Leo C.
Scout
ScoutWinding Hills Park
Nice but dated
Nice campground, bathrooms are clean but dated, first come first serve for the sites.
Camping near Butler, NJ
145 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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Campgrounds near Butler, New Jersey feature a range of mixed-use facilities within the forested landscapes of northern New Jersey. Mahlon Dickerson Reservation provides spacious, wooded campsites with electric and water hookups for RVs, along with tent platforms for primitive camping experiences. Camp Glen Gray offers rustic cabins and tent sites surrounded by hiking trails, while more primitive options exist along the Stonetown Circular Trail where free dispersed camping is available. Most established sites are within 20-30 minutes of Butler, with options extending into nearby New York state parks.
The camping season generally runs from April through October, with several campgrounds like Wawayanda State Park operating from April 1 to October 31. Reservations are recommended for developed campgrounds, particularly on summer weekends. "The sites are spaced well and have a nice bonus of large fire rings set back in the woods a bit from the pad that you park on," noted one Mahlon Dickerson visitor. Bear activity is common in the region, so proper food storage is essential at all campsites. Winter camping options are limited, with only select parks like Stokes State Forest offering year-round availability. Roads to campgrounds are generally paved and accessible by standard vehicles, though some primitive sites require hiking in with equipment.
Campers consistently praise the privacy and natural settings of area campgrounds. The primitive sites along Stonetown Circular Trail receive positive reviews for their secluded locations, with one site offering mountain views and another situated beside a flowing stream. Mahlon Dickerson Reservation earns high marks for its clean facilities and spacious sites, with reviews highlighting the "large, wooded campsites" and "miles of hiking trails." Families should note that some campgrounds have limited recreational activities for children. Several developed campgrounds provide access to lakes and ponds, with hiking opportunities directly from campsites. While most campgrounds prohibit alcohol, Camp Glen Gray is an exception that allows it, according to campground data.
Best Campgrounds near Butler (145)
1. Mahlon Dickerson Reservation
"Located in the Skylands of New Jersey, Mahlon Dickerson Campgound is a perfect place to spend a few nights or a couple of weeks. The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large."
"It's beautiful and quiet, and close to beautiful hiking trails, lakes, and other outdoor recreation opportunities."
2. Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park
"Drive-in tent campgrounds. Adequate restroom facilities sprinkled amongst tent sites. Some campsites have raised platforms. All sites have picnic tables and fire ring with flip-top grill."
"The grounds are just steps away from Welch Lake, offering a lifeguard monitored sandy beach which is open during the summer season for swimming, fishing, and small boat craft further out."
from $17 - $20 / night
Check Availability3. Camp Glen Gray
"One rustic place with many hiking trails to choose from. Camp also provides trucking of gear weather permitting. No vehicles allowed to drive through camp. Trading Post for treats and other items."
"Lots of hiking trails. Trading post is well stocked and volunteers are always friendly and able to answer any questions"
from $5 - $200 / night
Check Availability4. Panther Lake Camping Resort
"Panther lake was a pretty good campground with lots of spots to camp at. Our campsite had a picnic bench and a fire ring. They offer both RV and primitive camping."
"The Lake is the gem of the campground with a really nice beach, good for fishing and kayaking. The negatives were the bathrooms. They are very primitive and quite dirty."
5. Great Divide Campground
"Our 4rth state in our 5 state trip is New Jersey! We wanted to see Delaware Water Gap NRA & I found a campground by Newton called The Great Divide. This is a private campground."
"All the positive reviews about this place are accurate! Beautiful, clean, well maintained, lots to do, great value for your $$"
6. Sebago Cabin Camp — Harriman State Park
"It is a step up from cabin camping. They also have a beach behind it."
"This place is only an hour away from NYC with so much to do and see. These cabins are VERY rustic, four walls, a cot, and a fridge."
from $130 / night
Check Availability7. Wawayanda State Park Campground
"It is off the beaten path without any running water or showers within walking distance."
"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."
8. Stokes State Forest
"It was a solid choice: private but close to the toilet and water. Some sites located around the opposite side of the ring back up to a babbling brook. The rushing water will soothe you to sleep."
