Turkey Swamp Park offers camping options from April 1 to November 15, with 64 sites set in wooded loops connected by dirt roads. The campground features pull-through driveways on most sites, with each one including a picnic table, fire ring, and lantern hook. During summer months, visitors can rent canoes, kayaks, paddle boats, and rowboats at the park's lake, which also permits fishing and seasonal swimming.
What to do
Hiking and trail exploration: Turkey Swamp Park maintains several short hiking trails with the longest measuring 2.5 miles. "There are lots of trails and the packed dirt roads are nice for bike riding," notes Katheryn N. While generally well-marked, some sections can become muddy due to swamps and bogs.
Archery practice: Turkey Swamp Park includes an archery range where visitors can practice their skills. "Archery, boating, fishing, and hiking. Boat rental rates are acceptable and there are four different styles to choose from," mentions Dan W. from Turkey Swamp Park.
Winter ice skating: For those camping during colder months at Brendan Byrne State Forest, seasonal activities expand beyond summer options. "Ice skate on the lake in the winter or just enjoy a gorgeous walk in the woods," recommends Patrick M., highlighting year-round recreation possibilities.
What campers like
Site privacy and spacing: Campers consistently appreciate the generous site dimensions at Turkey Swamp Park. "Sites are all level, very generous in size, and reasonably spaced apart for privacy," according to Lee D. from Turkey Swamp Park. The wooded setting creates natural separation between neighboring campers.
Trail system variety: The Pine Barrens location of Brendan Byrne State Forest offers extensive trail networks. "There are probably hundreds of miles of trails through the woods and bogs to explore. Could spend a whole vacation just with these trails," writes Benjamin K., emphasizing the extensive exploration opportunities.
Clean facilities: Brendan Byrne State Forest maintains well-kept campground amenities. "The bathrooms and showers here were in really good condition, well cleaned and stocked, and was pleasant to use!" reports Dorian P., noting this contributes significantly to the overall camping experience.
What you should know
Tick awareness: Some campers report significant tick encounters, particularly at Turkey Swamp Park. "By the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2," cautions LAURA Y. from Turkey Swamp Park. Proper tick prevention measures are essential.
Fire regulations: Campfire policies vary between parks. At Brendan Byrne State Forest, "fires can only go from 6pm till 7am which was odd but wasn't a deal breaker," notes Dorian P., highlighting park-specific rules campers should know.
Campsite limitations: Rules governing site usage may not be immediately obvious. At Brendan Byrne State Forest, "if using an RV in a tent site you are not allowed to add another tent to the site. There is a two tent limit per site despite the site allowing up to 6 people," explains Jesse G.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple age-appropriate playgrounds are available at Turkey Swamp Park. "There are playgrounds and picnic areas as well," confirms Katheryn N., while Lee D. mentions, "There are age-appropriate playgrounds both in the campground and by the office."
Seasonal bug considerations: Family camping requires preparation for insects. "Ticks were very active on this visit be sure to remember your bug spray and tuck your pants in your socks!" advises Megan S., providing practical advice for parents planning visits to Brendan Byrne State Forest.
Low mosquito periods: Some campers report surprisingly bug-free experiences during certain times. "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. from Turkey Swamp Park.
Tips from RVers
Water hookup planning: RVers staying at Turkey Swamp Park should prepare for the water connection setup. "Bring a LONG water hose," advises Shawn from Turkey Swamp Park, indicating standard-length hoses may not reach water sources at all sites.
Road conditions: Access routes to campgrounds may present challenges for larger rigs. "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," notes Lee D. about Turkey Swamp Park.
Utility availability: For RVers requiring full hookups, Turkey Swamp Park offers partial connections. "Campsites are roomy with electric and water hookups. They don't have primitive campsites so your stuck paying the higher rate even though you don't need the hookups," explains Dan W., highlighting the lack of primitive camping options.
