Cabin camping near Toms River, New Jersey encompasses sites within the New Jersey Pine Barrens ecosystem, a unique coastal plain forest covering over 1.1 million acres. The terrain consists primarily of sandy soil with scrub oak and pitch pine trees dominating the landscape. Summer temperatures range from 75-90°F with high humidity, while winters can drop below freezing with occasional snow accumulation affecting cabin access.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Turkey Swamp Park, anglers can fish the stocked lake year-round. "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," notes reviewer Tylen L.
Winter recreation: Turkey Swamp Park offers ice skating on the lake during winter months. "Ice skate on the lake in the winter or just enjoy a gorgeous walk in the woods," mentions Patrick M. The park maintains 2.5-mile hiking trails that remain accessible during colder months.
Archery practice: Visitors can bring bows to practice at designated ranges. "Bring your bow and shoot at the hay barrels," suggests Patrick M. The archery ranges have target distances suitable for beginners and experienced archers.
Historic exploration: Allaire State Park features a 19th-century iron making town with preserved buildings. "Working village and antique train are available most of the year. There are also lots of festivals throughout the summer months," explains Beau B. The historic village hosts demonstrations of period crafts and trades on weekends.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Butterfly Camping Resort offers secluded cabin sites with natural buffers. "The sites were cozy and each lined with natural shrubbery and in some cases fencing. They're well maintained and raked between campers," reports Tina D. Sites include fire rings and picnic tables.
Weekend activities: Many campgrounds schedule regular events for guests. "Both nights we were there, there were events being put on (a tractor ride, kickball, and a pool movie night)," shares Caitlin F. about Butterfly Camping Resort. These organized activities run from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Biking options: Brendan Byrne State Forest offers extensive trail networks for cyclists. "Lots of good hiking trails, most the sites have pretty decent privacy from the other ones," notes Dan M. The forest maintains over 25 miles of designated biking trails through pine forest terrain.
Lake access: Bass River cabins provide water recreation opportunities. "We walked and explored, kayaked, and sang by the fire. The camp sites have plenty of room for the kids to run around and set up their own areas," says Matthew H. The lake permits non-motorized boats with rentals available seasonally.
What you should know
Cabin accessibility: Bass River State Forest cabins require advance planning. "The cabins are a two steps above the shelter with a full kitchen and bathroom with shower, but otherwise rustic," notes a previous visitor. Reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance.
Tick prevalence: Sandy soil areas harbor ticks, especially in warmer months. "Ticks were very active on this visit be sure to remember your bug spray and tuck your pants in your socks!" warns Megan S. at Brendan Byrne State Forest. The tick season extends from April through October.
Reservation requirements: Holiday weekends book months in advance. "First time solo camping and it couldn't have gone better. The staff there are top notch. Clean site. So much to do," reports Scott K. about Bass River State Forest. Cabin cancellations must be made 7 days prior to arrival for partial refund.
Sandy conditions: Most cabins are situated on sandy terrain. "If the site had gravel, grass, or some other surface, this would be a 5-star review. They offer wifi which is nice to have, but it didn't work very well," states Matt S. about Butterfly Camping Resort. Sand can infiltrate cabins during rainy conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Pool facilities: Timberland Lake Campground offers swimming options for children. "Plenty of activities for kids with park area and pool. They do also offer golf cart rental for those wanting explore the park," shares Robyn W. The pool operates from Memorial Day through Labor Day with lifeguards on duty.
Playground access: Turkey Swamp Park provides age-appropriate play areas. "There are age-appropriate playgrounds both in the campground and by the office," mentions Lee D. The playgrounds feature equipment suitable for ages 2-12.
Campground events: Halloween-themed weekends are popular for families. "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!" explains Jessica D. about Timberland Lake Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Many cabins allow observation of native species. "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 family's experience at Turkey Swamp Park.
Tips from RVers
Site preparation: Pine Cone Resort requires careful setup. "Sites were good sized, but the place is a little run down and could definitely use some work," advises Christine A. Guests should bring leveling blocks as many sites have uneven terrain.
Water hookup planning: Turkey Swamp Park requires extended hose lengths. "Bring a LONG water hose. Nice lake. Showers and washers and dryers," notes Shawn about the park's RV facilities. Water connections may be up to 50 feet from parking pads.
Road conditions: Campground access roads vary in quality. "There are many pot holes that need gravel," observes Jim C. about Timberland Lake Campground. RVers should drive slowly on unpaved sections to prevent damage.
Electrical limitations: Most cabins have 30-amp service despite some listings indicating 50-amp availability. "I reserved and paid-in-full for a premium site which listed 50-amp service and a concrete pad. Nope. Only 30-amp service and no concrete pad," reports Matt S. about Adventure Bound Camping.
