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Best Campgrounds near Califon, NJ

1,066 Reviews

Campgrounds near Califon, New Jersey range from state parks to private resorts within a 15-mile radius. Voorhees State Park Campground and Spruce Run Recreation Area provide developed camping options with tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals. Round Valley State Park offers more remote wilderness camping experiences accessible only by hiking or boating. The region includes mixed-use campgrounds where RVs, tents, and cabin users share facilities, with Mountainview Campground and Panther Lake Camping Resort featuring amenities like electric hookups, showers, and picnic tables.

Most campgrounds in the Califon area operate seasonally, typically from April 1 through October 31, with a few extending through December. Voorhees State Park and Spruce Run Recreation Area provide electric hookups and water at select sites, though primitive camping remains available throughout the region. Summer weekends fill quickly, particularly at waterfront locations like Spruce Run, where reservations are strongly recommended. Many campsites require advance booking through the New Jersey State Park reservation system. A visitor noted, "Sites are large, many have nice mix of sun and shade. You can launch your kayak easily from the shore."

Waterfront camping receives consistently positive reviews, particularly at Spruce Run Recreation Area where lakeside sites offer sunset views over the reservoir. Campers highlight the spacious, grassy sites that accommodate various camping setups. Round Valley State Park stands out for wilderness enthusiasts seeking solitude, with sites located 3-6 miles from the nearest road access. "This place is exceptional for the Northeast Coast. It's very secluded once arriving at a campsite. I've been about 5 times and have only seen one other person," shared one Round Valley visitor. Bathroom facilities vary significantly between campgrounds, with some receiving criticism for cleanliness issues while others earn praise for well-maintained facilities. Several campgrounds report increased noise levels during summer weekends, so midweek visits are recommended for those seeking quieter experiences.

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Best Camping Sites Near Califon, New Jersey (175)

    1. Round Valley State Park Campground

    25 Reviews
    Lebanon, NJ
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (908) 236-6355

    "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."

    "Once you get to the campground trail it’s pretty easy going on asphalt surface."

    2. Spruce Run Recreation Area

    15 Reviews
    Bethlehem, NJ
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (908) 638-8572

    "Park employees and park police drive around through the day. Some big groups of campers got a little rowdy at night. The bathrooms were absolutely disgusting."

    "The actual site was nice and was close to the bathrooms. There was plenty of shade as the sun moved throughout the day."

    3. Mountainview Campground

    16 Reviews
    Bloomsbury, NJ
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (908) 996-2953

    "We were kindly escorted to our site (a nice refreshing change from having to wander around to find the sites ourselves), which was the one farthest away from the entrance."

    "Close by to a couple of nice state parks. Cute sheep and goats that wander about during the day! Sweet little spot, we'll definitely be back!"

    4. Jenny Jump State Forest

    14 Reviews
    Johnsonburg, NJ
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (908) 459-4366

    "The bathroom/shower was only a few steps away which was convenient and clean."

    "All the sites are set up nearby the office where people are all day should you ever need anything. The workers are super friendly and regularly make rounds of the grounds."

    5. Driftstone Campground

    15 Reviews
    Mount Bethel, PA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 897-6859

    $62 - $70 / night

    "Driftstone is set on a beautiful location on the Delaware River. River Road on which it is located, is picturesque and quiet enough to run, walk or bike on."

    "Driftstone is a gem of a campground at a great location on the Delaware. Easy access to Delaware Gap Recreation Area. Sites are pretty spacious with water and electric hookups."

    6. Worthington State Forest Campground — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

    39 Reviews
    Shawnee on Delaware, PA
    24 miles
    Website

    "Full bathrooms are located behind campsite #15 (clean flushing bathrooms, with motion-sensed lighting, showers, dishwashing sink), but easily accessible from campsites nearby."

    "Bathrooms with flush toilets are conveniently located centrally every so often."

    7. Panther Lake Camping Resort

    17 Reviews
    Andover, NJ
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (973) 347-4440

    "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."

    8. Camp Taylor Campground

    24 Reviews
    Pahaquarry, NJ
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (908) 496-4333

    $33 - $42 / night

    "Positives: sites are decent sized with fire pits and picnic tables. easy access to hiking, convenient to a beautiful vineyard, peaceful region, and the most amazing wolf preserve is right next to you.  "

    "They were knowledgeable about the surrounding towns, their campground, and basically everything nature related. This was our very first night camping in an RV (we were renters at the time)."

