Is Swartswood Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Swartswood Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Swartswood Campground before I book?

Yes! Swartswood Campground has 7 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Swartswood Campground?

Swartswood Campground is open campsites Apr 1 - Oct 31; shelters Apr 1 - Dec 15. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Swartswood Campground?

Yes, Swartswood Campground has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

How many campsites does Swartswood Campground have?

Swartswood Campground has 74 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Swartswood Campground?

Pets are not allowed at Swartswood Campground. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Swartswood Campground?

Swartswood Campground offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Swartswood Campground?

Popular activities at Swartswood Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Swartswood Campground

4.57

60 reviews

Top 20% in NJSummer

Family FriendlyScenic ViewsSwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

518 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Reservable

Sites

74 campsites

Season

campsites Apr 1 - Oc...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV FriendlyShowers

Check Availability

Get Directions

Quick Facts

518 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Reservable

Sites

74 campsites

Season

campsites Apr 1 - Oc...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV FriendlyShowers

Check Availability

Get Directions

Swartswood Campground

No fees available

Campsite Fees

No paid fee categories listed.

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New Jersey State Parks

Provider

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

Swartswood Campground

41.0736, -74.8188

Weather at Swartswood Campground

Best Time to Camp at Swartswood Campground

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 20% in NJ

Peak season for swimming, boating and rentals on the 520-acre lake (Apr–Oct campsites open).

Planning Tips

Operating Season: campsites Apr 1 - Oct 31; shelters Apr 1 - Dec 15

About Swartswood Campground

Swartswood State Park is considered New Jersey's first state park, centered on Swartswood Lake, a 520-acre glacial lake (the state's third-largest natural freshwater lake). The 3,460-acre park lies in Stillwater and Hampton townships, Sussex County, built around lake-based recreation. The campground sits in a wooded, grassy setting near the lake with fire rings, picnic tables, and lantern holders, and flush toilets, showers, and a bathhouse nearby. Camping includes 65 tent/trailer sites, 3 group sites, and 6 cabin-like shelters. Wood fires are not permitted; no pets in overnight facilities.

Natural Features and ScenerySwartswood Campground sits in a rural, wooded setting centered on Swartswood Lake, a large glacial freshwater lake in northwestern New Jersey. Sources describe tranquil surroundings, pristine forests, and the Kittatinny Valley/Mountains backdrop, with clear, calm water and a classic lake-and-woods landscape.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations via camping.nj.gov (NJ Outdoors / NJ State Park Service online system). Camping season: campsites Apr 1 - Oct 31; shelters Apr 1 - Dec 15.

Total Campsites74 campsites

Best CampsitesSpecific campsite numbers were not identified in the provided sources. Campers generally recommend lakeside or shore-adjacent sites for the best access to Swartswood Lake and water views; because the campground fills early in fall, reserving early is advised.

Need help booking Swartswood Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Group Sites

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Trip Planning Tools

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.6

60 reviews

Top-Rated

Swartswood Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Review Summaries

Based on 60 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers and visitors love the peaceful lake setting, clear water, wooded surroundings, and the mix of swimming, paddling, fishing, and hiking in one compact park. Reviewers also praise the lack of...

Based on 60 reviews

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