Camping near Andover, New Jersey offers diverse terrain across Sussex County's northwestern region, where elevations range from 500 to 1,500 feet. The area's mixed hardwood forests provide natural shade for campers during summer months when daytime temperatures typically reach the mid-80s. Local campgrounds offer varied experiences from lakeside settings to wooded retreats with direct access to hiking trails.
What to do
Hiking at Stokes State Forest: This 16,000-acre forest provides access to 21 marked trails covering over 63 miles. "There are trail heads near the campsites and longer trails, including access to the Appalachian Trail within a short 10-15 minute drive. You can also rent kayaks and SUP at the main office," notes one Stokes State Forest visitor.
Kayaking on Delaware River: Launch personal watercraft for river exploration. "We were able to get a secluded spot in the woods which was great! 2 teenage girls had a blast in the lake and riding their bikes around," shares a visitor to Panther Lake Camping Resort.
Wildlife viewing: Visit the Lakota Wolf Preserve near Camp Taylor. "The wolf preserve at the same location was just amazing - we learned so much and could hear the wolves howl from the campsite," reports a camper.
Outdoor games: Many campgrounds maintain volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, and open fields. "The common area, along with the pool, had a small soccer field and volleyball court. They also had scheduled activities for kids," notes a Great Divide Campground reviewer.
What campers like
Secluded campsites: Find privacy at campgrounds with well-spaced sites. "The campsites are large, and easy to get in and out of. Sites include water, electric and cable," explains a Driftstone Campground visitor.
Swimming options: Enjoy natural water features during hot summer days. "Nice small lake with boats to use. Nice small beach. Lots of weekend activities," reports a Great Divide camper.
Fire rings and cooking areas: Most sites include basic amenities for meals and evening relaxation. "Each large campsite has a picnic table, fire pit, and lantern hook. Some sites also have a tent platform," notes a Stokes State Forest visitor.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers remain important to campers. "The bathrooms/showers are clean and well maintained. The small mini-golf course is a fun distraction for a bit," shares a visitor to Camp Taylor Campground.
What you should know
Campsite reservations: Book early for summer weekends. "Great Divide's immaculate facilities and beautiful setting make it popular with families, requiring advance booking during peak seasons."
Cell service challenges: Connectivity varies significantly by location. "No cell or WiFi service anywhere on the campground but you can find it about 10 min or less away," notes a Dingmans Campground visitor.
Wildlife awareness: Proper food storage is essential in bear country. "We had a great time. Only issue was a skunk that visited our campsite multiple times in one night. Was not afraid of humans," reports a Panther Lake camper.
Seasonal differences: Weekday visits offer quieter experiences. "Due to cooler temps there were really no bugs to complain about while camping," notes one fall visitor to Stokes State Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Look for designated activity areas: Choose campgrounds with planned entertainment. "Fun camping place to books groups. Very kid and pet friendly, lake to fish and kayak on, lots of activities, great pool and awesome hot tub," shares a Panther Lake visitor.
Consider sites near playgrounds: Family-oriented locations offer convenience. "A nice playground with tons of kids running all over. The swimming pond is pleasant and great to cool off in," explains a Camp Taylor camper.
Check for pet restrictions: Dog friendly campgrounds near Andover have varying policies. "There are only 4 dog friendly sites, which we need. They are 42-45. Be careful with site 44, no good place for a tent. The other are nice," notes a Swartswood State Park visitor.
Prepare for terrain challenges: Some areas require physical navigation. "Campgrounds have lots of hills so be prepared to hike up and down," advises a Great Divide camper.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Choose locations based on specific needs. "Sites are hit or miss in terms of comfort, some have large, flat, clear spaces for multiple tents, some you have to wedge a tent to avoid rocks," notes a Jenny Jump State Forest visitor.
Hookup availability: Verify what utilities each site offers. "Very clean and quiet. Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that. Our site (15) said 75' however the 50' hose reel made it to our rv connection," shares a Mahlon Dickerson Reservation camper.
Leveling considerations: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain. "Most sites are level. Some areas are a little steeper then I would like to set up on, but that's me," explains a Great Divide visitor.
Dump station access: Check for waste disposal options. "Trash dumpster is an easy walk and the dump station has a flush hose point. Nice and easy little campground," reports a Mahlon Dickerson Reservation camper.
Legend
