The Johnsonburg area sits at approximately 900 feet elevation in northwestern New Jersey's Kittatinny Mountains, with camping options ranging from primitive forest sites to full-service family campgrounds. Seasonal temperatures fluctuate significantly, with summer daytime temperatures typically reaching 80-85°F and dropping to the 50s at night. Camping areas feature mixed hardwood forests dominated by oak, maple and hickory trees.
What to do
Hiking the Appalachian Trail: Access points near Camp Taylor Campground connect directly to this iconic trail. "Camp Taylor Campground is located on the Delaware Water Gap Mtn. There are miles of hiking trails and direct access to the Appalachian Tr," shares Jean T., who particularly enjoyed the mountain views.
Wolf preserve visits: The Lakota Wolf Preserve located at Camp Taylor offers educational tours. As Julie F. mentions, "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."
Lake activities: Swartswood State Park offers swimming, fishing, and boating on its 500-acre lake. "The lake is beautiful! Great for swimming and fishing. There are several trail hikes that you can do from the campsite," according to Ethan K., who appreciated the variety of outdoor options.
Kayaking and paddleboats: Several campgrounds rent equipment for water activities. Dan B. notes that Camp Taylor has "paddleboats, mini golf, swimming in the lake" and that they "keep all of the facilities updated and in great shape."
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Jenny Jump State Forest receives high marks for spacious, secluded camping spots. "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," reports Kelsey K.
Clean facilities: Most dog friendly campgrounds near Johnsonburg maintain well-kept bathrooms and shower areas. Regarding Driftstone Campground, Elke P. notes "The bathrooms are super clean and had the nicest showers I have ever seen at a campground."
Wildlife encounters: Campers often spot deer, turkey, and other wildlife. At Camp Taylor, Dina S. "saw wild turkeys and deer in the morning. The wolf preserve at the same location was just amazing - we learned so much and could hear the wolves howl from the campsite."
Family activities: Scheduled events keep children entertained at most campgrounds. "They had different activities. And had (socially distanced) trick or treating for kids!" shares Angela about her Halloween weekend at Mountain Vista Campground.
What you should know
Bear country precautions: Proper food storage is essential throughout the region. Trip Over Life notes at Stokes State Forest: "This is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes."
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds operate from April through October. W L. shares about Stokes State Forest's off-season options: "Rented a cabin in November (#009) and again in December (#008) of 2021... The cabins are reasonably priced and well-appointed, if a bit rustic."
Site selection matters: Campground layouts vary significantly. Rob M. advises about Swartswood State Park: "There are about 50 camp sites but many of them, from 1 to 30ish are wide open with ZERO privacy. That said, it's great for large groups that book a few sites next to each other."
Limited dog-friendly sites: Some parks restrict which sites allow pets. "There are only 4 dog friendly sites, which we need. They are 42-45. Be careful with site 44, no good place for a tent," notes Rob M. about Swartswood.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds and water activities: Panther Lake Camping Resort offers multiple kid-friendly amenities. "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," according to Cynthia H.
Book early for holiday weekends: Popular pet-friendly campgrounds fill quickly during peak times. Jojo P. shares about Panther Lake: "We went on 4th of July weekend so the place was packed. We were able to get a secluded spot in the woods which was great! 2 teenage girls had a blast in the lake and riding their bikes around."
Consider the site location carefully: Some family-friendly sites trade privacy for convenience. Penny C. notes about Delaware Water Gap KOA: "Our camp site was great (52), backed onto a wooded area and a big playground was directly in front of us, which worked out perfectly since we have school age kids."
Check for scheduled activities: Many campgrounds host regular events. "We enjoyed this campground! The pool was closed for the season when we were there, but the kids were able to enjoy an awesome playground and bounce pad...They REALLY enjoyed the art classes & the gem mining," says Jimmy L. about the Delaware Water Gap KOA.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling and surfaces: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers paved, level sites. "The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large. Water and electric hookups and a dump station," shares Jeff W.
Water connection distances: Some campgrounds have extended water hookup reaches. Regarding Mahlon Dickerson, antruze notes, "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."
Access road considerations: Be aware of approach routes at some campgrounds. Jim G. warns about Delaware Water Gap KOA: "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."
Electric service types: Check amperage availability before booking. Nancymike K. found Mahlon Dickerson Reservation accommodating: "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill. Peaceful. Close to train to N.Y. City."
Legend
