Discover the best forest campgrounds in New Jersey with swimming

United States
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New Jersey

95% (837 reviews)

Popular camping styles for New Jersey

Under $50

9 top forest campgrounds in New Jersey with swimming

99%

(1274)

Paradise Valley Homestead

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents33 acres · West Milford, NJ

GREAT NEWS!!! As of April 5th, my long awaited 1st Glamping site is available for booking! Please read the description carefully of the "Gypsy Rose Vardo", to see if it's the right fit for you. We also have 10 large camping sites available on our 33 acre property located in Northwest NJ. Sites 1 through 4 are on mowed, fairly level fields and are large enough for campers or RV's up to 30ft, or a couple of tents, and sites 5 and 6 are further back in the woods, available only for a few small tents, sites 7 through 10 are much further into the property and are only accessible with a high clearance AWD or 4WD SUV or you can park and hike your gear in. There are 3 compost toilet outhouses spread out through the Hipcamp, so it's an easy walking distance from any site. Although we are only 2 1/2 miles from a main highway, the last 2 miles are on a dirt road with no houses. We are surrounded by protected land, so no neighbors and lots of wildlife, including the occasional bear, coyote or raccoon. Keep all food items secured. Because we are surrounded by protected land we are not sprayed for insects, so be safe and do tick checks often and bring the bug spray. We are 45 minutes from NYC or the Delaware Water Gap and an hour away from the NJ shore. There are horse farms nearby that offer trail rides. We are also close to the Highland and Appalachian Hiking trails. There are two reservoirs within a 20-minute drive for canoeing or kayaking. There are walking trails through our property, including a ten-minute hike on a marked trail to a small waterfall in a ravine.

Open Field for Dry Camping

2 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Ocean View, NJ

Learn more about this land: The field is perfect for tent camping, camper vans, campers, or even sleeping under the stars. This field is available for dry camping, meaning there is no water or sewage hookup and everything is pack in, pack out. A fire pit is also available for use. The property also has friendly goats that love attention. Short distance from back bays, ocean, trails, beaches and an incredible amount of tourist attractions the Cape May County area has to offer!

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(53)

Fluffy Butt Rescue

1 site · Tent10 acres · Milford, NJ

Experience a unique stay in the Bell Tent at Fluffy Butt Rescue! Fluffy Butt Rescue is a vegan microsanctuary located in Holland Twp. NJ, providing a safe forever home to farmed animals who were neglected, injured, unwanted and abused. FBR is a 501(c)(3) registered charity and 100% of the funds from your stay directly benefits the residents at FBR! Relax with a stream-side crackling fire and a sky full of stars. Hear the local wildlife of foxes and coyotes at night, and fall asleep to the sound of the babbling brook. Wake up to the chickens conversing over their breakfast and the quiet hustle of the sanctuary. In addition to meeting the animal residents at Fluffy Butt Rescue you can enjoy nearby river towns within a half an hour from our sanctuary. Volunteering opportunities are available, as well as art workshops - just contact your host, Rae, ahead of time! ****PLEASE NOTE**** -Make your stay meat-free! We are a vegan sanctuary, meaning all humans and rescued animals eat vegan/plant-based. We appreciate our guests doing the same. -The parking area and porta potty are a short but steep, uphill walk from the camp site, about 1-2 minute walk. -The bell tent is located across a stream. A footbridge is used to access the bell tent. The footbridge is long and narrow and does not have railings, therefore we do NOT suggest this site for young kids. -The tent is in the sun from late morning until about 4pm. -While there is no running water in or near the bell tent, we can provide a spouted pitcher of fresh potable water upon request. -The bell tent is equipped with a full size bed, , small table, dinnerware (plates, bowls, cups, mugs and utensils), percolator, deck of cards, can opener, matches, first aid kit, bug spray, and hand sanitizer. -Firewood and kindling are not included, but can be added on for an additional fee. -Fluffy Butt Rescue is committed to inclusion. We welcome people of all backgrounds. We are LGBTQQIAP+ friendly. Learn more about Fluffy Butt Rescue at fluffybuttrescue .org Please let us know if you have any questions! For the animals, Rae, Rhodes, Juniper and all the Fluffy Butts

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Camp David- 13 acres, Three Cabins

