The Kittatinny Mountains region surrounding Tranquility, New Jersey offers diverse camping options with elevations ranging from 400 to 1,800 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach the mid-80s during the day and cool to the low-60s at night. Fall camping season brings vibrant foliage colors but requires additional layers for comfort as overnight temperatures often drop into the 40s.
What to do
Hiking to scenic overlooks: At Jenny Jump State Forest, trails lead to impressive viewpoints. "This place was great, they allow dogs and had hiking trails with beautiful views you could enjoy right from your campground. It's also close to other local hikes like Mt. Tammany," notes Fransheska A.
Wolf preserve tours: Schedule a guided visit to see rescued wolves. "There is a section of RV spots that are each cut out in the woods so very private. You can take a short hike up the mountain there to see the wolves in the sanctuary. There are moments by the fire you can hear them howl in the distance," shares Julie F. about Camp Taylor Campground.
Water activities: Many campsites provide river and lake access. "The lake and pool were a big plus, especially for hot days. While I did not take advantage, you are allowed to rent boats and take them out on the lake," explains Ethan K. about Panther Lake Campground.
Fall foliage viewing: Autumn brings spectacular colors to the area. "Excellent in the fall with the leaves, especially from the summit of Mt. Tammany. The campsites are all very close to the lake, especially the tent sites," reports Harry H.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Most campers appreciate the room between sites. "The campgrounds were big and spread out and the campsites have their own space so you can enjoy quiet at night," notes Ethan K. about Great Divide Campground.
Lake recreation: Several campgrounds feature swimming and boating opportunities. "Private. Beautiful. Go swimming at turtle beach! Nice space between the sites. They also have river front sites!" shares Kendra P. about Worthington State Forest.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers are consistently mentioned. "The facilities were clean and stocked so no complaints there. After packing up we drove down the road and were able to get in a nice 5 mile hike up to the fire tower," writes Josh S. about Stokes State Forest.
Privacy options: Wooded sites offer seclusion. "We went on 4th of July weekend so the place was packed. We were able to get a secluded spot in the woods which was great!" mentions Jojo P.
What you should know
Bear awareness: The region has black bear activity. "We heard about some bear incidents here recently but we didn't encounter any or any evidence of them," reports Harry H.
Varying cell coverage: Don't count on reliable service. "Cell service spotty all carriers. No internet at sites. Lake beautiful and pool nice," according to a camper.
Site selection matters: Not all sites are created equal. "Careful on the roads to the campsite, they're a bit on the bumpy side. Defo smaller roads than your usual ones," advises Christine N.
Weekend crowds: Popular campgrounds fill quickly. At Worthington State Forest Campground, one camper noted, "It's nice to be on the Delaware and not many campgrounds have water access or a boat ramp so that's a plus. Showers, sinks, and toilets are available."
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds close for winter. "The campgrounds were very big and spread out... Each site had a water spout and electric plug in," explains Ethan K.
Tips for camping with families
Choose camps with activities: Look for campgrounds with organized programs. "Great family run campground. Owners are a blast. Most sites are level. Some areas are a little steeper then I would like to set up on, but that's me. Nice small lake with boats to use. Nice small beach. Lots of weekend activities," recommends Scott N.
Consider cabins for comfort: Several campgrounds offer cabin options. "Sussex county is beautiful. Stokes is such a peaceful campground! We stay in the cabins. It's great to have the small kitchen when camping with the family," shares Amy B.
Playgrounds and swim areas: These amenities keep kids entertained. "My daughter and I have made Camp Taylor our annual spot for the past 4-5 years and it just keeps getting better. Hiking to the Wolf Preserve, paddleboats, mini golf, swimming in the lake... There are so many things to do," says Dan B.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Wildlife encounters create memorable experiences. "Very wooded. Some sites are more private than others but all have a wooded and private feel. It's GREAT For kids. A nice playground with tons of kids running all over," shares Kathy G.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric and water are common, but sewer is limited. "Sites had room to move and it was quiet and peaceful. Kids had lots of fun on the free kayaks and pool. Staff was friendly and helpful. Campgrounds have lots of hills so be prepared to hike up and down," advises Jojo P. about Great Divide.
Site terrain challenges: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, "The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large. Water and electric hookups and a dump station," notes Jeff W.
Road access considerations: Some campgrounds have difficult access roads. "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill. Peaceful. Close to train to N.Y. City," shares Nancymike K.
Seasonal camping options: Many campsites near Tranquility offer longer-term arrangements. "Majority of sites are seasonal campers with LOTS of cottages. Went early in the season so many had not been maintained in months," reports April L.
