Tent campsites near Johnsonburg, New Jersey sit within the northern Highlands region at elevations between 700-1,500 feet. This area experiences more significant temperature variations than surrounding lowlands, with summer nights often 10-15 degrees cooler than daytime highs. Fall camping seasons typically extend later than other New Jersey regions due to the moderating influence of the Delaware River watershed.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: 10-minute hike from Walter's Boat In Campsites provides access to several cascades. "After another 1/2 mile and there are no other campsites for more than 20 miles, and those are private or reserved sites," notes John B., making this location strategic for waterfall enthusiasts.
Mountain hiking options: 90-minute round trip to Mount Tammany summit from river access points. "It has a moderate difficulty hike that takes about an hour an a half round trip to complete, but it has the most incredible view. You have to go to the top if you get here," recommends a Walter's campsite visitor.
Paddling routes: 4-mile water trail from Milford Beach to Namanock Island offers novice-friendly paddling. "Paddle about 4 miles to the site 12, the first site on the right side of nomanock island," advises Sean M., who cautions about return trips: "Took about 4.5 hours to paddle 3 miles then had to wave down a boat to tow me the rest of the mile."
Night sky observation: Zero light pollution at island campsites provides exceptional stargazing opportunities. "Once darkness falls there are no lights to be seen in either direction, up or down river," reports John B. about Namanock Island, noting "an incredible view of the night sky."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Most Jenny Jump State Forest sites maintain good separation. "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: Maintained bathrooms receive consistent positive comments. "The bathroom/shower was only a few steps away which was convenient and clean," notes a Jenny Jump visitor, while Seth K. adds: "Bathrooms were standard, compost toilets. The showers were free and generally quite hot."
Site terrain variety: Campsites offer different terrain options based on equipment needs. At Jenny Jump, "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," advises Seth K., suggesting pre-research for tent campers.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The riparian corridor provides excellent wildlife spotting. "Saw tons of bald eagles flying near the site and while paddles birds playing and baby geese with their mommas!" reports Sean M. from his stay at Namanock Island.
What you should know
Early arrival recommended: Kittatinny Valley State Park Campground fills quickly during peak seasons. "Four spots across the public park. You'll see deer and rabbits it's really spacious and beautiful. Site A is the best for seclusion and a spot closer to the lake," advises Bee L.
Variable water access: Some sites require filtering while others have pumps. "I really enjoyed this campground. Primitive, has bathrooms and water spigots," notes Lindsay D. about Jenny Jump, while others mention filtering water from natural sources.
Highway noise impacts: Some sites experience traffic sounds. At Jenny Jump, "You can hear some of the highway sounds from the campsites (especially the jake brake)," mentions Seth K., while another camper notes: "My only complaint is that the noise from the highway was quite loud at night."
Seasonal campground closures: Most established campgrounds operate April through October. Shoulder season camping may require primitive sites with fewer amenities, and winter camping options are extremely limited in this region.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Rivers Bend Group Campground provides multi-level sites suitable for children. "I enjoyed the overnight camp out with my kids and they had a blast. Nice size primitive tent site we had and was nice for beginner camping," shares Scott O.
Educational opportunities: Local geology and history offer learning experiences. "Large field with multiple group campsites with bearboxes, fire pit and garbage cans at each site," notes Christopher W. about Rivers Bend, adding the "flat brook that funnels out into a large 'U' bend of the Delaware river" provides natural science lessons.
Weather preparation: Temperature swings require extra planning. Pack additional layers regardless of season, as river valley temperatures can drop significantly after sunset even during summer months.
Trail accessibility: Many campgrounds connect directly to hiking systems. "The campgrounds and bathrooms were clean and well kept. Great place to get away for the weekend with the family!!!" mentions Fransheska A., noting Jenny Jump's proximity to trails you can "enjoy right from your campground."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most RV sites near Johnsonburg offer minimal services. A Camp Mohican Outdoor Center visitor notes that "The lodge has bathrooms and a small store" but most RV sites are primitive with no hookups.
Access road restrictions: Many campgrounds have narrow entry roads. "I stayed at the Mohican Outdoor Center (MOC) in Nov while section hiking from the Del. Water Gap to the NY State Line," explains Richard M., noting facilities are "what I expected" but access requires careful navigation.
Alternative accommodation options: Several campgrounds offer cabin alternatives for non-tent campers. "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!" shares Dwight D. about Jenny Jump's shelters, describing them as having "four walls, a roof, locking door, locking windows, large picture frame front window, four beds, a wood burning stove, and a porch."
Site selection criteria: Research specific site amenities before booking. "We've been here multiple times. It's so peaceful up there and the scenery is lovely. The last time we were there we were at site 28 which was nice and secluded but the smell from the pit toilets wafted over after a while," advises Katrina Z. at Jenny Jump.