5 sites · Lodging13 acres · Newton, NJ

Nestled outside the village of Stillwater, NJ right across the Appalachian trail and the Kittatinny Mountain Ridge, Camp David sports three luxurious log cabins: > Bell's Cabin- Main cabin that sleeps up to six > The Chatham House- Sleeps up to ten > Chief's Cottage- sleeps up to ten All cabins have their own separate listing and can be booked together or combined. The main cabin, Belle's Cabin, is made from hand hewed logs and is the only cabin furnished with a king size bed. All cabins come equipped with full bathrooms, updated kitchens, wood stoves, and the main cabin has a walkout porch on the second floor. All cabins have climate controlled heating/cooling units as well as hot water. Camp David was originally a German hunting camp at the turn of the 20th century. It was later donated to the Boy Scouts in the 1940’s. By the 2000’s, it was left abandoned at which time I purchased it and began to restore it back to its true form while maintaining the cabin life integrity. I am a contractor and arborist by trade and the last ten years I have worked hard to bring the site back to life. The camp consists of 13 acres abutted by 100's of acres of state park land. There are two stocked ponds connected by a cascading stream, multiple fire pits with seating, furnished gazebo with wood stove, picnic tables, and multiple park benches located throughout the property. Below are close locations to visit: > Walpack Fish and Wildlife Management Area- Great for sightseeing, hiking, biking, fishing, hunting > Walpack Inn- Beautiful restaurant with an entire back wall, window view overseeing Kittatinny Valley > Appalachian Trail- hiking, sightseeing > Catfish Fire Tower- Great hiking and views > Buttermilk Falls- beautiful waterfalls > Long Pine Pond & Crater Lake- Both are spring fed and great for swimming and boating (clear water) > Swartswood Lake- Swimming & boating > Delaware River- Great for swimming, boating, tubing, canoeing, fishing > Delaware Water Gap National Recreational Area- More sightseeing, hiking, fishing, swimming, Bushkill Falls > Dingmans Ferry

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Winding River Vanlife Retreat

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents1 acre · Hamilton, NJ

Bring your own campervan or stay in one of ours -- enjoy swimming, paddling, and tubing on the river, or hiking and mountain biking through our trails. We're located in rural, outdoorsy South Jersey, and while our property is only 1 acre, we're surrounded by trails, trees, and right on a National Wild and Scenic River. During the warmer months, the Great Egg Harbor River is one of the best birding spots in the U.S., and is fantastic for kayaking, river tubing, and fishing. You'll be able to use our rope swing, star-gaze while laying on the 6-person hammock, and cook on the fire pit. We're also walking distance from miles and miles of hiking, mountain biking, ATV-ing, and horseback riding trails for adventurous afternoons. Drop in your kayak at Penny Pot park and kayak straight our property, or leave from our dock and get picked up 5 miles down at Weymouth park. Spend an hour tubing down our river and walk right back to camp with a 15 minute walk in the woods, then do it all over again! The town of Hammonton (the "Blueberry Capital of The World") is just 15 minutes away, and has a super cute downtown where you can find awesome shops, restaurants, wineries and breweries. The beaches in Atlantic City are only 30 minutes out, and Philadelphia is 45 minutes by car or 1 hour by train. Local grocers like Bagliani's, or large stores like Walmart and Shoprite are located within a 10-15 minute drive. Gas stations, a WaWa, and three restaurants can be found within a 5-8 minute drive. Experience a relaxing weekend out in the woods and by the water, while staying close to amenities and other fun outings. If you bring your own Van, Schoolie, Trailaer, or mid-sized RV, we have 30amp and 15amp hookups available in our driveway. All trash brought into or created on site must be packed out when you leave.

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Historical Lake Front Barn

1 site · RV, Tent10 acres · Mendham, NJ

Nestled in the mountainside in Morris County this 10 acre farm estate is home to a plethora of wildlife, small lake, and large brook that runs through the property. The lake is home to native wildlife and the brook is loaded with trout. There are a couple of professionally maintained landscaping areas perfect for camping and firepit. It comes with a firepit, and everything you need for an amazing night out in the wilderness. There are beautiful hiking trails on site as well as right across the way adjacent to the property that are highly regarded in the state. The most secluded property you can imagine, it is home to some truly magnificent wildlife. There is no littering, and absolutely no hunting. As a nature lover, the respect I have shown these animals, is the reason why they love it here. Who knows what you may see! Firewood is available for purchase at the top of the driveway. It is handcut and seasoned for 3 years and stored in a custom hutch. $5 a compartment money goes in the mailbox.

Calumet Run Farm-horse retirement

1 site · RV, Tent40 acres · Pilesgrove, NJ

Learn more about this land:We are a full service equine retirement home. We live on the property with our animals (chickens, goats, horses, dogs, cats, pig, sheep) We offer full boarding for horses and have a small area in the rear of our property for campers to tent camp. Room to sleep under the stars. Wake up to a beautiful sunrise. Close to major shopping if cooking under the stars is not an option. Fresh eggs from our hens are available for sale.

Palace Farms

1 site · RV25 acres · Blairstown, NJ

Vehicle must be fully self contained - no tents. There are no restrooms, electricity or potable water at this site. Your vehicle must have a bathroom Off grid 25 acre property of diverse woodland, gardens, wetlands and meadow. Close to the Appalachian Trail! Hiking/biking on the property. Close to downtown Blairstown with shops and eateries but also a secluded, serene nature spot. Build a campfire, star gaze, take a leisurely hike, walk through the garden. Relax and unwind in the tranquility at Palace Farms! Property may be shared with other hip campers or the owners

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Secluded Lakeside Haven @ the Shore

