Tent campers seeking primitive experiences near Hopewell, New Jersey will find camping options at elevations ranging from near sea level at coastal sites to over 1,200 feet at mountain forest campgrounds. The region's mixed deciduous forests provide natural shade at most tent sites, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 65-85°F. Fall camping offers colorful foliage viewing while spring brings wildflowers to many camping areas.
What to do
Paddle across to your campsite: At Round Valley State Park Campground, tent campers can access sites via water instead of hiking. "Well maintained campsites. Fire pit had a medal grate to cook on. Beautiful area. we paddled in, the water is very clean and crystal clear," notes Riley K.
Explore historical sites: Washington Crossing State Park - TEMP CLOSED FOR 2024 provides access to Revolutionary War history while camping. A visitor shared, "Every year, they re-enact Washington's troops crossing the Delaware! It was VERY cold the year I went. To warm up, there is a small visitor's center where they have a reproduction of the famous painting commemorating the moment."
Bird watching: Fort Washington State Park Campground offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities between camping sessions. According to reviews, "Should you call yourself a bird watcher, you'll be particularly interested as from this very spot you can view the beautiful raptors that migrate here on a seasonal basis in both the Spring and Autumn."
Sleep among lavender fields: For a unique tent camping experience, Pleasant Valley Lavender offers campsites tucked into the woods near fragrant blooms. "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," reports Ellen K.
What campers like
Crystal clear water access: Many tent campers appreciate the water quality at Round Valley State Park Campground. James R. mentions, "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."
Privacy and solitude: Jenny Jump State Forest offers secluded tent sites away from crowds. "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," notes Kelsey K.
Primitive experience with basic amenities: Tent campers appreciate the balance of wilderness with minimal facilities. A Jenny Jump camper shared, "I really enjoyed this campground. Primitive, has bathrooms and water spigots. Good hammocking trees and wasn't crowded at all. Plenty of privacy from other sites."
Cleanliness and maintenance: The tent camping areas receive consistent praise for upkeep. At Tip Tam Camping Resort, a reviewer noted, "The staff and campers are very friendly. Sites are nice and clean. The bathrooms and showers are kept clean. Over all a good place."
What you should know
Campsite access challenges: Some tent sites require significant effort to reach. At Round Valley, a camper explains, "Located just south of I78 and near the small hamlets of Clinton and Lebanon...it has its very own eponymous fresh water reservoir, which spanning some 2,350 acres and is 180 feed deep in the middle."
Early morning noise: Light sleepers should bring earplugs when tent camping at certain locations. At Tip Tam Camping Resort, Bill V. warns, "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."
Strict rules at some locations: Regulations vary significantly between tent camping areas. At Washington Crossing State Park, a frustrated camper reported, "That's NJ. Everything is 'against the rules' though many of us inform them that governments don't own water. What kind of camping is going to bed at 10:00? No dogs no fun no music no booze You might as well just stay home lol."
Wheeled transportation for gear: At Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area, tent campers must haul equipment from parking areas. "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," explains Craig M.
Tips for camping with families
Activities for children: Families seeking the best tent camping near Hopewell, New Jersey should consider resorts with kid-friendly amenities. A Tip Tam visitor mentioned, "The place was fun.. they have peddle cars and playgrounds. They deliver wood to your site by the truck full! Nice little store and staff are all friendly."
Simple cabin options: Boulder Ridge Farm offers a simpler alternative to tent camping with young children. A camper notes, "Great place to escape the stress of every day life. Plenty of fire wood, really cool huge rocks and waking up to owls was awesome."
Shelter accommodations: Jenny Jump State Forest provides enclosed options beyond traditional tents. "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," explains Dwight D.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids enjoy animal sightings during camping trips. Boulder Ridge Farm offers this naturally: "Ashley here with The Dyrt! We'd like to welcome Joe, your host, to our platform! This property is close to town yet so serene. 2WD is fine but 4WD will make your experience getting to the property a bit more smooth. There is an abundance of wildlife and the property is covered in gorgeous boulders."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: For RVers seeking tent sites near Hopewell, options with full services are limited. At Evansburg State Park Campground, a visitor noted, "This hidden gem of a campground is beautiful. there is plenty of hiking trails. only downside is having to haul gear by foot to the campsite. some are further than others."
Consider size limitations: Most tent-focused camping areas near Hopewell have restrictions on RV length. Jenny Jump State Forest can accommodate smaller RVs but requires advance planning. "This campground is a nice little hideaway not too far from the beaten path. You can hear some of the highway sounds from the campsites (especially the jake brake)," advises Seth K.
Pack-in requirements: Even at RV-friendly campgrounds, many tent sites require walking. At Sandy Hook, "No cars are permitted in the campground, so you will have to lug your gear to your spot so choose wisely my friends!"
