Camping locations near Millburn, New Jersey offer diverse terrain options within a 40-mile radius of the urban center. The region features elevations ranging from near sea level to over 1,000 feet in the northwestern highlands, creating varied camping experiences throughout the seasons. Fall temperatures average 45-65°F with colorful foliage making it a popular camping season, while summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F.
What to do
Hiking at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation: This Jefferson campground features multiple trail options with easy lake access. "My fiancé, dog, and I have been going here for over 2 years and we love it. We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful," notes Paulene-Amanda M. The reservation has both tent sites and cabins with electric and water hookups.
Fishing opportunities: Round Valley State Park Campground offers excellent trout fishing in its 2,350-acre reservoir. Stuart K. mentions, "When you finally do arrive to this primitive CG immersed in NJ's thick wild foliage, you'll experience waterfront bliss with a crystalline bevy of trout-infused reservoir water." The reservoir is 180 feet deep in the middle, providing habitat for various fish species.
Kayaking and boating: Turkey Swamp Park provides seasonal boat rentals for exploring its lake. "Plenty to do over a 2 night stay. Archery, boating, fishing, and hiking. Boat rental rates are acceptable and there are four different styles to choose from," reports Dan W. The park rents canoes, kayaks, paddle boats, and row boats during summer months.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Jenny Jump State Forest offers secluded camping spots with natural buffers. "This place was great, they allow dogs and had hiking trails with beautiful views you could enjoy right from your campground. The campgrounds and bathrooms were clean and well kept," shares Fransheska A. The forest features tent sites and cabin rentals with varying levels of privacy.
Urban proximity with nature access: Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park sits just 45 minutes from NYC while providing forest immersion. "A stones throw from NYC this beautiful area combines Lake Welch and Harriman State Park. This camp ground is laid back away from the busy activity of the big city," explains Brian O. The park offers tent platforms that keep campers dry during wet conditions.
Family activities: Great Divide Campground provides numerous recreational options for families with children. "This is a beautiful campground with much to do around the grounds themselves. They had live music which was actually really good!!! A reggae band. We found plenty of trails to hike with our two dogs," shares Julie. The campground features a pool, volleyball court, and scheduled kids' activities.
What you should know
Bear awareness: Several campgrounds report bear activity requiring proper food storage. At Beaver Pond Campground, one camper notes, "Welcome to Bear Mountain" grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness! He is in his ranger hut, checking in the late evening arrivals to the campground." Bear-proof containers or vehicle storage for food is essential.
Limited facilities at some locations: Round Valley State Park Campground offers primitive sites requiring more self-sufficiency. "There is a pump for potable water and vault/pit toilets. Trails are well-kept. Definitely a great place to start with getting into backpacking and enjoying nature," advises Agbi B. This park requires hiking 3-6 miles to reach campsites unless arriving by boat.
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds operate from April through October with varying amenities. "We stayed in the family campground in a travel trailer. Longish bike ride or shortish drive to the main park. Used a fan in the trailer to block out the sound of traffic," reports Theresa G. about her stay at Cheesequake State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Panther Lake Camping Resort offers multiple water recreation options. "Panther lake was a pretty good campground with lots of spots to camp at. Our campsite had a picnic bench and a fire ring. The lake and pool were a big plus, especially for hot days," mentions Ethan K. The resort also includes an arcade and ice cream shop for additional entertainment.
Noise levels vary: Some campgrounds report significant noise from fellow campers or nearby highways. "Offering the peaceful tranquility of sitting under the changing oak, sumacs, maples, and poplars, I wouldn't recommend this site for the quiet hearted. There is a constant buzz in the air of conversation, music, laughter and shrieking toddlers," shares Steve W. about Beaver Pond Campground.
Campsite selection matters: Choose sites based on bathroom proximity and terrain when camping with children. "The sites can be a bit tight, at times and you may find a few visitors, not necessarily on two legs, but always a delight," notes Elliot G. about Beaver Pond Campground. Many campgrounds have varying site sizes and layouts.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Water and electric connections vary widely between campgrounds. "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," advises an RVer at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
NYC access considerations: For RVers wanting to visit NYC, Liberty Harbor RV Park offers strategic location despite basic amenities. "This is a pricey park, but options are limited. As in almost non existent. This is a prime location for visiting the city or heading down the shore. The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8," notes Joe R. The park charges premium rates for its proximity to public transportation.
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring leveling blocks. "We camped here once because it was easy for part of our family to get to from NYC. Sites were a little too close together and one of the sites we reserved was filled with broken glass," reports Katrina Z. about Cheesequake State Park Campground, highlighting the importance of site preparation.
