Round Valley State Park Campground offers a unique wilderness camping experience within 23 miles of Dunellen, New Jersey. Campers must access sites by either hiking 3-6 miles or boating across the reservoir. The park sits at approximately 400 feet elevation with the surrounding Cushetunk Mountain reaching over 900 feet. Weather conditions can change rapidly with afternoon storms common during summer months.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing: At Round Valley State Park Campground, paddlers can enjoy crystal clear water in New Jersey's largest reservoir. "Really nice spot to camp very peaceful and quit. Gorgeous sunset, Beautiful views," shares T K. The park offers waterfront campsites where you can launch directly from shore.
Archery: Turkey Swamp Park maintains an archery range with hay barrel targets. "Bring your bow and shoot at the hay barrels. Ice skate on the lake in the winter or just enjoy a gorgeous walk in the woods," advises Patrick M. The range is available year-round with seasonal hours.
Hiking: Several trails connect directly to campsites at Jenny Jump State Forest, providing immediate access to wilderness areas. "This place was great, they allow dogs and had hiking trails with beautiful views you could enjoy right from your campground," notes Fransheska A. Most trails are moderate difficulty with some steeper sections.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Campsites at Spruce Run Recreation Area offer direct water access with sunset views. "Our site was on the water and it was really nice. A duck visited us every morning," says Jules T. Waterfront sites fill quickly during summer months, with reservations recommended 6-9 months in advance.
Privacy between sites: Mountainview Campground provides secluded camping spots with good separation between neighbors. "The campsite was wonderful and isolated," reports Kyhlea D. Sites are spaced within wooded areas, creating natural barriers that reduce noise between campers.
Wildlife viewing: Primitive camping creates opportunities for animal encounters. "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!" describes Christina H. Fox, deer, and various bird species are common throughout the camping areas.
What you should know
Access challenges: Round Valley State Park Campground requires significant effort to reach campsites. "Located just south of I78 and near the small hamlets of Clinton and Lebanon... it has its very own eponymous fresh water reservoir, which spanning some 2,350 acres and is 180 feet deep in the middle," explains Stuart K. Sites can only be reached by a strenuous 3-6 mile hike or by boat.
Bathroom facilities: Quality varies significantly between campgrounds. Some campers report issues with maintenance: "The bathrooms were absolutely disgusting. I thought with COVID they were cleaning them more, but for the entire weekend, someone's #2 remained all over the toilet, floor, and corner wall."
Seasonal restrictions: Most campgrounds operate from April through October. Water systems are typically winterized by mid-November, with Turkey Swamp Park closing November 15 and Round Valley closing October 31.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playground access: Multiple areas offer dedicated play spaces. "There are playgrounds and picnic areas as well. This is a lovely campground," shares Katheryn N. about Turkey Swamp Park. Some campgrounds provide both in-camp playgrounds and separate play areas near main facilities.
Consider yurt camping: For families new to camping near Dunellen, New Jersey, yurts at Mountainview Campground provide a comfortable introduction to outdoor stays. These permanent canvas structures include beds and some furnishings while maintaining the camping experience.
Bug preparation: Ticks are common in wooded areas. "By the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2," warns Laura Y. Bring appropriate repellents and conduct regular tick checks, especially during peak summer months.
Tips from RVers
Water hose length: At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, water connections can be distant from RV sites. "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," notes antruze. Bring additional hose sections or extensions to ensure proper hookups.
Limited full hookups: Most campgrounds offer electric and water only. "Nice, remote, private. Some sites unlevel. Bring a LONG water hose. Nice lake. Showers and washers and dryers," advises Shawn about Turkey Swamp Park. Dump stations are available upon departure at most locations.
