Round Valley State Park Campground offers a wilderness camping experience that requires substantial preparation for access. Located southeast of Millstone, this park features a primitive campground situated 3 to 6 miles from parking areas, positioned along the 2,350-acre reservoir. The terrain is rugged with challenging trails that demand proper hiking footwear and minimal gear.
What to do
Water activities on Round Valley Reservoir: Visitors at Round Valley State Park Campground can enjoy paddling on crystal-clear waters. "Beautiful and quaint..a nice place to get away and enjoy some nature," notes Ryan M. While swimming isn't permitted at the wilderness camping area, kayakers and canoeists can reach campsites by water instead of hiking.
Explore historical sites: At Washington Crossing State Park, history enthusiasts can participate in seasonal reenactments. "Every year, they re-enact Washington's troops crossing the Delaware," shares David S., adding that "It was VERY cold the year I went. To warm up, there is a small visitor's center where they have a reproduction of the famous painting."
Rock exploration: Near Ringing Rocks Family Campground, visitors can experience a unique geological phenomenon. "The rocks really do ring when hit with another rock," explains Kathie M. Gregg G. suggests, "Bring a hammer" to fully experience this natural curiosity.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: At Turkey Swamp Park, campers appreciate the natural setting. "Sites are in the woods and widely spaced apart to give you privacy and the feeling of being out in the Forrest," explains Katheryn N., who also notes that "the sites are roomy with electric and water hookups."
Waterfront camping views: Campers at Spruce Run Recreation Area value the reservoir scenery. "My campsite was 34W, right next the reservoir. Nice location," reports Frank J. Another camper, Yolanda T., shares that "Most campsite has a view of the Reservoir when sundown has amazing sunsets."
Tent-friendly terrain: At Mountainview Campground, tent campers find ideal conditions. "The property is well kept and campsites are a good distance from each other. Plenty of open field as well as wooded areas," notes Mario M. Scott A. adds, "Stayed at one of the primitive sites. Very clean and quite. Bath stalls and showers are basic but clean. Great spot for stargazing."
What you should know
Accessibility challenges: Round Valley wilderness sites require significant effort. "I have hiked throughout the entire US and consider myself somewhere between a moderate to skilled hiker and I found these trails challenging and uneven," explains Stuart K., adding that "while the hike we made was only 3 miles, it was not easy and I would be worried about someone breaking an ankle."
Seasonal insect concerns: Some parks have tick issues during warm months. One camper at Turkey Swamp Park reports, "By the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2. That was so crazy because we were just sitting by our camper."
Noise considerations: Highway sounds affect some campsites. At Spruce Run, Frank J. notes, "Late at night you can hear the drone of a major highway." Similarly, at Allaire State Park, a camper mentioned it was "Noisy with highway traffic" despite being "well maintained."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Turkey Swamp Park offers family-friendly amenities. "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," shares Dan W., who also mentions "Centralized playground for the kids with bathrooms and showers next door."
Bug preparation: Pack appropriate insect protection, especially during summer months. One family at Turkey Swamp noted, "We went camping with our 2- and 3-year-old kids. We were worried about bugs, but we didn't even use mosquito repellent and didn't get a single bite! The campground was super clean too."
Seasonal events: Check for special activities when booking. At Timberland Lake Campground, Jessica D. shares, "We LOVE camping here in the fall!! They do their own haunted walk through that is just awesome! Everyone decorates. They have a dj every Saturday! Plenty of activities for the kids."
Tips from RVers
Water and electrical needs: For RV glamping near Millstone, New Jersey, plan your hookup requirements. Ruette W. advises about Spruce Run, "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."
Road conditions: Prepare for variable access roads. Lee D. notes at Turkey Swamp Park, "As soon as you turn off the main road to the park, all roads are dirt, which was a bit surprising. They were well-maintained and in dry weather, not a problem, but probably not if it was rainy."
Site dimensions: Check site specifications for larger vehicles. At Mountainview Campground, Robert J. shares, "We took it to Mountain View this weekend, with a little trepidation on how we were going to get the trailer backed into the space. Not to worry, they gave us a nice drive through space."
