Located in northwestern New Jersey, the Blairstown area sits within the Ridge and Valley region at elevations ranging from 400 to 1,600 feet. Tent camping near Blairstown ranges from basic backcountry sites to established campgrounds, with the nearby Delaware River providing access to boat-in campsites. Summer temperatures typically range from 60°F at night to 85°F during the day, with higher humidity levels from June through August.
What to do
Hike to Ghost Lake: Jenny Jump State Forest offers trails leading to Ghost Lake, providing a perfect day activity from your campsite. "Nice big group site and fun walk to Ghost Lake," notes Doug W., highlighting this unique geological feature.
Paddle the Delaware River: The Delaware Water Gap area features multiple boat-in campsites like Alosa Boat In Campsites, which serve as stops along multi-day river trips. "Primitive site for multi day river trips. There's usually always a port-a-potty at the campsite. Each area has its own fire ring and multiple river pull offs for easy finding and access," explains Stephanie S.
Observe local wildlife: The Delaware River corridor hosts abundant wildlife, particularly at Namanock Island. One camper reported, "Saw tons of bald eagles flying near the site and while paddles birds playing and baby geese with their mommas!" This boat-in island location provides excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing during summer months.
What campers like
Island camping solitude: Namanock Island campsites offer a rare camping experience away from roads and crowds. A camper shared, "Let me say that of all the places I have ever camped, having an entire island to yourself is a feeling I have never experienced anywhere else. The campsites on this island are always very clean, if not pristine."
Stargazing opportunities: The remote nature of many campsites creates excellent dark-sky conditions. At Namanock Island, one camper noted, "Once darkness falls the absence of light sources beyond your camp remind you that you are truly alone in the wilderness."
Swimming options: Round Valley State Park Campground provides clear water for swimming near campsites. "Beautiful and quaint..a nice place to get away and enjoy some nature," writes Ryan M., while another camper added, "The water is crystal clear, the area is clean."
What you should know
Access limitations: Many campsites require significant effort to reach. Round Valley's sites require either hiking or boating. As one camper explains, "Some of the sites are at least 3 miles to get to unless you take a boat across. Beautiful peaceful and primitive."
Water challenges: While Kittatinny Valley State Park Campground provides drinking water, many primitive sites require you to filter river water or bring your own. One camper advises, "While the water in the reservoir may look crystal clear, it is not crystal clean and I would STRONGLY encourage anyone who thinks that it is OK to drink from the reservoir to at least use a Life Straw."
Limited supplies: Plan to bring all essentials. A Jenny Jump State Forest camper notes, "The only problem we encountered was that there wasn't a store close by for ice or other essentials, although the main office does sell firewood. They close at 4pm, though, so be sure to get there before then!"
Tips for camping with families
Try cabin alternatives: Camp Mohican Outdoor Center offers various accommodation options beyond tent camping. "The Group Campsite was really big. It had 5-6 platforms, privys, big fire ring, a grill, a beatbox, a large pavilion w/picnic tables and a real full sized bathroom only 100 yards away," shares Shawn B.
Consider shelter camping: Jenny Jump State Forest offers shelters as an alternative to tent camping. One family reported, "This is the first time we decided to forgo tent camping and reserve a shelter at a state park. 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."
Visit nearby attractions: Families appreciate the nearby waterfalls and historic sites. "If you paddle across the river from the site, it is only a 10-15 minute hike along the road on the Pennsylvania side of the river to reach Raymondskill Falls. A 'must-see' if your stopping here," recommends one experienced camper.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: RV camping near Blairstown is primarily limited to established campgrounds. At Rivers Bend Group Campground, RVers should note the sites are primarily suited for smaller units. "Large field with multiple group campsites with bearboxes, fire pit and garbage cans at each site," explains Christopher W.
Preparation is essential: Most primitive sites in the area cannot accommodate RVs. The few that do have no hookups or facilities. "This is a beautiful area. The sites are a little close but that's ok, everyone was really friendly," notes one camper at Kittatinny Valley State Park.
Consider seasonal timing: Most campgrounds in the Blairstown area, including Round Valley and Jenny Jump State Forest, operate seasonally from April through October. Summer weekends fill quickly, especially at the limited RV-accessible sites.
