Tent camping near Branchville, New Jersey offers primitive riverside camping and mountain forest sites with elevations ranging from 300 to 1,200 feet. The Delaware Water Gap region features a humid continental climate with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F and frequent afternoon thunderstorms between June and August. Several campgrounds open seasonally from April through October, with most primitive river sites requiring complete self-sufficiency.
What to do
Hike to waterfalls: At Mohican Outdoor Center, campers can access the Appalachian Trail directly from camp. The center offers "a little bit of everything" with platforms, privys, and "a real full sized bathroom only 100 yards away" according to Shawn B.
Paddle the Delaware River: River camping at Hornbeck's River Campsites provides a unique base for water adventures. Ross R. notes these sites have "easy access to the multiuse McDade Trail, so after pitching your tent, a short walk upriver on the trail will bring you to Dingman's Campground, whose store has ice cream and cold drinks and to Hornbeck Creek waterfall trail."
Blueberry picking: Seasonal wild blueberry picking enhances summer camping experiences. Dan X. recommends "taking a kayak around the lake and filling it with wild blueberries" at Mohican Outdoor Center, which also offers rental boats and swimming in Catfish Pond.
What campers like
Secluded island camping: Namanock Island provides a true wilderness experience with just three approved camping sites. John B. describes how "the 2021 season has brought a few minor, but very important changes to the island. There are now only 3 approved sites on the entire island, eliminating 3 or 4 smaller sites that are regularly used by the public."
Privacy between sites: At Steam Mill Campground, campers appreciate the natural separation. According to Kristan V., "Sites are separated with enough trees to feel that no one is on top of each other, but near enough to see others. Sites are clean and the tables are in good condition."
Wildlife encounters: Tent campers regularly report diverse wildlife sightings. Dwight D. observed "deer, doves, robins, woodpeckers, quail(?), chipmunks, squirrels, skunk(?), and heard frogs" during a stay at Steam Mill Campground, noting "lots of flying bugs, gnats, moths, flies, mosquitoes, etc. especially at night."
What you should know
Bear activity: Bears are common throughout the region, requiring proper food storage. Kristan V. at Steam Mill Campground reports, "There are bears in this area, and while I've not seen one in the campground, I have seen them on the trails while staying here. I store my food in my car overnight and toss garbage bags in the dumpster nightly as well."
River access challenges: Water level fluctuations affect shore access at river sites. John B. explains that at Sandyston Boat In Campsites, "the river to camp journey" presents challenges as "all of the islands that are used for camping have a cut wall cliff style approach, but these sites have a very steep and above average height to the shoreline making unloading both more tiring and more of a hazard than I prefer."
Bathroom facilities vary widely: From primitive outhouses to modern facilities, bathroom quality differs between campgrounds. At Jenny Jump State Forest, Dwight D. describes the "shelter" as "what we would describe as a 'cabin'; four walls, a roof, locking door, locking windows, large picture frame front window, four beds, a wood burning stove, and a porch."
Tips for camping with families
Reserve group sites early: Rivers Bend Group Campground accommodates large family gatherings with organized facilities. Christopher W. describes it as a "large field with multiple group campsites with bearboxes, fire pit and garbage cans at each site" with "four outhouses centrally located."
Choose sites near water access: Campsites with water features provide entertainment for children. At Kittatinny Valley State Park, Bee L. recommends "Site A is the best for seclusion and a spot closer to the lake (also amazing sunsets)."
Pack for limited amenities: Many family-friendly campgrounds have basic facilities requiring preparation. At Jenny Jump State Forest, Kelsey K. 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 from RVers
Size restrictions matter: Most primitive campgrounds near Branchville accommodate only small trailers or tent camping. At Steam Mill Campground, Kristan V. advises that "these sites are for people truly there to camp, either in a tent or small travel trailer."
Limited hookup availability: While some sites offer water and electric, most are primitive. Jenny Jump State Forest provides electric hookups, which sets it apart from most other camping options in the immediate area.
Off-grid preparation: Come prepared for self-sufficient camping. Ethan K. notes that Steam Mill campground "was much quieter and more secluded then the rest of the camping options in Stokes State Forest," but cautions that "the waters spouts were near the entrance so if you are staying deeper into the campground, I would consider this."
