Tent campsites near Montague, New Jersey occupy a unique ecological transition zone between the Kittatinny Ridge and Delaware River valley. At elevations ranging from 320 to 1,800 feet, campers experience temperature variations up to 15°F between riverside and ridge locations. Most primitive camping areas require paddlers to navigate class I rapids during seasonal water level fluctuations, typically ranging from 3 to 6 feet depth through summer months.
What to do
Explore waterfalls nearby: Paddle to Namanock Island where campers can access multiple waterfall trails. "You have Raymondskill Falls about a half an hour above you on the river, and down river you will shortly come to Dingman's Crossing, and a short hike takes you to two more waterfalls," notes John B.
Connect to the Appalachian Trail: Stay at Steam Mill Campground for direct trail access. "The campground is along the Blue Loop trail, providing either an easy walk along the stream or an easy/moderate hike that connects to the AT with views at Sunrise Mountain. I made a fairly easy 9-mile loop," explains Kristan V.
Kayak multiple connected waterways: Elks Brox Memorial Park offers launch points to explore interconnected water systems. "There are a few spots where you can launch a kayak and the lakes connecting rivers/streams are very cool and jungly," reports Eddie H.
What campers like
Island camping solitude: Experienced paddlers value the isolation at island campsites. "You totally feel that your party is alone out on the river, the entire world is yours and yours alone. There are no public interactions beyond the neighboring sites on the river for miles," writes John B. about Sandyston Boat In Campsites.
Low light pollution for stargazing: Many campsites offer exceptional night sky viewing. "The island is situated in a way that once darkness falls there are no lights to be seen in either direction, up or down river. Now, no lights means an incredible view of the night sky," a camper notes about overnight stays near Montague.
Wildlife encounters: Campsites throughout the area provide wildlife viewing opportunities. "I have had a fantastic trip each time! The sites are maintained by the NPS and are available on a first come first served basis. It's a rare thing to camp on an island and Namanock is so serene and peaceful you hear the water flowing gently all night," describes Derek W.
What you should know
Site limitations and timing: River campsites have specific usage parameters. "People found camping at this site that are not on a river trip or that are camped at the site for longer than one day can expect to receive hefty fines from the NPS," warns a reviewer about Sandyston Boat In Campsites.
Limited facilities: Be prepared for truly primitive conditions at most riverside locations. "Primitive camping, no bathrooms, no facilities of any sort. Everything must be packed in and out, or you won't have it," explains a camper about the river camping experience.
Steep shoreline approaches: Water access points often require careful navigation. "The river to camp journey due to fluctuating water levels makes unloading both more tiring and more of a hazard than I prefer," notes John B. about Hornbeck's River Campsites. Another adds, "It's a steep climb up the shore so be prepared for that."
Tips for camping with families
Pack food storage solutions: Bears are active throughout the region. "There are bears in this area, and while I've not seen one in the campground, I have seen them on the trails while staying here. I store my food in my car overnight and toss garbage bags in the dumpster nightly as well," advises Kristan V.
Choose larger sites for groups: Some camping areas accommodate multiple tents. "This site is a primitive campsite with a fire ring suitable for cooking. It is always a clean set of sites, a few of them are fairly large and accommodate large groups," notes John B.
Try a state forest shelter: For families new to camping, Jenny Jump State Forest offers structures beyond basic tent sites. "The 'shelter' is what we would describe as a 'cabin'; four walls, a roof, locking door, locking windows, large picture frame front window, four beds (two bunks), a wood burning stove, and a porch. Even compared to our glamping this was luxury!" describes Dwight D.
Tips from RVers
Choose smaller travel trailers: Campgrounds in the area have limited space for larger vehicles. "The sites are for people truly there to camp, either in a tent or small travel trailer," notes Kristan V. about Steam Mill Campground.
Plan for limited hookups: Most campgrounds near Montague offer primitive camping experiences with minimal amenities. "I would not drive an RV in here except maybe a small type trailer," warns Gregg T. about accessing Moon Valley Campground.
Consider private alternatives: For RVers seeking more comfortable options, look beyond public lands. "This was a great campsite nestled in the foothills of Northern NJ on the NY border. Small, clean with great views and great location for hiking, cruising etc. Bring your tent or use the existing glamping tents," suggests Bob F.