    9. Great Divide Campground

    16 Reviews
    Andover, NJ
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (973) 383-4026

    "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 $$"

    10. Voorhees State Park Campground

    3 Reviews
    High Bridge, NJ
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (908) 638-6969

    "The pit latrines were clean, the water spigots worked fine, and there was plenty of wildlife to see roam through the surrounding areas. It was home away from home."

    "well Maintained hiking trails, camp sites, with play grounds and an observatory."

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Recent Camping Photos near Califon, NJ

676 Photos of 175 Califon Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Califon, NJ

1066 Reviews of 175 Califon Campgrounds

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Village Scene Park

    Tucked-Away Community Vibe

    I’m following up on my review from over a year ago with updated insights, additional photos and a quick breakdown of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS: 

    HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Convenient suburban location near Philadelphia yet surprisingly quiet; (2) Full-hookup RV sites with 30 / 50 amp, water, and sewer; (3) Affordable rates compared to other campgrounds in the region; (4) Smaller, tight-knit atmosphere with friendly long-term residents; (5) Pet-friendly, with walking areas and green space; and (6) Nearby restaurants include Franconi’s Pizzeria for classic pies and cheesesteaks and Appalachian Brewing Company with pub fare and house-brewed beers. 

    LOWLIGHTS: (1) Sites are narrow and can feel cramped, so don’t expect big pull-throughs; (2) Limited amenities with no pool, clubhouse, or playground; (3) Grounds feel more like a residential mobile home park than a campground; (4) Some infrastructure is dated and could use upgrades; and (5) Not much in the way of natural scenery because, um, this is urban camping. 

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Fort Washington State Park Campground

    Where George Washington Would've Ditched His Tent PPE

    I’m following up on my review from over a year ago with new photos, updated weathered campers’ tales and a quick snapshot of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS:

    HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Rustic group camping nestled in nearly 500 acres of lush forest that is perfect for history buffs and nature lovers alike; (2) Potable water and non-flush restrooms available year-round, because even Revolutionary War re-enactors need coffee breaks; (3) Over 3.5 miles of trails leading to Hawk Watch observation decks, which birders will marvel at and the rest of us will simply appreciate the vista; (4) Group tenting area that fits 20 to 100 people that is ideal for clans, clubs or covert woodland think tanks; and (5) Convenient to Philly (25 min), great for escaping crowds while still being able to Uber for donuts.

    LOWLIGHTS: (1) No RV or tent-by-the-river solo camping: group-only policy means solo adventurers need to carpool or carry heavy guilt; (2) Bathrooms are primitive and non-flush, so BYOTP as it’s campground chic here, not hotel lobby convenient; (3) Carry-in / carry-out trash policy means becoming one with your garbage until civilization or squirrels show up; (4) Cell service is ‘iffy’ at best, depending on how hard the woods are trying to keep you offline; and (5) No campfire tales about campers as noise is limited and so are late-night s'mores sessions.

    Happy Camping!

  • Missy R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Dingmans Campground — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

    Beautiful, wooded, campsites

    I’m stopping through for the night and so grateful that I did. This campground is lovely. The spots are wooded so you have a bit of privacy. And you are so close to activities throughout the park. I’m changing my schedule to enjoy the campground and park a bit tomorrow.

  • S
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Turkey Swamp Park

    Private wooded sites

    Nice, remote, private. Some sites unlevel. Bring a LONG water hose. Nice lake. Showers and washers and dryers.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Liberty Harbor RV Park

    Functional with excellent access to the City

    Very plain & functional, no frills but right on the harbor & on the very edge of Jersey City, close to a ferry & the train that takes u across to New York City. Shopping & restraunts are right next door. We brought scooters & had a great stay! Plus you can see the Statue of Liberty from there!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Washington Crossing State Park - TEMP CLOSED FOR 2024

    History and Camping with Revolutionary Limits

    Washington Crossing Historic Park, straddling Pennsylvania and New Jersey along the Delaware River, is one of those rare places where you can literally camp in history. The Pennsylvania side is all about historic buildings, museums and picnic spots, while the New Jersey side (Washington Crossing State Park) offers organized group tent camping. This isn’t the place for a cushy RV getaway or individual tenters looking to sneak in for the night, but rather a structured, group-style camping steeped in Revolutionary War atmosphere. First impressions? More Boy Scout jamboree than weekend getaway, but if you’re here for camaraderie and heritage, you’ve hit the mark.

