Located in Sussex County, Layton sits in the Delaware Water Gap region at elevations ranging from 400 to 1,800 feet. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer daytime temperatures typically between 75-85°F, making it ideal for yurt camping near Layton, New Jersey from May through October. Winter camping options exist but require specialized gear as temperatures can drop below freezing.
What to do
Hiking interconnected trail systems: Stokes State Forest offers multiple hiking trails including portions of the Appalachian Trail. As one visitor noted, "The Steam Mill Camping Area is tucked out the of the way and is the most primitive. It is the smallest of the campgrounds with 27 sites only suitable for tents or small trailers/campervans. No pets or alcohol allowed."
Fishing in well-stocked lakes: Several campgrounds maintain fishing areas with various species. At High Point State Park Campground, a camper mentioned, "I spent two nights camping with my niece and this campground was perfect. We fit in a hike up to the Appalachian Trail from our campsite, swam at the pond (Lake Marcia), and got in a fishing session at Steeny Kill Lake."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region is home to diverse wildlife including black bears. According to a visitor at Stokes State Forest, "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes."
Waterfront recreation: Beyond hiking, several campgrounds offer water activities. One camper at High Point State Park noted, "The slight downside was that we had to drive between the different lakes," suggesting visitors should plan accordingly when packing for water activities.
What campers like
Secluded sites with natural buffers: Many campgrounds offer sites with good separation. A camper at Shotwell stated, "Campsites nice and private. Only one other camper on the other loop. Rustic. Perfect for me. Spacious campsites."
Platform tent sites: Several campgrounds feature wooden platforms for more comfortable tent camping. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, a visitor mentioned, "They have these 12x12 platforms to put your tent on. This was pretty cool especially since some of the sites are all gravel with surrounding dirt."
Yurt accommodations for Layton visitors: For those seeking alternatives to traditional camping, yurt options are available. At Swartswood State Park Campground, a visitor commented, "NO FULL HOOKS ... BUT EVERYTHING IS WELCOME ... THEY HAVE YURTS ALSO ... THERE IS A LAKE AND FOOD STAND AND PADDLE BOATS ... I LOVE THE GROUP SITES ..."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain good standards for bathrooms and showers. According to a visitor at Swartswood, "The bathroom and shower area was very clean, and I had my first bear encounter which was exciting. Three black bears strolled by the campsite next to ours in the early morning."
What you should know
Bear safety protocols: Multiple campgrounds emphasize proper food storage. As one Stokes State Forest visitor explained: "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes."
Seasonal operation limitations: Most campgrounds have reduced services in off-seasons. At High Point State Park Campground, a visitor noted, "Showers are only located INSIDE High Point State Park, not throughout the campsites, but entry is free for campers."
Reservation requirements: Many popular sites book quickly, especially during peak season. A visitor at Great Divide Campground shared: "This is a beautiful campground with much to do around the grounds themselves. They had live music which was actually really good!!! A reggae band."
Site selection considerations: Different areas within campgrounds offer varying experiences. A Swartswood visitor cautioned: "There are about 50 camp sites but many of them, from 1 to 30ish are wide open with ZERO privacy. That said, it's great for large groups that book a few sites next to each other."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. A visitor at Kittatinny Campground shared: "This place was so fun for the entire family, it wasn't that busy, so we didn't really have to worry all the time about the kids getting ran over! The park ranger person came through and gave the kids cool posters."
Water recreation options: Many campgrounds offer swimming areas suitable for children. At Great Divide, a visitor mentioned: "Kids had lots of fun on the free kayaks and pool. Staff was friendly and helpful. Campgrounds have lots of hills so be prepared to hike up and down."
Animal encounters: Some campgrounds offer farm animal interactions. A visitor at Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort noted: "Enjoyed a great weekend at Pleasant Acre. My daughter loved the horses and goats."
Evening activities: Scheduled events keep children engaged. A Great Divide visitor mentioned: "They also had scheduled activities for kids. The one downside about this site was that you are not allowed to keep your car at your site."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain. At Shotwell, a visitor noted: "Roads are a bit rocky but the site itself is quiet."
Water and electrical hookups: Hookup availability varies between campgrounds. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, a camper shared: "Very clean and quiet. 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."
Dump station access: Facilities for waste disposal are important considerations. According to a visitor at Mahlon Dickerson: "Trash dumpster is an easy walk and the dump station has a flush hose point. Nice and easy little campground."
Seasonal RV options: Some locations offer extended stays. At Pleasant Acres, a visitor explained: "Large levelled spaces but a little muddy. Good for a quiet, relaxing weekend; not very close to attractions otherwise."
