Camping spots near Lincoln Park, New Jersey range from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV options across Morris and Sussex counties. The region sits within the Highlands physiographic province with elevations ranging from 700-1,500 feet, creating variable temperatures that can drop 15-20 degrees at night even in summer. Most camping areas experience seasonal closures from November through March due to freezing conditions.
What to do
Hiking near water features: Camp Glen Gray provides easy access to multiple trails with stream views. "My fiancé, dog, and I have been going here for over 2 years and we love it. The campground is small but also secluded. We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful," notes a visitor to Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Winter sports access: Campgaw Mountain Reservation allows camping near seasonal ski slopes. During warmer months, the area converts to hiking and disc golf. A reviewer mentions the combination of activities: "There was also plenty to do during the day, like joining the hikers on those trails, disc golf, and sitting by the water."
Primitive camping on challenging trails: Stonetown Circular offers backcountry sites requiring preparation. "This site is about 4 miles into the hike. This is a nice spot to set up camp because it is right next to a flowing stream with fresh water. The site is marked by a sign on a tree that says 'The Island'," reports a Stonetown Circular Trail hiker.
What campers like
Secluded wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the privacy at certain campgrounds. "Mahlon Dickerson Campgound is located in the Skylands of New Jersey... The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large."
Platform tent sites: Several area campgrounds feature raised wooden platforms for tents. A camper at Beaver Pond Campground notes, "The biggest positive about Beaver Pond is how spread out it was. You definitely feel like you have your own space and are not camping on top of your neighbor. Many of the camping options were on platforms which is especially nice if it recently rained."
Lake and beach access: Water activities rank high among camper preferences. "Sebago has a huge lake and great beach area. It was perfect for lounging and swimming in during a hot summer day," says a visitor to Sebago Cabin Camp, located about 30 minutes from Lincoln Park.
What you should know
Bear activity: Wildlife encounters require proper food storage. "Our site is easily the nicest- all the way in the back with only one neighbor. It is so quiet here... There are a lot of bear warnings here so that gave us a bit of pause with our three little boys," reports a Mahlon Dickerson camper.
Site differences within campgrounds: Quality varies significantly between areas of the same campground. At Panther Lake Camping Resort, a camper observed: "We stayed in the center lawn and it was lined with seasonal campers. We felt like we were staying in the middle of a neighborhood... Most seasonal spots looked like it would be terrible to stay next to because they had fences and sheds set up."
Shower facilities: Bathroom quality affects comfort levels significantly. "Probably the worst shower ever. The lights are timed. The water is a button. The space is small as hell," reports one Panther Lake visitor, while Beaver Pond receives praise: "Facilities were clean and what you'd expect from a campground."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Family campgrounds offer structured activities. "The common area, along with the pool, had a small soccer field and volleyball court. They also had scheduled activities for kids," notes a visitor to Great Divide Campground.
Terrain considerations: Hilly campgrounds challenge smaller children. A Great Divide camper mentions, "Campgrounds have lots of hills so be prepared to hike up and down," while another notes, "Lots of hills so bikes are hard to use."
Safety features: Family-oriented sites often provide security measures. A camper at Beaver Pond appreciated that the "beach is secured with lifeguards and shower and bathroom facilities are available," making it suitable for families with children of varying swimming abilities.
Tips from RVers
Water access distances: Some campgrounds require extended hose lengths. "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," advises an RVer at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Parking limitations: Vehicle restrictions affect setup and convenience. Great Divide receives praise for amenities but a camper cautions, "The one downside about this site was that you are not allowed to keep your car at your site. You have to drop your supplies off and drive it back to the parking lot which was slightly annoying."
Navigation challenges: Larger rigs face access difficulties. "Getting in and out of the city is an adventure. Stay right off the highway to avoid the $30 tunnel toll. Follow RV life pro and not Waze," advises a visitor to Liberty Harbor RV Park when traveling from Lincoln Park toward New York City.
