Brendan Byrne State Forest provides extensive trail networks through the Pine Barrens ecosystem. "Lots of good hiking trails, most the sites have pretty decent privacy from the other ones," notes one camper about Brendan Byrne State Forest. The trails offer varying difficulties with some sections requiring proper footwear due to boggy conditions.
Fishing and paddling: Turkey Swamp Park offers multiple water activities on its lake. "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 a visitor to Turkey Swamp Park. The lake features a small boardwalk and boat dock with rental options available during summer.
Wildlife viewing: The Delaware River corridor near Washington Crossing provides excellent bird watching. "There are farms and animals to see, hikes along the Delaware river, Bowman's tower with a great view of the surrounding area and much more," reports a visitor familiar with the area's natural attractions.
What campers like
Diverse landscapes: Round Valley offers a unique reservoir setting with paddle-in access. "The water is crystal clear, the area is clean. There's bathrooms and pumps but we just filtered the water from the reservoir instead which tasted a million times better than the well water," notes a camper at Round Valley State Park.
Winter activities: Some parks maintain year-round operations with seasonal advantages. "We go every year. It has everything the outdoorsman could ask for. Bring your bow and shoot at the hay barrels. Ice skate on the lake in the winter or just enjoy a gorgeous walk in the woods," shares an experienced visitor to Turkey Swamp Park.
Historical context: Washington Crossing area combines camping with Revolutionary War history. "Every year, they re-enact Washington's troops crossing the Delaware! It was VERY cold the year I went. To warm up, there is a small visitor's center where they have a reproduction of the famous painting," explains a visitor to Washington Crossing State Park.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds operate April through October with limited winter options. "First off, I will start by saying you have to drive a good amount of distance to get into the campground and that is something I really enjoyed! Made me feel super secluded," reports a Brendan Byrne visitor regarding the park's year-round accessibility.
Tick precautions: The wooded areas require proper protection during warm 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 a visitor to Turkey Swamp Park.
Site conditions: Many campgrounds feature sandy soil which affects comfort and setup. "The entire park was dirty sand with weeds growing everywhere," notes a reviewer at Butterfly Camping Resort. This sandy base is common throughout the Pine Barrens region.
Tips for camping with families
Activity-rich options: Several campgrounds offer structured entertainment for children. "The campground was super clean too. It was perfect!" reports a family that visited Turkey Swamp Park with 2- and 3-year-old children, noting they didn't encounter any insect problems.
Swimming facilities: Pool availability varies widely between campgrounds. "Pool was open for a couple days following the lifting of restrictions for COVID. Overall, a nice campground that is close to Six Flags," shares a visitor to Timberland Lake Campground who stayed with children.
Weekend entertainment: Some campgrounds offer scheduled activities. "Lots of activities for young children (swimming pool) and close to major roads," notes a Butterfly Camping Resort visitor, highlighting the organized events that keep families engaged.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variability: Electric services differ significantly between parks. "Sites came with fire pit, large picnic bench, and lamp stand. Plenty of parking space. Good tree coverage. Only one bathroom, bit of a walk but clean and many amenities available," reports an RV camper at Tip Tam Camping Resort.
Campground navigation: Large rigs face challenges at some locations. "This place is not big-rig friendly, difficult to navigate some of the turns in our 45' motorhome and taking scratches from tree branches that should be trimmed," warns a motorhome owner about Butterfly Camping Resort's internal roads.
Water access planning: Some sites require extra-long hoses. "Some sites unlevel. Bring a LONG water hose. Nice lake. Showers and washers and dryers," advises a visitor to Turkey Swamp Park, noting the sometimes challenging water hookup arrangements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best family camping options near Hamilton Square?
What are the best family camping options near Hamilton Square?
Butterfly Camping Resort is an excellent family option with a large playground and numerous activities for children. The sites are spacious with privacy-enhancing trees and shrubs, and the resort maintains clean facilities including bathrooms. While the fishing lake is relatively small, it's still productive for anglers. For a more natural setting, Atsion Family Camp in Wharton State Forest offers tent and trailer sites plus cabin rentals. Located off US 206, this Department of Environmental Protection facility provides families with a more rustic camping experience while still maintaining necessary amenities. Both locations cater specifically to families seeking outdoor adventures near Hamilton Square.
Where can I find campgrounds near Hamilton Square?
Where can I find campgrounds near Hamilton Square?
Several campgrounds are within driving distance of Hamilton Square. Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA is about 20 minutes from Philadelphia and offers full hookups for RVs, though it closes during winter months and reopens in April. Another option is Turkey Swamp Park in Freehold, a county park featuring 2,283 acres with a 17-acre lake and hiking trails. Other nearby options include Timberland Lake Campground near Cream Ridge and Pine Cone Resort near Freehold, both offering various amenities for campers. These campgrounds provide convenient bases for exploring the Hamilton Square area while enjoying the natural surroundings of central New Jersey.
What camping is available near Hamilton Square, NJ?
What camping is available near Hamilton Square, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, Hamilton Square, NJ offers a wide range of camping options, with 103 campgrounds and RV parks near Hamilton Square, NJ and 1 free dispersed camping spot.
Which is the most popular campground near Hamilton Square, NJ?
Which is the most popular campground near Hamilton Square, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Hamilton Square, NJ is Turkey Swamp Park with a 4.5-star rating from 33 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Hamilton Square, NJ?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Hamilton Square, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Hamilton Square, NJ.
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