3 campgrounds with availability this weekend
State parks and national recreation areas surrounding Brookside, New Jersey offer diverse tent camping opportunities, from primitive backcountry tent campsites to walk-in tent campgrounds. Round Valley State Park Campground, located in Lebanon, NJ, features tent-only sites accessible by hiking or boating across the reservoir. Jenny Jump State Forest in Blairstown provides walk-in tent sites with varying levels of seclusion. For more remote experiences, Namanock Island in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area offers primitive tent camping accessible only by water, with sites maintained by the National Park Service. The Stonetown Circular Trail includes primitive tent sites approximately 4 miles into the hiking route.
Most tent campsites in the region require some effort to access, with many featuring walk-in or boat-in requirements. Round Valley's tent sites require a challenging 3-5 mile hike or boat journey across the reservoir, with campers leaving vehicles in designated parking areas. Fire rings and picnic tables are standard at most sites, though amenities are limited. Water access varies significantly - some campgrounds have pumps or spigots while primitive sites require filtering from natural sources. Sandy Hook's tent-only area provides wheelbarrows to transport gear the quarter-mile from parking to campsites. Most tent campgrounds operate seasonally from April through October, with primitive sites requiring proper food storage due to wildlife activity.
According to campers who visited Round Valley, midweek stays offer significantly more solitude than weekends. One visitor noted, "I went midweek and had peace and quiet. This place is a gem for individuals who are respectful and appreciative of what it has to offer." At Namanock Island, a regular camper reported, "Having an entire island to yourself is a feeling I have never experienced anywhere else." The primitive nature of these sites appeals to tent campers seeking seclusion. Sites at Jenny Jump State Forest connect directly to hiking trails, allowing campers to access viewpoints without relocating. Wildlife sightings are common throughout these areas, with deer, various birds, and occasionally bears observed on nearby trails.
"The crystal-clear water is home to huge lake trout and the forests are bursting with wildlife. The sunsets across the lake are to die for."
"Unlike traditional campgrounds, the campsites are accessible only by hiking or boating, so getting anywhere here requires some planning and a willingness to travel light."
"Site A is the best for seclusion and a spot closer to the lake (also amazing sunsets)"
"There are 20 tent sites spread across four loops. There is NO beach access. Some sites have shelters, others do not. Pay attention when reserving. All sites have a fire pit and picnic table."
"Bathrooms are serviceable overall (no showers as others have noted), and the place is intermittently staffed; bring everything you need."
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $30 - $50 / night
"Fantastic loop hike near some amazing hidden lakes. One downside is there were obviously people who had visited and didn't understand what LEAVE NO TRACE means. We'll bring a trashbag next time."
"It is off the beaten path without any running water or showers within walking distance."
"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."
"You can rent kayaks and canoes and swimming is allowed on Catfish Pond -- plenty of fish, snapping turtles, and other wildlife."
from $5 - $75 / night
"Stonetown Circular trail is a 11 mile medium/high difficulty loop trail. This is the first of two primitive sites along the trail. The trailhead is across the street from a large parking lot."
"Perfect land for an overnight before hitting the trail. There’s open field and wooded options, and the hosts Mel and Jeff couldn’t have been more accommodating."
from $59 - $60 / night
"There is a ten dollar fee per day to park your car so bring cash as the parking area is not always manned and you’ll have to leave the fee in an envelope that is available just past the entrance."
"There is no public road access to the campsite. Secondly, the site is maintained by the NPS, (National Park Service) within the DWGNRA, (Delaware Water Gap National Recreational Area)."
"Stonetown Circular trail is a 11 mile medium/high difficulty loop trail. This is the second of two primitive sites along the trail. The trailhead is across the street from a large parking lot."
"You have a clear view of the Narrow bridge and at night the city lights light up your surroundings light a nigh light. The camp here has 7 campsites here and it fill up really fast."
