Several glamping destinations within driving distance of Roselle, New Jersey offer year-round access to outdoor recreation. The region's deciduous forests create seasonal camping experiences with spring wildflowers, summer shade, and vibrant fall colors. Winter temperatures can dip below freezing at higher elevation sites like Stokes State Forest, where some cabins remain available through winter months.
What to do
Lakeside activities: 30+ miles from Roselle at Turkey Swamp Park, where campers enjoy fishing and paddling in a serene setting. "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," writes Tylen L.
Winter camping: Affordable off-season rates at Stokes State Forest where some cabins have wood stoves for cold weather comfort. "We went in November when there was a light rain that turned into a thunderstorm with hail and sleet! It was certainly an adventure. The area was incredibly peaceful in December with many cabin reservations abandoned due to rain in the forecast," notes W L.
Archery practice: No equipment needed at several parks near Roselle. "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 Turkey Swamp Park.
What campers like
Wildlife observation: Early morning recommended when visiting Round Valley State Park, especially at lakefront sites. "A duck visited us every morning," notes a camper at a nearby park, while Jules T. shares: "Our site was on the water and it was really nice."
Site privacy: Request wooded locations at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation for more secluded camping. "The sites are spaced well and have a nice bonus of large fire rings set back in the woods a bit from the pad that you park on," reports Greg S.
Affordable options: $15-45 per night at most state parks near Roselle. "Very cheap as well. $15/night on Memorial Day weekend! You won't be disappointed!" Christina L. mentions about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
What you should know
Tick prevention: Pack permethrin spray when visiting wooded areas in New Jersey. "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," warns LAURA Y. about her experience at Turkey Swamp Park.
Shower facilities: Varying quality across campgrounds. At Panther Lake Camping Resort, Carrie H. notes: "Probably the worst shower ever. The lights are timed. The water is a button. The space is small as hell."
Highway noise: Most noticeable at night in certain locations. At Jenny Jump State Forest, Seth K. observes: "You can hear some of the highway sounds from the campsites (especially the jake brake)," while another camper notes: "My only complaint is that the noise from the highway was quite loud at night."
Tips for camping with families
Tent platforms: Available at select sites in Jenny Jump State Forest, making setup easier with children. "This campground is a nice little hideaway not too far from the beaten path... some have large, flat, clear spaces for multiple tents," reports Seth K.
Bug management: Lower in certain seasons according to campers. "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. about Turkey Swamp Park.
Playground access: Available at multiple locations close to glamping sites near Roselle. "There are age-appropriate playgrounds both in the campground and by the office," notes Lee D., while another camper mentions: "Nice playground. Bathrooms and showers next door."
Tips from RVers
Water hookups: Bring extra hose length at some campgrounds. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, "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," explains an RV camper.
Site selection: Check for tree clearance when making reservations. "If bringing your RV, the safest bet is to reserve a spot with no shade as the other spots often times have very low hanging tree limbs," advises Douglas P. about Spruce Run Recreation Area.
Dump station access: Limited at some parks but available at Turkey Swamp Park and Mahlon Dickerson Reservation. "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill," comments Nancymike K. about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.