Camping options near Roselle, New Jersey include both county and state-operated facilities within 40 miles of the township. The region's camping season typically runs from April through mid-November, with most sites requiring advance reservations. During summer months, overnight temperatures average 65-70°F with daytime highs often reaching 85-90°F, creating conditions where proper hydration is essential for comfort.
What to do
Kayaking and boating: Round Valley State Park Campground provides water-based recreation on its 2,350-acre reservoir. As one camper noted, "The water is crystal clear, the area is clean. We just filtered the water from the reservoir instead which tasted a million times better than the well water." The park requires either hiking or boating to access the primitive campsites.
Hiking trails: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers multiple trail options surrounding the campground. A visitor mentioned, "We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful." The reservation provides a mix of wooded terrain and water features within hiking distance of campsites.
Urban exploration: Visit Manhattan via public transit from Liberty Harbor RV Park in Jersey City. According to a reviewer, "The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8. Having a view of Lady Liberty out your window is priceless." The park serves as a base camp for exploring New York City with multiple transportation options.
Beach activities: Sandy Hook Gateway National Recreation Area provides coastal recreation on the Jersey Shore. A camper shared, "There are no showers, only toilets. Tenting only, with all gear needing to be carried to the site. No vehicles allowed at the campsite." The campground requires visitors to walk in with their equipment.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Round Valley State Park Campground attracts visitors with its lakeside camping. One review stated, "We paddled in, the water is very clean and crystal clear." Campsites positioned along the water offer direct access to swimming and fishing opportunities.
Privacy between sites: Turkey Swamp Park provides well-spaced campsites. A camper observed, "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." The park features pull-through driveways in most camping loops.
Urban access with rural feel: Cheesequake State Park Campground balances natural surroundings with urban convenience. A visitor noted, "This is a great site for those who are not avid campers. It's close to town if you forget something and it has all the facilities you may need, bathroom, shower, etc." The campground sits minutes from major roadways while maintaining wooded surroundings.
Unique camping experiences: Pleasant Valley Lavender offers tent camping near aromatic fields. As one visitor described, "So pleasant to sleep near the blooming fields. Campsite is tucked in the woods. Tent camping in peace and quiet with easy access to major roads and highways to explore central NJ." The site combines agricultural tourism with camping.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the area fill quickly during peak season. Mahlon Dickerson Reservation manages access through an online system. A visitor reported, "Super easy to book. Easy to find on a GPS and even if you lose service there are signs marking the reservation campground!" Most parks require bookings 2-14 days in advance.
Site conditions vary widely: Cheesequake State Park Campground maintains basic facilities. One camper observed, "The campsites are basic. You get flat land and a fire ring. There is only one bathroom facility on the property which we did not love." Sites offer varying levels of shade and privacy.
Wildlife considerations: Turkey Swamp Park has active wildlife populations. A recent visitor warned, "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." Proper tick prevention measures are essential, particularly in wooded areas.
Weather impact: Sandy Hook Gateway can experience coastal weather effects. A camper explained, "The sites do have a wooden pavilion covering the picnic table. Sites also have metal storage units for locking up foodstuffs to protect them from being pilfered by the numerous and bold raccoons." Summer storms can develop quickly along the shore.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Turkey Swamp Park offers facilities for children. A family noted, "There is a lake with a boat dock and a small boardwalk. In the summer, canoe, kayak, paddle boats, and row boats are available for rental. There are age-appropriate playgrounds both in the campground and by the office." Rental equipment costs range from $10-25 per hour.
Bathroom accessibility: Cheesequake State Park requires planning for facility access. A parent shared, "There is only one bathroom facility on the property which we did not love. The facilities were clean so...yay!" Families should select sites closer to restrooms when possible.
Swimming options: Round Valley Recreation Area provides water recreation. A visitor explained, "Beautiful and quaint..a nice place to get away and enjoy some nature." The reservoir offers swimming in designated areas with varying depths appropriate for different age groups.
Educational opportunities: Staten Island Gateway National Recreation Area includes historical elements. A camper described, "There are abandoned buildings here and you can do urban exploring. There are rangers taking you on a trek and exploring the abandoned building." Ranger-led programs often occur on weekends during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Water hookup lengths: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation provides extended water connections. A visitor mentioned, "The water hoses provided are plenty long. We didn't need to use our hose at all, just the filter." RV sites include water and electric hookups with standard 30/50 amp service.
Urban RV access: Liberty Harbor RV Park accommodates larger vehicles near urban areas. An RVer advised, "Getting in and out of the city is an adventure. Stay right off the highway to avoid the $30 tunnel toll. Follow RV life pro and not Waze." Sites provide basic hookups with limited space between units.
Surface conditions: Turkey Swamp Park has unpaved roads throughout the facility. A visitor reported, "All roads and camper pads are dirt. They were well-maintained and in dry weather, not a problem, but probably not if it was rainy." Prepare for dusty or muddy conditions depending on recent weather.
Dump station access: Liberty Harbor RV Park provides necessary facilities. An RVer noted, "There is a dump station, but not the easiest to use. They have hook ups and big laundry room." Plan for potential wait times during busy checkout periods.
