In Hunterdon County, New Jersey, the Delaware River valley creates a unique camping environment with terrain ranging from 100 to 500 feet in elevation. Camping near Lambertville offers sites with varying soil conditions—sandy riverside spots to more compacted clay in wooded areas. Campgrounds typically experience seasonal temperature swings with summer highs reaching 85-95°F, while spring and fall camping months average 45-70°F with higher precipitation.
What to do
Kayaking on the Delaware River: Launch from Spruce Run Recreation Area where you can rent equipment during summer months. "The grounds are full of grass which makes my tent easy to pitch. Most campsite has a view of the Reservoir when sundown has amazing sunsets," notes a camper at Spruce Run Recreation Area.
Fishing in multiple waterways: Both reservoirs and streams offer different fishing experiences. At Mountainview Campground, campers appreciate the riverside access. "Stayed at one of the primitive sites. Very clean and quite. Great spot for stargazing," shares one visitor who enjoyed the peaceful riverside setting.
Whitewater experience: For more advanced paddlers, scheduled dam releases create challenging rapids. "They open the dam up stream for some world class whitewater rafting," explains a camper from Tohickon Valley County Park. These releases typically happen twice yearly—once in early spring and once in fall.
Rock exploration: Bring a hammer to create musical sounds at nearby formations. "Lovely trails and the rocks are something else," describes a visitor to Ringing Rocks Family Campground. This unique geological feature allows rocks to produce bell-like tones when struck.
What campers like
Stargazing opportunities: The region offers several low light-pollution zones ideal for astronomy. "Great spot for stargazing. Owners are very nice," mentions a visitor to Mountainview Campground, highlighting the clear night skies away from urban centers.
Fall foliage views: Campsites along ridgelines provide exceptional color viewing from mid-October through early November. "The drive up to this place was so breathtaking the entire way. Adorable little mountain houses, with bridges that go over a stream to get to their front door," explains a camper at Mountainview Campground who visited during autumn.
Wildlife observation: Early morning and dusk offer prime wildlife viewing at several locations. A Round Valley camper shared: "We paddled in, the water is very clean and crystal clear." Many sites report frequent deer sightings, with some featuring waterfowl habitat near ponds and reservoirs.
Cabin options for non-tenters: Multiple parks offer cabin alternatives with varying amenities. At Nockamixon State Park, "The cabins are full electric with heat and are well appointed. It was an excellent fall trip location for a family with young children."
What you should know
Reservation timing matters: Peak summer weekends fill 2-3 months in advance, especially waterfront sites. "We were here at the end of September and there were only a few other campers. The sites are a decent distance from each other. It was nice and quiet," notes a visitor at Tohickon Valley County Park, highlighting the benefit of off-peak camping.
Varying alcohol policies: Rules differ significantly between state parks and private campgrounds. One Round Valley State Park camper advises: "The hike is a 3 mile minimum 6 max. The view was KILLER. The water is crystal clear, the area is clean." Note that alcohol is prohibited at New Jersey state parks.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies dramatically by carrier and topography. "Cell phone service is limited—last time I was up there in 2012 only people with Verizon Wireless had any reception," explains a camper from Tohickon Valley County Park.
Road access challenges: Some campgrounds have vehicle restrictions or limited entry points. "The drive to our site had some inclines and was relatively rocky and some vehicles would surely struggle," reports a Mountainview Campground visitor, emphasizing the importance of vehicle preparation.
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. "We were placed in front of the closed pool where we took all 5 sites and made one. At first I was mad but we made it work and we were the envy of everyone," shares a camper at Colonial Woods Family Resort, noting the campground's flexibility for groups.
Kid-friendly activities: Scheduled events vary by season and campground. "They had nice arts and crafts for the kids to do for dad," recalls a visitor who stayed at Colonial Woods during Father's Day weekend. Most private campgrounds offer weekend programming from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Swimming options: Pool availability is typically limited to private campgrounds and state park beaches. A Camp Carr visitor explains: "Typically the pool would be open as well if it weren't for Covid. Windy country roads to bike on with the family and a nearby hiking trail."
Site selection for families: Look for sites away from water hazards for younger children. "The campsite was wonderful and isolated," notes a Mountainview Campground guest, highlighting the importance of researching specific site conditions rather than just booking by campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Prepare for varied terrain at most campgrounds. At Camp Carr Campground, "The landing for the camper was even with gravel and the rest of the site was mostly even. The power station was well intact with 15/20, 30, and 50amp."
Dumping station access: Limited facilities mean planning is essential. "You must have a trailer with your own restroom and shower. Sites are water and 30 amp electric only no sewer so I recommend bringing your own portable dump tank," advises a Camp Carr regular.
Site access limitations: Some campgrounds have narrow roads or low-hanging branches. A visitor to Colonial Woods Family Resort cautions: "The roads are very narrow, pretty sizable boulders on both sides, trees are very low and need to be trimmed (almost took my ac out with a huge limb)."
Hookup variations: Electrical and water services differ significantly between campgrounds. A Colonial Woods camper notes: "Our spot was #27 and pretty spacious. The showers were free and clean with hot water and decent pressure."
