Camping spots near Montville, New Jersey range from primitive backcountry sites to well-appointed cabins within a 30-mile radius. The northern New Jersey region sits at elevations between 400-1500 feet, creating varied terrain for campers in the Skylands region. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing from December through February, while summer highs typically reach 80-85°F with moderate humidity.
What to do
Hiking at Beaver Pond: Access multiple trail systems including sections of the Appalachian Trail at Beaver Pond Campground in nearby Harriman State Park. "The biggest positive about Beaver Pond is how spread out it was. You definitely feel like you have your own space and are not camping on top of your neighbor," notes Ethan K.
Kayaking and fishing: Great Divide Campground offers complimentary kayaks for campers. "Kids had lots of fun on the free kayaks and pool. Staff was friendly and helpful. Campgrounds have lots of hills so be prepared to hike up and down," shares Jojo P.
Seasonal swimming: Most campgrounds with lakes or pools operate swimming areas from Memorial Day through Labor Day with lifeguards. "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," notes a camper about Swartswood State Park.
Winter activities: Several parks including Stokes State Forest maintain cabin accommodations through winter months when temperatures regularly drop below freezing. "We stayed in site 15. The sites are wooded and large. Water and electric hookups and a dump station. Convenient for hiking and exploring," reports one RVer.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Stokes State Forest receives praise for its secluded options. "We stayed at site 11 on Lake Ocquittunk. While making reservations it said almost all sites were full but upon arrival the vast majority of sites were empty which made for a quiet/relaxing night," reports Josh S.
Off-season tranquility: Many campgrounds near Montville experience significantly lower occupancy in spring and fall. "We stayed here on a Thursday night in September prior to taking off backpacking. The campground was clean and quiet. Ranger said that during summer weekends the grounds fill up and can be quite noisy, but mid-week during the off-season it was great," notes Rebecca S.
Wildlife viewing: Black bears are common in the region, requiring proper food storage. "Three black bears strolled by the campsite next to ours in the early morning—gave us more of an energy boost after a sleepless night than our coffee!" reports Kaitlyn S. about her experience at Swartswood State Park.
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms even during peak season. "Clean bathrooms with flush toilets and showers, masks required for the pandemic still," reports Dwight D. about facilities at Swartswood.
What you should know
Bear safety protocols: Multiple campgrounds enforce strict food storage regulations. "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... He offers us a highlighted map to our site, wishes us a good stay, and gives us the run down on bear activity in the area," recounts Steve W. at Beaver Pond Campground.
Seasonal closures: Most state parks operate campgrounds from April through October with exact dates varying. "The campground was full of mostly families. If you wanted to shower, you would have to head to the group campsite not too far but you need to drive," notes Adeline M.
Primitive options: Stonetown Circular Trail Primitive #1 offers free backcountry camping without amenities. "This site is about 2 miles into the hike. This is a great spot to set up camp because it has a wide area and an amazing view. You will find the site right next to the American Flag at the top of the mountain," explains Ethan K.
Site terrain challenges: Many campgrounds feature uneven, rocky, or sloped sites. "Campsite was very spacious and had a platform where we were able to fit two tents. There was plenty of space on the site for more tents. Site came with bear proof bin for garbage and fire ring," notes E.M.V. about Stokes State Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Activity schedules: Panther Lake Camping Resort organizes regular family programs. "We went on 4th of July weekend so the place was packed. We were able to get a secluded spot in the woods which was great! 2 teenage girls had a blast in the lake and riding their bikes around. Pool was packed so didn't spend time there but the ceramic class was fun for the girls," shares Jojo P.
Quieter sites: Families seeking more peaceful experiences should book sites numbered 30+ at Swartswood or in secluded areas. "The other 3/4 of the campsite was bound by trees and shrubs which was nice and why we chose the spot. Other sites are more open and only the darkness of night will give you privacy," notes Dwight D.
Budget-friendly options: State parks typically offer the lowest rates, starting around $15-25 per night. "This is an off-grid camping experience. You can use your generator at certain hours. They have a beach. Their staff is friendly. I love going here," shares Adaly about Wawayanda State Park.
Seasonal crowds: Most family-oriented campgrounds experience heaviest usage on summer weekends. "We had a great time. Only issue was a skunk that visited our campsite multiple times in one night. Was not afraid of humans," reports Colleen C. about her stay at Panther Lake.
Tips from RVers
Water connection challenges: Camp Glen Gray and several other campgrounds have limited hookup options. "Great Camp!!! One rustic place with many hiking trails to choose from. Camp also provides trucking of gear weather permitting. No vehicles allowed to drive through camp," notes Jose N.
Leveling requirements: Many campgrounds in the hilly terrain require leveling equipment. "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill. Peaceful. Close to train to N.Y. City," shares Nancymike K. about their experience at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Winter hookup limitations: Most full-hookup sites close seasonally, though some parks maintain limited winter access. "Big campground, lots of sites, nice pool, big community hot tub, boating is great, good fishing, nice playground, basketball court and great amenities," shares Richard V. about Panther Lake's facilities.
Site size considerations: Larger rigs should call ahead to confirm access. "Like many of the sites in this area, Great Divide had a large pool which was used by many of the campers. Each site had a water spout and electric plug in. The one downside about this site was that you are not allowed to keep your car at your site," observes Ethan K.
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