Tent campsites near Boonton, New Jersey provide camping options across multiple state parks and reservations within a 30-mile radius. The region sits within the New Jersey Highlands, characterized by elevations between 400-1,500 feet and mixed hardwood forests dominated by oak and maple. Camping season typically runs April through October, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and frequent afternoon thunderstorms.
What to do
Swimming at lake beaches: Round Valley State Park features a clean reservoir where campers can swim at designated beach areas. According to one visitor, "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."
Disc golf courses: Campgaw Mountain Reservation offers disc golf among its recreational amenities. The campground becomes notably quiet after sunset when, as a camper noted, "once the sun goes down, the campsite becomes a ghost town (except for the odd sheriff driving down the road)."
Hiking interconnected trails: Jenny Jump State Forest features multiple hiking paths accessible from campsites. A reviewer mentioned, "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."
Paddling opportunities: Round Valley State Park Campground allows visitors to paddle to campsites instead of hiking. One camper shared, "We paddled in, the water is very clean and crystal clear," while another advised, "The reservoir can turn into the Bermuda Triangle at any moment-- be careful."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campgrounds like Jenny Jump offer secluded camping spots. A camper described, "My husband and I tent camped in #34 with our dog. 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."
Water access at primitive sites: Stonetown Circular trail Primitive #2 provides freshwater advantages. A visitor explained, "This is a nice spot to set up camp because it is right next to a flowing stream with fresh water. The site is marked by a sign on a tree that says 'The Island'. This is a pretty spread out site with plenty of level space to set up multiple tents."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kittatinny Valley State Park Campground offers four tent sites where nature observation is common. A reviewer shared, "Four spots across the public park. 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 (also amazing sunsets)."
Free camping options: Some tent camping areas near Boonton can be accessed without fees. Campgaw Mountain requires permits but doesn't charge camping fees, while Stonetown sites are completely free though primitive.
What you should know
Varying site conditions: Campgrounds in the region have inconsistent terrain. At Jenny Jump, a camper advised, "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."
Highway noise levels: Proximity to roads affects some camping experiences. A visitor to Jenny Jump noted, "My only complaint is that the noise from the highway was quite loud at night."
Hike-in difficulty levels: The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center requires walking to reach campsites. As one camper explained, "The parking for your car is 1/4 mile away but they allow you to unload and give you a wagon to take stuff to your site."
Limited services: Many tent camping areas have minimal facilities. At Stonetown Circular sites, there are no toilets, running water, or trash disposal, requiring complete self-sufficiency from campers.
Tips for camping with families
Choose established campgrounds: For camping with children, select sites with more amenities. A visitor to Kittatinny Valley mentioned, "They had activities for everyone and we had a blast at bingo and won! There are so many things to do in the area with the farms and orchards and vineyards that it is great to get out and explore for a bit!"
Consider cabins for beginners: Moon Valley Campground offers alternatives to tent camping. A reviewer commented, "Small, clean with great views and great location for hiking, cruising etc. Bring your tent or use the existing glamping tents."
Prepare for variable weather: The highlands region experiences significant temperature drops at night, even in summer. Pack layers and rain gear as afternoon thunderstorms are common between June and August.
Check for age restrictions: Some primitive camping areas may have minimum age requirements or restrictions on group sizes with children under certain ages.
Tips for RVers
Limited RV accommodations: Most camping areas near Boonton primarily serve tent campers with few dedicated RV facilities. Wawayanda State Park Campground accepts RVs but has no hookups.
Group site advantages: Jenny Jump State Forest offers a group site option that may accommodate smaller RVs. A visitor remarked, "Nice big group site and fun walk to Ghost Lake."
Consider size limitations: Roads leading to campgrounds in this region often have tight turns, low clearances, or weight restrictions. Research access routes carefully before attempting to bring larger rigs.
