Primitive camping options near Chatham, New Jersey include several state parks within a 30-40 minute drive. The region features a mix of mountain terrain and reservoir areas, with elevations ranging from 180 to 1,800 feet. Campsites vary from those requiring a 3-mile hike to reach, to drive-up locations with full hookups for RVs.
What to do
Wilderness hiking trails: Round Valley State Park Campground offers access to remote hiking with 21 marked trails covering over 63 miles. The campground is accessible only by hiking or boat travel, making it ideal for backpackers seeking seclusion. "The hike up in the cushetunk mountain is really nice as well. If you're looking for a getaway without doing backcountry planning this is the place," notes one camper at Round Valley State Park Campground.
Kayaking on clear waters: Multiple reservoirs provide paddling opportunities on clean, clear water. Spruce Run Recreation Area features waterfront campsites with direct lake access. A visitor reports, "I did my first solo tent camping by the reservoir and it was perfect. There was so much to see and hiking trails in the campground and nearby. Bathrooms were clean and other campers were quiet making for a peaceful trip."
Archery practice: Turkey Swamp Park offers an archery range for visitors to practice their skills. The park includes additional activities like fishing, hiking, and various boating options. According to a camper, "Plenty to do over a 2 night stay. Archery, boating, fishing, and hiking. Boat rental rates are acceptable and there are four different styles to choose from."
What campers like
Secluded tent platforms: Many campsites in Jenny Jump State Forest feature raised wooden platforms that keep tents dry and level on the sometimes rocky terrain. "We had a great time. The space was reasonably priced, but we did have to pay an extra $5/day for our dog. However, we didn't mind as it was so private we felt like we had the entire Park to ourselves," explains a satisfied visitor.
Clean, hot showers: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation maintains well-kept facilities despite its rustic setting in the Skylands region. "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. Water and electric hookups and a dump station."
Rustic cabin alternatives to glamping: For those seeking glamping in Chatham, New Jersey without canvas tents, Stokes State Forest offers rustic cabins with basic amenities. "The cabins are reasonably priced and well-appointed, if a bit rustic. The interior features are just what you'd expect for getting away for the weekend. The main room has a bunk bed and two twins, a table with benches, two Adirondack chairs, a wood stove set into a fireplace."
What you should know
Bear awareness required: Multiple parks in the region have black bear populations that require proper food storage and management. "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes," advises a camper at Stokes State Forest.
Limited cell coverage: Most campgrounds have poor or non-existent cell service, requiring advance planning. A visitor to Panther Lake Camping Resort notes, "Love the place! People were nice. Bathrooms were clean. Only issue is the internet is terrible u have to be near the wifi zones."
Seasonal considerations: Most camping areas operate from April through October with peak times requiring advance reservations. "One interesting fact about this place– believe it or not– it is the only NJ SP that actually offers up true wilderness camping (a.k.a. primitive), which can only be accessed by hiking 3 to 6 miles– or if you come with your own boat," explains a camper about Round Valley.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Great Divide Campground offers family-friendly amenities including playgrounds and scheduled activities for children. "The common area, along with the pool, had a small soccer field and volleyball court. They also had scheduled activities for kids," shares a visitor.
Wagon transportation: Some campgrounds provide wagon transportation for gear, which helps families with young children. "Camp also provides trucking of gear weather permitting. No vehicles allowed to drive through camp. Trading post for treats and other items," reports a camper at Camp Glen Gray.
Water activities for kids: Turkey Swamp Park includes a lake with multiple boating options that appeal to families. "We went camping with our 2- and 3-year-old kids. We were worried about bugs, but we didn't even use mosquito repellent and didn't get a single bite! The campground was super clean too. It was perfect!"
Tips from RVers
Electric site availability: Spruce Run Recreation Area provides waterfront sites with hookups, though not all sites have utilities. "My campsite was 34W, right next the reservoir. Nice location however the website said it was full shade. The picnic table was in shade. The spot for the RV was full sun," notes one RVer.
Dump station locations: Several parks including Mahlon Dickerson Reservation provide dump stations, though full hookups are limited. "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. Trash dumpster is an easy walk and the dump station has a flush hose point."
Site leveling challenges: The mountainous terrain in northern New Jersey can create leveling challenges for RVs. A visitor to Great Divide Campground advises, "Campgrounds have lots of hills so be prepared to hike up and down. Sites had room to move and it was quiet and peaceful."
