Camping options around Morris Plains, New Jersey extend across the state's northern highlands, where elevations reach over 1,000 feet in several areas. The region sits within the Highlands physiographic province, characterized by forested ridges, small lakes, and stream valleys. Fall nights typically drop below 45°F, requiring proper insulation for comfortable tent camping, while summer daytime temperatures average in the mid-80s.
What to do
Hiking to scenic viewpoints: At Jenny Jump State Forest, the mountain ridges provide excellent vantage points. "The camp sites are nicely laid out to ensure privacy. This park is high up on a mountain and affords lovely views. Well kept and clean," notes one visitor. The forest offers both challenging and family-friendly trails.
Paddle sports on quiet lakes: For water enthusiasts, smaller lakes provide peaceful experiences. "My first trip to this campground was September 2020... There was a nice lake, with seating every so often and a boat dock ramp thing in the campground," writes a camper at Swartswood State Park Campground.
Wilderness camping adventures: For those seeking seclusion, wilderness options exist. "This is a great campground that is super private and quiet - great for getting out to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. It's a pretty strenuous hike, but you'll be rewarded for the effort!" explains a Round Valley visitor.
What campers like
Site privacy levels: Many campers value secluded spots. "We stayed at site T219. It was a solid choice: private but close to the toilet and water. Some sites located around the opposite side of the ring back up to a babbling brook. The rushing water will soothe you to sleep," reports a Stokes camper.
Spacious camping areas: Room to spread out ranks highly. "Located in the Skylands of New Jersey, Mahlon Dickerson Campgound is a perfect place to spend a few nights or a couple of weeks. The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large," writes a reviewer at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Multi-activity options: Campers appreciate having diverse recreation nearby. "The camp site was spacious. The bathrooms and showers were struggling with the plumbing but were fairly clean. The river is just a small walk down the hill (you can stairs or a path which was nice). They stock the water with trout and there was an officer checking for fishing permits," notes a visitor at Stephens State Park Campground.
What you should know
Site-specific terrain challenges: Ground conditions vary substantially. "Most of the campsites were very rocky, but you can find some that have a little bit of grass," explains a visitor at Stokes State Forest. Research sites carefully, as some forest camps require platforms for tents.
Off-season value: Visiting during spring or fall provides better camping experiences. "We drove through at the end of October and only saw one camper there, and another that might have been the host," notes a camper about quieter seasons.
Bear safety protocols: Bears are active throughout the region. "We found parking in the Southern Lot to be perfectly fine and while we were initially worried about leaving our vehicle parked there for a few nights, we were reassured by the park rangers who patrol the lot constantly," explains a Round Valley State Park Campground visitor discussing park security measures.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Some campgrounds cater specifically to children. "Big campground, lots of sites, nice pool, big community hot tub, boating is great, good fishing, nice playground, basketball court and great amenities," reports a camper at Panther Lake Camping Resort.
Noise considerations: Family-friendly often means higher activity levels. "Fun camping place to books groups. Very kid and pet friendly, lake to fish and kayak on, lots of activities, great pool and awesome hot tub," shares a Panther Lake visitor. Sites with more separation provide better sleep.
Access to conveniences: Proximity to stores matters for family trips. "Located in the Skylands of New Jersey, Mahlon Dickerson Campgound is a perfect place to spend a few nights or a couple of weeks... Convenient for hiking and exploring, it's also only a 20 minute drive to a large mall in Rockaway," notes a reviewer.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: RV campers should verify site dimensions before booking. "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill. Peaceful. Close to train to N.Y. City," reports an RV camper at Mahlon Dickerson.
Urban access options: For those wanting to visit New York City, consider specialized parks. "This is all about location. The closest RV park to NYC. It's basically a parking lot with a dump station. Not much else. Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room," advises a visitor at Liberty Harbor RV Park.
Maneuverability challenges: Some of the best places to camp near Morris Plains have access limitations. "The campground as a whole and the individual sites are kind of tricky for bigger rigs. We are in a 26ft class c and we squeezed through, and there were a few sites where we could have made it work, but I can imagine a big class A or 5th wheel having a tough time," warns a camper about Stephens State Park.
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