Northern New Jersey's Highlands region surrounding Ironia sits at approximately 850-900 feet above sea level, creating cooler summer temperatures than nearby urban areas. The region features mixed hardwood forests dominated by oak and maple trees that create vibrant fall color displays from late September through October. Most campgrounds in this area operate seasonally from April through October, with limited winter camping options available.
What to do
Hiking to Ghost Lake: At Jenny Jump State Forest, multiple trails connect directly to campsites. "Nice big group site and fun walk to Ghost Lake," notes Doug W., who appreciates the historical elements of the area combined with natural features.
Wolf preserve tours: Camp Taylor Campground offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities through its connection to the Lakota Wolf Preserve. "There is a section of RV spots that are each cut out in the woods so very private... 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," describes Julie F.
Kayaking and fishing: Multiple water access points provide recreational opportunities. "Panther lake was a pretty good campground with lots of spots to camp at... The lake and pool were a big plus, especially for hot days. While I did not take advantage, you are allowed to rent boats and take them out on the lake," reports Ethan K.
What campers like
Site privacy levels: Some campgrounds offer more seclusion than others. At Round Valley State Park Campground, "Located just south of I78 and near the small hamlets of Clinton and Lebanon, what I love most about Round Valley SP is the fact that it has its very own eponymous fresh water reservoir, which spanning some 2,350 acres and is 180 feed deep in the middle," explains Stuart K., detailing the park's remote feel.
Clean facilities: Many campers highlight well-maintained amenities. "The campground was wonderful. Our site:29 was plenty big enough for a large tent and a hammock. We could have easily fit another large tent. It was set back from the road and shady. The bathrooms and showers were clean," reports Barbara S. about Stephens State Park.
Family activities: Organized recreation options provide entertainment beyond hiking. "Panther lake was a pretty good campground with lots of spots to camp at... The welcome center has a store where you can buy essentials you may have forgotten and then some (cold drinks, milk, cups, pans, condiments, ice cream, etc.). There is an arcade room (fun for kids but kind of an odd thing to have at a campsite in my opinion)," notes Ethan K.
What you should know
Bear awareness: Wildlife encounters require proper precautions. "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 Kaitlyn S. at Swartswood State Park Campground.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies significantly between locations. "Fun camping place to books groups. Very kid and pet friendly, lake to fish and kayak on, lots of activities, great pool and awesome hot tub. Only down side is that even though they say they have wifi, you can't hook up to it unless you are at the pavilion. And good luck getting cell service! its like a black hole of signals there," notes Cynthia H.
Seasonal availability: Most pet-friendly camping near Ironia, New Jersey operates within specific timeframes. "Great family run campground. Owners are a blast. Most sites are level. Some areas are a little steeper then I would like to set up on, but that's me. Nice small lake with boats to use. Nice small beach. Lots of weekend activities," explains Scott N. about seasonal offerings.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: For families with children, activity areas provide entertainment. At Great Divide Campground, "Easy access from Rt 80 and located close to the Lakota Wolf Preserve. With tours leaving them campground twice a day on both Saturday and Sundays for the wolf preserve, I was glad there was camping so close... A small lake for swimming and boating. And lots of trails linking you to the Delaware river water gap area," describes Denise D.
Swimming options: Water access points offer cooling opportunities during summer months. "This is a beautiful campground with much to do around the grounds themselves. They had live music which was actually really good!!! A reggae band. We found plenty of trails to hike with our two dogs... The sites could be very close depending upon where u go," reports Julie about Great Divide Campground.
Tent platforms: Some sites offer raised platforms for easier setup. "I have been camping for many years but I chose Mahlon Dickerson for my first solo trip. Super easy to book. Easy to find on a gps and even if you lose service there are signs marking the reservation campground! Very clean and the area is beautiful. They have these 12x12 platforms to put your tent on," explains Christina L.
Tips from RVers
Water hookups: RVers should note water access points. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, "Very clean and quiet. 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. Trash dumpster is an easy walk and the dump station has a flush hose point," notes camper antruze.
Site leveling challenges: Some locations present terrain difficulties. "Driftstone is set on a beautiful location on the Delaware River. River Road on which it is located, is picturesque and quiet enough to run, walk or bike on... The sites are all large, and easy to get in and out of. Sites include water, electric and cable. There is an inexpensive pump out service available daily," reports Kathy G.
RV size limitations: Larger rigs may have difficulty at certain campgrounds. "It would be very difficult to be bored at Driftstone-- games, activities, swimming, boating, plenty of open field for the kids... A group of us stayed in the back,'west' area. The sites were large and secluded but grassy and a bit uneven and it seemed to be like this across the board. No sewer hookups and the dump station is difficult to get in and out with larger rigs," cautions Jim G.
