Camping options in northwestern New Jersey range from wilderness sites to family-friendly facilities within 30 miles of Bernards Township. The region features rolling hills with elevations between 300-1,200 feet, creating varied terrain for different camping styles. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F with evening lows around 65°F, while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder conditions with daytime temperatures between 60-75°F.
What to do
Hiking on varied terrain: Jenny Jump State Forest offers trails with significant elevation changes and scenic views. "There are plenty of trails, water (creeks, pond, lake) views and even if the place is packed there is PLENTY of room," notes John S. about the hiking options at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Paddling opportunities: Several campgrounds provide water access for kayaking and canoeing. "If you get a site on the water, you can take a boat across to your site (check the site for regulations/restrictions) - in-season rentals should be available on-site," explains Agbi B. about water access at Round Valley State Park Campground.
Stargazing sessions: Mountainview Campground offers excellent night sky viewing opportunities. "Great spot for stargazing. Owners are very nice," shares Scott A., highlighting the clear night skies away from urban light pollution.
Fishing experiences: Multiple sites offer fishing access in stocked waters. "The river is just a small walk down the hill (you can use stairs or a path which was nice). They stock the water with trout and there was an officer checking for fishing permits," reports Jacquelyn G. about Stephens State Park Campground.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing at certain campgrounds. "The camp sites are nicely laid out to ensure privacy. This park is high up on a mountain and affords lovely views," says Jocelyn G. about Jenny Jump State Forest.
Natural sounds: The peaceful atmosphere draws repeat visitors. "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 G.V., describing the remote feeling at Round Valley.
Camping platforms: Some sites provide elevated tent platforms for more comfortable setups. "They have these 12x12 platforms to put your tent on. This was pretty cool especially since some of the sites are all gravel with surrounding dirt," explains Christina L. about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Riverfront locations: Water-adjacent sites provide natural ambiance. "All the sites are along the river so the view and peaceful sound of the river are wonderful," shares Melissa N. about the riverside setting at Camp Carr Campground.
What you should know
Hiking difficulty to some sites: Remote camping often requires substantial effort. "Located just south of I78 and near the small hamlets of Clinton and Lebanon... it is the only NJ SP that actually offers up true wilderness camping (a.k.a. primitive), which can only be accessed by hiking 3 to 6 miles," explains Stuart K. about Round Valley.
Seasonal bathroom availability: Facility access varies throughout the year. "Only issue was the rest rooms closed sometime soon after the day camps let out. That was an unwelcome surprise," notes Jim B. about Camp Carr Campground.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby infrastructure. "My only complaint is that the noise from the highway was quite loud at night," mentions Jocelyn G. about Jenny Jump State Forest, highlighting how sound carries in some locations.
Pet restrictions and designated areas: Pet policies vary between campgrounds and specific sites. "We drove through here thinking we'd stay a night, but saw the 'no pets' in the list of rules and didn't stay. Later, when I was looking at the closeup of the picture of the campground map we took, I saw that some of the sites are designated as pet sites," clarifies Laura M. about Stephens State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation facilities: Some campgrounds offer additional amenities for children. "Big campground, lots of sites, nice pool, big community hot tub, boating is great, good fishing, nice playground, basketball court and great amenities," lists Richard V. about the family options at Panther Lake Camping Resort.
Educational activities: Campgrounds sometimes provide organized programs. "We found ceramic class was fun for the girls," mentions Jojo P., describing the structured activities available for children at Panther Lake.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids enjoy observing local animals. "I've never heard so much wildlife there as I did here. 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!" reports Christina H. about Mountainview Campground.
Campsite selection for children: Choose the right site for family needs. "We got a nice drive through space. Very friendly staff, quiet, wooded area, not that remote, but feels like a million miles away," explains Robert J. about Mountainview Campground, highlighting the importance of accessible sites for families with gear.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Know where utilities are positioned. "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," advises Antruze about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Leveling considerations: Some campgrounds feature uneven terrain. "Our site was on a hill and most likely not in a flood area," notes Christina H. about Mountainview Campground, highlighting the importance of leveling equipment.
Dump station protocols: Waste management options vary by location. "They have a dump station for use when leaving. Sites are clean and well maintained," explains Melissa N. about Camp Carr, adding insight about sanitation options for pet-friendly camping near Bernards, New Jersey.
Site navigation challenges: Maneuvering large vehicles requires planning. "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill. Peaceful. Close to train to N.Y. City," shares Nancymike K. about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Legend