    Facilities are deliberately minimal. On the Pennsylvania side, camping is limited to a handful of Scout-designated sites with portable toilets, no running water and zero frills. Across the river in New Jersey, the official group camping area provides open tent-only sites with no hookups, no pets and strict quiet hours. Think old-school camping: fire rings, pit toilets and a heavy dose of ‘leave no trace’ ethos. Reservations are required, permits are non-negotiable and the max stay tops out at 14 nights. What you do get is a wide, peaceful forest setting with plenty of space for tents, youth groups or scout troops along with the kind of simplicity that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

    Beyond the tent pads, the surrounding parks are rich with history and outdoor options. On the Pennsylvania side, you’ll find the visitor center, historic McConkey’s Ferry Inn, Bowman’s Hill Tower, and interpretive programs that bring the Revolutionary War era to life. Picnic areas and a boat launch offer ways to enjoy the Delaware River. In New Jersey, miles of wooded trails lead you through rolling hills and historic landscapes, perfect for hiking and birdwatching. It’s a spot where history buffs, scouts and nature seekers can all find common ground.

    Insider Tips? Here’s a handful: (1) The best group sites are the ones tucked furthest from the trailhead as (surprise, surprise) they’re quieter and offer more privacy; (2) Stock up before arriving, as there are no supply stores inside the park, so head on over to nearby Weis Markets in Langhorne or ShopRite in Fairless Hills, both of which are on the PA-side; (3) Be sure to bring all your own water as none is available onsite; (4) Kayakers should launch from the Pennsylvania side’s boat access for an iconic paddle on the Delaware River; (5) Visit the park’s historic reenactments, especially the Christmas Day Crossing event as it’s easily the most memorable history lesson you’ll ever get outdoors; and (6) When you’re done camping, fuel up at It’s Nutts Restaurant on the Jersey side in Titusville for classic diner-style comfort food or Francisco’s on the River for Italian fare with Delaware River views.

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Alverthorpe Private Park

    Urban Camping Bliss

    I’m following up on my review from over a year ago with some refreshed insight, additional photos and, well, because once wasn’t enough, here’s a quick reel of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS: 

    HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Hidden slice of suburban woodland tucked just outside Philly that is serene enough to reset your social media–addled brain; (2) Flat, open terrain scattered with tall shade trees makes pitching your tent feel practically pastoral; (3) Surprisingly solid cell signal (T-Mobile, Verizon, AT&T all wave hello), which is rare in inner-density camping and handy for emergency pizza delivery orders; (4) Short walk to a quaint lake and four-sided chimney for marshmallow toasting that offers low-key charm with built-in ambiance; and (5) Tons of shade completely shroud the entire campground area, so no need to bring those pesky shelters for added coverage. 

    LOWLIGHTS: (1) No restroom drama on the way in, but once you’re past the control building, basic camping reality bites; (2) Ancient shelter and group pavilion are charming in a ‘needs new plumbing’ sort of way; (3) Reaching the camping area involves navigating uneven steps as you won’t be able to drive to your actual campsite, which is great for adventure, but bad for sprained ankles; (4) Feels like a weekend-only myth where the park closes on holidays and deals in ‘control building hours’; and (5) This place is known to be full of litter and in dire need of some ground maintenance, so you might just want to bring an extra garbage bag and a rake to help out.

    Happy Camping!

  • Matt S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 21, 2025

    Stonybrook RV Resort

    This is a great place!

    We spent four nights at Stonybrook RV Resort in Lehighton, PA, for a quiet wedding anniversary getaway— and so glad we did. We paid$150 per night total for a FHU 50 Amp Premium Back-in site (#F20). This campground makes a great home-base while hanging out in the Pocono Mountains. 

