Campgrounds surrounding Johnsonburg, New Jersey provide a range of accommodations throughout the Kittatinny Mountains and Delaware Water Gap region. Jenny Jump State Forest offers cabin shelters and tent sites while maintaining privacy between campsites, with several reviewers noting the spacious layout. Worthington State Forest Campground in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area supports tent and RV camping with boat, drive-in, and walk-in access options. Great Divide Campground in nearby Newton features tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and even glamping yurts, making it popular for families seeking more amenities.
The camping season in this region typically runs from April through October, with a few facilities like the Delaware Water Gap KOA remaining open year-round. "It's so peaceful up there and the scenery is lovely," noted one camper about Jenny Jump State Forest. Most campgrounds require reservations, especially during summer weekends and holidays. Terrain varies considerably, with some sites situated on steeper slopes while others offer more level ground. Weather can be a factor, as temperatures drop significantly at night even in summer months, with one visitor reporting "a cold night, 24°F" during an early April stay. Several campgrounds prohibit alcohol consumption, particularly within state forest and recreation areas.
Campers consistently highlight the hiking opportunities as a primary attraction at Jenny Jump and Worthington State Forest. Trail access directly from campsites allows visitors to explore without relocating vehicles. Swimming facilities vary by location, with Great Divide Campground offering a pool that receives positive mentions in reviews. Sites with water access tend to be particularly sought-after, especially during warmer months. A visitor described the Great Divide as having "beautiful setting" where "the sites have a nice amount of space and everything is so clean." Proximity to New York City makes these campgrounds popular weekend destinations, with multiple reviewers noting they make repeat visits each year. The region balances accessibility with natural setting, providing adequate facilities while maintaining a forest experience.
"Full bathrooms are located behind campsite #15 (clean flushing bathrooms, with motion-sensed lighting, showers, dishwashing sink), but easily accessible from campsites nearby."
"Bathrooms with flush toilets are conveniently located centrally every so often."
$33 - $42 / night
"Positives: sites are decent sized with fire pits and picnic tables. easy access to hiking, convenient to a beautiful vineyard, peaceful region, and the most amazing wolf preserve is right next to you. "
"They were knowledgeable about the surrounding towns, their campground, and basically everything nature related. This was our very first night camping in an RV (we were renters at the time)."
"Our 4rth state in our 5 state trip is New Jersey! We wanted to see Delaware Water Gap NRA & I found a campground by Newton called The Great Divide. This is a private campground."
"All the positive reviews about this place are accurate! Beautiful, clean, well maintained, lots to do, great value for your $$"
"The bathroom/shower was only a few steps away which was convenient and clean."
"All the sites are set up nearby the office where people are all day should you ever need anything. The workers are super friendly and regularly make rounds of the grounds."
"Panther lake was a pretty good campground with lots of spots to camp at. Our campsite had a picnic bench and a fire ring. They offer both RV and primitive camping."
"The Lake is the gem of the campground with a really nice beach, good for fishing and kayaking. The negatives were the bathrooms. They are very primitive and quite dirty."
$7 - $55 / night
"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 will soothe you to sleep."
"We stayed at the campsite at Lake Ocquittunk Area. Campsite was very spacious and had a platform where we were able to fit two tents. There was plenty of space on the site for more tents."
"We booked a campsite at the far end of the loop by the lake, which looked to be the right spot for some privacy, but a longer walk to the bathroom and water spigot."
"The campsites are slightly separated from the lake (maybe 8 min walk to lake) but that also means you aren’t bothered by day guests. The lake is beautiful! Great for swimming and fishing."
$64 - $74 / night
"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."
"Driftstone is a gem of a campground at a great location on the Delaware. Easy access to Delaware Gap Recreation Area. Sites are pretty spacious with water and electric hookups."
"Love the Campground except our site is near a fairly busy road which takes away from that beautiful tranquility. They have camouflaged it as best they could. Friendly staff. Lots to do."
"Close to Bushkill Falls which we hiked. 👍"
$45 - $250 / night
"We wish there was easier access to bike and hike trails so we didn't have to drive to a location but overall a comfortable and positive experience."
"We were very into socially distancing, and said so when we made our reservation. We were assigned a perfect site for this."
ScoutThought it was super cool that the owner of the campsite came through to see if anyone needed anything and make sure everything was going okay, I also thought the 5 gallon jug of water was a nice touch. The site was nicely laid out and had a great view of the gorge. Loved that we were back in the trees for a little more privacy. My dogs had a great time as well.
