Tent campsites near Hackettstown, New Jersey range from riverside platforms to mountain-view primitive sites with varying seasonal availability. The region sits at the edge of the Appalachian Mountains with elevations from 500-1,200 feet, creating distinct microclimates between valley and ridge campsites. Winter temperatures typically fall below freezing from December through February, making spring through fall the primary camping season.
What to do
Hiking trail access: Camp Mohican Outdoor Center provides direct access to the Appalachian Trail for day hikes or extended backpacking. "The AT runs right through the camp. I love this place!!!" reports one camper who appreciated the convenience of trail access without driving.
Kayaking and canoeing: Round Valley State Park Campground offers crystal-clear reservoir water perfect for paddling. "If you're there in the summer, I'd recommend taking a kayak around the lake and filling it with wild blueberries," suggests a visitor to Camp Mohican Outdoor Center.
Fishing opportunities: Walter's Boat In Campsites attracts local anglers who know the fishing spots well. A visitor to Walter's Boat In Campsites noted: "As dusk fell, a small group of local fishermen came walking through the camp to access the river. It turns out the locals know this place well and it is very popular with the anglers."
Mountain views: Kirkrige Shelter on Kittatinny Mountain offers spectacular vistas. "This spot is right next to a beautiful view on the side of Kittany Mountain and just off the Appalachian trail. There is 4 spots to set up at all of which have a spot for a fire," reports a visitor who camped at the shelter.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Jenny Jump State Forest offers well-designed spacing between campsites. "The camp sites are nicely laid out to ensure privacy. This park is high up on a mountain and affords lovely views," notes a camper who stayed at Jenny Jump State Forest.
Clean facilities: Kittatinny Valley State Park Campground maintains their bathrooms and shower facilities well. A visitor mentioned, "The facilities were very nice and clean," appreciating the maintenance standards at the park.
Accommodating staff: Campground staff at Kittatinny Valley State Park Campground go above and beyond when issues arise. "The staff were extremely accommodating when one of our sites was flooded due to the previous days rain and moved us without any hesitation, and let us stay an extra night no hassle," reports a grateful camper.
Water clarity: The reservoir at Round Valley Recreation Area features exceptionally clear water. A camper noted, "The water is crystal clear, the area is clean," highlighting the pristine conditions that make swimming and paddling more enjoyable.
What you should know
Boat access options: Some campsites can only be reached by water. At Round Valley State Park Campground, "The campsites are at least 3 miles to get to unless you take a boat across," explains a visitor who appreciates the remote setting.
Highway noise: Some sites at Jenny Jump State Forest experience road noise despite the natural setting. A camper observed, "My only complaint is that the noise from the highway was quite loud at night," providing important information for light sleepers.
Variable site quality: Campsite conditions vary significantly within the same campground. At Jenny Jump, "The sites are hit or miss in terms of comfort, some have large, flat, clear spaces for multiple tents, some you have to wedge a tent to avoid rocks," reports a camper who stayed at multiple sites.
Bathroom considerations: Toilet facilities range from well-maintained to minimal. "Bathrooms were standard, compost toilets. The showers were free and generally quite hot," notes a camper at Jenny Jump, providing useful information about what to expect.
Tips for camping with families
Best sites for kids: Site A at Kittatinny Valley offers prime lake access and wildlife viewing. "Four spots across the public park. You'll see deer and rabbits it's really spacious and beautiful. Site A is the best for seclusion and a spot closer to the lake (also amazing sunsets)," advises a family who camped there.
Beginner-friendly options: Jenny Jump provides an accessible introduction to camping for families. "I was looking forward to a Worthington State Park campgrounds visit but that day they were all packed and I was suggested to Jenny Jump State. I enjoyed the overnight camp out with my kids and they had a blast. Nice size primitive tent site we had and was nice for beginner camping," shares a father who brought his children.
Activity planning: Rivers Bend Group Campground offers direct water access for family activities. "Large field with multiple group campsites with bearboxes, fire pit and garbage cans at each site. Quiet surrounding. To your right down a small hill is the flat brook that funnels out into a large 'U' bend of the Delaware river," describes a visitor, highlighting the easy water access for family fun.
Shelter options: For families not ready for tent camping, consider the cabins at Jenny Jump. A visitor explained, "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. Even compared to our glamping this was luxury!!"
Tips from RVers
Alternative to full hookups: While Hackettstown camping areas offer limited RV hookups, Wooded Campground provides a convenient staging area for exploring. "My husband and I got a late start coming down from Brooklyn to the DWG, and realized we'd need a place to stay. We found this site of HipCamp and it was a God send! Perfect land for an overnight before hitting the trail," shares an RVer who appreciated the convenient location.
Accessibility considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging terrain for large vehicles. When selecting tent campsites near Hackettstown, check road conditions and site specifications before arrival, especially after rainfall when muddy conditions can make access difficult for heavier vehicles.
Store locations: Limited on-site supplies mean planning ahead. A Jenny Jump camper advised, "The only problem we encountered was that there wasn't a store close by for ice or other essentials, although the main office does sell firewood. They close at 4pm, though, so be sure to get there before then!"
