Central New Jersey camping options range from wooded Pine Barrens sites to lakefront destinations within 30-45 minutes of Trenton. The area sits at elevations between 20-400 feet with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Most campgrounds near Trenton implement a maximum 14-night stay policy during summer months.
What to do
Hiking the Pine Barrens: Brendan Byrne State Forest offers extensive trail networks through native pine forests. "Lots of good hiking trails, most the sites have pretty decent privacy from the other ones," mentions one camper, adding that the forest offers "potable water hydrants around the campground so not far of a walk to fill any water needs."
Fishing at multiple lakes: At Turkey Swamp Park, anglers can fish directly from the water's edge. "There is a lake with a boat dock and a small boardwalk. Kayaking/Canoeing, fishing, and swimming," reports a recent visitor. The park office sells bait for those who need it.
Historical exploration: Washington Crossing State Park (temporarily closed for 2024) connects campers with Revolutionary War history. "Washington Crossing Historic Park, straddling Pennsylvania and New Jersey along the Delaware River, is one of those rare places where you can literally camp in history," explains a visitor who appreciates the unique setting.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Round Valley State Park Campground offers genuine wilderness camping. "This is a great campground that is super private and quiet - great for getting out to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. It's a pretty strenuous hike, but you'll be rewarded for the effort!" reports one camper who enjoys the peace.
Clean, spacious campsites: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained grounds at pet-friendly campgrounds near Trenton. At Timberland Lake Campground, visitors appreciate "Quiet, clean, big sites" with one noting, "It was a really nice size, and the kids could fish right off the dock on the back."
Swimming options: Many campgrounds feature swimming areas to cool off during summer months. A visitor to Timberland Lake mentioned their "beautiful pool" was "crystal clear," while Turkey Swamp Park offers a lake for swimming with seasonal boat rentals including "canoe, kayak, paddle boats, and row boats."
What you should know
Site access challenges: Round Valley requires physical effort to reach campsites. "Located just south of I78... it is the only NJ SP that actually offers up true wilderness camping(a.k.a. primitive), which can only be accessed by hiking 3 to 6 miles—or if you come with your own boat," warns one experienced camper.
Tick awareness: The Jersey woods can harbor ticks, especially in warmer months. One Turkey Swamp camper reported, "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."
Varying bathroom facilities: Atsion Family Camp — Wharton State Forest provides decent restrooms, but not all campgrounds offer equal amenities. One camper reported Round Valley has "backwoods-style bathroom pits" that are "very ill-managed and you'll come across the 'stank' well before actually even arriving."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Butterfly Camping Resort offers extensive recreation options. "Large playground and lots of activities for the kids," notes one camper. Another mentions "There's a pond to fish, trails to walk/bike, basketball, sand volleyball, the list goes on and on."
Seasonal events: Many campgrounds host special activities during holidays. At Timberland Lake, campers report, "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!"
Short driving distances: Most Trenton-area dog-friendly campgrounds are within 30 minutes of attractions. "This campground is conveniently located near six flags (5min), Sesame Place (40 min) and Philadelphia (60 min)," reports a Timberland Lake camper, making it ideal for day trips.
Tips from RVers
Hook-up availability: Fort Washington State Park Campground offers partial hookups but limited amenities. "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," notes a Turkey Swamp visitor, highlighting the well-designed RV sites.
Terrain considerations: Many campgrounds have dirt or sand surfaces that affect RV setup. A Timberland Lake camper mentioned, "Sand… so hard even with rugs to pull out of trailer" as their main complaint despite enjoying other aspects of the campground.
Length limitations: Most dog-friendly campgrounds near Trenton have size restrictions for larger rigs. At Turkey Swamp Park, campers note that "Sites in Loops B-E all have pull-thru driveways" making access easier, but "as soon as you turn off the main road to the park, all roads are dirt," which could be challenging in wet weather.
