R
Russell A.
Scout
Scout100 Mile View Camping
What a great place. So unique! Love the view, and a great experience! There are no hook ups, so be prepared but if you are looking for the dispersed camping experience you have found it. What a gem!
Tent Camping near Lebanon, NJ
3 campgrounds with availability this weekend
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Primitive tent camping near Lebanon, New Jersey centers around Round Valley State Park Campground, which offers a distinctive wilderness camping experience just minutes from Interstate 78. The park's 2,350-acre reservoir serves as a scenic backdrop for tent campers seeking seclusion. Unlike many New Jersey campgrounds, Round Valley requires either a boat-in approach or a challenging 3-6 mile hike to reach its primitive tent sites. Jenny Jump State Forest, located approximately 25 miles north, provides additional tent camping options with more accessible walk-in sites for those seeking a less strenuous experience.
The tent camping areas at Round Valley State Park feature basic amenities suited for self-sufficient campers. Fire rings and picnic tables are standard at most sites, though tables may be in varying states of repair. Drinking water is available from scattered pumps throughout the camping area, though during certain periods only limited pumps may be operational. Primitive vault toilets exist but are often described as poorly maintained. The hiking trail to reach these tent campgrounds is characterized as rocky, uneven, and moderately difficult, making it challenging to transport gear. Seasonal considerations include occasional high winds on the reservoir, which can make boat access to campsites dangerous when warning lights are active.
Tent campers at Round Valley enjoy remarkable privacy despite the relative proximity of neighboring sites. The waterfront sites provide exceptional views of the reservoir, particularly at sunset, while those set back in the woods offer greater seclusion. Sites along the water's edge allow for easy filtering of reservoir water rather than making long treks to water pumps. The hike-in requirement creates a more peaceful atmosphere compared to drive-in campgrounds, though occasional noise from boaters can disturb the tranquility. According to a review, "This place is exceptional for the Northeast Coast. Not too far from NYC or Philadelphia. It is hike-in or canoe-in only. It's very secluded once arriving to a campsite." Campers particularly value the combination of wilderness experience and relative accessibility to major metropolitan areas.
Best Tent Campgrounds near Lebanon (45)
1. Round Valley State Park Campground
"The crystal-clear water is home to huge lake trout and the forests are bursting with wildlife. The sunsets across the lake are to die for."
"Unlike traditional campgrounds, the campsites are accessible only by hiking or boating, so getting anywhere here requires some planning and a willingness to travel light."
2. Washington Crossing State Park - TEMP CLOSED FOR 2024
"The Pennsylvania side is all about historic buildings, museums and picnic spots, while the New Jersey side (Washington Crossing State Park) offers organized group tent camping."
"The areas for that seemed well groomed, bathrooms were acceptable, and there was plenty of space. Some nice trees not too close allowed for good shade, without feeling like in a forest."
Check Availabilityfrom $50 - $100 / night
3. Camp Starry Night at Gulyan Farms
"This location was about an hour and a half away from our home so it was far enough to feel like we were getting away but close enough that we could be home quickly in case of an emergency since we decided"
from $125 / night
4. Kittatinny Valley State Park Campground
"Site A is the best for seclusion and a spot closer to the lake (also amazing sunsets)"
5. Wooded Campground
"Perfect land for an overnight before hitting the trail. There’s open field and wooded options, and the hosts Mel and Jeff couldn’t have been more accommodating."
Check Availabilityfrom $59 - $60 / night
6. Camp Mohican Outdoor Center — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
"It had 5-6 platforms, privys, big fire ring, a grill, a beatbox, a large pavilion w/picnic tables and a real full sized bathroom only 100 yards away."
"You can rent kayaks and canoes and swimming is allowed on Catfish Pond -- plenty of fish, snapping turtles, and other wildlife."
Check Availabilityfrom $5 - $75 / night
7. Kirkrige Shelter / Kittatinny Mountain — Appalachian National Scenic Trail
"This spot is right next to a beautiful view on the side of Kittany Mountain and just off the Appalachian trail. There is 4 spots to set up at all of which have a spot for a fire."
8. Mohican Walk-In Campsites
"The Mohican Outdoor Center is just steps away from the Appalachian Trail in Southern New Jersey. No matter what your adventure needs, there are many different outing and lodging options."
Check Availabilityfrom $30 - $40 / night
9. Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area
"There are 20 tent sites spread across four loops. There is NO beach access. Some sites have shelters, others do not. Pay attention when reserving. All sites have a fire pit and picnic table."
"Bathrooms are serviceable overall (no showers as others have noted), and the place is intermittently staffed; bring everything you need."
