Camping spots near Hopatcong, New Jersey are scattered throughout the wooded Skylands Region at elevations between 400-1,600 feet. The area's rolling terrain features numerous water bodies including Lake Hopatcong, the state's largest lake at 2,658 acres. Winter camping remains limited with average January temperatures around 25°F, though Stokes State Forest stays open year-round with unheated facilities.
What to do
Hiking the Appalachian Trail access points: Several campgrounds near Hopatcong connect to sections of the famous AT. At Stokes State Forest, "There are 21 marked trails that cover over 63 miles within the boundaries of Stokes State Forest. Twelve miles are part of the Appalachian Trail," notes a camper who recommends the Tillman Ravine trail.
Wolf preserve tours: Unique wildlife viewing opportunities exist minutes from camping areas. At Camp Taylor Campground, visitors can access the Lakota Wolf Preserve. One camper mentioned, "The wolf preserve at the same location was just amazing - we learned so much and could hear the wolves howl from the campsite." Tours leave twice daily on weekends.
Paddling multiple waterways: Lakes and rivers provide varied water activities. The Delaware River borders several parks, and lakes offer calmer waters. "The Lake is the gem of the campground with a really nice beach, good for fishing and kayaking," reports a visitor to Panther Lake. Boat rentals are available at many locations, with kayaks and paddleboats being most common.
What campers like
Secluded tent platforms: Elevated camping spots keep tents dry and level. Mahlon Dickerson Reservation features these popular amenities. One camper noted, "They have these 12x12 platforms to put your tent on. This was pretty cool especially since some of the sites are all gravel with surrounding dirt." Another reviewer recommended, "Make sure to visit Headley overlook and hike the awesome trials that surround the campsites!"
Easy water access: Many campers appreciate shoreline camping with immediate water access. "Our campsite was located along the Delaware river with a short walk down to be able to launch our canoe and kayak," reports a visitor at Worthington State Forest. Swimming options range from natural lakes to maintained pool facilities at private campgrounds.
Clean shower facilities: Bathroom quality varies widely between locations. Swartswood State Park receives positive reviews for maintenance. "Clean bathrooms with flush toilets and showers," reports a recent visitor. At Stephens State Park, a camper noted, "Showers here are nice and free and clean, water runs continuously (no button to push), and you can adjust the temperature."
What you should know
Black bear presence: All camping areas in northwestern New Jersey have active black bear populations. "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided," warns a camper at Stokes State Forest. Another visitor reported a bear encounter: "Three black bears strolled by the campsite next to ours in the early morning."
Weekend vs. weekday experience: Crowding patterns affect the camping experience significantly. Great Divide Campground gets particularly busy on weekends. "We had two campers, a 28 ft tow behind and a 38 ft mobile home. We stayed at sites 62 & 63," noted a visitor who appreciated the spaciousness despite the weekend crowd. Midweek visits offer much quieter experiences at all locations.
Varying alcohol policies: Rules differ by location, particularly between state and private facilities. "There are multiple signs posted reading 'NO ALCOHOL ALLOWED IN CAMPGROUND'" noted a visitor to Swartswood State Park. In contrast, Camp Taylor and most private campgrounds permit alcohol, though excessive noise remains prohibited.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water features: Look for campgrounds with swimming areas designed for children. Jenny Jump State Forest offers a more secluded experience. "We stayed at 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." The rushing water provides natural white noise for better sleeping.
Playground proximity: Some campsites offer direct views of play areas. "This place was great, they allow dogs and had hiking trails with beautiful views you could enjoy right from your campground," notes a Jenny Jump visitor. At Worthington State Forest, a family noted, "These two sites were next to the shower house and playground. The facilities were clean, stocked, and warm."
Cabin alternatives: For families new to camping or during shoulder seasons, cabins provide comfort. Stokes State Forest cabins include basic amenities. "The cabins are reasonably priced and well-appointed, if a bit rustic. The interior features are just what you'd expect for getting away for the weekend," explains a fall visitor who adds, "The mattresses are vinyl covered, so you can wipe them down with your own sanitizing wipes."
Tips from RVers
Limited full-hookup options: RV sites with complete services are scarce in state parks. "There are only a handful of full hook up sites surrounded by seasonal cottages," notes a Panther Lake visitor. Some campgrounds have added infrastructure recently, as one camper at Mahlon Dickerson noted: "Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that."
Navigating narrow access roads: Larger rigs face challenges at several locations. Stephens State Park has particularly tight access. "The campground as a whole and the individual sites are kind of tricky for bigger rigs. We are in a 26ft class c and we squeezed through... but I can imagine a big class A or 5th wheel having a tough time," reports an RVer who explored but didn't stay.
Off-season considerations: Some RV sites remain accessible outside peak season. "We went in early September and it was lovely," mentioned a visitor to Panther Lake Camping Resort. At Great Divide Campground, an October visitor noted, "This was our second visit to the campground and the first weekend they opened to RVs after Covid. No amenities were open but we had a great time fishing in the lake."
