Turkey Swamp Park in Freehold Township features 64 wooded campsites across five loops located 24 miles southwest of Rahway, New Jersey. The park offers dirt roads throughout, which can be challenging during wet weather but remain well-maintained in dry conditions. While several luxury glamping options exist near Rahway, this county park stands out for its balance of natural setting and essential amenities that accommodate various camping styles from tents to RVs.
What to do
Kayaking and water recreation: Visitors at Turkey Swamp Park can enjoy the lake with rental options available during summer months. "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. I've been here a few times, every time I'm here I barely touch my phone," shares Tylen L.
Hiking forested trails: Multiple trail systems at Round Valley State Park Campground offer varying difficulty levels with some requiring substantial effort to reach campsites. "The hike up in the cushetunk mountain is really nice as well. If you're looking for a getaway without doing backcountry planning this is the place," notes James R.
Winter activities: Seasonal options expand camping possibilities year-round. "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," recommends Patrick M. about his experiences at Turkey Swamp Park.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, where sites provide more seclusion than typical campgrounds. "The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large. Water and electric hookups and a dump station. Convenient for hiking and exploring, it's also only a 20 minute drive to a large mall in Rockaway," reports Jeff W.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms enhance the camping experience at Great Divide Campground. "Bathrooms clean and shower was warm and clean as well. They even have a heater to keep you comfortable in and out of the shower," notes Julie in her review.
Lake proximity: Waterfront camping provides direct access for recreation. "Beautiful and quaint..a nice place to get away and enjoy some nature. Gorgeous sunset, beautiful views. Really helpful people at the office," shares T K. about Round Valley State Park Campground.
What you should know
Tick awareness: Insects can be problematic in certain seasons at some campgrounds. "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. That was so crazy because we were just sitting by our camper," cautions LAURA Y. about her stay at Turkey Swamp Park.
Site conditions vary: Some locations offer distinct camping experiences based on terrain. "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," explains Stuart K.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some glamping locations near Rahway. "You can hear 78, especially at night once the campground settles down," notes Jules T. about Spruce Run Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Boat rentals: Access to water activities enhances family trips with affordable options. "Plenty to do over a 2 night stay. Archery, boating, fishing, and hiking. Boat rental rates are acceptable and there are four different styles to choose from," explains Dan W. about Turkey Swamp Park.
Bug preparation: Parents should come prepared for the local insect population. "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!" shares JAEWOOK P.
Playground access: Family-friendly amenities at Timberland Lake Campground provide entertainment options. "Plenty of activities for kids with park area and pool. They do also offer golf cart rental for those wanting explore the park," notes Robyn W.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric and water services require planning at Turkey Swamp Park. "Sites in Loops B-E all have pull-thru driveways. Sites are all level, very generous in size, and reasonably spaced apart for privacy. A lantern hook, picnic table, and fire ring complete each site," explains Lee D.
Hose length considerations: Be prepared with adequate equipment for certain sites. "This campground has all pull-through sites. Nicely wooded with water and electric. Be sure to bring extra hose because the water spigot is a distance from the electric," advises Jean T.
Dump station facilities: Services for RVs include convenient waste management options. "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. Trash dumpster is an easy walk and the dump station has a flush hose point," shares antruze about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