Check AvailabilityCampground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $30 - $50 / night
10. Walter's Boat In Campsites — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
"There is no public road access to the campsite. Secondly, the site is maintained by the NPS, (National Park Service) within the DWGNRA, (Delaware Water Gap National Recreational Area)."
Check Availabilityfrom $16 / night
Drive Time
- 41 min from Allentown, PA
- 46 min from Trenton, NJ
- 53 min from New York, NY
- 1 hr 3 min from Philadelphia, PA
Recent Tent Camping Photos near Lebanon, NJ
84 Photos of 45 Lebanon Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Round Valley State Park Campground
Camp Starry Night at Gulyan Farms
Wooded Campground
Kittatinny Valley State Park Campground
Kirkrige Shelter / Kittatinny Mountain — Appalachian National Scenic Trail
Camp Mohican Outdoor Center — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Walter's Boat In Campsites — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Ratcliff's River Campsites — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Hornbeck's River Boat In Campsites — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Pleasant Valley LavenderE
BMR Operations, LLC dba Blue Mountain Resort By: BM Resort Management, LLC its Authorized Agent
Steam Mill Campground
Tent Camping Reviews near Lebanon, NJ
999 Reviews of 45 Lebanon Campgrounds
- MMichael M.Scout
Turkey Swamp Park
Water/power at the campsite, and and centrally located dump station. Lots of trees and nice separation of sites
Stuart K.
LegendWashington Crossing State Park - TEMP CLOSED FOR 2024
Revolutionary History near Delaware River
Nestled along the picturesque Delaware River in beautiful Bucks County, Washington Crossing Historic Park is one of those destinations where American history practically jumps out from behind every tree. This sprawling, beautifully preserved historic park commemorates George Washington's daring Christmas night crossing of the Delaware in 1776, with charming colonial buildings, expansive green spaces, shaded walking paths and lovely riverfront scenery. Divided into Upper and Lower sections, the park offers plenty to explore, from historic homesteads and interpretive exhibits to scenic picnic areas and the impressive Bowman's Hill Tower. Unfortunately, while the park delivers a wonderful outdoor experience, traditional overnight camping isn't part of the equation unless your a Boy Scout or accompanying one of their troops.
HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Spectacular Revolutionary War history at the very site of Washington's legendary Delaware River crossing; (2) Beautifully maintained grounds featuring mature trees, open lawns and scenic riverfront views; (3) Fascinating colonial-era buildings, historic demonstrations and educational exhibits that bring America's founding history to life; (4) Wonderful recreational opportunities, including walking, cycling, fishing, kayaking and picnicking; and (5) Convenient proximity to charming New Hope, the Delaware Canal towpath and Bowman's Hill Tower, offering plenty of opportunities to extend your adventure.
LOWLIGHTS: (1) No conventional public tent or RV camping, with overnight group camping restricted to organized Scout groups by prior arrangement; (2) No dedicated RV campsites, electrical hookups, water connections or dump station; (3) Park grounds generally close at sunset, limiting opportunities to linger into the evening; (4) Some historic buildings and attractions require admission fees or operate on limited schedules; and (5) Periodic restoration projects and special events can restrict access to certain areas, while the historic Washington Crossing Bridge's three-ton weight limit makes it unsuitable for larger RVs.
Happy Camping!
Tony F.
Guide100 Mile View Camping
The best views
This is a hidden gem, as close to dispersed camping you can get with dirt, gravel roads, large stone fire pits, a amazing views with the added benefit of a five gallon jug of non potable water and very clean port-a-potties. The owner regularly patrols the site and makes sure everything is okay.
Maria Mercedes M.LegendRound Valley State Park Campground
Peaceful Wilderness Escape for Adventurous Families
There's something wonderfully special about escaping into nature where the only sounds are rustling leaves, birds singing and the gentle movement of water along the shoreline. Nestled among the wooded hills surrounding the beautiful Round Valley Reservoir, this rustic SP campground offers families a chance to disconnect from everyday distractions and enjoy a little wilderness adventure together. Unlike traditional campgrounds, the campsites are accessible only by hiking or boating, so getting anywhere here requires some planning and a willingness to travel light. Once you've arrived, you'll find secluded, wooded campsites with picnic tables, fire rings and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Amenities are basic, with pit toilets and no showers, but the beautiful reservoir, scenic hiking trails, fishing and kayaking opportunities more than make up for the lack of modern conveniences. Our kids loved exploring the woods, spotting wildlife and gathering around a crackling campfire at night to share stories beneath the stars. For families comfortable with the hike, I'd recommend choosing one of the campsites along the reservoir shoreline for the lovely water views and peaceful surroundings. Just remember that swimming is limited to the park's designated beach area. Round Valley isn't your typical family campground, but for adventurous families who enjoy hiking, camping under the stars and making wonderful memories together, it's a beautiful place to experience nature at its finest!
