Round Valley State Park offers a unique wilderness camping experience in the Martinsville area, with 2,350 acres of reservoir for recreation. Camping spots near Martinsville, New Jersey provide a mix of water-based activities and woodland experiences, with camping seasons generally running from April through October. Sites range from primitive wilderness locations requiring boat or hiking access to developed campgrounds with full amenities.
What to do
Kayaking at Round Valley Reservoir: The clear waters at Round Valley State Park Campground provide excellent paddling opportunities. "The water is crystal clear, the area is clean. There's bathrooms and pumps but we just filtered the water from the reservoir instead which tasted a million times better than the well water," notes James R.
Archery practice: Turkey Swamp Park offers designated archery ranges for visitors. "Archery, boating, fishing, and hiking. Boat rental rates are acceptable and there are four different styles to choose from," according to Dan W., making it a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hiking nearby trails: The Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers extensive trail networks. "There are some nice trails. Great place for hiking," shares Maggie A., highlighting the accessible nature trails that surround the campground.
Stargazing opportunities: Some campsites offer excellent night sky viewing. "Great spot for stargazing. Owners are very nice," reports Scott A. from Mountainview Campground, where the remote location creates ideal conditions for astronomy enthusiasts.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate well-spaced sites at Mountainview Campground. "The campsites are spacious and comfortable. The spot was spacious and comfortable," notes Jami, who enjoyed the quiet atmosphere.
Waterfront camping: Many campers value sites with water views. "The view was KILLER. The water is crystal clear, the area is clean," writes James R. about Round Valley, highlighting the pristine reservoir conditions.
Wooded sites: Turkey Swamp Park offers forested camping areas. "Sites are in the woods and widely spaced apart to give you privacy and the feeling of being out in the Forrest," explains Katheryn N., describing the natural setting.
Fishing access: Many campgrounds provide fishing opportunities. "Decent, good bathrooms, nice facility. Still trying to catch a fish here," mentions Gregg G. about Spruce Run Recreation Area, showing the popularity of fishing despite varied success.
What you should know
Hike-in challenges: Spruce Run Recreation Area offers both drive-in and remote sites. "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 Frank J., highlighting discrepancies in site descriptions.
Shower facilities vary: Bathroom and shower quality differs significantly between campgrounds. "Showers were cold water only and very cold at that," reports Frank J. about Spruce Run, while other campgrounds offer heated facilities.
Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for wildlife at camping areas. "Even though I live 10 minutes away I like to camp here because you still feel a little isolated. With no roads to the campgrounds it takes some effort to get there and it's a beautiful place," says G V. about Round Valley.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking. "We reserved two nights, but the first night we were not going to be able to arrive until after 9. After talking to them, they would not allow us to come late, but did refund the first night," explains Kyhlea D. about Mountainview Campground's policies.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Great Divide Campground offers family-friendly facilities. "The common area, along with the pool, had a small soccer field and volleyball court. They also had scheduled activities for kids," reports Ethan K.
Water recreation options: Several campgrounds offer swimming and boating. "Kids had lots of fun on the free kayaks and pool. Staff was friendly and helpful," says Jojo P. about Great Divide's family amenities.
Distance to bathrooms: Consider proximity to facilities when booking with children. "There is only one bathroom facility on the property which we did not love. The facilities were clean so...yay!" shares Kendra P. about Cheesequake State Park.
Noise levels: Some campgrounds are quieter than others. "This campground is perfect for a getaway if what you're looking for is no more than spending some time in nature. The property is well kept and campsites are a good distance from each other," notes Mario M. about Mountainview.
Tips from RVers
Hook-up availability: Cheesequake State Park Campground offers electric hookups but limited amenities. "Stayed in the family campground in a travel trailer. Longish bike ride or shortish drive to the main park," advises Theresa G.
Leveling challenges: Some sites require preparation for RVs. "The landing for the camper was even with gravel and the rest of the site was mostly even. The power station was well intact with 15/20, 30, and 50amp," notes Sarah from Panther Lake Campground.
Water hose requirements: Be prepared with proper equipment. "The water hoses provided are plenty long. We didn't need to use our hose at all, just the filter," explains Greg S. about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation's water hookups.
Dump station access: Many campgrounds offer sanitary facilities. "Clean and quiet. Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that. Trash dumpster is an easy walk and the dump station has a flush hose point," advises a reviewer about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
