Campgrounds near Long Valley, New Jersey span across several counties with diverse terrain and natural settings. The region sits within the Highlands physiographic province at elevations between 500-1,100 feet, creating varied microclimates and camping conditions. Most campgrounds in this area maintain operating seasons from early April through October, with water access points typically closing after the first frost to prevent pipe damage.
What to do
Hiking to scenic overlooks: Jenny Jump State Forest offers trails with panoramic views and unique geological features. One camper noted, "This place was great, they allow dogs and had hiking trails with beautiful views you could enjoy right from your campground. It's also close to other local hikes like Mt. Tammany."
Fishing in stocked waters: Stephens State Park Campground provides easy access to trout fishing within minutes of campsites. A visitor mentioned, "Great fishing hiking and campsites," while another shared, "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."
Wolf preserve tours: Camp Taylor Campground connects directly to the Lakota Wolf Preserve with discounted tours for campers. According to one visitor, "There are moments by the fire you can hear them howl in the distance. It's one of our favorite places to camp."
Water recreation options: Panther Lake Camping Resort offers lake activities beyond swimming. A camper explained, "The lake and pool were a big plus, especially for hot days. While I did not take advantage, you are allowed to rent boats and take them out on the lake."
What campers like
Primitive camping experiences: Round Valley State Park Campground stands out as a true wilderness option. A camper explained, "It is the only NJ SP that actually offers up true wilderness camping(a.k.a. primitive), which can only be accessed by hiking 3 to 6 miles—or if you come with your own boat, you can access by water."
Spacious, private sites: Jenny Jump State Forest campsites provide ample separation. One reviewer stated, "The camp sites are nicely laid out to ensure privacy. This park is high up on a mountain and affords lovely views."
Affordability: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers exceptional value. A visitor remarked, "Very cheap as well. $15/night on Memorial Day weekend! You won't be disappointed!"
Clean facilities: Camp Taylor maintains well-kept restrooms and facilities. A camper mentioned, "The bathrooms/showers are clean and well maintained. The small mini-golf course is a fun distraction for a bit."
What you should know
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience sound from nearby highways. At Spruce Run Recreation Area, a visitor noted, "The only con to this campground is its proximity to the highway. You can hear 78, especially at night once the campground settles down."
Bathroom facilities vary: Facility quality differs significantly between parks. One camper at Stephens State Park explained, "The bathrooms and showers were clean. The sink for dishes was clean and well maintained."
Wildlife awareness: Worthington State Forest Campground requires bear safety practices. A visitor advised, "They warn for black bears so obvs practice safe routines and leave no trace!"
Reservation timing: Most best places to camp near Long Valley fill quickly during peak season. As one camper at Panther Lake noted, "Lots of seasonal campers so not much room for spots for weekend visits unless you want to be in the field areas with not much shade cover."
Tips for camping with families
Look for activity variety: Great Divide Campground offers numerous child-friendly amenities. A visitor shared, "Nice family run campground. Owners are a blast. Most sites are level. Nice small lake with boats to use. Nice small beach. Lots of weekend activities."
Consider noise levels: Some campgrounds enforce quiet hours more strictly than others. A camper at Camp Taylor reported, "Unlike many other campgrounds we've been to, they are very good about actually enforcing the quiet hours at night, so you can have an actual peaceful and quiet night around the campfire."
Water access options: Driftstone Campground provides safe river access. A visitor mentioned, "Great people, lots of fun activities, clean facilities and beautiful views. We will be back again next year."
Scout playground locations: Worthington State Forest has strategic playground placement. One camper noted, "These two sites were next to the shower house and playground. The facilities were clean, stocked, and warm."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Several campgrounds have restrictions for larger rigs. A visitor to Stephens State Park warned, "The campground as a whole and the individual sites are kind of tricky for bigger rigs. We are in a 26ft class c and we squeezed through, and there were a few sites where we could have made it work, but I can imagine a big class A or 5th wheel having a tough time."
Hookup availability: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers convenient water access. A camper explained, "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."
Leveling challenges: Great Divide Campground requires preparation for uneven terrain. One RVer noted, "Some areas are a little steeper than I would like to set up on, but that's me."