"this place is awesome when it comes to finding an affordable place to stay while in NY, this camp ground isnt your usual forest camp sites, however there are some beautiful views, and it is located in"
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $30 / night
TravelerMike grandson and I had a fun time he enjoyed the little beach and especially the playground. The staff in the office were very nice. Bathrooms were clean but can be updates.
ScoutWater/power at the campsite, and and centrally located dump station. Lots of trees and nice separation of sites
LegendNestled along the picturesque Delaware River in beautiful Bucks County, Washington Crossing Historic Park is one of those destinations where American history practically jumps out from behind every tree. This sprawling, beautifully preserved historic park commemorates George Washington's daring Christmas night crossing of the Delaware in 1776, with charming colonial buildings, expansive green spaces, shaded walking paths and lovely riverfront scenery. Divided into Upper and Lower sections, the park offers plenty to explore, from historic homesteads and interpretive exhibits to scenic picnic areas and the impressive Bowman's Hill Tower. Unfortunately, while the park delivers a wonderful outdoor experience, traditional overnight camping isn't part of the equation unless your a Boy Scout or accompanying one of their troops.
HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Spectacular Revolutionary War history at the very site of Washington's legendary Delaware River crossing; (2) Beautifully maintained grounds featuring mature trees, open lawns and scenic riverfront views; (3) Fascinating colonial-era buildings, historic demonstrations and educational exhibits that bring America's founding history to life; (4) Wonderful recreational opportunities, including walking, cycling, fishing, kayaking and picnicking; and (5) Convenient proximity to charming New Hope, the Delaware Canal towpath and Bowman's Hill Tower, offering plenty of opportunities to extend your adventure.
LOWLIGHTS: (1) No conventional public tent or RV camping, with overnight group camping restricted to organized Scout groups by prior arrangement; (2) No dedicated RV campsites, electrical hookups, water connections or dump station; (3) Park grounds generally close at sunset, limiting opportunities to linger into the evening; (4) Some historic buildings and attractions require admission fees or operate on limited schedules; and (5) Periodic restoration projects and special events can restrict access to certain areas, while the historic Washington Crossing Bridge's three-ton weight limit makes it unsuitable for larger RVs.
Happy Camping!
LegendThere's something wonderfully special about escaping into nature where the only sounds are rustling leaves, birds singing and the gentle movement of water along the shoreline. Nestled among the wooded hills surrounding the beautiful Round Valley Reservoir, this rustic SP campground offers families a chance to disconnect from everyday distractions and enjoy a little wilderness adventure together. Unlike traditional campgrounds, the campsites are accessible only by hiking or boating, so getting anywhere here requires some planning and a willingness to travel light. Once you've arrived, you'll find secluded, wooded campsites with picnic tables, fire rings and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Amenities are basic, with pit toilets and no showers, but the beautiful reservoir, scenic hiking trails, fishing and kayaking opportunities more than make up for the lack of modern conveniences. Our kids loved exploring the woods, spotting wildlife and gathering around a crackling campfire at night to share stories beneath the stars. For families comfortable with the hike, I'd recommend choosing one of the campsites along the reservoir shoreline for the lovely water views and peaceful surroundings. Just remember that swimming is limited to the park's designated beach area. Round Valley isn't your typical family campground, but for adventurous families who enjoy hiking, camping under the stars and making wonderful memories together, it's a beautiful place to experience nature at its finest!
RangerI'll start by saying this is a site-specific review (C20). I booked using Campspot and didn't select my own site but put in the criteria for my rig (30ft TT plus truck) and got a 50A back-in spot. The site was big but abnormal. Between the picnic table placement and the trees, I ended up right around 50ft from the electric and water, and the water spigot was so low I could barely put on my camco filter. With the uneven dirt roads, I had to unhitch with my truck in a gigantic puddle (lol). The site was otherwise fine aside from my gate code not working on Day 2. As for the campground as a whole, I thought it was pretty unique place by the river that offered several good amenities and activities, like downstream river tubing, an arcade, bathroom/shower facilities, a small store, little trails, and more. I would say this place borders the more primitive side.
