Motorhome and trailer camping options surround Kinnelon, located in the hilly Highlands region of northern New Jersey at elevations ranging from 600-900 feet. The area features deciduous forest camping with seasonal considerations including snow closure at some facilities from November through March. Most RV campgrounds near Kinnelon have paved or gravel sites with varying hookup configurations to accommodate different rig sizes.
What to do
Hiking access: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation provides direct trail connections to multiple hiking routes within the 3,500-acre park. "There are plenty of trails, water (creeks, pond, lake) views and even if the place is packed there is PLENTY of room," notes camper John S. The reservation features woodland paths leading to Headley Overlook with regional views.
NYC day trips: RV campers staying at Liberty Harbor RV Park can reach Manhattan via public transportation without moving their rig. "The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8. Getting in and out of the city is an adventure. Stay right off the highway to avoid the $30 tunnel toll," advises Joe R. The ferry service runs daily with schedules posted at the campground office.
Water activities: Swimming and fishing opportunities exist at several nearby lakes including Budd Lake and Lake Hopatcong within 20 miles of Kinnelon. "We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful," writes Paulene-Amanda M. about water access at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation. Most lakes in the region permit fishing with appropriate New Jersey state licenses.
What campers like
Spacious wooded sites: The region offers camping in forested settings with good separation between sites. At Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort, "Rv sites were mostly pretty flat, spacious and in a wooded area which we loved. Visited in October so leaves were falling and it was perfect weather," reports Janelle G. Many campgrounds maintain tree cover for shade and privacy between campsites.
Farm animals: Several campgrounds maintain small livestock collections that campers can visit. "The farm has goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground. Very cool," mentions Faith D. about Pleasant Acres. Another camper adds, "Important to not miss: the amazingly beautiful miniature horse that wonders around its huge pin located in the middle of the campground," notes Ethan K.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds with well-maintained restrooms receive consistent positive feedback. "The bathhouse was above average and heated. The laundry was helpful and was acceptable," reports Joe R. about Liberty Harbor RV Park. Another camper at Woodland Trails RV and Campground noted, "The bathrooms and garbages were cleaned daily. Showers and toilets were spotless the entire time we were there."
What you should know
Price variations: Campground rates fluctuate significantly depending on proximity to New York City. "This is a pricey park, but options are limited. As in almost non-existent. This is a prime location for visiting the city or heading down the shore," explains a Liberty Harbor RV Park reviewer. Regional campgrounds charge between $35-120 per night based on location, hookups, and seasonality.
Reservation requirements: Most facilities require advance booking with different reservation windows. "We had to come to the area kind of last minute, and they were very accommodating!" notes an Erin N. about Mountain Top RV Park. During peak fall foliage season (October), campgrounds often book completely several weeks ahead.
Location trade-offs: Campgrounds closer to major highways provide easier access but more noise. "Located just off the highway so lots of vehicle noise 24/7. Sites are on a gravel lot. Restrooms are clean. Not much else to say about this CG, is just a parking lot with hookups," reports Michael H. about Tri-State RV Park. More remote campgrounds offer better natural settings but require longer drives to services.
Tips for camping with families
Animal attractions: Children particularly enjoy campgrounds with farm animals. "My daughter loved the horses and goats," shares Erin S. about Pleasant Acres Farm. Another family notes, "Plenty to occupy the kids. Playground, hayride, animals to feed (goats, chickens, donkey and pony). There were some organized activities which was nice."
Playground options: Several campgrounds maintain play equipment for younger visitors. "They have a small playground, a mini golf, and a large dog walk," observes Bill B. Mountain Top RV Park features "a newly upgraded camp infrastructure elevated the stay, providing amenities for comfort and entertainment. The family-friendly atmosphere was evident through the thoughtfully designed property, including an updated pool, playground, game room."
Wildlife awareness: Black Bear RV Park and other facilities in the Highlands region have established wildlife protocols. "There are a lot of bear warnings here so that gave us a bit of pause with our three little boys," writes Greg S. about camping at Mahlon Dickerson. Campground rules typically include proper food storage requirements to minimize wildlife encounters.
Tips from RVers
Hookup realities: Water connection distances vary significantly between sites. "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," shares a reviewer at Mahlon Dickerson. Carrying extra hose lengths proves useful at several regional campgrounds.
Size limitations: Big rig access varies substantially between facilities. "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill," notes one camper about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation. However, other campgrounds have tighter configurations: "Sites kind of level and very close. Power and water, and convenient dump station if staying and needing to dump."
Winter operation: Year-round camping options exist but with limited services. "We are returning to the south after spending a couple months of fall in New England... This was our first stop and primarily chosen because it was one of the few places along our route that was open for RVs in the off season," writes Gabbie Y. about Black Bear RV Park. Winter campers should verify which facilities remain operational during colder months.
