Camping near Lambertville, New Jersey offers diverse options within the Delaware River Valley, where elevations range from 80 to 400 feet above sea level. The region experiences humid continental climate with four distinct seasons, making spring and fall particularly comfortable for overnight stays. Most campgrounds in this area remain open from April through October with varying degrees of site privacy and natural features.
What to do
Hiking trails and historical sites: Washington Crossing State Park, temporarily closed for 2024, normally offers group camping with access to historic trails. "Washington Crossing Historic Park, straddling Pennsylvania and New Jersey along the Delaware River, is one of those rare places where you can literally camp in history. The Pennsylvania side is all about historic buildings, museums and picnic spots, while the New Jersey side offers organized group tent camping," notes Stuart K.
Fishing opportunities: Spruce Run Recreation Area provides waterfront sites with access to the reservoir for anglers. "You can launch your kayak easily from the shore. The water is crystal clear," explains Ruette W. This 2,350-acre reservoir supports multiple fish species for year-round fishing.
River recreation: Camp Carr Campground offers riverside sites perfect for paddling. "Excellent view of the South Branch and extremely relaxing," writes Jim B. The South Branch of the Raritan River features gentle currents suitable for beginners through intermediate paddlers.
What campers like
Water access: Round Valley State Park Campground features primitive wilderness camping near its reservoir. "When you finally do arrive to this primitive CG immersed in NJ's thick wild foliage, you'll experience waterfront bliss with a crystalline bevy of trout-infused reservoir water," explains Stuart K. Sites must be accessed by hiking 3-6 miles or by boat.
Private wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the seclusion available at certain campgrounds. "The primitive sites are very private, friendly staff, clean grounds," shares Kelsey K. about Little Red Barn Campground. Primitive sites often provide more space and natural screening than developed sites.
Seasonal activities: Depending on timing, visitors can experience unique regional events. "Visit the park's historic reenactments, especially the Christmas Day Crossing event as it's easily the most memorable history lesson you'll ever get outdoors," recommends Stuart K. about Washington Crossing State Park.
What you should know
Access limitations: Reaching certain sites requires planning and effort. "We found parking in the Southern Lot to be perfectly fine and while we were initially worried about leaving our vehicle parked there for a few nights, we were reassured by the park rangers who patrol the lot constantly," notes Stuart K. about Round Valley State Park.
Bathroom facilities: Quality varies significantly between campgrounds. "Bathrooms were clean with soap and paper towels. The shower had nice hot water," reports Lee D. about Little Red Barn Campground, while another reviewer noted, "only one bathroom and it's very far from the primitive sites."
Weather considerations: Tohickon Family Campground requires careful planning around rain. "Don't come if your in a tent And It Has Been or will rain, It Becomes Flooded or turns into A mudPit," warns LU D. The clay-heavy soil in parts of this region drains poorly after rainfall.
Tips for camping with families
Pool options: Colonial Woods Family Resort offers swimming facilities for children. "The pool and splash pool for toddlers was clean with a lifeguard on duty at all times," notes Nicole S. The pool typically operates from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Organized activities: Many campgrounds schedule family-friendly events. "They did a few activities the one we did go to was the casino night where they had separate play areas for kids and adults. All the money made is donated to Shriners Children's Hospital which is awesome and the kids loved the candy and little prizes they won," explains Nicole S.
Unique attractions: Ringing Rocks Family Campground offers proximity to unusual geological features. "Mom was away so took 3 babies on a trip. Went to Ringing Rocks county park and the kids were having so much fun making music they didn't want to leave," shares Justin B. Visitors should bring a hammer to experience the metallic sounds produced when striking certain rocks.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: When glamping near Lambertville, New Jersey in RVs, choose sites carefully. "If you're tent camping the bathrooms are FAR and I highly doubt no one has ever peed outside at night instead of navigating through the night to them," mentions Erika T. about Ringing Rocks Family Campground. Consider proximity to facilities when booking.
Electrical and water options: "Our spot was #27 and pretty spacious. The showers were free and clean with hot water and decent pressure. 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," reports Sarah about Mountainview Campground.
Vehicle access challenges: Some glamping locations present difficulties for larger vehicles. "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)," cautions Brian C. about Colonial Woods Family Resort. Scout routes in advance or call for specific access information if driving large RVs.