"We stayed at the campsite at Lake Ocquittunk Area. Campsite was very spacious and had a platform where we were able to fit two tents. There was plenty of space on the site for more tents."
from $7 - $55 / night
Check Availability9. Stonetown Circular trail Primitive #1
"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."
10. Stonetown Circular trail Primitive #2
"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."
Drive Time
- 31 min from Kiryas Joel, NY
- 37 min from New York, NY
- 1 hr 13 min from Bridgeport, CT
- 1 hr 18 min from Trenton, NJ
Recent Camping Photos near Butler, NJ
512 Photos of 145 Butler Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
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Recent Reviews near Butler, NJ
929 Reviews of 145 Butler Campgrounds
Thomas B.
RangerNeversink River Resort
Cool Riverside Campground
I'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.
Edwin R.ScoutCheesequake State Park Campground
Park uses county cops to shut down park by 9pm.
On 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.
- eedgar V.Scout
Black Bear RV Park
Super clean and quiet
Past reviews has mentioned that the office seems to be closed often, while I found that to be true I had no reason to contact anyone. This is definitely one of the cleanest quiets site I’ve ever visited
- KKelly B.
GuideClarence Fahnestock State Park Campground
Check site photos first
Definitely a wide variety of sites—look at the site pictures before booking—there are two areas where it’s just an open field with bonfires and picnic tables that I’d avoid. I could see a large group going there or something but personally it doesn’t offer any privacy.
BUT if you book one of the other sites that DOES have privacy you’ll be in camping heaven. The “hike in” sites are more like “walk-in,” I was worried at first but it’s some are as little as a few yards from the road. The most annoying part was lugging the cooler back and forth, but totally worth it
- KKelly B.Guide
Stephens State Park Campground
Great last min getaway
Booked 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!
- KKevin F.
TravelerTri-State RV Park
A place to stay in an area lacking campgrounds.
This 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.
- Sue B.Ranger
Delaware Water Gap / Pocono Mountain KOA
Great off season camping
We camped here in our pop up for our Anniversary in November. We were impressed with the cleanliness and available amenities for the time of year we were camping in! Close proximity to DWG and PA AND NJ attractions.
- Sue B.Ranger
Pickerel Point Campground — Promised Land State Park
Great cabins!
We booked a cabin at the last minute and were pleasantly surprised that the cabin had heat and electricity! It was very close to the awesome heated bathroom also! We were also able to catch a beautiful sunset! Great camp all around!
Guide to Butler
Camping near Butler, New Jersey offers options in the forested highlands region where elevations range from 400 to 1,400 feet above sea level. The camping season typically runs April through October, with average summer temperatures between 70-85°F during the day and 50-60°F at night. Most campsites in the area require preparation for rocky terrain as the geology of northern New Jersey features exposed bedrock throughout many camping areas.
What to do
Hiking to scenic overlooks: At Stonetown Circular trail Primitive #1, campers access mountaintop views after a challenging rock scramble. "This is a great spot to set up camp because it has a wide area and an amazing view. You will find the site right next to the American Flag at the top of the mountain," notes one reviewer who recommends packing light due to the difficult ascent.
Kayaking and paddling: Visitors to Panther Lake Camping Resort can enjoy water activities on the private lake. Boat rentals are available on-site, and the lake is suitable for beginners. "Nice small lake with boats to use. Nice small beach," reports one camper who appreciated the accessible water recreation options.
Winter camping: While most campgrounds close seasonally, Stokes State Forest remains open year-round with winter cabin rentals. "We stayed in Cabin #008. The cabins are reasonably priced and well-appointed, if a bit rustic. You need that wood stove to heat up the cabin," explains a winter visitor who recommends bringing "six bundles of wood for a Friday to Sunday morning" stay.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers at Great Divide Campground consistently praise the spaciousness. "The sites are very large and I suggest site 7. It is on a hill so have a hand truck or a few people to carry stuff. Trust me it is worth it and I think it's the best tent site they have," advises one camper who valued the solitude.
Budget-friendly options: Several primitive camping sites in the area offer free dispersed camping. "This is a second primitive site along the trail. This is a nice spot to set up camp because it is right next to a flowing stream with fresh water. The site is marked by a sign on a tree that says 'The Island'," notes a backpacker who enjoyed the Stonetown Circular trail Primitive #2 location.
