Camping options around Butler, New Jersey vary in terrain from mountains to reservoir shorelines with elevations ranging from 450 to 1,500 feet. Sites often experience seasonal temperature variations with summer highs averaging 85°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Most campgrounds in this region feature standard gravel tent pads at primitive sites, while those with hookups typically maintain grass or crushed stone bases for RVs.
What to do
Kayaking on-site: Ocquittunk campground provides direct water access with sites near the lake. "I stayed at site #T007... we were able to position our tent facing the lake, it was beautiful! The site itself is huge," notes camper Kara L., highlighting the spacious waterfront camping options.
Hiking to viewpoints: Multiple trail networks connect throughout the region with varying difficulty levels. At Stokes State Forest, one visitor mentions, "There are 21 marked trails that cover over 63 miles within the boundaries of Stokes State Forest. Twelve miles are part of the Appalachian Trail. Pick up a hiking map at the park office or download the Avenza Maps app."
Stargazing opportunities: Clear mountain skies offer excellent night viewing conditions. A camper at Mountainview Campground shares that it's a "Great spot for stargazing. Owners are very nice," making it suitable for astronomy enthusiasts.
Wildlife observation: The natural setting supports diverse wildlife viewing. Christina H. reports at Mountainview Campground: "I've never heard so much wildlife there as I did here. Only shortly after we settled into our tent did we hear foxes fighting right outside our tent, the snorts of deer, and there were bats right above us all night making noise!"
What campers like
Secluded sites: Many campsites provide privacy and separation from neighbors. At Ocquittunk, Josh S. notes that "While making reservations it said almost all sites were full but upon arrival the vast majority of sites were empty which made for a quiet/relaxing night."
Clean facilities: Bathhouses receive frequent maintenance at most locations. A visitor to Spruce Run Recreation Area mentioned "Bathrooms were clean and other campers were quiet making for a peaceful trip. Check in was pleasant."
Water features: Lakes and streams enhance many camping experiences. "Clear streams and lake. Stunning overall. Lake Ocquittunk campground had showers, flush toilets and was popular with families," writes Stephanie T.
Winter cabins: Several locations offer heated accommodations during colder months. At Stokes State Forest, W L. reports, "Rented a cabin in November (#009) and again in December (#008) of 2021. I favored Cabin 8, the kitchen and bathroom were separated from the main room. The cabins are reasonably priced and well-appointed, if a bit rustic."
What you should know
Limited equestrian facilities: Despite the rural setting, horse-specific amenities are minimal. None of the reviewed campgrounds explicitly list horse corrals, though several allow pets.
Variable site terrain: Ground conditions may present challenges for tent setup. At Pickerel Point Campground, Alaina Z. warns of "chunky bluestone gravel on the sites, so bring a sleeping pad!"
Fire regulations: Some locations have specific rules for campfires. At Liberty Harbor RV Park, fires are not permitted at all, while most forest campgrounds provide fire rings with cooking grates.
Bear country precautions: Proper food storage is essential in wooded areas. A ranger notes about Steam Mill Camping Area, "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. At Mohican Outdoor Center, the group campsite was described as "really big. It had 5-6 platforms, privys, big fire ring, a grill, a beatbox, a large pavilion w/picnic tables."
Water activities: Lakes provide swimming and boating options during summer months. Paula R. shares her experience at Pickerel Point: "Loved camping on Pickerel Point. Kids had a great time! Bathrooms could be cleaned more often but relatively clean."
Cabin alternatives: Families can choose shelters when tents aren't practical. Amy B. says of Stokes State Forest, "We stay in the cabins. It's great to have the small kitchen when camping with the family. A must see campground."
Bike-friendly roads: Some campgrounds feature paved surfaces for children's activities. About Pickerel Point, Paula notes, "Love that the road is paved, it makes it easy for the kids to ride bikes, skate etc..."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: When selecting spots, consider overhead clearance. At Spruce Run Recreation Area, Douglas P. advises, "If bringing your RV, the safest bet is to reserve a spot with no shade as the other spots often times have very low hanging tree limbs."
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary by campground. Kevin A. from Liberty Harbor RV Park reports, "The sites had electric and water and were in a fenced off section of the marina parking area. It was a little loud with city noises, but exactly what we expected being so close."
Dump station access: Plan for waste disposal needs. At Mountainview Campground, a reviewer notes, "The power station was well intact with 15/20, 30, and 50amp. Overall it was a nice stay and served our purpose. We don't need frills like a pool so we enjoyed it and would go again."
Generator restrictions: Most area campgrounds prohibit generators, requiring alternative power sources. Those seeking full hookups should verify availability when booking, as many sites offer only partial connections.
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