Tent camping near Brookside, New Jersey often requires advance planning, especially for the more secluded waterfront sites. The region sits within the Highlands physiographic province, with elevations ranging from 400 to 1,200 feet above sea level. While most parks follow the standard April to October season, several primitive sites remain accessible year-round with proper cold-weather gear and water filtration equipment.
What to do
Kayaking and paddling access points: Round Valley State Park Campground provides multiple launch points for accessing waterfront campsites. "Really nice spot to camp very peaceful and quit. Gorgeous sunset, Beautiful views," notes one camper who stayed at a lakeside site. Boats must follow specific regulations regarding motor use and size.
Seasonal berry picking: Areas around Jenny Jump State Forest feature wild blueberry patches during summer months. "If you're there in the summer, I'd recommend taking a kayak around the lake and filling it with wild blueberries," shares a regular visitor who notes the park has abundant wildlife viewing opportunities as well.
Waterfall exploration: Multiple falls exist within short hiking distance from river campsites. At Namanock Island, campers can access nearby falls. "There are waterfalls on the Pennsylvania shore within a quick walking distance of your location that are very much worth the time it takes to walk the trail," mentions one island camper who regularly visits the primitive sites.
What campers like
Nighttime solitude: Many campsites offer remarkable night sky viewing due to minimal light pollution. At Namanock Island, "the island is situated in a way that once darkness falls there are no lights to be seen in either direction, up or down river. Now, no lights means an incredible view of the night sky."
Platform camping options: Several parks provide wooden platforms for tent setup. Camp Mohican Outdoor Center offers this feature: "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."
Group site availability: For larger parties, dedicated group areas exist at multiple parks. Kittatinny Valley State Park Campground features "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."
What you should know
Access challenges: Many sites require significant physical effort to reach. At Round Valley State Park Campground, "It's a pretty strenuous hike, but you'll be rewarded for the effort! If you get a site on the water, you can take a boat across to to your site."
Wildlife precautions: Bear activity requires proper food storage at all sites. "As for local wildlife, you can expect to be visited by a masked robber or two during the night, but a bear bag hanging will eliminate any issues," notes a Namanock Island camper.
Limited cell service: Most primitive sites have zero connectivity. Jenny Jump State Forest campers note, "No phone service at campsite, but could get phone service by the kayak hut or the main entrance."
Tips for camping with families
Shelter options for beginners: Cabins and shelters provide entry-level camping experience. At Jenny Jump State Forest, "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."
Gear transport solutions: Some sites provide equipment to move camping gear. At Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area, "No cars are permitted in the campground, so you will have to lug your gear to your spot so choose wisely my friends!"
Trail-adjacent sites: Select campgrounds offer immediate hiking access from sites. Jenny Jump sites connect directly to scenic trails: "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."
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup limitations: Few campgrounds provide RV utilities in the Brookside area. When available, advance booking is essential. Jenny Jump State Forest does offer electric hookups at some sites, which campers note 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."
Water source proximity: RV campers should note distance to water hookups or filling stations. At Alosa Boat In Campsites, despite being primarily boat access, there is "an emergency pick up/access road available as well with contact from the park. Reservations are required for this site."
Parking size restrictions: Many parks limit the size of vehicles permitted on access roads. Round Valley's parking options include "parking in the Southern Lot to be perfectly fine and while we were initially worried about leaving our vehicle parked there for a few nights, we were reassured by the park rangers who patrol the lot constantly."