4 sites · Lodging40 acres · Cape May Court House, NJ

Discover Cape May County—Southern New Jersey’s hidden gem. Join us by a pristine lake, framed by tall pines and wetlands, which create a vibrant wildlife habitat in a haven of natural beauty. We’ve meticulously crafted a secluded retreat to explore, rejuvenate, & create, all set on a private lake with its own sandy beach. Your stay includes hiking trails, bike path access, fire pit, hammocks, water sports. Experience nature at its finest and make unforgettable memories in this serene sanctuary. . Our secluded four-season retreat welcomes the guest seeking the peace of an exclusive nature getaway, just minutes from renowned beach communities. Leave behind the distractions and busyness of life and make room for stillness and the internal conversations that bring healing and wellness. Whether sitting amidst the pines, catching a sunset from the deck, hiking winding trails, exploring the adjacent county bike path, fishing in a hidden cove, wading in perfectly clear waters, or writing, drawing, birding, boating, singing, praying; a time of peaceful recreation, creativity and restoration awaits. . THE ROOM: The Loft is in its own building, adjacent to the main house where your hosts live. Guests enter through a private, "contactless" foyer using a personalized keypad. A set of stairs lead you to a spaciously designed and well appointed 2nd story loft with a private deck providing full views of the beautiful lake while enjoying your morning or sunset beverage. Large windows flood the open concept space with natural light. The room also has a french balcony, hardwood floors throughout, an eating area for two, a bar/small sink with granite counters, a generous & comfortable living space, a dreamy queen size bed nook with nearby reading chairs, a walk in closet, and a modern bathroom with glass door and tiled shower. . THE PROPERTY: Our 40 acre property is hidden within a quiet suburban neighborhood, and is home to an abundance of turtles, migratory birds, fish, deer, otters, foxes, and much more. Guests have endless access to hiking trails, county bike path, observation tower, prayer labyrinth, scattered lakeside vistas, swimming, water sports, and so much more. . LOCATION: We are located in the quiet town of CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE, just five miles from the pure white sandy beaches of Stone Harbor and Avalon, and twelve miles from historic Cape May! With nature hikes, abundant wildlife, glorious sunsets, miles of bike trails, fabulous restaurants, breweries, wineries, shopping, golfing, historical enrichment & more - there's something for everyone on New Jersey’s Cape May Peninsula.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

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Wharton State Forest

Hammonton, New Jersey

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(5)

Belleplain State Forest

Belleplain, New Jersey

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(8)

High Point State Park

New Jersey

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(13)

Worthington State Forest

Branchville, New Jersey

This area is incredible gorgeous. I loved the small-town feel, seeing the local cabins and adventuring through the creeks.

88%

(20)

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

Pocono Mountain Lake Estates, Pennsylvania

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(2)

Parvin State Park

Rosenhayn, New Jersey

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(2)

Swartswood State Park

Crandon Lakes, New Jersey

My husband, pitbull pup and I stumbled upon Bass River State Forest last year and have already made it an annual must! The sites are both beautiful and quiet and you're only steps to hiking and the water.

67%

(3)

Bass River State Forest

Tuckerton, New Jersey

92%

(11)

Round Valley Recreation Area

Lebanon, New Jersey

Forest camping in New Jersey with swimming guide

Overview

From the wooded peaks of the Appalachian mountains in the north, through the vast woodlands of the Pine Barrens, to the golden sands of the Jersey Shore, it’s easy to get outdoors in New Jersey. May through September is beach season, when vacationers make a beeline for the famed Jersey Shore, where the 130-mile stretch of Atlantic coastline doesn’t disappoint. There’s more to the Garden State than just beaches, though, and New Jersey campgrounds provide plenty of variety, whether you prefer tent camping in the wilderness, an oceanview cabin rental, or a family campground with a swimming pool and campfires.

Where to go

North New Jersey

New Jersey’s mountainous north is a tangle of sloping woodlands and Appalachian Mountain peaks, tumbling down to the banks of the Delaware River. Campers can enjoy swimming, canoeing, and hiking at High Point State Park; tent camping along the Appalachian Trail; or biking, horseback riding, and snowmobiling in the Stokes State Forest. For a back-to-nature camping experience, the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area has tent and RV sites, as well as backcountry campsites and more than 150 miles of hiking trails to explore.

Piedmont

Flanked by the Hudson River to the east and the Delaware River to the west, Piedmont’s rolling hills provide plenty of spots to escape the crowds. RV parks are dotted around the cities of Elizabeth, Jersey City, and Newark, or you can camp with a view of the Manhattan skyline near Liberty State Park. Near the Pennsylvania border, Washington Crossing State Park has a selection of group campsites, all within walking distance of the park’s historic sites and hiking trails.

Jersey Shore

Stretching all the way from Cape May in the south to Sandy Hook in the north, New Jersey’s Atlantic Coast is brimming with seaside resorts, amusement parks, and golf courses. Check into an RV campsite near the casinos of Atlantic City and Ocean City, rent a deluxe cabin at Seaside Heights, and take your pick of sandy beaches. Or, discover the coast’s wild side in the Pinelands National Reserve, the Bass River State Forest, or the Gateway National Recreation Area.

Inner Coastal Plain

New Jersey camping isn’t all about the beach—head inland, and you can pitch your tent or park your RV in the heart of the forest. Head to Wharton State Forest to hike, kayak, and horseback ride in the Pine Barrens, rent a yurt or cabin at Belleplain State Forest, or camp by the lakeside at Parvin State Park.