Round Valley State Park Campground offers unique boat-in and hike-in wilderness camping on the shores of a 2,350-acre reservoir, providing a true backcountry experience just 12 miles from Bedminster, New Jersey. The campground sits at approximately 400 feet elevation and operates seasonally from April through October. Access requires a moderate to strenuous 3-6 mile hike or a boat journey across the water to reach remote primitive sites.
What to do
Lakeside activities at Spruce Run: The 1,290-acre Spruce Run Reservoir provides multiple water recreation options near Spruce Run Recreation Area. "You can bring a camper, tent, or use one of the cabins. Many sites have a lovely water view of the reservoir. Several playgrounds, boat launches, and life guarded swimming area," notes one visitor.
Wolf preserve tours: Located adjacent to Camp Taylor Campground, the Lakota Wolf Preserve offers a unique wildlife experience. "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 a camper.
Rock exploration: Visit the distinctive geological formations at Ringing Rocks Park near Upper Black Eddy. "Went to Ringing Rocks county park and the kids were having so much fun making music they didn't want to leave," reports one family who stayed at nearby Ringing Rocks Family Campground.
What campers like
Natural isolation: For those seeking seclusion, Round Valley State Park Campground provides a remote camping experience. "This is a great campground that is super private and quiet - great for getting out to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. It's a pretty strenuous hike, but you'll be rewarded for the effort," explains a visitor who appreciated the effort required to reach this location.
Private wooded settings: Many campers value the forested campsites available at Mountainview Campground, which offers a glamping experience close to Bedminster, New Jersey. "Stayed at one of the primitive sites. Very clean and quite. Bath stalls and showers are basic but clean. Great spot for stargazing. Owners are very nice," reports one camper.
Clean facilities: Bathhouses and amenities at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation consistently receive positive feedback. "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," notes a visitor who appreciated the thoughtful details.
What you should know
Reservations required: During peak summer season, particularly weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day, most luxury glamping options near Bedminster require advance booking 3-6 months ahead.
Access challenges: Wilderness camping at Round Valley requires proper 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 and I would be worried about someone breaking an ankle getting to this CG," warns an experienced camper.
Seasonal variations: Most glamping facilities close during winter, typically from November through March. "Most sites have a nice mix of sun and shade. You can launch your kayak easily from the shore," explains a Spruce Run camper, highlighting the advantages of summer stays.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple activity options: Great Divide Campground provides structured entertainment for children. "Like many of the sites in this area, Great Divide had a large pool which was used by many of the campers. The common area, along with the pool, had a small soccer field and volleyball court. They also had scheduled activities for kids," shares a visitor.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer educational wildlife experiences. "This campground is lovely. 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," notes a Camp Taylor visitor.
Hiking difficulty considerations: When choosing trails with children, assess the terrain carefully. "Even though I live 10 minutes away I like to camp here because you still feel a little isolated. With no roads to the campgrounds it takes some effort to get there and it's a beautiful place," explains a Jenny Jump State Forest visitor about the moderate hiking required.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Panther Lake Camping Resort, location matters significantly. "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! Lots of seasonal campers so not much room for spots for weekend visits unless you want to be in the field areas with not much shade cover," advises an RV camper.
Hookup limitations: Many campgrounds offer partial hookups only. "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. I would mostly recommend it for primitive camping, however, campsites with running water and electricity are available," notes a Mountainview Campground visitor.
Leveling challenges: Terrain at some sites requires equipment adjustment. "The landing for the camper was even with gravel and the rest of the site was mostly even. The power station was well intact with 15/20, 30, and 50amp. Overall it was a nice stay and served our purpose," reports a Mountainview camper who found the site accommodating for their RV.
