Camping options near Westfield, New Jersey range from basic tent sites to serviced RV areas within a 40-mile radius. The region features the northern edges of the Pine Barrens, rolling hills of northwest New Jersey, and access points to the Delaware River. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-90°F with moderate humidity, while spring and fall camping offers cooler temperatures in the 50-70°F range with less precipitation.
What to do
Water activities on multiple lakes: At Spruce Run Recreation Area, visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and swimming in the reservoir. One camper noted, "You can launch your kayak easily from the shore. The sites are large, many have nice mix of sun and shade."
Historic exploration: Visit the historic village at Allaire State Park. A visitor mentioned, "There is a lot to do in the area! Working village and antique train are available most of the year. There are also lots of festivals throughout the summer months."
Hiking varied terrain: Multiple trail systems connect throughout the region, with Stokes State Forest offering 21 marked trails covering over 63 miles. According to a reviewer, "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."
Star gazing: Camp Starry Night at Gulyan Farms provides exceptional night sky viewing. A visitor shared, "The stars and moon were absolutely amazing. We got some great night shots and the moon is so bright it actually looks like the sun in the photos."
What campers like
Wooded seclusion: Turkey Swamp Park offers densely wooded sites that provide natural privacy. A camper described it as: "Sites are in the woods and widely spaced apart to give you privacy and the feeling of being out in the Forrest. There are tent and RV sites and you are allowed to have a tent on the site with an RV at no extra charge."
Lake views: Many sites at Spruce Run Recreation Area offer water views. One visitor shared, "Our site was on the water and it was really nice. A duck visited us every morning."
Small farm atmosphere: Mountainview Campground offers a more pastoral setting. A camper noted, "Cute sheep and goats that wander about during the day! Sweet little spot, we'll definitely be back!"
Clean facilities: Despite the rustic setting at many campgrounds, bathroom facilities are typically well-maintained. At Turkey Swamp Park, a reviewer mentioned, "The bathrooms and showers are clean and well maintained. There is pretty lake with good fishing and they sell bait at the Ranger office."
What you should know
Limited equestrian accommodations: Despite the rural nature of the region, dedicated equestrian camping facilities are scarce near Westfield. No campgrounds in the immediate area feature horse corrals or stabling facilities.
Wildlife awareness: Stokes State Forest is in bear country and requires proper food storage. A visitor warned, "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes."
Seasonal pest considerations: At Turkey Swamp Park, ticks can be prevalent in warmer months. One camper cautioned, "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."
Traffic noise: Some campgrounds experience highway noise. A camper at Spruce Run noted, "The only con to this campground is it's proximity to the highway. You can hear 78, especially at night once the campground settles down."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Many campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. A visitor to Allaire State Park noted, "Centralized playground for the kids with bathrooms and showers next door. Staff was awesome! Attentive and outgoing."
Water activities: Consider sites with swimming areas during summer months. At Camp Mohican Outdoor Center, a camper shared, "Swimming is allowed on Catfish Pond -- plenty of fish, snapping turtles, and other wildlife. If you're there in the summer, I'd recommend taking a kayak around the lake and filling it with wild blueberries."
Winter cabin options: For colder weather family camping, consider cabins with woodstoves. At Stokes State Forest, a reviewer explained, "The cabins are reasonably priced and well-appointed, if a bit rustic. The interior features are just what you'd expect for getting away for the weekend. The main room has a bunk bed and two twins, a table with benches, two Adirondack chairs, a wood stove set into a fireplace."
Tips from RVers
Urban access options: For RVers wanting to visit NYC, Liberty Harbor RV Park in Jersey City provides direct access to the city. A camper advised, "Getting in and out of the city is an adventure. Stay right off the highway to avoid the $30 tunnel toll. Follow RV life pro and not Waze."
Site selection for larger rigs: At Mountainview Campground, some sites accommodate larger vehicles better than others. A reviewer noted, "The landing for the camper was even with gravel and the rest of the site was mostly even. The power station was well intact with 15/20, 30, and 50amp."
Hookup availability: Many sites at Turkey Swamp Park offer electrical and water connections. As one camper reported, "Campsites are roomy with electric and water hookups. They don't have primitive campsites so your stuck paying the higher rate even though you don't need the hookups."
