Primitive camping options predominate in the Manville area with access points ranging from challenging hike-in sites to boat-accessible waterfront locations. At Round Valley Recreation Area, campers face a minimum 3-mile hike to reach wilderness sites unless arriving by boat across the reservoir. The region features sand-based camping surfaces that can become problematic after rainfall.
What to do
Whitewater rafting opportunities: Tohickon Valley County Park hosts scheduled dam releases upstream that create "world class whitewater rafting" conditions. According to Brett C., "when scheduled they open the dam up stream for some world class whitewater rafting" making this one of the best places to camp near Manville, New Jersey for paddling enthusiasts.
Kayaking on clear waters: Round Valley Recreation Area offers crystal clear water for paddling. "We paddled in, the water is very clean and crystal clear," notes Riley K., while James R. adds that "the view was KILLER" when accessing the campground by water rather than hiking.
Archery practice: Turkey Swamp Park provides dedicated archery facilities for campers. According to Patrick M., "Bring your bow and shoot at the hay barrels" at this unique camping destination near Manville. The park maintains hay bale targets specifically for bow hunters to practice their skills.
Unique geological exploration: Ringing Rocks Family Campground sits near the unusual Ringing Rocks County Park where rocks produce musical tones when struck. Gregg G. recommends visitors "Bring a hammer" to experience this natural phenomenon, while Shannon C. notes the campground itself offers "so much for the kids to do" with "friendly staff and clean sites."
What campers like
Wilderness camping isolation: Round Valley Recreation Area stands out as the only true wilderness camping option in the region. Stuart K. explains that "while there are backwoods-style bathroom pits, these are very ill-managed and you'll come across the 'stank' well before actually even arriving," highlighting the primitive nature of these sites at this remote camping area near Manville.
Waterfront tent sites: Camp Carr Campground positions all sites along the South Branch of the Raritan River. Jim B. describes "excellent view of the South Branch and extremely relaxing" while camping there, noting that the location provides "scenic riverside campsites" that many paddlers observe while traveling downriver.
Secluded wooded campsites: Mountainview Campground offers sites hidden within thick forest areas. Christina H. notes "our site was fully private (could not see or hear neighbors)" and mentions that the "wildlife everywhere" enhances the camping experience at this secluded camping location near Manville.
Clean bathroom facilities: Spruce Run Recreation Area maintains good bathroom facilities according to most campers. However, Jules T. notes inconsistency: "The bathrooms were absolutely disgusting. I thought with COVID they were cleaning them more, but for the entire weekend, someone's #2 remained all over the toilet, floor, and corner wall." This highlights the variable maintenance that can occur during busy weekends.
What you should know
Cold water showers only: Some campgrounds in the region offer limited shower facilities. At Tohickon Valley Park, Lee D. reports "the shower did not look very appealing," while Frank J. notes at Spruce Run Recreation Area that "showers were cold water only and very cold at that," suggesting campers should prepare for basic facilities.
Hookup limitations: Many waterfront sites lack full hookups despite their premium locations. At Spruce Run, Ruette W. explains "the sites on the water are just so nice. We luckily have some solar so we can go for awhile without running the generator. We fill our fresh water tank for and bring drinking water."
Highway noise intrusion: Several campgrounds experience noise from nearby highways. Jules T. notes at Spruce Run that "the only con to this campground is its proximity to the highway. You can hear 78, especially at night once the campground settles down."
Seasonal restrictions: Some campgrounds operate under limited schedules or with seasonal constraints. Camp Carr Campground operates "April 1 through October 31" according to its official listing, while Washington Crossing State Park is "TEMP CLOSED FOR 2024" according to its current status.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and pool access: Turkey Swamp Park provides centralized family recreation facilities. Dan W. notes "centralized playground for the kids with bathrooms and showers next door" and mentions the campground has "plenty to do over a 2 night stay" including "archery, boating, fishing, and hiking" with "boat rental rates acceptable" making it ideal for family camping trips near Manville.
Holiday weekend activities: Several campgrounds organize special events during holiday periods. At Ringing Rocks Family Campground, Shannon C. reports "We went on Halloween weekend and they had so much for the kids to do!" highlighting the campground's family programming.
First-time camper friendly: Cheesequake State Park offers an accessible introduction to camping. Maggie A. calls it "perfect for first timers" explaining "this is a great site for those who are not avid campers. It's close to town if you forget something and it has all the facilities you may need, bathroom, shower, etc."
Sand surface considerations: The regional sandy soil can become messy, especially with children. At Turkey Swamp Park, Tylen L. states it's "a great spot, a lot of different things to do. Fishing, Tent Camp, Van Camping, Open Field, BBQ, Kayaking, Canoeing. The list goes on."
Tips from RVers
Tree clearance challenges: Some campgrounds have low-hanging branches that can damage RVs. At Spruce Run Recreation Area, Douglas P. advises "if bringing your RV, the safest bet is to reserve a spot with no shade as the other spots often times have very low hanging tree limbs."
Pull-through site availability: Turkey Swamp Park features convenient pull-through sites in wooded settings. Jean T. describes "all pull-through sites. Nicely wooded with water and electric. Be sure to bring extra hose because the water spigot is a distance from the electric. Sites are level and well maintained."
Portable waste tank recommended: For extended stays at non-sewer sites, Camp Carr suggests bringing additional equipment. Melissa N. recommends: "You must have a trailer with your own restroom and shower. Sites are water and 30 amp electric only no sewer so I recommend bringing your own portable dump tank. They have a dump station for use when leaving."
Weekend noise levels: Several RV campgrounds experience significant noise from weekend visitors. Douglas P. reports at Spruce Run that "it was very loud and rowdy into the late night. There were campers making lots of noise, arming/disarming their car alarms, slamming doors, cars driving in/out, bright lights flashing, etc. all PASSED 2am!!"
