Camping spots near Bedminster, New Jersey range from primitive wilderness sites to more developed facilities across the region's varied terrain. The area sits within the New Jersey Highlands, with elevations between 200-1,000 feet and mixed hardwood forests dominating the landscape. Summer temperatures typically reach highs in the 80s with humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder conditions with occasional rainfall.
What to do
Hiking to secluded sites: Round Valley State Park Campground offers unique wilderness camping opportunities. "Located just south of I78 and near the small hamlets of Clinton and Lebanon, what I love most about Round Valley SP is the fact that it has its very own eponymous fresh water reservoir, which spanning some 2,350 acres and is 180 feed deep in the middle, this body of water provides a solid amount of upside for anyone wanting to kayak, canoe or swim," notes one visitor.
Water activities with rentals: Great Divide Campground provides multiple recreational options. A camper mentioned, "Kids had lots of fun on the free kayaks and pool." Another noted, "We hiked the golf cart trails which are beautiful and go throughout the woods."
Fishing in stocked waters: Stephens State Park Campground offers excellent angling opportunities. "The river is just a small walk down the hill (you can stairs or a path which was nice). They stock the water with trout and there was an officer checking for fishing permits," reports a visitor who found the experience relaxing.
What campers like
Quiet weekday options: For those seeking solitude, timing matters at camping areas near Bedminster. At Camp Carr Campground, a visitor observed, "Both times were for a single mid week evening. Both times it was a positive experience. Excellent view of the South Branch and extremely relaxing."
Riverside relaxation: Waterfront sites receive consistently positive feedback. At Camp Carr, a longtime visitor explains, "All the sites are along the river so the view and peaceful sound of the river are wonderful." They note that the campground has been operating for nearly 50 years with well-maintained sites.
Dark sky viewing: Jenny Jump State Forest offers elevation advantages for night sky observation. "This campground is a nice little hideaway not too far from the beaten path," notes one visitor. The higher elevation provides better visibility for stargazing, though some highway sounds may be audible.
What you should know
Seasonal differences: Many campgrounds operate with limited services outside peak season. At Voorhees State Park Campground, one visitor noted enjoying having "the whole place to ourselves" during an off-season stay, mentioning "The pit latrines were clean, the water spigots worked fine, and there was plenty of wildlife to see roam through the surrounding areas."
Varied bathroom conditions: Facilities differ widely between campgrounds and seasons. At Spruce Run Recreation Area, one camper reported, "The bathrooms were absolutely disgusting. I thought with COVID they were cleaning them more, but for the entire weekend, someone's #2 remained all over the toilet, floor, and corner wall."
Accessibility challenges: Round Valley's wilderness camping requires preparation. "I have hiked throughout the entire US and consider myself somewhere between a moderate to skilled hiker and I found these trails challenging and uneven, so while the hike we made was only 3 miles, it was not easy," warns one experienced camper.
Tips for camping with families
Weekday visits for fewer crowds: Busy summer weekends create different experiences. At Mountainview Campground, a visitor found "This campground is perfect for a getaway if what you're looking for is no more than spending some time in nature. The property is well kept and campsites are a good distance from each other. Plenty of open field as well as wooded areas."
Reserve early for summer: Popular sites fill months in advance, especially at campgrounds with water access. One family visiting Great Divide Campground shared, "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! 2 teenage girls had a blast in the lake and riding their bikes around."
Playground options: Several campgrounds offer child-friendly amenities. At Stephens State Park, a visitor mentioned, "There's a playground and volleyball court," making it suitable for families seeking both recreation and natural settings.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, RVers will find accommodating sites. A visitor notes, "Mahlon Dickerson Campgound is a perfect place to spend a few nights or a couple of weeks. The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large. Water and electric hookups and a dump station."
Water connection logistics: Some campgrounds require extra equipment. At Mahlon Dickerson, one camper advised, "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."
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer full services. At Camp Carr, an experienced camper advises, "Sites are water and 30 amp electric only no sewer so I recommend bringing your own portable dump tank. They have a dump station for use when leaving."
