Turkey Swamp Park offers more than just glamping options near Woodbridge, New Jersey. Located in Freehold Township, this county park spans 2,173 acres with dirt roads throughout the property. The campground contains 64 sites arranged in five distinct loops with the bathhouse centrally located in D Loop. The park operates seasonally from April 1 through November 15, with most facilities closing during winter months.
What to do
Archery practice: Turkey Swamp Park maintains a dedicated archery range where visitors can practice their skills. As Patrick M. notes, "Bring your bow and shoot at the hay barrels," making it a perfect activity for outdoor enthusiasts looking to sharpen their aim between camping sessions.
Winter recreation: While most camping at Turkey Swamp Park closes by mid-November, the park offers unique winter activities when weather permits. "Ice skate on the lake in the winter or just enjoy a gorgeous walk in the woods," reports Patrick M., highlighting opportunities for off-season visitors.
Boat rentals: The lake at Turkey Swamp offers multiple watercraft options for exploration. "In the summer, canoe, kayak, paddle boats, and row boats are available for rental," explains Lee D., describing the variety of ways visitors can enjoy the water during warmer months.
Mountain biking: Allaire State Park provides exceptional mountain biking trails ranging from beginner to advanced levels. Beau B. shares, "Mountain Biking from easy, paved trails to several miles of single track with everything in between," making it ideal for cyclists of all skill levels.
What campers like
Spacious sites: The campsites at Turkey Swamp provide ample room for comfort and privacy. Lee D. observes, "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."
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting creates abundant opportunities for wildlife observation. Katheryn N. appreciates "sites are in the woods and widely spaced apart to give you privacy and the feeling of being out in the Forrest," highlighting the immersive natural experience.
Laundry facilities: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers practical amenities for longer stays. One reviewer mentions "Showers and washers and dryers," noting convenient on-site laundry options that aren't available at all campgrounds in the region.
Quiet environment: Campers consistently mention the peaceful atmosphere at glamping sites near Woodbridge. Tylen L. shares, "I've been here a few times, every time I'm here I barely touch my phone," describing the disconnection from technology that natural surroundings encourage.
What you should know
Bug preparation: Some campgrounds in the Woodbridge area experience seasonal tick activity. Laura Y. warns, "By the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2... we were just sitting by our camper," emphasizing the importance of tick checks and repellent.
Shower facilities: Bathroom amenities vary significantly between campgrounds. At Panther Lake Camping Resort, Carrie H. notes, "Probably the worst shower ever. The lights are timed. The water is a button. The space is small as hell," highlighting potential drawbacks at certain facilities.
Water hookup length: RV campers should prepare for water connection distances at some sites. A reviewer at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation mentions, "Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that. Our site (15) said 75' however the 50' hose reel made it to our rv connection."
Noise levels: Sound conditions vary widely between camping locations. At Spruce Run Recreation Area, Frank J. observes, "Late at night you can hear the drone of a major highway," alerting light sleepers to potential disturbances.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Many campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. At Great Divide Campground, staff organize "Lots of weekend activities" with "a nice small soccer field and volleyball court" according to reviewers, providing entertainment options beyond natural attractions.
Kid-friendly insects: Parents might be concerned about bug activity, but some visitors report positive experiences. JAEWOOK P. shares, "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!"
Seasonal events: Family-oriented activities increase during holiday periods. Jessica D. explains, "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! Plenty of activities for the kids."
Fishing opportunities: Children often enjoy fishing activities at lakeside campgrounds. Katheryn N. mentions, "There is pretty lake with good fishing and they sell bait at the Ranger office," noting convenient access to supplies for impromptu fishing expeditions.
Tips from RVers
Dump station quality: RVers appreciate well-maintained disposal facilities. One camper at Mountainview Campground reports, "The power station was well intact with 15/20, 30, and 50amp," indicating reliable electrical connections for various RV configurations.
Site selection strategy: The terrain at some campgrounds affects RV positioning. An antruze notes, "Very clean and quiet. Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that," suggesting careful site research before booking.
Hookup availability: Not all glamping sites near Woodbridge provide full RV services. Ruette W. advises, "They do a great job of mowing the grass on the sites... There are some RV sites with water & electric which are not on the water, but in the parking lot," helping campers understand potential trade-offs between views and amenities.
Road conditions: Interior campground roads vary in quality. Aaron E. selected "site 38" at Panther Lake, noting "It was a really nice size, and the kids could fish right off the dock on the back," recommending waterfront sites for families with RVs who enjoy fishing.