GuideThis was by far the worst campground we have ever stayed at. First of all, the campground is basically just a large open field where everyone is on display. There is absolutely no privacy. If that's not enough and you want even more attention, choose a site near the playground, where you'll have a constant audience. The bathrooms were also extremely dirty and poorly maintained, which only added to the overall disappointing experience. The biggest issue, however, is the complete lack of quiet hours enforcement. Until at least 1:00 AM, there were screaming children, loud groups of intoxicated adults, and nonstop noise. It felt more like a chaotic party zone than a campground. There seemed to be no rules, no supervision, and no consideration for people who actually came to relax. The sites farther back in the woods offer a little more privacy, but don't expect peace and quiet there either. This campground may be fine if your goal is to drink and party outdoors, but if you're looking for a relaxing camping experience, I would strongly recommend staying elsewhere. The only positive part of our stay was seeing a few baby deer wandering through the campground. They were adorable and ended up being the highlight of our trip.
Travelerwe loved both of our stays here! it was mine and my partner’s first time camping and we had a great experience. the layout was really nice, and easy to get to. the bathrooms were really close to walk to and VERY clean! the only issue we faced was the closeness of the other campsites. we went during off season and during the week, so it didn’t really affect us but i can see how this place can get crowded and a little noisy during peak season. with all the being said, it was WONDERFUL!! we LOVED the late checkout (3pm) and loved the peaceful atmosphere! i would definitely recommend this place for beginner campers!
GuidePulling into Site 11 at Edgemere Flag Ridge feels like discovering a hidden campsite that most people pass right by. The site sits comfortably off the beaten path, giving it a secluded feel without being difficult to reach. Access was easy and any standard vehicle should have no trouble getting in. Traffic on the adjoining road was minimal, which added to the quiet atmosphere.
Amenities are basic, consisting of a picnic table and fire ring, so do not expect much beyond the essentials. That said, the surrounding woods made up for it with plenty of easy to gather firewood nearby, which was a refreshing change from some other public sites.
At night, the sky opened up nicely for stargazing and made for a peaceful camping experience. Cell service was intermittent, enough to occasionally check in if needed but spotty enough to still feel disconnected. If you are looking for a quiet, simple campsite with a sense of seclusion and easy access, this one is worth considering.
ScoutThe campsite is beautiful and lovely to walk around, the outside campground cats are the best part though ❣️
ScoutWe stopped here overnight on our way down south. Very convenient location, nice large lawn with beautiful tall shade trees, bathroom was extremely clean and you can see were just recently renovated. They had a pool and some basic playground equipment. Pet friendly. You have to enter the camping area by driving through an RV and truck storage area first. We would stay here again .
GuideStayed at Silver Lake for a two night camping trip and overall had a solid experience, with a few drawbacks.
The campsite itself is decent in size and easy to set up on, but it’s located along a fairly active road. Expect a couple vehicles per hour, including louder trucks, which takes away from the secluded feel. There are also signs the area may have been used for roadwork dumping in the past, with some leftover blacktop visible.
That said, the site works well for a functional camp. Plenty of nearby downed wood for fires, and the area has a good “working camp” feel if you don’t mind putting in a little effort. We had no issue gathering firewood and keeping a fire going, even after rain.
Weather was rainy for most of the trip, but a simple canopy setup made it manageable. The site drains reasonably well and didn’t turn into a mess.
Wildlife wise, ticks were present, so plan accordingly with repellent and checks.
We also had a brief visit from a forest ranger checking on smoke in the area. Interaction was professional and quick.
Overall, this is a good spot if you’re looking for a straightforward, no frills campsite and don’t mind some road noise. If you’re prioritizing privacy and a true backwoods feel, you may want to explore other sites in Delaware State Forest.
RangerI've hiked the A.T. through New Jersey, and this is probably my favorite NJ A.T. campsite. The only downside is that there is no water, so depending on which way you come in (nobo or sobo), you'll have to collect water before you get here from either Sunfish Pond, or one of the streams before the climb up here. There are 2 privies, one newer, and also a great spot to watch the sunset. Plenty of campsites, and during peak season there is a caretaker on site.
RangerWe enjoyed our first winter camping trip in our travel trailer at Stokes State Forest! The Shotwell area has trailer/tent sites as well.as enclosed mini cabins (think lean-to but with 4 walls). The bathroom is heated and kept clean. Lots of trails to explore, including the Appalachian Trail nearby! Great experience, we'll be back!
Camping spots near Johnsonburg, New Jersey range from secluded forest settings to riverside locations along the Delaware. The Kittatinny Mountains provide varied terrain with elevations from 400 to 1,600 feet throughout the region. Night temperatures can drop below freezing even in spring, with a recorded low of 24°F in April at some campgrounds.
