The Delaware Water Gap region near Long Valley, New Jersey offers secluded camping opportunities between elevations of 300 and 1,600 feet. This area sits within the Ridge and Valley province of the Appalachian Mountains, with campgrounds distributed across forested ridges and river valleys. Weather conditions can change rapidly, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 60-85°F.
What to do
Hiking to mountain views: At Kirkrige Shelter / Kittatinny Mountain, access to the Appalachian Trail provides excellent vantage points. "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," reports Nick E.
Kayaking and canoeing: The Delaware River water trails offer multiple access points for paddlers. At Alosa Boat In Campsites, you'll find designated river camping. "Primitive site for multi day river trips. There's usually always a port-a-potty at the campsite. Each area has its own fire ring and multiple river pull offs for easy finding and access," notes Stephanie S.
Wild blueberry picking: Summer visitors to the region can forage for wild berries while exploring waterways. At Mohican Outdoor Center, campers report seasonal harvests: "If you're there in the summer, I'd recommend taking a kayak around the lake and filling it with wild blueberries."
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Jenny Jump State Forest offers secluded camping among tall trees. "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. However, we didn't mind as it was so private we felt like we had the entire Park to ourselves," reports Kelsey K.
Wildlife viewing: Morning and evening hours provide opportunities to spot native fauna. "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 (also amazing sunsets)," notes Bee L. about Kittatinny Valley State Park Campground.
Stargazing conditions: Clear night skies reward campers with astronomical views. "The stars and moon were absolutely amazing. We got some great night shots and the moon is so bright it actually looks like the sun in the photos," shares Jen R. about Camp Starry Night.
What you should know
Access challenges: Many of the best tent camping near Long Valley, New Jersey requires physical effort. "Located just south of I78 and near the small hamlets of Clinton and Lebanon, what I love most about Round Valley SP is the fact that it has its very own eponymous fresh water reservoir, which spanning some 2,350 acres and is 180 feed deep in the middle," Stuart K. explains, adding, "I would STRONGLY encourage anyone who thinks that it is OK to drink from the reservoir to at least use a Life Straw to ensure they don't get sick."
Water sources: Bring filtration systems or container capacity for sites without reliable water. "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," reports James R.
Highway noise: Some otherwise peaceful sites experience road sounds. "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)," notes Seth K. about Jenny Jump State Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Starter campsites: For families new to outdoor camping, certain locations offer training-wheel experiences. "I think this would be great for a family who are just starting to get interested in camping and would like to experience it first without making a large investment into buying your own equipment," suggests Jen R.
Nature activities: Children enjoy wildlife identification and water exploration. "The camp sites are nicely laid out to ensure privacy. This park is high up on a mountain and affords lovely views. Well kept and clean," mentions Jocelyn G.
Accessibility concerns: Some sites accommodate visitors with mobility needs. At Rivers Bend Group Campground, facilities cater to larger parties: "Large field with multiple group campsites with bearboxes, fire pit and garbage cans at each site. Four outhouses centrally locates and a pump well that did not work."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookups: Most primitive camping near Long Valley requires self-contained systems. "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!" advises Agbi B.
Boat-in alternatives: RV owners seeking primitive experiences can use their tow vehicles to launch boats for accessing riverside camps. "We paddled in, the water is very clean and crystal clear," shares Riley K., who successfully used watercraft to access remote tent sites.
Winter preparation: Most campgrounds operate seasonally from April through October, requiring winterization before closing. "The staff were extremely accommodating when one of our sites was flooded due to the previous days rain and moved us without any hesitation, and let us stay an extra night no hassle," reports Jackie G.
