Round Valley State Park Campground offers tent campsites near Lebanon, New Jersey that require either a 3-6 mile hike or boat access to reach. The park sits at an elevation of approximately 400 feet above sea level and experiences typical mid-Atlantic seasonal variations. The reservoir reaches depths of 180 feet, making it the deepest lake in New Jersey. Winter camping isn't available as the park operates seasonally from April 1 to October 31.
What to do
Kayak on pristine waters: Round Valley Recreation Area offers exceptional paddling opportunities on its 2,350-acre reservoir. According to Riley K., "we paddled in, the water is very clean and crystal clear." Paddlers can access multiple points along the shoreline for day trips or to reach remote campsites.
Hike mountain trails: Jenny Jump State Forest offers hiking trails with elevation changes and scenic overlooks. One camper noted, "This place was great, they allow dogs and had hiking trails with beautiful views you could enjoy right from your campground." The park includes several interconnected trail loops ranging from 1-3 miles in length.
Wildlife observation: The forests and wetlands around primitive campsites attract diverse wildlife. At Kittatinny Valley State Park Campground, "You'll see deer and rabbits it's really spacious and beautiful. Site A is the best for seclusion and a spot closer to the lake (also amazing sunsets)."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Kittatinny Valley State Park Campground, campers appreciate the secluded atmosphere despite proximity to amenities. "Four spots across the public park. You'll see deer and rabbits it's really spacious and beautiful. Site A is the best for seclusion and a spot closer to the lake."
Water-based tent sites: Campers often prefer waterfront locations for convenience and scenery. James R. observed at Round Valley: "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."
Lack of crowds: The hike-in requirement at several parks creates natural crowd control. As G V. notes about Round Valley Recreation Area, "Even though I live 10 minutes away I like to camp here because you still feel a little isolated. With no roads to the campgrounds it takes some effort to get there and it's a beautiful place."
What you should know
Physical demands: The tent campsites near Lebanon, New Jersey often require significant physical effort. One camper warns about Round Valley: "I have hiked throughout the entire US and consider myself somewhere between a moderate to skilled hiker and I found these trails challenging and uneven, so while the hike we made was only 3 miles, it was not easy."
Water safety concerns: Washington Crossing State Park provides camping along the Delaware River, but conditions require caution. According to one review, "Kayakers should launch from the Pennsylvania side's boat access for an iconic paddle on the Delaware River." Round Valley's reservoir can also become dangerous quickly: "The reservoir can turn into the Bermuda Triangle at any moment-- be careful."
Limited facilities: Many primitive sites have basic amenities at best. At Jenny Jump State Forest, "Primitive, has bathrooms and water spigots. Good hammocking trees and wasn't crowded at all. Plenty of privacy from other sites."
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: For families with young children, select parks with shorter walking distances to campsites. At Jenny Jump State Forest, "The space was reasonably priced, but we did have to pay an extra $5/day for our dog. However, we didn't mind as it was so private we felt like we had the entire Park to ourselves. The bathroom/shower was only a few steps away."
Check facility conditions: Bathroom quality varies significantly between parks. One family noted, "The sites are hit or miss in terms of comfort, some have large, flat, clear spaces for multiple tents, some you have to wedge a tent to avoid rocks. Bathrooms were standard, compost toilets. The showers were free and generally quite hot."
Pack entertainment: Local activities keep children engaged during downtime. A visitor to Washington Crossing State Park shared: "In New Jersey, miles of wooded trails lead you through rolling hills and historic landscapes, perfect for hiking and birdwatching. It's a spot where history buffs, scouts and nature seekers can all find common ground."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accommodations: True RV camping options are scarce near Lebanon. At Camp Starry Night at Gulyan Farms, one camper explained their experience: "We are avid campers ranging from our early days of remote, rustic tent camping with just the two of us and 20 years later upgraded to our travel trailer that houses our two kids and two dogs." However, they noted this particular site was better for tent camping than RVs.
Consider seasonal factors: Weather impacts site accessibility for larger vehicles. A visitor to Jenny Jump State Forest advised, "This campground is a nice little hideaway not too far from the beaten path. You can hear some of the highway sounds from the campsites (especially the jake brake)," which suggests noise could be a factor for RVers seeking quiet surroundings.
Water and power limitations: Most primitive camping areas lack hookups. At Sandy Hook campground, a camper noted: "The campground is rustic with no showers or electricity. Tenting only, with all gear needing to be carried to the site. No vehicles allowed at the campsite."