ScoutOn Friday, September 4, 2026, I rented a trailer and brought my family to Cheesequake State Park to celebrate our 10th wedding anniversary over the extended Labor Day weekend. Around 9:20 PM—well before the park's designated 10:00 PM quiet hours—we were sitting inside our canopy, playing Jenga, and listening to low background music. Two officers from the Matawan Police Department approached our campsite. They were polite and courteous, simply offering a standard reminder to wrap things up by 10:00 PM. Before they could leave, however, a third, senior officer intervened. Wanting to"show them how it's done," he made the two polite officers return and stand by to watch as he demonstrated how to aggressively harass campers. Flashlight in hand, the senior officer approached with an immediate hostile attitude, treating us like criminals as he demanded to know who rented the site. He began reiterating rules and claimed we had too many vehicles. We had three cars, one belonging to my brother-in-law's girlfriend, who was visiting with her daughter. She had paid the$10 visitor fee at the main office and was instructed by staff to obtain the gate access code from us, the primary renters, if she got locked in. No staff member ever informed her of an 8:00 PM visitor departure deadline, leading us to reasonably assume visitors were permitted until quiet hours began at 10:00 PM. The officer rudely snapped that she had been given wrong information. The senior officer then used profanity in front of three small children, aggressively telling her to ("get her shit and get the fuck out!") in that manner or use profanity, the officer went from hostile to furious. He angrily declared that these were official violations and threatened that he could be issuing us tickets instead. Desperately searching for anything and everything to throw at us, he demanded that we turn off our idling car—which was supplying power to our campsite—and instructed us to make sure the campfire was doused before shutting down for the night. He then proceeded to shine his flashlight into our private setup—including our canopy, tents, and the inside of our trailer—searching for any other possible violation while the two polite officers were forced to watch. What was supposed to be a special 10th wedding anniversary celebration with my family was completely ruined by a senior officer misusing his authority to put on an unnecessary display of intimidation. Worse than just ruining our night, he spent that evening teaching those two police officers how to be bad cops. He corrupted two officers in real time, demonstrating firsthand exactly why most people have lost faith in the police force. The next day we was ready for them. We turned off our lights and quietly by the fire while they went next door to harass an asian family that had just set up camp and had their leds lights on.
RangerWe stayed just a couple nights here on our way north. The camp host was helpful before our stay and during check-in. Our site was pretty isolated from the others, so it was very quiet (no complaints here). There is a decent mix of sunny sites by the river and shady sites under the trees. The weather was perfect mid September. There wasn't anything spectacular for me, but it was a good experience and it was a nice taste of fall PA scenery. Beware that the roads are tight for a big rig. Side note, it did seem like most campers lived there.
GuideBooked the day before—even on the holiday weekend! Just 1.5 hours outside of NYC, site was a bit close to the neighbors (fire pit was very far back and basically in the neighbors’ campsite, but we put up a “privacy clothesline” and hung a tarp over it for a bit of extra coverage.
The staff was friendly and helpful, they said it was the busiest they’ve seen the campground all year (there were lots of large groups but everyone seemed to settle down by 9:30pm
Poison ivy was EVERYWHERE at our site so make sure to stick to the open areas and the paths. Lots of families around, we felt very safe Bathrooms were fine—it was my impression they’re usually cleaner but the high traffic of the weekend left a bit to be desired, (lots of families around=dirty diapers in the bathroom trash bin) but it’s camping! I’m not gonna argue w a flushing toilet!
TravelerThis area seems to be devoid of campgrounds except for this one. It’s basically just a large parking lot with hook ups. Completely open, which is great for Starlink. Bathrooms were slightly above average; fairly clean and places to hang clothes for your shower. Has a laundry but be sure to bring quarters. It is about 100 yards from the interstate so you’ll get a lot of noise and diesel exhaust fumes.
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.
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.
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."
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."
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."
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."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Brookside, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Brookside, NJ is Round Valley State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 26 reviews.
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TheDyrt.com has all 37 tent camping locations near Brookside, NJ, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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