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."
