Round Valley State Park Campground provides a unique wilderness camping experience within an hour's drive of Manchester. The 2,350-acre reservoir offers boat-in camping access as an alternative to hiking the challenging 3-6 mile trails to reach campsites. Most wilderness sites remain primitive with minimal facilities, creating a true backcountry experience despite being relatively close to urban areas.
What to do
Hiking to mountain viewpoints: At Jenny Jump State Forest, trails lead to scenic overlooks with views of the surrounding highlands. "This place was great, they allow dogs and had hiking trails with beautiful views you could enjoy right from your campground. It's also close to other local hikes like Mt. Tammany," notes a visitor to Jenny Jump State Forest.
Wildlife observation: Camp Taylor Campground offers access to the Lakota Wolf Preserve with special tours for campers. "There is a section of RV spots that are each cut out in the woods so very private. You can take a short hike up the mountain there to see the wolves in the sanctuary. There are moments by the fire you can hear them howl in the distance," reports one camper.
Fishing in clear waters: Many campsites provide access to well-stocked fishing areas. "We paddled in, the water is very clean and crystal clear," mentions a Round Valley visitor. At Swartswood State Park, "The lake is great to kayak and fish, and the campsites are spacious and has bathrooms."
What campers like
Private wilderness sites: Round Valley State Park Campground offers true backcountry camping accessible only by boat or hiking. "Beautiful and quaint..a nice place to get away and enjoy some nature," writes one visitor. Another adds, "Really nice spot to camp very peaceful and quit. Gorgeous sunset, beautiful views."
Secluded wooded campsites: Mountainview Campground provides tent sites tucked away in forested areas. "This place was actually fantastic, I don't really have anything negative to say about it. The whole scene was exactly what I love about camping, a nice little remote campground in the mountains," describes a camper who appreciated the privacy.
Natural soundscapes: Many campsites feature natural water sounds or wildlife. "We stayed along the Creek which was nice... perfect white noise to get a great night sleep," notes a visitor to Camp Taylor. At Mountainview, a camper reported, "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 you should know
Bear awareness required: Several campgrounds report bear activity. "Stokes is such a peaceful campground! We stay in the cabins. It's great to have the small kitchen when camping with the family," comments a Stokes visitor, where bear-proof food storage is essential but lockers aren't provided.
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds have poor connectivity. At Great Divide Campground, "Only a few sites are dog friendly. They are 42-45. Be careful with site 44, no good place for a tent."
Wilderness camping challenges: Round Valley's primitive sites require significant preparation. "Located just south of I78 and near the small hamlets of Clinton and Lebanon... if you're looking to camp here at Round Valley, I highly recommend you boat in as the hiking path is incredibly difficult to manage without hauling all of your camping gear," advises one experienced camper.
Tips for camping with families
Lakeside activities: Spruce Run Recreation Area offers water recreation with child-friendly amenities. "You can bring a camper, tent, or use one of the cabins. Many sites have a lovely water view of the reservoir. Several playgrounds, boat launches, and life guarded swimming area," mentions one family.
Weekend planning: Reserve sites well in advance for summer weekends. "Fun camping place to books groups. Very kid and pet friendly, lake to fish and kayak on, lots of activities, great pool and awesome hot tub," notes a visitor to Panther Lake Camping Resort.
Shelter options: Multiple campgrounds offer cabins for families wanting an easier camping experience. A visitor to Jenny Jump State Forest shared, "The 'shelter' is what we would describe as a 'cabin'; four walls, a roof, locking door, locking windows, large picture frame front window, four beds (two bunks), a wood burning stove, and a porch."
Tips for RVers
Site selection strategy: At Mahlon Dickerson, "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."
Level sites availability: Many RV sites require careful selection. "Most sites are level. Some areas are a little steeper then I would like to set up on, but that's me," mentions a visitor to Great Divide Campground about the terrain.
Seasonal considerations: For glamping close to Manchester, New Jersey, consider timing. "We went on 4th of July weekend so the place was packed. We were able to get a secluded spot in the woods which was great! Lots of seasonal campers so not much room for spots for weekend visits unless you want to be in the field areas with not much shade cover," notes a Panther Lake camper.