Edwin R.ScoutCheesequake State Park Campground
Park uses county cops to shut down park by 9pm.
On Friday, September 4, 2026, I rented a trailer and brought my family to Cheesequake State Park to celebrate our 10th wedding anniversary over the extended Labor Day weekend. Around 9:20 PM—well before the park's designated 10:00 PM quiet hours—we were sitting inside our canopy, playing Jenga, and listening to low background music. Two officers from the Matawan Police Department approached our campsite. They were polite and courteous, simply offering a standard reminder to wrap things up by 10:00 PM. Before they could leave, however, a third, senior officer intervened. Wanting to"show them how it's done," he made the two polite officers return and stand by to watch as he demonstrated how to aggressively harass campers. Flashlight in hand, the senior officer approached with an immediate hostile attitude, treating us like criminals as he demanded to know who rented the site. He began reiterating rules and claimed we had too many vehicles. We had three cars, one belonging to my brother-in-law's girlfriend, who was visiting with her daughter. She had paid the$10 visitor fee at the main office and was instructed by staff to obtain the gate access code from us, the primary renters, if she got locked in. No staff member ever informed her of an 8:00 PM visitor departure deadline, leading us to reasonably assume visitors were permitted until quiet hours began at 10:00 PM. The officer rudely snapped that she had been given wrong information. The senior officer then used profanity in front of three small children, aggressively telling her to ("get her shit and get the fuck out!") in that manner or use profanity, the officer went from hostile to furious. He angrily declared that these were official violations and threatened that he could be issuing us tickets instead. Desperately searching for anything and everything to throw at us, he demanded that we turn off our idling car—which was supplying power to our campsite—and instructed us to make sure the campfire was doused before shutting down for the night. He then proceeded to shine his flashlight into our private setup—including our canopy, tents, and the inside of our trailer—searching for any other possible violation while the two polite officers were forced to watch. What was supposed to be a special 10th wedding anniversary celebration with my family was completely ruined by a senior officer misusing his authority to put on an unnecessary display of intimidation. Worse than just ruining our night, he spent that evening teaching those two police officers how to be bad cops. He corrupted two officers in real time, demonstrating firsthand exactly why most people have lost faith in the police force. The next day we was ready for them. We turned off our lights and quietly by the fire while they went next door to harass an asian family that had just set up camp and had their leds lights on.
Thomas B.
RangerTohickon Family Campground
Simple, peaceful FHU
We stayed just a couple nights here on our way north. The camp host was helpful before our stay and during check-in. Our site was pretty isolated from the others, so it was very quiet (no complaints here). There is a decent mix of sunny sites by the river and shady sites under the trees. The weather was perfect mid September. There wasn't anything spectacular for me, but it was a good experience and it was a nice taste of fall PA scenery. Beware that the roads are tight for a big rig. Side note, it did seem like most campers lived there.
- KKelly B.Guide
Stephens State Park Campground
Great last min getaway
Booked the day before—even on the holiday weekend! Just 1.5 hours outside of NYC, site was a bit close to the neighbors (fire pit was very far back and basically in the neighbors’ campsite, but we put up a “privacy clothesline” and hung a tarp over it for a bit of extra coverage.
The staff was friendly and helpful, they said it was the busiest they’ve seen the campground all year (there were lots of large groups but everyone seemed to settle down by 9:30pm
Poison ivy was EVERYWHERE at our site so make sure to stick to the open areas and the paths. Lots of families around, we felt very safe Bathrooms were fine—it was my impression they’re usually cleaner but the high traffic of the weekend left a bit to be desired, (lots of families around=dirty diapers in the bathroom trash bin) but it’s camping! I’m not gonna argue w a flushing toilet!
- KKevin F.
TravelerTri-State RV Park
A place to stay in an area lacking campgrounds.
This area seems to be devoid of campgrounds except for this one. It’s basically just a large parking lot with hook ups. Completely open, which is great for Starlink. Bathrooms were slightly above average; fairly clean and places to hang clothes for your shower. Has a laundry but be sure to bring quarters. It is about 100 yards from the interstate so you’ll get a lot of noise and diesel exhaust fumes.
Guide to Lebanon
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."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent
campsite near Lebanon, NJ?
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Lebanon, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Lebanon, NJ is Round Valley State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 26 reviews.
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What is the best site to find tent camping near Lebanon, NJ?
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