Best Campgrounds near Oak Ridge, NJ
The Skylands region surrounding Oak Ridge, New Jersey encompasses diverse camping environments within an hour's drive, from developed campgrounds to more primitive options. Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers large, wooded sites with water and electric hookups just 15 miles southwest of Oak Ridge, while Stokes State Forest provides a more remote experience with four distinct camping areas about 30 miles northwest. The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, accessible from multiple points near Oak Ridge, features both established campgrounds and boat-in primitive sites along the river. Private campgrounds like Great Divide and Panther Lake complement these public options with additional amenities including swimming areas, organized activities, and full hookup sites for RVs.
Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally from April through October, with limited winter camping available at select locations. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for summer weekends when New York and New Jersey residents seek outdoor escapes. As one camper noted, "Stokes is nestled in a beautiful part of New Jersey and it's just remote enough that you can get away from the crowds while still being in a short driving distance of restaurants and grocery stores." Bear activity requires proper food storage throughout the region, and ticks are common during warmer months. Cell service varies significantly, with better coverage at private campgrounds and limited or no service in more remote areas of state forests and the Delaware Water Gap.
Lakeside and riverside sites consistently receive the highest ratings from visitors, though they typically book fastest. High Point State Park, containing New Jersey's highest elevation point, features campsites around Sawmill Lake that offer exceptional privacy. "The sites were large and spread out, and we felt like we had a good amount of privacy," reported one visitor. Several campgrounds provide access to the Appalachian Trail, which passes through the region. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with deer, various birds, and smaller mammals commonly spotted. Weekday camping generally offers a quieter experience, as weekend crowds from nearby metropolitan areas can create more noise and competition for prime sites, particularly during summer months.
