Camping sites near Branchburg, New Jersey offer accessible outdoor experiences within the state's unique geological transition zone where the Piedmont Plateau meets the Highlands Region. Most campgrounds sit at elevations between 200-600 feet, with terrain ranging from flat riverside sites to more rugged hiking-in locations. Winter temperatures typically dip below freezing, making most camping options in the area seasonal with limited year-round facilities.
What to do
Hiking at Tohickon Valley Park: Explore manageable trails along rock formations with varied terrain. "There's plenty of space, a fire pit with grill and a table. We came in late on a Saturday after it was dark and couldn't figure out where it was, the location on the map is slightly wrong," notes Drew H. about Tohickon Valley County Park.
Paddling options at Spruce Run: Launch kayaks directly from campsites at shoreline locations. A camper mentioned, "My campsite was 34W, right next the reservoir. Nice location however the website said it was full shade. The picnic table was in shade. The spot for the RV was full sun," in a recent review of Spruce Run Recreation Area.
Visit historical sites: Washington Crossing State Park offers camping near Revolutionary War landmarks. "Washington Crossing Historic Park, straddling Pennsylvania and New Jersey along the Delaware River, is one of those rare places where you can literally camp in history," explains Stuart K. from a review of Washington Crossing State Park.
What campers like
Privacy at tent sites: Wooded sites provide separation from neighbors at several campgrounds. "This campground is perfect for a getaway if what you're looking for is no more than spending some time in nature. The property is well kept and campsites are a good distance from each other. Plenty of open field as well as wooded areas," says Mario M. about Mountainview Campground.
Clean facilities: Modern bathhouses with hot water receive consistent positive mentions. Sarah notes about one campsite: "The showers were free and clean with hot water and decent pressure. The landing for the camper was even with gravel and the rest of the site was mostly even. The power station was well intact with 15/20, 30, and 50amp."
Wildlife encounters: Many campers report hearing and seeing wildlife, especially at more remote sites. Christina H. shares her experience: "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!"
What you should know
Campground timing restrictions: Some parks enforce strict arrival times. "I reserved two nights, but the first night we were not going to be able to arrive until after 9. After talking to them, they would not allow us to come late, but did refund the first night," notes Kyhlea D.
Road noise at some locations: Proximity to highways impacts the camping experience. Jules T. explains about Spruce Run Recreation Area: "The only con to this campground is it's proximity to the highway. You can hear 78, especially at night once the campground settles down."
Primitive vs. developed sites: Bathroom access varies significantly between campgrounds. "Bathrooms were clean and other campers were quiet making for a peaceful trip. Check in was pleasant but unfortunately, some things were closed due to covid restrictions," Anna reports from her stay.
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities: Some campgrounds feature swimming pools and splash areas for children. Nicole S. shares about Colonial Woods Family Resort: "The pool and splash pool for toddlers was clean with a lifeguard on duty at all times. The posted pool hours were not as described they don't really tell you but it was open a little later."
Organized activities: Many campgrounds offer scheduled events, especially on weekends. "They had a playground, lake where you could fish, cornhole, and minigolf. They did a few activities the one we did go to was the casino night where they had separate play areas for kids and adults."
Playground access: Check for dedicated play areas when booking with children. Shannon C. notes, "Staff was very friendly. We had a group site which was perfect for 6 campers. We went on Father's Day weekend and they had nice arts and crafts for the kids to do for dad."
Tips from RVers
Site terrain challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven ground or tight turns. Brian C. advises: "If we still had our smaller travel trailer this review would've been at least 4 stars. However this place is not the place for you if you have a fifth wheel. The roads are very narrow, pretty sizable boulders on both sides, trees are very low and need to be trimmed."
Dump station locations: Consider positioning when selecting campgrounds with RVs. Nathan R. points out: "Dump station location isn't ideal on a busy morning. I heard they might work on a second dump location and was told to ask if it's ok to stick around until it dies down if our site isn't needed soon."
Electric hookup variations: Not all sites provide equal amenities for RVs. Ruette W. explains: "We camped here on many occasions for Over ten years, beginning when I only had a tent. Then with a camper van, and now an RV. They don't mostly have hookups it's a trade off because the sites on the water are just so nice."