    THINGS I LIKED: 

    • This place is in super condition— everything works as it’s supposed to and is clean and maintained 
    • The concrete pad/patio with Breeo smokeless fire pit, Adirondack chairs, and metal patio table and chairs made a great setup 
    • Our site(F20) is level and beautiful— spacious and beautifully landscaped 
    • We interacted with 5 members of their staff and all were welcoming and friendly to talk with 
    • There’s a heated pool behind the office/store so it’s not noisy for campers at their sites 

    THINGS I DIDN’T LIKE SO MUCH: 

    • Just one thing— the entrance made for a challenging entry up a steep grade, narrow roadway, and sharp turn in. I made it without problems, but it wasn’t easy in a 45’ motorhome towing a Jeep. This may be nitpicky— and I’m not complaining about it— just letting you know to expect it on arrival. 

    WOULD WE COME BACK? 

    • Absolutely, this is a great campground(I’ve already recommended it to my Newmar Kountry Klub chapter president as a possible site for a future rally).
  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 17, 2025

    Liberty Harbor RV Park

    friendly staff at the office

    Gave us a welcome folder with lots of helpful info, can walk to get food up the street, short drive to Liberty Park where we got out and walked at night to admire the city skyline and Statue of Liberty at night. They have hook ups and big laundry room.

Guide to Califon

Camping near Califon, New Jersey, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do

  • Hiking: There are numerous trails in the area. For example, at Hickory Run State Park Campground, one reviewer mentioned, "The hiking in the area was gorgeous and pet-friendly." This makes it a great spot for families who want to enjoy the outdoors together.
  • Fishing: Many campgrounds, like Pickerel Point Campground — Promised Land State Park, have access to lakes for fishing. A visitor shared, "There’s a small unguarded beach that allows swimming which was very nice."
  • Exploring Nature: Campgrounds like Blue Rocks Family Campground offer beautiful scenery. One camper noted, "The access trail to The Pinnacle is a little steep, wouldn’t recommend kids under the age of 12 taking that path."

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms and showers. At Hickory Run State Park Campground, a reviewer said, "The bathroom facilities were clean, the hiking in the area was gorgeous."
  • Spacious Campsites: Many campers enjoy having enough space between sites. A visitor at Pickerel Point Campground — Promised Land State Park mentioned, "I can’t believe how quiet it is here. Our site is wooded and very private."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Camp Taylor Campground are known for being family-oriented. One happy camper said, "The kids are kids!!! They play in the creek, get dirty, build fires and hike on the premises."

What you should know

  • No Alcohol Allowed: Some campgrounds, like Harriman State Park - Beaver Pond, have strict rules against alcohol. A reviewer warned, "If you would like a peaceful, clean campground skip this place."
  • Limited Amenities: Campgrounds like Worthington State Forest Campground may not have all the amenities you expect. One camper noted, "The bathrooms are very outdated and not cleaned often enough."
  • Busy During Peak Season: Many campgrounds can get crowded during holidays. A visitor at Round Valley State Park Campground mentioned, "I DO NOT recommend going on holiday weekends or peak summer seasons."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Camp Taylor Campground that offer activities for kids. One parent shared, "The kids immediately took to exploring the creek and woods behind our campsite."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep everyone entertained. A camper at Blue Rocks Family Campground said, "There is a cute 9-hole mini golf course on the premises."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having snacks on hand can keep the kids happy. A visitor at Pickerel Point Campground — Promised Land State Park mentioned, "We filtered water right from the reservoir instead of walking back to the spigot."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the campsite. A reviewer at Hickory Run State Park Campground noted, "The layout sometimes had it where the sites next to yours had their fire ring behind your camper."
  • Look for Full Hookups: Campgrounds like Pickerel Point Campground — Promised Land State Park offer full hookups, which can make your stay more comfortable. One camper said, "Clean, big, a ton of options."
  • Be Prepared for Weather: Always check the forecast before heading out. A visitor at Round Valley State Park Campground mentioned, "The hike in was a tough one! Weather was 95 and sunny on the hike in, which didn't make it any easier."

Camping near Califon, New Jersey, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Califon, NJ?

According to TheDyrt.com, Califon, NJ offers a wide range of camping options, with 175 campgrounds and RV parks near Califon, NJ and 4 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Califon, NJ?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Califon, NJ is Round Valley State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 25 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Califon, NJ?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 free dispersed camping spots near Califon, NJ.

What parks are near Califon, NJ?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 parks near Califon, NJ that allow camping, notably Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and Gateway National Recreation Area.

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