Campgrounds around Blairstown, New Jersey range in elevation from 400 to 1,200 feet, creating diverse camping environments from riverside flats to mountain views. Most sites open from April through October, with mountain campgrounds experiencing temperature drops of 10-15 degrees compared to valley locations during spring and fall. Campsites near Blairstown vary significantly in terrain and amenities based on their position in the highlands or along the Delaware River.
What to do
Kayaking on the Delaware River: Driftstone Campground offers direct river access with boat launch facilities. "The sites along the river would be my first choice, but if you have children, being near the playground might be a good selection as well. Just be cautious of the placement of the dump station and proximity to the site. The sites are all large, and easy to get in and out of," notes a visitor at Driftstone on the Delaware.
Wolf preserve tours: Experience a unique wildlife opportunity near Camp Taylor Campground. "There is a section of RV spots that are each cut out in the woods so very private. Once you have backed into the spot and leveled out it's a good time. 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."
Hiking varied terrain: Trails ranging from beginner to advanced surround most Blairstown camping areas. At Worthington State Forest Campground, "This campground has been our favorite by far. The spots are huge, and mostly private. Plenty of beautiful trails with lots of wildlife! If you enjoy kayaking or canoeing they have sites which have river access right from your site... the best part is that you're close to some beautiful hikes like Mt. Tammany, and Crater Lake!"
What campers like
Secluded wooded sites: Many campers prioritize privacy at Blairstown area campgrounds. "Primitive, has bathrooms and water spigots. Good hammocking trees and wasn't crowded at all. Plenty of privacy from other sites. Close proximity to good hiking and kayaking at Delaware Water Gap but without the crowds of their sites," notes a camper about Jenny Jump State Forest.
Clean facilities: Bathroom and shower quality varies significantly between state parks and private campgrounds. At Swartswood State Park, "Clean bathrooms with flush toilets and showers, masks required for the pandemic still. Each campsite has a firepit/ring, picnic table, and lantern hook."
Fishing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer fishing without needing to leave the property. A Mountain Vista visitor mentioned, "We enjoyed our stay and found the facilities to be clean and in working order. Following appropriate health and safety protocols as well. Would definitely visit again."
What you should know
Site selection matters: Terrain varies dramatically between campsites at most Blairstown area campgrounds. At Swartswood State Park, "There are about 50 camp sites but many of them, from 1 to 30ish are wide open with ZERO privacy. That said, it's great for large groups that book a few sites next to each other. Starting there, sites get more separated and a wee bit secluded."
Guide
