Central New Jersey's camping terrain transitions from the piedmont plateau in the east to the ridge-and-valley landscape in the west. Most campgrounds near Bernards, New Jersey operate seasonally, typically closing between late October and early April, with a few private facilities extending slightly later. The region experiences humid summer conditions with temperatures frequently exceeding 85°F during peak camping season, while spring and fall offer milder temperatures in the 60-75°F range.
What to do
Hiking at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation: The campground connects to multiple trail systems with varying difficulty levels, including access to the Headley Overlook with views of the surrounding highlands. One camper noted, "We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful."
Explore NJ Skylands region: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation provides access to the unique landscape of northern New Jersey's highland region. According to a visitor, "Located in the Skylands of New Jersey, Mahlon Dickerson Campgound is a perfect place to spend a few nights or a couple of weeks... Convenient for hiking and exploring, it's also only a 20 minute drive to a large mall in Rockaway."
Observatory access: Voorhees State Park Campground features an astronomical observatory that opens for public viewing sessions on select dates. As one camper mentioned, the park offers "well Maintained hiking trails, camp sites, with play grounds and an observatory."
What campers like
Privacy and isolation: Jenny Jump State Forest offers secluded sites that feel more remote than their actual location. A camper reported, "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."
Lakefront sites: Spruce Run Recreation Area features waterfront campsites directly on the reservoir. One camper shared, "Our spot was on the water and it was really nice. A duck visited us every morning." Another noted, "The sites are large, many have nice mix of sun and shade. You can launch your kayak easily from the shore."
Proximity to water activities: Most top-rated campgrounds in the region provide easy access to water recreation. At Mountain View Campground, a visitor remarked, "Close to the Delaware River, Spruce Run Reservoir, and Round Valley Reservoir."
What you should know
Wildlife encounters: Bear activity is present in the northern New Jersey region. At Mountainview Campground, a visitor described significant wildlife activity: "Only shortly after we settled into our tent did we hear foxes fighting right outside our tent, the snorts of deer, and there were bats right above us all night making noise!"
Bathroom facilities vary significantly: Campground bathroom quality ranges widely across the region. At Spruce Run, one camper warned, "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."
Highway noise: Several campgrounds experience road noise despite their natural settings. At Jenny Jump State Forest, a reviewer cautioned, "My only complaint is that the noise from the highway was quite loud at night."
Tips for camping with families
Activities for children: Great Divide Campground offers organized children's programming and recreational facilities. A visitor noted, "Great family run campground. Owners are a blast... Nice small lake with boats to use. Nice small beach. Lots of weekend activities."
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature dedicated children's play areas. At Panther Lake, one camper shared, "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."
Consider cabin rentals for first-time camping families: Several parks offer cabin accommodations as an alternative to tent camping. At Voorhees State Park, a visitor mentioned, "We stayed 2 nights in Cabin Z for our anniversary getaway and we loved having the whole place to ourselves."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Panther Lake Camping Resort receives mixed reviews from RVers regarding site conditions. One camper advised, "Majority of sites are season all campers with LOTS of cottages... Only a handful of full hook up sites surrounded by seasonal cottages. Other area of the place had water and electric but it would be hard to get in/out of if it had rained a lot as it was all on soft grass."
Electric and water hookup limitations: Most state park campgrounds offer limited hookup options. At Spruce Run, one camper recommended, "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."
RV size restrictions: Many campgrounds in the region cannot accommodate larger RVs. Stephens State Park notes that the "campground as a whole and the individual sites are kind of tricky for bigger rigs... I can imagine a big class A or 5th wheel having a tough time."
