Primitive tent campsites near Hillsborough, New Jersey generally require a 15-45 minute drive to reach. The area sits at elevations ranging from 40-1,000 feet, with most tent camping concentrated in the highlands west of town. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping offers more moderate 60-75°F daytime temperatures.
What to do
Lavender field exploration: Pleasant Valley Lavender offers a unique tent camping experience with sites tucked in woods adjacent to blooming lavender fields. "So pleasant to sleep near the blooming fields. Campsite is tucked in the woods with. Tent camping in peace and quiet with easy access to major roads and highways to explore central NJ," notes Ellen K.
Hawk watching: Fort Washington State Park campground, about 45 minutes from Hillsborough, provides access to specialized bird observation areas. "There's 3.5 miles of trails leading to Hawk Watch observation decks, which birders will marvel at and the rest of us will simply appreciate the vista," according to a visitor. Another camper mentions, "If, like me, you are trying to explore the wonder and splendor of Valley Forge and have stumbled across Fort Washington SP enroute, then what a little gem you have discovered."
Historical immersion: Washington Crossing State Park (currently closed for 2024) normally offers structured group camping with Revolutionary War context. A camper reports, "Washington Crossing Historic Park, straddling Pennsylvania and New Jersey along the Delaware River, is one of those rare places where you can literally camp in history. The Pennsylvania side is all about historic buildings, museums and picnic spots, while the New Jersey side offers organized group tent camping."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Jenny Jump State Forest receives consistent praise for site layout. "The camp sites are nicely laid out to ensure privacy. This park is high up on a mountain and affords lovely views," writes Jocelyn G. Another visitor adds, "It's so peaceful up there and the scenery is lovely. The last time we were there we were at site 28 which was nice and secluded."
Clean water access: Campers frequently mention the water quality at Round Valley State Park Campground. "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," writes James R. Another camper notes, "We paddled in, the water is very clean and crystal clear."
Shelter options: Alternatives to tent camping are available for those wanting more structure. At Jenny Jump State Forest, one visitor explained: "This is the first time we decided to forgo tent camping and reserve a shelter at a state park. We had a much better experience than we were expecting! 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."
What you should know
Challenging terrain: The hike to Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area sites requires preparation. "No cars are permitted in the campground, so you will have to lug your gear to your spot so choose wisely my friends!" advises Christy K. For Round Valley, one camper warns, "I have hiked throughout the entire US and consider myself somewhere between a moderate to skilled hiker and I found these trails challenging and uneven."
Limited amenities: Many tent sites offer minimal facilities. At Sandy Hook, a visitor notes, "The campground is rustic with no showers or electricity. Tenting only, with all gear needing to be carried to the site. No vehicles allowed at the campsite." Similarly at Washington Crossing, "Facilities are deliberately minimal... Think old-school camping: fire rings, pit toilets and a heavy dose of 'leave no trace' ethos."
Weather considerations: New Jersey's variable climate affects tent camping. At Round Valley, a camper advises, "If you're looking to get to this CG one really needs to question why they're being charged anything at all in the first place." Another mentions, "The reservoir can turn into the Bermuda Triangle at any moment-- be careful."
Tips for camping with families
Shelter reservations: For families not ready for full tent camping, Jenny Jump State Forest offers more comfortable options. "Shelter 2 is a minute walk from the restroom with sink/shower and water. Shelters 7 & 8 are even closer while 4 & 5 are the furthest, may an extra 5 minutes walk?" shares Dwight D. The shelters feature "four beds(two bunks), a wood burning stove, and a porch."
Kid-friendly activities: Tip Tam Camping Resort focuses on family entertainment. "The place was fun.. they have peddle cars and playgrounds. They deliver wood to your site by the truck full!" shares Jenn M. Another camper adds, "There is plenty to do or not. Kids can go. Mini golf, swimming, pedal cars."
Early risers: Family campgrounds tend to start early. At Tip Tam Camping Resort, "The only downside I saw was people here are up way to early. 7am place was already loud. 7:45am a propane truck pulled in the full the propane and was extremely loud. 8am people with leaf blowers and chopping wood. Don't expect to sleep past 7:30am."
Tips from RVers
Non-RV tenting experiences: Many primitive tent sites near Hillsborough don't accommodate RVs. At NWS Earle RV Park, "Small campground W/ 8 spaces in the main area and 7 in an adjacent area. All spaces are level concrete With fill hookups and attached concrete patio. Power is at the far back & sewage is in the middle (left to right). A longer camper will be parked over the sewage connection."
Access considerations: RVs have limited options compared to tent camping. One visitor to Round Valley notes, "I would STRONGLY encourage anyone who thinks that it is OK to drink from the reservoir to at least use a Life Straw to ensure they don't get sick." For those without RVs looking for basic amenities, Tip Tam Campground offers "Bathrooms and showers are kept clean. Over all a good place."
Seasonal planning: RV camping is more restricted than tent camping seasonally. At NWS Earle RV Park, "It's only an hour from Manhattan & 20 more minutes from the shore. If you're planning a visit to either this campground is cheap, clean & quiet." This military facility is available to eligible campers from April 1 to November 15.
