Tent camping options near Lambertville, New Jersey extend beyond Round Valley to include several additional facilities within driving distance. Campers can explore Jenny Jump State Forest, about 60 miles north, which offers both tent sites and rustic shelters on elevated terrain. Fort Washington State Park in Pennsylvania provides group camping opportunities approximately 30 minutes west across the Delaware River, while Evansburg State Park offers primitive camping in a wooded setting 25 miles from town.
What to do
Hiking on marked trails: Jenny Jump State Forest features multiple hiking paths with lookout points. "The campgrounds and bathrooms were clean and well kept. It's also close to other local hikes like Mt. Tammany," notes Fransheska A., who appreciates the trail access directly from camp.
Kayaking and fishing: Numerous water activities are available at Round Valley State Park Campground, where campers can paddle across the reservoir. "Beautiful and quaint..a nice place to get away and enjoy some nature," reports Ryan M. The 2,350-acre reservoir supports trout fishing and water access.
History exploration: The Washington Crossing area offers Revolutionary War history with annual reenactments. "Every year, they re-enact Washington's troops crossing the Delaware! It was VERY cold the year I went," shares David S. about his experience at Washington Crossing State Park.
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Many tent sites provide good separation between camping parties. At Fort Washington State Park Campground, Kerri D. mentions, "There's at least two fire pits per camp ground. There's only group camping. The give you firewood—if you bring your own, leave with any left over."
Mountain views: Higher elevation camping offers scenic vistas overlooking the surrounding countryside. "The camp sites are nicely laid out to ensure privacy. This park is high up on a mountain and affords lovely views," writes Jocelyn G. about Jenny Jump State Forest.
Natural surroundings: Evansburg State Park Campground provides creek-side camping among thick forests. "This hidden gem of a campground is beautiful. There is plenty of hiking trails. Only downside is having to haul gear by foot to the campsite," notes Chuck C., highlighting the primitive access.
What you should know
Access challenges: Many tent sites require hiking or boating to reach. "Some of the sites are at least 3 miles to get to unless you take a boat across. Beautiful peaceful and primitive," advises Janine W. about Round Valley's backcountry sites.
Seasonal restrictions: Most campgrounds operate from April through October. Jenny Jump State Forest's season runs "April 1 to October 31," which aligns with most state parks in the region.
Limited amenities: Deep Creek Campground at Green Lane Park offers basic facilities. "Green Lane is a beautiful park with a small campground. The spaces are right on top of each other with no tree cover between spots, so you'll definitely be right up on your neighbors," reports Tara T., explaining the trade-offs for convenience.
Group-only limitations: Some parks restrict individual camping. "Since camping is only open to organized camping I've never camped at Evansburg," mentions Andrew C., though he still enjoys day use activities there.
Tips for camping with families
Filter reservoir water: When camping at primitive sites, plan for water needs. "We just filtered the water from the reservoir instead which tasted a million times better than the well water," shares James R. about his Round Valley experience, noting it simplified their water supply strategy.
Consider cabin alternatives: Ridley Creek State Park offers group camping facilities. "Love Ridley and their trails. However, there is only group tenting here. I would stay over in a heartbeat though as Im always here!" explains MsTrailBlazer, highlighting the park's appeal despite limitations.
Prepare for weather changes: Spring and fall offer the most comfortable camping temperatures in the region. "I would STRONGLY encourage anyone who thinks that it is OK to drink from the reservoir to at least use a Life Straw to ensure they don't get sick," advises Stuart K. about Round Valley, emphasizing preparation for variable conditions.
Check noise restrictions: Campgrounds enforce different quiet hours. "Quiet time is listed in reservations agreements but not enforced in anyway," notes Tiffany B. about Green Lane Park's weekend atmosphere.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most tent-focused campgrounds near Lambertville offer minimal RV accommodations. Only a few parks like Tip Tam Camping Resort provide full hookups. "While mostly a seasonal campground there are several transiat sites with full hookup," explains Brian S., noting the limited availability.
Consider campground proximity: When RV camping isn't available at your preferred location, choose nearby alternatives. "We stayed for a night and enjoyed our experience. Bathrooms were clean and the pool was nice but very cold! Not a big Campground but they fit us in last minute," says Jojo P. about Tip Tam Camping Resort.
Plan early morning departures: Some campgrounds become active early. "The only downside I saw was people here are up way to early. 7am place was already loud... Don't expect to sleep past 7:30am," warns Bill V. about Tip Tam Camping Resort.
