Northern New Jersey's Skylands region around Hopatcong sits at elevations ranging from 900-1,200 feet, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions with cool nights even in summer. The area features glacial lakes carved during the last ice age that provide fishing and swimming opportunities. Campgrounds near Hopatcong offer diverse accommodations including several options for yurt camping within a 30-minute drive.
What to do
Hiking the Appalachian Trail: Stokes State Forest offers direct access to this iconic trail. "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," notes one visitor. The forest features 21 marked trails covering over 63 miles.
Wolf preserve visits: Take a short walk from your campsite to witness wolves in their natural habitat. "You can take a short hike up the mountain there to see the wolves in the sanctuary. There are moments by the fire you can hear them howl in the distance," shares a camper about their experience.
Paddling and fishing: Many lakes in the area provide excellent water recreation opportunities. "Panther Lake's namesake water feature provides fishing opportunities without leaving the property," notes a reviewer. Lake Ocquittunk at Stokes State Forest is known for "amazingly clear water" with "clear streams and lake" that are "stunning overall."
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Jenny Jump State Forest receives praise for its seclusion. "My husband and I tent camped in #34 with our dog. The space was reasonably priced, but we did have to pay an extra $5/day for our dog. However, we didn't mind as it was so private we felt like we had the entire Park to ourselves," shares one camper.
Yurt camping options: For those seeking yurt camping near Hopatcong, New Jersey, several campgrounds provide these unique accommodations. "Great Divide Campground has covered wagons which I believe you can sleep in, but I did not pursue this option," notes one camper, describing the alternative glamping structures available alongside traditional yurts in the area.
Peaceful lake views: Swartswood State Park earns high marks for its scenic setting. "Beautiful park with nice campsites and even better views of the lake!" reports a camper. The park features "a nice lake with seating every so often and a boat dock ramp thing in the campground."
What you should know
Noise levels vary by campground: Some locations enforce quiet hours strictly while others allow late-night activities. "Great Divide Campground has very good about actually enforcing the quiet hours at night, so you can have an actual peaceful and quiet night around the campfire," notes a frequent visitor.
Bear awareness is essential: This region has active black bear populations. "Three black bears strolled by the campsite next to ours in the early morning — gave us more of an energy boost after a sleepless night than our coffee!" reports one camper at Swartswood State Park.
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have poor connectivity. "And good luck getting cell service! It's like a black hole of signals there," warns a camper about one location. Another notes, "While I did not take advantage, you are allowed to rent boats and take them out on the lake."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Camp Taylor Campground offers excellent family amenities. "It's GREAT for kids. A nice playground with tons of kids running all over. The swimming pond is pleasant and great to cool off in," reports a family camper. The campground also features mini-golf and kayak rentals.
Reserve group sites early: For family reunions or large gatherings, book well in advance. "My college friends go here each year to meet up and we have so much fun. The group sites are great and perfect for our 30-50 people," notes a reviewer about Kittatinny Campground.
Consider tent platforms: Many sites provide raised platforms that keep tents dry and comfortable. "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," explains a Mahlon Dickerson visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: High Point State Park presents some difficulties for trailers. "We have a trailer and the 'trailer' sites aren't level. Showers are at the day use area, from 10-5:30, no trailer dump, website says laundry, but apparently not," advises an RVer who stayed there.
Hose length requirements: Some water hookups are positioned far from RV sites. "Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that. Our site (15) said 75' however the 50' hose reel made it to our rv connection," notes a visitor to Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Winter RV options: Several campgrounds in the region offer extended 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. Water and electric hookups and a dump station."
