Camping options near Mendham, New Jersey concentrate within a 30-mile radius, primarily in the northwestern highlands where elevation ranges from 800-1,400 feet. The region contains several state forests and recreation areas connected by the Appalachian Trail, with seasonal access limited at most campgrounds from April through October. Winter temperatures rarely support comfortable camping conditions outside designated cabin facilities.
What to do
Hiking trails: Stephens State Park Campground connects to multiple trail systems of varying difficulties alongside the Musconetcong River. "I absolutely loved being here! 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," notes jacquelyn G.
Wolf preserve tours: Camp Taylor Campground offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities. "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.
Boat rentals: Several lakes in the region provide paddling opportunities. At Panther Lake Camping Resort, "While I did not take advantage, you are allowed to rent boats and take them out on the lake. The welcome center has a store where you can buy essentials you may have forgotten and then some," explains Ethan K.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Jenny Jump State Forest offers secluded camping options. "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," states Kelsey K.
Lake swimming: Swartswood State Park provides recreational water access. "The lake is beautiful! Great for swimming and fishing. There are several trail hikes that you can do from the campsite. The longest is 3 miles but you can connect between each trail to make a longer hike," writes Ethan K.
Rustic camping: Primitive sites at Round Valley State Park Campground require effort to access but reward with solitude. "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," explains Agbi B.
What you should know
Cell reception: Service varies dramatically between locations. At Panther Lake, "You can't hook up to it unless you are at the pavilion. And good luck getting cell service! its like a black hole of signals there," warns Cynthia H.
Noise levels: Highway sounds can be noticeable at certain campgrounds. At Jenny Jump State Forest, "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)," reports Seth K.
Site selection: Not all locations provide equal comfort. According to Seth K., "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."
Tips for camping with families
Activities: Great Divide Campground offers extensive recreation options. "Nice small lake with boats to use. Nice small beach. Lots of weekend activities. Will be back in the future," says Scott N.
Weekday visits: Some locations become extremely crowded on weekends. Panther Lake reviewer Julie F. notes, "We went on 4th of July weekend so the place was packed. 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."
Weather planning: Most campgrounds near Mendham, New Jersey operate seasonally due to weather limitations. "We went early in the season so many had not been maintained in months. Only a handful of full hook up sites surrounded by seasonal cottages," April L. reports about Panther Lake.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation provides relatively level sites. "The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large. Water and electric hookups and a dump station," explains Jeff W.
Utility connections: Hookup arrangements vary between parks. At Mahlon Dickerson, "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," reports reviewer antruze.
Access roads: Some pet-friendly camping near Mendham requires navigating challenging roads. For Driftstone Campground, reviewer Jim G. warns, "PLEASE NOTE: if you are towing or have a motorhome, make sure you follow the directions on the website. Coming in from the wrong road could lead you to a hairpin turn and steep hill."
