Best Campgrounds near Morris Plains, NJ
The Skylands region surrounding Morris Plains, New Jersey encompasses diverse camping environments within an hour's drive. Mahlon Dickerson Reservation in Jefferson offers wooded sites with water and electric hookups that are "paved and mostly level," according to campers. State parks like High Point and Stokes State Forest provide more rustic experiences with lakeside camping and trail access. The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, approximately 35 miles west, features boat-in primitive sites along the river. Private campgrounds such as Great Divide Campground and Panther Lake Camping Resort cater to families seeking amenities like swimming pools and organized activities, while county parks offer quieter alternatives with varying levels of development.
Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from April through October, with limited year-round options. Reservations are essential during summer weekends when New York City residents seek outdoor escapes. Alcohol policies vary significantly between facilities, with state parks typically prohibiting alcohol while private campgrounds are more permissive. Weather conditions include humid summers with occasional thunderstorms and cool, colorful autumns ideal for camping. As one camper noted about Stokes State Forest, it's "nestled in a beautiful part of New Jersey and just remote enough that you can get away from the crowds and activity while still being in a short driving distance of restaurants, grocery stores, etc." Bear activity requires proper food storage in many areas, particularly in the northern forests.
Lakeside and riverside sites consistently receive the highest ratings from visitors. Round Valley State Park Campground offers what one camper called "breathtaking scenery" with "crystal-clear water," though sites require hiking, biking, or boating to access. Campground amenities vary widely, with state parks generally providing basic facilities while private resorts offer full hookups and recreational programs. Site privacy differs significantly between locations, with some campers noting issues at certain campgrounds. A visitor to High Point State Park appreciated that "sites were large and spread out, and we felt like we had a good amount of privacy." Wildlife viewing opportunities abound throughout the region, with deer, various birds, and smaller mammals commonly spotted from campsites.
