Turtle Run Campground, Wading River

Established: 2004
Reservations/Appointments: Required
Staff Size: 2–10 people
Pro Tip: Family campground

The crunch of twigs snapping beneath your feet. The smoky smell of a campfire. The rays of sun peeking beneath the trees of the forest. Such sights are commonplace within the New Jersey Pine Barrens, an area which Turtle Run Campground calls home, allowing its visitors to do the same for short spans of time. With sections for RVs, tents, and cabins, the grounds offer camping with varying levels of convenience, making it a popular destination for families. A turtle-shaped swimming pool and large playground accommodate the kids, and feral granola bars need not be ensnared for food, since a full grill and deli is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner from Friday-Sunday till Mid May-Mid October.

And while the forest is lovely to behold, the grounds are located with easy accessibility to many attractions, including trips to history centers, flea markets, and the seaside. And it's no problem if you come without reservations made—the owners pop in often to help with vacation planning.