Tent camping near Washington, New Jersey offers accessible backcountry experiences within the Kittatinny Mountain range, where elevations range from 400-1,600 feet. The region experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer highs averaging 85°F and nighttime lows dipping to 40°F in spring and fall. Most primitive campsites in the area close between October 31 and April 1 due to regional weather patterns.
What to do
Kayaking access points: At Round Valley State Park Campground, campers can paddle directly to their sites. "We paddled in, the water is very clean and crystal clear," notes one visitor. Some campers recommend boating rather than hiking: "If possible I suggest scouting out the perfect site prior to booking because some are gems while others are difficult to get into."
Fishing opportunities: The Delaware River at Alosa Boat In Campsites provides access to multiple fishing spots. "Primitive site for multi day river trips... Each area has its own fire ring and multiple river pull offs for easy finding and access," reports one camper. The sites are particularly well-suited for anglers making overnight trips.
Mountain hiking: Trails near Kirkridge Shelter / Kittatinny Mountain connect with the Appalachian Trail. "This spot is right next to a beautiful view on the side of Kittany Mountain and just off the Appalachian trail. There is 4 spots to set up at all of which have a spot for a fire," notes a reviewer who appreciated the trail connectivity.
What campers like
Private, quiet tent sites: Tent campers frequently mention the seclusion available at Jenny Jump State Forest. "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," reports one visitor.
Waterfront camping: Campsites along the Delaware River at Walter's Boat In Campsites receive praise for their riverside location. One camper noted, "There are two different levels to the campsite, which is nice for boaters. We were able to leave the boats on the lower level and camped on the upper level. There are railroad tie stairs from the river up to the site, making it nice weather muddy or dry."
Wilderness experience close to roads: Tent campers appreciate the backcountry feel with relatively accessible locations. At Kittatinny Valley State Park, "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)."
What you should know
Water access limitations: Many sites require filtering water from natural sources. At Round Valley, campers report, "If possible I suggest scouting out the perfect site prior to booking because some are gems while others are difficult to get into. We boated/canoed kayaked in for a huge group one year and single sites every other year."
Hiking difficulty to sites: Trail access to some campgrounds requires substantial hiking. At Round Valley, "Some of the sites are at least 3 miles to get to unless you take a boat across. Beautiful peaceful and primitive. The reservoir can turn into the Bermuda Triangle at any moment-- be careful."
Limited supplies nearby: Camp Mohican Outdoor Center provides some convenience with "The Visitor Center is only 3/10 mile away and has wi-fi, bathrooms/showers and a shop with food that is open from 8am to 8pm." However, many primitive sites have no nearby stores, so campers should bring all necessary supplies.
Tips for camping with families
Platform tent options: For families new to primitive camping, Jenny Jump State Forest offers an alternative to ground tents. "This is the first time we decided to forgo tent camping and reserve a shelter at a state park. We had a much better experience than we were expecting! 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)."
Group camping facilities: Rivers Bend Group Campground provides dedicated areas for larger family gatherings. As one camper describes, "Large field with multiple group campsites with bearboxes, fire pit and garbage cans at each site. Four outhouses centrally locates and a pump well that did not work. Quiet surrounding."
Bathroom proximity: With children, campsite location relative to bathrooms matters. At Jenny Jump, "Shelter 2 is a minute walk from the restroom with sink/shower and water. Shelters 7 & 8 are even closer while 4 & 5 are the furthest, may an extra 5 minutes walk?"
Tips from RVers
Limited hookups: Most camping areas near Washington have minimal or no RV hookups. At Wooded Campground, campers note the primitive nature of sites: "There's open field and wooded options, and the hosts couldn't have been more accommodating. Mel brought firewood for the campfire and helped us load up on water."
Access challenges: Many campgrounds have narrow, winding access roads unsuitable for larger RVs. Jenny Jump State Forest campsites "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."
Weather considerations: Spring camping can be particularly challenging for RVers. One camper at Jenny Jump noted, "The last time we were there we were at site 28 which was nice and secluded but the smell from the pit toilets wafted over after a while." Plan for varying conditions if visiting in shoulder seasons.