Clean facilities: Many reviewers mention the well-maintained restrooms and showers. "Bathrooms and shower were all single stall and very clean, only a 5 min walk from our site. Two water sources nearby as well," reports a visitor to Stokes State Forest who appreciated the sanitation standards.
What you should know
Bears are active: Multiple campgrounds post warnings about bears. "Bear activity is common in the region, so proper food storage is essential at all campsites," cautions a ranger, while a visitor to Beaver Pond Campground recalls: "Welcome to Bear Mountain grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness! He offers us a highlighted map to our site, wishes us a good stay, and gives us the run down on bear activity in the area."
Alcohol policies vary: Rules about alcohol consumption differ between sites. While Camp Glen Gray permits alcohol, most state park campgrounds prohibit it. One visitor to Beaver Pond noted: "They have a great time with family and friends. The wildlife do roam around your campsite so be mindful of putting food and garbage away before sleeping."
Cell service limitations: Reception is inconsistent throughout the region. "It is like a black hole of signals there," warns a camper at Panther Lake, while another visitor to Sebago Cabins celebrates: "Absolutely zero phone service (for T-Mobile) which was AMAZING."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for children: Sebago Cabins offers family-friendly swimming options. "Sebago has a huge lake and great beach area. It was perfect for lounging and swimming in during a hot summer day," notes a visitor who found it ideal for families who want both indoor and outdoor sleeping arrangements.
Scheduled activities: Several campgrounds organize children's programming. "They have scheduled activities for kids," mentions a Great Divide visitor, while another camper at Sebago Cabins adds: "Sebago has a ton of activities like outdoor movies and communal bonfires on weekends. I was told by ranger Joe they also do Karaoke nights too."
Playground availability: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "Has a playground, showers, bathroom. Your phone will have signal," notes a parent who visited Beaver Pond Campground, appreciating the convenience for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most campsites near Butler offer partial hookups at best. "Very clean and quiet. Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that. Our site (15) said 75' however the 50' hose reel made it to our rv connection," explains a visitor to Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Site dimensions: RVers should verify campsite sizes before booking. "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill," reports one Mahlon Dickerson camper, while another notes that the campground has "large, wooded campsites with electric and water."
Seasonal considerations: The camping season for RVs typically runs April through October. "It's beautiful and quiet, and close to beautiful hiking trails, lakes, and other outdoor recreation opportunities," shares a visitor who found Mahlon Dickerson ideal for an RV stay, noting its convenience to nearby shopping within "a 15 minute drive to a large mall."
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the prices for camping at Butler?
What are the prices for camping at Butler?
Camping prices near Butler vary by location and amenities. Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers sites with water and electric hookups at approximately $25-35 per night for county residents and slightly higher for non-residents. The more upscale Great Divide Campground near Newton has higher rates, typically ranging from $45-75 per night depending on hookups and season, with premium lakeside sites commanding higher prices. Most state parks in the area charge $20-30 per night for basic sites, with additional fees for amenities like electricity.
Where can I find camping near Butler?
Where can I find camping near Butler?
Several excellent campgrounds are located within a short drive of Butler. High Point State Park Campground offers beautiful lakeside sites with hiking and biking trails accessible directly from your campsite. Stokes State Forest provides multiple camping areas including the more primitive Steam Mill Camping Area with 27 sites suitable for tents or small trailers. For those seeking water activities, Stephens State Park Campground offers a lovely setting, though some sites prohibit pets and larger RVs may have difficulty navigating the campground.
What camping is available near Butler, NJ?
What camping is available near Butler, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, Butler, NJ offers a wide range of camping options, with 145 campgrounds and RV parks near Butler, NJ and 5 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Butler, NJ?
Which is the most popular campground near Butler, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Butler, NJ is Mahlon Dickerson Reservation with a 4.6-star rating from 19 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Butler, NJ?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Butler, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 free dispersed camping spots near Butler, NJ.
What parks are near Butler, NJ?
What parks are near Butler, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 parks near Butler, NJ that allow camping, notably Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and Gateway National Recreation Area.
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