Camping options near South Amboy, New Jersey, are concentrated within a 30-mile radius of the city, with most facilities located in wooded areas or near reservoirs. The region experiences four distinct seasons with humid summers reaching up to 85°F and winters averaging 20-30°F, affecting campground availability and site conditions. Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally from April through October with limited winter camping options.
What to do
Archery practice: Turkey Swamp Park offers an archery range where campers can practice their skills in a designated area. "We go every year... 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. from Turkey Swamp Park.
Water activities: Multiple reservoirs provide opportunities for paddling and fishing within a short drive. "There is a lake with a boat dock and a small boardwalk. Kayaking/Canoeing, fishing, and swimming. In the summer, canoe, kayak, paddle boats, and row boats are available for rental," explains Lee D. about Turkey Swamp Park.
Winter recreation: For off-season visitors, some parks maintain year-round accessibility with unique cold-weather activities. At Spruce Run Recreation Area, winter camping is available, and as Patrick M. mentioned about Turkey Swamp, you can "ice skate on the lake in the winter."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing between campsites at Brendan Byrne State Forest. "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," says Dan M..
Natural surroundings: The wooded environments provide a sense of seclusion even in developed campgrounds. "I've 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," describes Erik M. about Allaire State Park.
Wildlife viewing: Campers often mention the presence of diverse wildlife in and around campsites. "I've camped many times at multiple state parks, huge remote state forests, but I've never heard so much wildlife there as I did here. 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!" shares Christina H. about Mountainview Campground.
What you should know
Tick prevention: Some campgrounds in the region have significant tick populations, especially during warmer 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," warns Laura Y. about Turkey Swamp Park.
Noise considerations: Proximity to highways affects the sound environment at some campgrounds. At Spruce Run Recreation Area, one camper noted, "The pros: Reasonable cost from NJ state website. I paid $41 for 2 days. Campsites well spaced apart. Staff friendly. Boats/Kayaks can be rented." But also mentioned, "Late at night you can hear the drone of a major highway," according to Frank J..
Limited equestrian options: Horse-friendly camping facilities are scarce in the immediate South Amboy area. While Liberty Harbor RV Park and Turkey Swamp Park offer camping accommodations, neither lists horse corrals or designated equestrian trails among their amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Bug preparation: Bring appropriate repellents and protective clothing, particularly for evening activities. "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 their experience at Turkey Swamp Park.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playground equipment for children. "There are age-appropriate playgrounds both in the campground and by the office," notes Lee D. about Turkey Swamp Park, while at Spruce Run Recreation Area, a camper mentions, "Centralized playground for the kids with bathrooms and showers next door."
Water safety: When camping near reservoirs or lakes, be aware of swimming regulations and safety measures. At Spruce Run Recreation Area, you'll find "a lake with life-guarded swimming area" and "several playgrounds, boat launches," according to Jocelyn G..
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Water and electric connections are available at select sites, but sewer hookups are limited. "Sites are a little too close together. Noisy with highway traffic. Well maintained though," notes Justin S. about Allaire State Park.
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on your specific needs for shade or utilities. "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.
Urban RV options: For RVers wanting proximity to NYC while based near South Amboy, Liberty Harbor RV Park offers a unique location. "This is a pricey park, but options are limited. As in almost non existent. This is a prime location for visiting the city or heading down the shore. The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8," explains Joe R..
