Horse camping opportunities are sparse within 30 miles of Upper Montclair, New Jersey, though several campgrounds accommodate tent and RV camping in the region. The area sits at elevations between 150-500 feet above sea level in the northeastern portion of the state. Most nearby camping options are concentrated west and south of Upper Montclair, with sites nestled in the woodlands of central and western New Jersey.
What to do
Trail hiking near campsites: At Stokes State Forest, campers can access over 63 miles of marked trails. "We drove down the road and were able to get in a nice 5 mile hike up to the fire tower. Due to cooler temps there were really no bugs to complain about while camping," notes Josh S. The park connects to the Appalachian Trail, offering extensive hiking options.
Water activities on reservoir: Spruce Run Recreation Area provides waterfront campsites with swimming and boating access. "You can launch your kayak easily from the shore," shares Ruette W. The recreation area maintains a lifeguarded swimming area during summer months and offers boat rentals for visitors without their own watercraft.
Historical exploration: Some campsites provide access to interesting historical features. "We hiked the Tillman Ravine trail (tip: make the trail a loop and visit both the ravine and the nearby old cemetery)," writes a camper at Stokes State Forest. Several parks maintain historical structures, foundations, and cultural sites that campers can explore during their stay.
What campers like
Quiet, wooded sites: Mountainview Campground offers secluded camping in wooded settings. "This place was actually fantastic, I don't really have anything negative to say about it. The whole scene was exactly what I love about camping, a nice little remote campground in the mountains," reports Christina H. Campers consistently mention appreciating the natural setting and relative solitude.
Stargazing opportunities: The distance from urban centers creates better night sky viewing. "The stars and moon were absolutely amazing. We got some great night shots and the moon is so bright it actually looks like the sun in the photos," notes Jen R. at Camp Starry Night. Several campgrounds feature open fields or clearings ideal for observing night skies.
Wildlife encounters: Multiple campers report wildlife sightings as highlights of their trips. "Only shortly after we settled into our tent did we hear foxes fighting right outside our tent, the snorts of deer, and there were bats right above us all night making noise!" reports a camper at Mountainview Campground. The natural settings support diverse wildlife populations throughout the camping season.
What you should know
Tick precautions essential: Multiple reviewers mention ticks at New Jersey campgrounds. "By the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2... I have been RVing for 2-3 years and this is the first time this many ticks ambushed us," warns Laura Y. from Turkey Swamp Park. Pack repellent and conduct regular tick checks.
Highway noise at some locations: Several campgrounds are located near major roadways. "You can hear 78, especially at night once the campground settles down," notes Jules T. about Spruce Run Recreation Area. Research campsite locations within parks to minimize road noise.
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Campground bathroom quality receives mixed reviews. "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," reports one camper, while others note "very clean" facilities at the same location. Pack supplies accordingly.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Turkey Swamp Park features dedicated play areas for children. "Centralized playground for the kids with bathrooms and showers next door," notes Dan W. Multiple campgrounds offer age-appropriate playgrounds within walking distance of campsites.
Water activities for different ages: Several campgrounds feature water access suitable for families. "There is a lake with a boat dock and a small boardwalk. Kayaking/Canoeing, fishing, and swimming. In the summer, canoe, kayak, paddle boats, and row boats are available for rental," says Lee D. about Turkey Swamp Park.
Cabin options for less experienced campers: First-time campers might appreciate cabin accommodations. "We stay in the cabins. It's great to have the small kitchen when camping with the family," shares Amy B. about Stokes State Forest. Cabins provide shelter during inclement weather and ease the camping experience for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Urban access from RV sites: Liberty Harbor RV Park offers convenient access to New York City. "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," explains Joe R. The location provides hookups while allowing access to urban attractions.
Limited full-hookup options: Many campgrounds offer partial hookups only. "There are some RV sites with water & electric which are not on the water, but in the parking lot. I would consider getting one on the water to enjoy the water and one in the parking lot to hook up the RV," suggests Ruette W. about Spruce Run Recreation Area. RVers should research hookup availability when planning trips.
Prepare for uneven or dirt access roads: Many New Jersey campgrounds have rustic access roads. "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," notes Lee D. about Turkey Swamp Park. Larger RVs may encounter challenges at some locations, particularly during wet weather.
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