Primitive camping near Hardyston offers woodsy experiences in the northern New Jersey highlands, where elevations range from 400-1,500 feet. The region's mixed hardwood forests provide natural shade during summer months when temperatures typically reach 75-85°F. Fall brings temperature drops to 40-60°F with earlier sunsets, requiring extra layers for evening campfires.
What to do
Hiking the Appalachian Trail: Stokes State Forest borders the Appalachian Trail, providing multiple access points within a 15-minute drive from Hardyston. "Did a small part of the Appalachian trail while there (about 15 miles). Would love to go back when I'm in better shape and try the whole trail," shares a camper at Stokes State Forest.
Fishing in stocked waters: Multiple lakes throughout the area are regularly stocked with fish. "There is a pond stocked with 2-3 types of fresh water fish," notes a reviewer at Kymers Camping Resort. Many camping spots include direct lake access for easy casting.
Swimming at natural lakes: During summer months, several campgrounds maintain swimming areas. "I spent two nights camping with my niece and this campground was perfect. We fit in a hike up to the Appalachian Trail from our campsite, swam at the pond (Lake Marcia), and got in a fishing session at Steeny Kill Lake," mentions a visitor to High Point State Park.
What campers like
Woodland seclusion: Many sites provide privacy between camping spots. "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 camper at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation. Sites typically include fire rings, picnic tables, and lantern hooks.
Year-round options: Some campgrounds remain open beyond traditional seasons. "Located in the Skylands of New Jersey, Mahlon Dickerson Campgound is a perfect place to spend a few nights or a couple of weeks. The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large," explains a camper who appreciated the extended availability.
Waterfront access: Lake-adjacent sites are popular for their scenery and recreation. "The lake is beautiful! Great for swimming and fishing. There are several trail hikes that you can do from the campsite," writes a visitor to Swartswood State Park Campground. Many campgrounds maintain dedicated swimming areas with seasonal lifeguards.
What you should know
Varying site conditions: Campsite quality differs widely between and within campgrounds. "Some sites are a bit rocky. We selected site T219. It was a solid choice: private but close to the toilet and water. Some sites located around the opposite side of the ring back up to a babbling brook," advises a Stokes State Forest camper.
Bear precautions required: The Hardyston region has active black bear populations. "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes," warns a camper at Stokes State Forest.
Shower facilities vary: Some campgrounds offer limited shower options. "Showers are only located INSIDE High Point State Park, not throughout the campsites, but entry is free for campers," notes a visitor to High Point State Park Campground. Always check facility maps before selecting sites.
Tips for camping with families
Choose group-friendly sites: Several campgrounds offer designated areas for larger parties. "The group campsites are big enough for the amount of people you can have, have picnic benches, a fire ring, a composting outhouse toilet just for the site, and one of those flat charcoal 'grills'. It's located in a very nice area," recommends a High Point camper.
Lake recreation packages: Some campgrounds include water equipment with stays. "The free kayaks and pool were a hit with the kids," comments a visitor at Great Divide Campground. Most rental equipment requires adult supervision for children under 12.
Campground activities: Scheduled events keep children entertained. "This is a great place to get away and bring your family and dogs. They offer several planned activities for kids and they have nice facilities like a great swimming pool and ping pong," notes a visitor to Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort.
Tips for RVers
Platform sites not suitable: Many tent sites include wooden platforms incompatible with RVs. "The tent was too long for the 12'x10' platform, so we had to set it up on the flattest part and hope not to roll down the hill in the night," cautions a High Point visitor. Request non-platform sites when making reservations.
Limited hook-up options: Full-service sites are concentrated at specific campgrounds. "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill. Peaceful. Close to train to N.Y. City," says a camper at Mahlon Dickerson. Some locations require extension hoses for water connections.
Elevation and site leveling: The region's hilly terrain affects RV positioning. "Some areas are a little steeper then I would like to set up on, but that's me," notes a camper at Great Divide. Bring leveling blocks for uneven spots.
