Best Campgrounds near Hardyston, NJ
Camping opportunities abound in the forested hills of northern New Jersey, with several established campgrounds within easy reach of Hardyston. Mahlon Dickerson Reservation features spacious wooded campsites with electric and water hookups, while nearby Stokes State Forest and High Point State Park offer additional developed camping options. Most campgrounds in this region accommodate tents, RVs, and some provide cabin rentals. The mountainous terrain of the New Jersey Highlands creates a diverse landscape of forests, lakes, and scenic overlooks that attract campers seeking outdoor recreation without venturing far from urban areas.
Several campgrounds operate seasonally, with most facilities open from April through October. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for summer weekends and holidays when sites fill quickly. As one camper noted, "Very clean and quiet. Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that." Bear activity is common throughout the region, requiring proper food storage at all campsites. Most campgrounds provide amenities like drinking water, toilets, and fire rings, though facilities vary by location. Cell phone coverage can be limited in some areas, particularly in the more remote sections of state forests.
Campers consistently praise the natural setting and tranquility of the area's campgrounds. The larger sites at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation receive particularly positive reviews for their spaciousness and privacy. A visitor described it as having "large, wooded campsites" that are "paved and mostly level." Hiking trails connect many campgrounds to nearby natural features, allowing for easy day hikes from camp. Water recreation is available at several locations, with opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating at Swartswood State Park and Wawayanda State Park. Most developed campgrounds include shower facilities, though primitive sites with minimal amenities are also available in some areas. Winter camping options are limited, with only select campgrounds remaining open year-round.