Hiking to the Lakota Wolf Preserve: At Camp Taylor Campground, visitors can take a short hike to see wolves in a sanctuary. "There are moments by the fire you can hear them howl in the distance. It's one of our favorite places to camp," notes Julie F. The preserve offers educational tours with discounted rates for campers.
Paddling on the Delaware River: Several campgrounds offer direct river access for kayaking and canoeing. "Perfect site on the Delaware with a short walk down to be able to launch our canoe and kayak," writes Mitchell E. about Worthington State Forest Campground. The water is warm enough for comfortable paddling through summer and early fall.
Exploring Ghost Lake: Located within Jenny Jump State Forest, this uniquely named lake provides an interesting hiking destination. "Nice big group site and fun walk to Ghost Lake," reports Doug W. The trail system connects directly to campsite areas, allowing for exploration without driving.
Privacy between sites: Many campers value the space and separation at certain campgrounds. At Jenny Jump State Forest, "the camp sites are nicely laid out to ensure privacy. This park is high up on a mountain and affords lovely views," according to Jocelyn G. Sites tend to be more secluded in the higher-numbered areas.
Clean facilities: Maintenance standards are frequently mentioned in reviews. "The bathroom/shower was only a few steps away which was convenient and clean," notes Kelsey K. about her experience at Jenny Jump. Similarly, at Driftstone Campground, a camper mentioned "the bathrooms are super clean and had the nicest showers I have ever seen at a campground."
Free boat rentals: Some campgrounds offer complimentary watercraft. "Kids had lots of fun on the free kayaks and pool," reports Jojo P. about Great Divide Campground. These amenities make water activities more accessible for families without needing to bring or rent equipment elsewhere.
Terrain challenges: The topography can be difficult for some camping setups. "Campgrounds have lots of hills so be prepared to hike up and down," warns Jojo P. about Great Divide. At Stokes State Forest, "the sites are hit or miss in terms of comfort, some have large, flat, clear spaces for multiple tents, some you have to wedge a tent to avoid rocks," says Seth K.
Wildlife awareness: This region requires proper precautions for local wildlife. "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes," advises one reviewer about Stokes State Forest. Several campgrounds post warning signs and provide guidance on safe food storage.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "We arrived at our site later than the check in time, had a bit of trouble finding it but once we did it was easy enough," shares Christine N. about Worthington State Forest. Weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day typically require booking weeks or months in advance.
Look for campgrounds with scheduled activities: Families appreciate organized programming. "They had different activities. And had (socially distanced) trick or treating for kids!" notes Angela about Mountain Vista Campground. The campground's calendar often includes craft sessions, movie nights, and seasonal celebrations.
Choose sites near playgrounds: Strategic site selection helps with child entertainment. At Delaware Water Gap KOA, "a big playground was directly in front of us, which worked out perfectly since we have school age kids," shares Penny C. These locations allow parents to supervise from their campsite while preparing meals or relaxing.
Prepare for varying water conditions: Swimming options differ significantly between locations. At Swartswood State Park, "There are picnic spots right on the lake if you want to spend the afternoon at the lake," explains Ethan K. Some campgrounds maintain designated swimming areas while others prohibit water entry due to underwater hazards.
Mind the road access: Some campgrounds have challenging approach roads. At Driftstone Campground, "PLEASE NOTE: if you are towing or have a motorhome, make sure you follow the directions on the website. Coming in from the wrong road could lead you to a hairpin turn and steep hill," warns Jim G. GPS directions often route vehicles on unsuitable roads.
Check site dimensions carefully: Size restrictions vary significantly between campgrounds. "Only a handful of full hook up sites surrounded by seasonal cottages. Other area of the place had water and electric but it would be hard to get in/out of if it had rained a lot as it was all on soft grass," reports April L. about Panther Lake Campground.
Consider alternative accommodations: Several campgrounds offer cabin options for those without RVs. "If you want, they have the option of renting a small cabin/shelter that you can stay in if you are not into tent camping," explains Ethan K. about Jenny Jump State Forest. These options typically include basic amenities like beds and electricity without the need for hookups.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Johnsonburg, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, Johnsonburg, NJ offers a wide range of camping options, with 202 campgrounds and RV parks near Johnsonburg, NJ and 5 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Johnsonburg, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Johnsonburg, NJ is Worthington State Forest Campground — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area with a 4.5-star rating from 39 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Johnsonburg, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 free dispersed camping spots near Johnsonburg, NJ.
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