Primitive campsites near Bedminster, New Jersey range from backcountry tent platforms to waterfront sites accessible by boat. Most camping options sit within 30-45 minutes of town, with elevations varying from near sea level at coastal sites to approximately 1,200 feet in the northwestern highlands. Summer temperatures typically reach 85°F with cooler 65°F nights, creating comfortable tent camping conditions.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing on Catfish Pond: Visitors staying at Camp Mohican Outdoor Center can rent boats directly from the facility. One camper noted, "You can rent kayaks and canoes and swimming is allowed on Catfish Pond -- plenty of fish, snapping turtles, and other wildlife. If you're there in the summer, I'd recommend taking a kayak around the lake and filling it with wild blueberries."
Urban exploring near abandoned structures: Staten Island camping provides a unique contrast to typical forest camping. A reviewer at Staten Island Gateway National Recreation Area explains, "There are abandoned buildings here and you can do urban exploring. There are rangers taking you on a trek and exploring the abandoned building. This place is great if you live in New York city and don't want to drive really far from the city to go camping."
Wild blueberry picking: Several sites throughout the region offer seasonal berry gathering. From July through August, campers can collect wild blueberries along trails and lakeshores. As one visitor mentioned, taking a kayak around Catfish Pond lets you "fill it with wild blueberries" during summer months.
What campers like
Quiet isolation despite proximity to urban areas: Many tent campers appreciate the sense of seclusion available within short drives from Bedminster. At Jenny Jump State Forest, one reviewer shared, "The space was reasonably priced, but we did have to pay an extra $5/day for our dog. However, we didn't mind as it was so private we felt like we had the entire Park to ourselves."
Crystal clear water bodies: Several camping areas feature exceptionally clear lakes and reservoirs. A visitor to Round Valley State Park Campground reported, "The water is crystal clear, the area is clean. There's bathrooms and pumps but we just filtered the water from the reservoir instead which tasted a million times better than the well water."
Platform tent sites: Many campgrounds provide elevated wooden platforms for tent setup, helping campers stay dry during wet weather. According to a camper at Camp Mohican Outdoor Center, "Tent sites are either on the ground have wooden platforms. Cabins come in various sizes."
What you should know
Variable hiking difficulty to primitive sites: Trail conditions can be challenging at several campgrounds. One camper at Round Valley State Park warned, "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."
Highway noise at some locations: Despite wilderness settings, traffic sounds can reach certain campgrounds. At Jenny Jump State Forest, a reviewer mentioned, "You can hear some of the highway sounds from the campsites (especially the jake brake)... My only complaint is that the noise from the highway was quite loud at night."
Limited store hours and supplies: Most camping areas have minimal provisions available. One camper at Kittatinny Valley State Park Campground advised, "There is a small visitor's center where they have wi-fi, bathrooms/showers and a shop with food that is open from 8am to 8pm."
Tips for camping with families
Shelter options for beginners: Families new to tent camping near Bedminster can ease into the experience with pre-built structures. As one visitor to Washington Crossing State Park described their experience: "The 'shelter' is what we would describe as a 'cabin'; four walls, a roof, locking door, locking windows, large picture frame front window, four beds (two bunks), a wood burning stove, and a porch. Even compared to our glamping this was luxury!!"
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer chances to observe local fauna. At Kittatinny Valley State Park, one camper reported, "You'll see deer and rabbits it's really spacious and beautiful. Site A is the best for seclusion and a spot closer to the lake."
Park ranger activities: Several sites provide ranger-led educational programs. Washington Crossing hosts special events including "historic reenactments, especially the Christmas Day Crossing event as it's easily the most memorable history lesson you'll ever get outdoors."
Tips for RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most tent camping areas near Bedminster offer few amenities for larger vehicles. At Alosa Boat In Campsites, facilities remain intentionally primitive with "its own fire ring and multiple river pull offs for easy finding and access. There is an emergency pick up/access road available as well with contact from the park."
Site selection challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain unsuitable for leveling RVs. One camper at Jenny Jump State Forest observed, "The 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."
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds mandate advance booking. "Reservations are required for this site," notes a visitor to Alosa Campsites, while most state parks similarly require securing spots ahead of time, especially during peak summer months.
