New Jersey State Park Campgrounds Undergo Major Upgrades, Some Remain Closed for 2025 Season
Camping lovers in New Jersey, get ready! The camping season is almost here, and it’s time to plan your trips. Whether you’re a regular camper or just want to try something new this year, New Jersey’s state parks are the perfect place to relax, explore, and have fun. But before you pack your tent, here’s something important you need to know: not all campgrounds will be open for the 2025 season.
Some parks are getting much-needed upgrades, and a few will stay closed a little longer. Let’s break down everything you need to know about which New Jersey state park campgrounds are open, closed, and undergoing upgrades in 2025.
Which NJ Campgrounds Are Open in 2025?
Good news first! Many of New Jersey’s popular campgrounds will be open and ready for visitors. Most campsites start accepting campers from April 2025. However, a few offer year-round camping, meaning you don’t have to wait till summer to enjoy the outdoors.
Here’s a quick list of the state park campgrounds that are open and accepting reservations this year:
- Allaire State Park
- Bass River State Park
- Belleplain State Forest
- Brendan T. Byrne State Forest
- High Point State Park
- Many more across the state
These parks not only offer spots to pitch your tent but also give you a chance to experience hiking, fishing, biking, and more.
Which NJ Campgrounds Are Closed or Under Maintenance?
Unfortunately, a few favorite spots are temporarily closed due to ongoing construction and upgrades. But don’t worry—these closures are all part of improving the camping experience for everyone.
Here’s where things stand:
Swartswood State Park
The campgrounds at Swartswood were closed in 2024 for major upgrades. The improvements are still ongoing, and they won’t reopen in time for spring 2025. However, the good news is they are expected to be ready by July 4, 2025, just in time for the big summer holidays.
Stokes State Forest Cabins
If you’re someone who prefers cabin stays over tents, note that Stokes State Forest cabins are also under renovation. These upgrades may impact your ability to book a cabin in 2025. But rest assured, the work being done is to give campers a better, more comfortable experience in the future.
What’s New: Major Upgrades and Investments
The State Park Service of New Jersey is committed to making your camping trips better than ever. A state official confirmed that several parks are getting brand-new restroom and shower facilities in 2025. Parks benefiting from these upgrades include:
- Allaire State Park
- Bass River State Park
- Belleplain State Forest
- Brendan T. Byrne State Forest
- High Point State Park
These projects are being carried out under the Preserve New Jersey Act, which ensures that our state parks receive the funding and care they deserve.
Why These Upgrades Matter
As someone who has camped at New Jersey’s parks since childhood, I can personally say how important it is to maintain these beautiful places. Not only do they offer a space to connect with nature, but they also create lasting memories for families.
Upgrading campsites, restrooms, and cabins ensures that future generations can enjoy the same experiences safely and comfortably. And while the temporary closures might be inconvenient, they’re a small price to pay for a better camping future
Quick Recap: Open & Closed Campsites in 2025
| Campground | Status in 2025 |
|---|---|
| Allaire State Park | Open |
| Bass River State Park | Open |
| Belleplain State Forest | Open |
| Brendan T. Byrne State Forest | Open |
| High Point State Park | Open |
| Swartswood State Park | Closed until July 4, 2025 |
| Stokes State Forest Cabins | Undergoing upgrades, limited booking |
Stay Updated
This list will be updated throughout the year as more information becomes available. Be sure to check regularly before planning your trip to avoid surprises.
Final Thoughts
Camping is one of the best ways to escape the daily grind, spend time with loved ones, and soak up nature. Thanks to New Jersey’s continued investment in its state parks, campers can look forward to safer, cleaner, and more enjoyable campgrounds in the near future.
If you’ve been waiting to visit Swartswood or book a cabin at Stokes, just hang tight—the upgrades will be worth it! Until then, there are plenty of other open campgrounds ready to welcome you this year.
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