Somerset, New Jersey camping spots feature a mix of forested county parks and accessible reservoir-based campgrounds situated between 50-400 feet above sea level. While summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F, spring and fall camping seasons offer cooler alternatives with seasonal park closures typically occurring from November through March. Most campgrounds within a 30-mile radius require reservations at least two weeks in advance for weekend stays.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing: At Round Valley State Park Campground, water activities center around a 2,350-acre reservoir that reaches 180 feet deep. "The water is crystal clear, the area is clean. There's bathrooms and pumps but we just filtered the water from the reservoir instead which tasted a million times better than the well water," notes James R. The reservoir contains trout and offers multiple access points.
Archery practice: Turkey Swamp Park maintains an archery range with hay barrels for target practice. "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," reports Dan W. The archery range operates year-round with seasonal hour adjustments.
Urban exploration: For campers seeking a metropolitan experience, Liberty Harbor RV Park offers unique access to New York City. "Two ferries that run to Manhattan. Path train is a 12 minute walk away that will take you to Manhattan. Jersey city has a lot of restaurants and bars walking distance," explains Karen S. The ferry costs $7-9 one-way and runs hourly from 7am-7pm.
What campers like
Wilderness feel with accessibility: Campers praise Mountainview Campground for its natural setting despite being near towns. "The drive up to this place was so breathtaking the entire way. Adorable little mountain houses, with bridges that go over a stream to get to their front door," writes Christina H. Sites feature fire rings with cooking grates and flat tent areas.
Wildlife encounters: The more remote campsites offer surprising wildlife viewing opportunities. "Only shortly after we settled into our tent did we hear foxes fighting right outside our tent, the snorts of deer, and there were bats right above us all night making noise!" reports Christina H. at Mountainview Campground. Morning hours typically offer the best viewing times.
Waterfront access: Many campers select sites with direct water views. At Spruce Run Recreation Area, "Many sites have a lovely water view of the reservoir. Several playgrounds, boat launches, and life guarded swimming area," notes Jocelyn G. Waterfront sites typically cost $5-10 more per night than standard sites.
What you should know
Primitive camping challenges: At Round Valley, sites require significant effort to reach. "Located just south of I78 and near the small hamlets of Clinton and Lebanon... you can only access by hiking 3 to 6 miles—or if you come with your own boat, you can access by water," explains Stuart K. Water must be filtered or obtained from designated pumps.
Noise considerations: Urban-adjacent campgrounds often experience traffic sounds. At Cheesequake State Park Campground, "The Parkway is right there so it's not a nice quiet place," mentions Stacey R. Sites farther from highways typically offer better sound conditions.
Tick activity: Several campgrounds report tick issues, particularly in wooded areas. "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," warns Laura Y. from Turkey Swamp Park. Bring repellent and conduct tick checks daily.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Cheesequake State Park works well for camping newcomers. "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 best part is all the trails," recommends Maggie A. Most sites accommodate one vehicle plus tent or RV.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Spruce Run Recreation Area, "Reasonable cost from NJ state website. I paid $41 for 2 days. Campsites well spaced apart. Staff friendly. Boats/Kayaks can be rented," reports Frank J. The playground areas typically close at dusk.
Seasonal activities: Some campgrounds offer special events during holidays. At Timberland Lake Campground, "We went to timberland lake last fall. it happened to be the Halloween weekend which was full of excellent activities from pumpkin painting to piñatas and trick-or-treating. Lake was beautiful," shares Ann Marie M. Event schedules are typically posted 2-3 weeks in advance.
Tips from RVers
Site surface considerations: Many RV sites feature unpaved surfaces that can be challenging. "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. Most sites require wheel blocks for leveling.
Hookup limitations: RVers should verify utility connections before booking. At Spruce Run, "There are some RV sites with water & electric which are not on the water, but in the parking lot. I would consider getting one on the water to enjoy the water and one in the parking lot to hook up the RV," suggests Ruette W. Electric services typically range from 30-50 amps depending on the campground.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds offer sewer hookups at individual sites. "There is a dump station, but not the easiest to use," reports Shawn B. about Liberty Harbor RV Park. Most dump stations operate during daylight hours and may have limited accessibility during peak checkout times.
