The area surrounding Morris Plains features the New Jersey Highlands region with elevations reaching 1,400 feet in nearby mountain ridges. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with occasional thunderstorms, while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder 50-70°F temperatures. Dispersed camping options near Morris Plains are limited, with most facilities requiring reservations during peak summer months.
What to do
Paddling and boating: Round Valley State Park Campground provides excellent water-based activities on its 2,350-acre reservoir. "The lake is beautiful! Great for swimming and fishing. There are several trail hikes that you can do from the campsite," writes Ethan K. While swimming at designated areas is permitted, not all water access points allow swimming, as one camper notes, "after hiking so far in to get to this location, you're not allowed to swim in the reservoir."
Stargazing: Jenny Jump State Forest hosts an astronomical observatory with weekend programs. "This park is high up on a mountain and affords lovely views," mentions Jocelyn G. The forest's elevation makes it ideal for night sky viewing away from urban light pollution.
Hiking access: Multiple trail systems connect throughout the region. At Stokes State Forest, "There are 21 marked trails that cover over 63 miles within the boundaries. Twelve miles are part of the Appalachian Trail," notes one reviewer. Another camper adds, "We hiked to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful."
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Several campgrounds offer secluded sites away from crowds. At Great Divide Campground, "The campgrounds were very big and spread out and the campsites have their own space so you can enjoy quiet at night," says Ethan K. Another camper confirms the privacy: "If you have a big crew then there are plenty of joint spots... but there are some other sites that def are separate."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain regular cleaning schedules. "The bathrooms and showers were clean. The sink for dishes was clean and well maintained," reports Barbara S. about Stephens State Park. Even during peak season, most campgrounds receive positive reviews for facility maintenance.
Waterfront sites: Many campers appreciate lakeside locations. "Beautiful campsite right by the lake... Gorgeous sunset, beautiful views," writes T.K. about Round Valley. Another camper reports, "The sites are spaced well and have a nice bonus of large fire rings set back in the woods a bit from the pad that you park on."
What you should know
Booking challenges: Popular sites fill quickly during summer weekends. At Swartswood State Park Campground, one camper reports, "I got one of the last available campsites and it was okay, but not one I would have normally chosen." Reservations should be made 3-4 months in advance for peak season.
Privacy variations: Site privacy differs dramatically between and within campgrounds. "Starting with sites in the 30s, sites get more separated and a wee bit secluded," explains Rob M. about Swartswood. Another camper warns, "The park was incredibly noisy at night and there is little to no privacy between campsites. Everything could be seen by your neighbors."
Bear presence: This region has active black bear populations. Proper food storage is essential as "Stokes is bear country so proper food storage is a must," one reviewer cautions. Another camper had "my first bear encounter which was exciting. Three black bears strolled by the campsite next to ours in the early morning."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Panther Lake Camping Resort offers numerous activities for children. "Nice small lake with boats to use. Nice small beach. Lots of weekend activities. Will be back in the future," writes Scott N. The resort also features "a small soccer field and volleyball court. They also had scheduled activities for kids," according to another reviewer.
Swimming options: Multiple lakes provide swimming opportunities during summer. "The lake is crystal clear, the area is clean. There's bathrooms and pumps but we just filtered the water from the reservoir instead," reports one camper about Round Valley. Most lakes have designated swimming areas with seasonal lifeguards.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas. "There is a playground and volleyball court. There are dumpsters but no recycling," notes one camper. Many sites also offer open grassy areas suitable for games and activities.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation accommodates larger rigs despite wooded settings. "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill. Peaceful. Close to train to N.Y. City," reports Nancymike K. The campsites feature paved pads that are "mostly level" according to multiple reviewers.
Hookup considerations: Water connections require planning at some campgrounds. "Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that. Our site (15) said 75' however the 50' hose reel made it to our RV connection," explains one RVer. Not all campgrounds offer sewer hookups, though most have dump stations.
Winter camping options: Several parks remain open year-round with limited services. One camper who rented a cabin in colder months notes, "You need that wood stove to heat up the cabin. Turning on the oven is a help, but not a good solution. The wood stove definitely heats the room up nicely."
Legend
