Situated within New Jersey's Pine Barrens region, Roosevelt camping options span a diverse landscape characterized by sandy soil, pine forests, and freshwater streams. The area features a mix of state parks and private campgrounds within a 30-mile radius where temperatures range from summer highs around 85°F to spring and fall averages of 60-70°F. Weather conditions can create challenges during camping trips with ticks being active from spring through fall across several campgrounds.
What to do
Archery practice: Turkey Swamp Park offers an archery range for visitors seeking target practice. "We go every year l. 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," notes Patrick M. in his review of Turkey Swamp Park.
Kayaking on pristine waters: The Wading River at Wading Pines provides excellent paddling opportunities with on-site access. "We loved this campground. Friendly staff. Plenty for the kids to do. The river is right there to go tubing or kayaking," mentions Arnold M. about his experience at Wading Pines Camping Resort. Rentals are available at several locations, or you can bring your own equipment.
Wildlife viewing: Safari animal watching is possible near Timberland Lake Campground due to its proximity to Six Flags Great Adventure wildlife area. "Timberland's location puts guests just minutes from Six Flags Great Adventure theme park—close enough that some guests report hearing lions roaring in the morning from the safari section," explains one visitor of Timberland Lake Campground.
What campers like
Spacious wooded sites: Brendan T. Byrne State Forest receives praise for site layout and privacy. "Camped here many of times. Very Decent Camp in the Pine Barrens, Lots of potable water hydrants around the campground so not far of a walk to fill any water needs you may have. Showers and bathrooms are ok, kept pretty clean. Lots of good hiking trails, most the sites have pretty decent privacy from the other ones," shares Dan M. about Brendan T. Byrne State Forest.
Digital detox environments: Several campers appreciate the lack of connectivity at certain sites. "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," reports Tylen L. about Turkey Swamp Park.
Winter activities: Seasonal camping options exist for cold-weather enthusiasts. "We stayed in the cabins here a couple times. Love the area lots to do hiking fishing nature walks, something for everyone. Cabins are no frills yet very nice no electricity they are equipi with 4 bunks a LG picnic table and a wood stove for heat. Also a nice porch fire ring and a charcoal grill," explains Erik M. about his winter experiences at Allaire State Park.
What you should know
Insect awareness: Several campgrounds report significant tick activity during warm months. "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 Turkey Swamp Park.
Water access logistics: Round Valley Recreation Area requires significant effort to reach campsites. "This is a great campground that is super private and quiet - great for getting out to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. It's a pretty strenuous hike, but you'll be rewarded for the effort! If you get a site on the water, you can take a boat across to to your site," explains Agbi B. about Round Valley Recreation Area.
Road conditions: Many campgrounds feature unpaved access roads. "There are 300 camp sites spaced out nicely. All the hook ups you need. Many activities. Live music in the summer. Very nice wading river next to the camp grounds. You can tube down the river from one end of camp to the other," shares Layne about Wading Pines Camping Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Halloween weekend camping: Fall weekends feature special activities for children. "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. They have cool raffles!" reports Jessica D. about Timberland Lake Campground.
Bug preparation: Parents recommend specific insect strategies for camping with young children. "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. about Turkey Swamp Park.
Beach and lake access: Certain campgrounds offer swimming opportunities for families. "While camping at atsion family campground, you have free access to the recreation center (the beach and some trails). In the area there are historic buildings and ruins you get to by 'off roading' on all dirt roads. Great places to kayak and Pineland Adventures right down the street has wonderful trips!" explains Alexa L. about Atsion Family Camp.
Tips from RVers
Water connections: Bring extra-long hoses at certain campgrounds. "Nice, remote, private. Some sites unlevel. Bring a LONG water hose. Nice lake. Showers and washers and dryers," advises Shawn about Turkey Swamp Park.
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require additional equipment for RV leveling. "Pros... Located right next to six flags great adventure. Staff is very nice! Lots of sites for RVs and tents. Lake, mini golf, golf cart rental, huge pool, snack stand, small store Packed with food & everything you could possibly need for camping. Bathroom/ showers were decently clean," shares Jesse C. about Timberland Lake Campground.
Washroom facilities: RVers note varying bathroom quality across campgrounds. "Site Quality: 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. As mentioned, all roads and camper pads are dirt," notes Lee D., describing the glamping amenities near Roosevelt, New Jersey at Turkey Swamp Park.