The northwest region of New Jersey offers diverse camping environments with elevations ranging from 400 to over 1,200 feet. Ledgewood sits within Morris County where the terrain combines deciduous forests, rocky outcrops, and water features. Temperatures vary seasonally from below freezing in winter to humid 80°F+ days in summer, making late spring through early fall the primary camping season for most visitors.
What to do
Trail hiking with dogs: Stephens State Park Campground provides direct access to woodland paths where leashed pets are welcome companions. "The river is just a small walk down the hill (you can stairs or a path which was nice). They stock the water with trout and there was an officer checking for fishing permits. You can hear the babbling of the river when it's quiet at camp which provided an extra layer of relaxation," notes reviewer jacquelyn G.
Wolf preserve visits: At Camp Taylor Campground, campers can take guided tours of the adjacent Lakota Wolf Preserve. "There is a section of RV spots that are each cut out in the woods so very private. You can take a short hike up the mountain there to see the wolves in the sanctuary. There are moments by the fire you can hear them howl in the distance," shares Julie F. Tours run twice daily on weekends.
Water recreation: Jenny Jump State Forest offers fishing opportunities and scenic trails. "My husband and I Tent camped in #34 with our dog. The space was reasonably priced, but we did have to pay an extra $5/day for our dog," says Kelsey K. The park includes Ghost Lake, accessible via forest trails from campsites.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Campers seeking dog-friendly accommodations near Ledgewood praise the private spaces at many campgrounds. "Very wooded and delightfully devoid of golf carts. Saw wild turkeys and deer in the morning," writes Dina S. about Camp Taylor Campground, adding "The wolf preserve at the same location was just amazing - we learned so much and could hear the wolves howl from the campsite."
Natural soundscapes: The sounds of moving water enhance many camping experiences. One camper at Stephens State Park noted, "The camp site was spacious. The bathrooms were struggling with the plumbing but were fairly clean. The river is just a small walk down the hill."
Hiking accessibility: Round Valley Recreation Area offers wilderness camping accessed by hiking trails. "This is a great campground that is super private and quiet - great for getting out to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. It's a pretty strenuous hike, but you'll be rewarded for the effort!" writes Agbi B. The primitive sites require a 3-6 mile hike or boat access.
What you should know
Water quality concerns: While Panther Lake Camping Resort has numerous amenities, water issues affect some campers. "Probably the worst shower ever. The lights are timed. The water is a button. The space is small as hell," reports Carrie H. The timing system controls both lighting and water flow in shower facilities.
Cell service limitations: Technology connections vary by location. At Great Divide Campground, visitors report mixed connectivity. "All the positive reviews about this place are accurate! Beautiful, clean, well maintained, lots to do, great value for your $," states Jesse C., though others note service can be spotty in wooded areas.
Bear awareness: Multiple parks in the region require proper food storage. "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes," warns a reviewer at Stokes State Forest. Many campgrounds post warning signs and guidelines for wildlife encounters.
Tips for camping with families
Activity variety: Swartswood State Park Campground offers numerous recreation options. "A bit of a 'low frills' campground, but with lots of good hiking trails, fishing spots, and a great beach area for swimming with the kids," explains Dan B. The park maintains designated swimming areas with seasonal lifeguard supervision.
Playground access: Great Divide Campground features play areas centrally located for families. "This was our second visit to the campground and the first weekend they opened to RVs after Covid. No amenities were open but we had a great time fishing in the lake. Spots are spacious and campers were spread out throughout the large campground," shares Jojo P.
Educational options: Several parks offer nature programs for children. "The wolf preserve at the same location was just amazing - we learned so much and could hear the wolves howl from the campsite," notes a visitor to Camp Taylor. Many state parks offer junior ranger programs during peak season months.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At pet-friendly Driftstone Campground, RVers should consider site location carefully. "Driftstone is set on a beautiful location on the Delaware River. The sites are all large, and easy to get in and out of. Sites include water, electric and cable. There is an inexpensive pump out service available daily," advises Kathy G., adding "Just be cautious of the placement of the dump station and proximity to the site."
Water connection considerations: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation provides helpful solutions for water hookups. "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," explains antruze.
Site leveling: Many campgrounds in the hilly terrain require leveling equipment. "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill. Peaceful. Close to train to N. Y. City," notes Nancymike K. about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, though several reviewers at other parks mention the need for leveling blocks due to uneven terrain.
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