Camping options near Lebanon, New Jersey include both developed campgrounds and primitive sites within a 15-mile radius. The region sits at elevations between 200-800 feet in the Piedmont and Highlands physiographic provinces, creating varied terrain for campers. Summer temperatures average 70-85°F during peak camping season, with nighttime temperatures often dropping 15-20 degrees lower.
What to do
Kayaking at Round Valley Reservoir: Located just minutes from Lebanon, this 2,350-acre reservoir offers clear water reaching 180 feet deep. "The water is crystal clear, the area is clean. There's bathrooms and pumps but we just filtered the water from the reservoir instead which tasted a million times better than the well water," notes a visitor to Round Valley State Park Campground.
Hammer the rocks at Ringing Rocks: Bring a hammer to tap the boulders at this unique geological formation. "Lovely trails and the rocks are something else," explains a camper staying at Ringing Rocks Family Campground, located about 14 miles from Lebanon. This unusual natural phenomenon produces metallic sounds when struck.
River tubing excursions: Several outfitters offer river tubing trips on the Delaware River. "The campground is in the mountains of PA close enough to the Delaware River that we took a trip down using bucks County river tub company," shares a camper at Colonial Woods Family Resort. Companies typically operate from Memorial Day through September with rates around $30-45 per person.
What campers like
Private boat-in sites: Campers praise the secluded waterfront options. "We paddled in, the water is very clean and crystal clear," explains a visitor at Round Valley State Park Campground. These sites require either a 3-6 mile hike or boat access, creating much more privacy than drive-in campgrounds.
Flat grassy camping areas: Many sites feature level ground with good tent placement options. "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," reports a camper at Spruce Run Recreation Area.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Campers frequently report wildlife sightings. "We heard foxes fighting right outside our tent, the snorts of deer, and there were bats right above us all night making noise," shares a camper at Mountainview Campground, noting the natural setting feels more remote than many New Jersey campgrounds.
What you should know
Water pressure variations: Several campgrounds report inconsistent water pressure. "However there was some issue with the water pressure during the daytime. Only had 1psi of water pressure. Couldn't take a shower or wash dishes," notes a visitor at Jugtown Mountain Campsites.
Late-night noise at some locations: Weekends can get noisy at certain campgrounds. "It was very loud and rowdy into the late night. There were campers making lots of noise, arming/disarming their car alarms, slamming doors, cars driving in/out, bright lights flashing, etc. all PASSED 2am!!" warns a camper at Spruce Run Recreation Area.
Toilet facilities vary widely: Restroom quality ranges from modern facilities to basic outhouses. "Stayed here 2 nights in May... The bathrooms were absolutely disgusting. I thought with COVID they were cleaning them more, but for the entire weekend, someone's #2 remained all over the toilet, floor, and corner wall," cautions a visitor about one facility during a busy weekend.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with playground access: Some campgrounds offer good play areas for children. "Several playgrounds, boat launches, and life guarded swimming area," notes a visitor to Spruce Run. Another camper at Colonial Woods Family Resort mentions "The pool and splash pool for toddlers was clean with a lifeguard on duty at all times."
Look for scheduled kids' activities: Several campgrounds offer organized programs. "Always a ton of scheduled crafts and to do for the kiddos and adults alike," explains a camper at Colonial Woods Family Resort. Another mentions, "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."
Consider cabin options for easier family trips: For those new to camping or during unpredictable weather, cabins provide comfort. "My husband and I have stayed here several times, but the last time was the best! We stayed 2 nights in Cabin Z for our anniversary getaway and we loved having the whole place to ourselves," shares a visitor to Voorhees State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Check road access before booking: Some campgrounds have challenging entry roads. "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)," warns an RVer at Colonial Woods Family Resort. Several campgrounds recommend specific approach routes to avoid steep grades.
Investigate actual site conditions: RV site amenities can differ from advertised features. "Upon checking in, went to my site and the pedestal electrical plug for 30A wasn't working. Got assigned a 2nd site but my camper wasn't able to park in that site. Got a 3rd site, and that one worked out good," explains an RVer at Jugtown Mountain Campsites.
Consider water/electric sites with dump stations: Many of the best places to camp near Lebanon, New Jersey offer partial hookups. "We fill our fresh water tank for and bring drinking water... They do a great job of mowing the grass on the sites, and if you need to, you can go and request if they could cut your grass if it's too long," notes a camper at Spruce Run Recreation Area.
