Camping sites near Morristown, New Jersey feature diverse terrain with elevations ranging from 379 to 1,496 feet across the nearby parks. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F and winter temperatures often dropping below freezing. Water hookups are typically unavailable from November through March at most locations due to freezing concerns.
What to do
Kayaking on reservoirs: At Round Valley State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy one of New Jersey's largest reservoirs. "The water is crystal clear, the area is clean. There's bathrooms and pumps but we just filtered the water from the reservoir instead which tasted a million times better than the well water," notes a camper who appreciated the pristine conditions.
Hiking to Ghost Lake: Jenny Jump State Forest offers unique geological features with rock formations throughout the park. "Nice big group site and fun walk to Ghost Lake," mentions one visitor. The park features multiple trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty with elevation changes providing scenic vistas of the surrounding region.
Fishing opportunities: Trout fishing is readily available at several locations, particularly at Stephens State Park where the waterways are regularly stocked. "Great fishing hiking and campsites," reports one visitor who enjoyed the combination of activities. Most fishing areas require a New Jersey fishing license, which can be purchased online or at local sporting goods stores.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers frequently mention site spacing as a benefit at certain locations. At Spruce Run Recreation Area, "Campsites well spaced apart" is noted as a key advantage. Another visitor added, "The sites are large, many have nice mix of sun and shade. You can launch your kayak easily from the shore."
Waterfront camping: Lakefront sites are highly sought after and provide direct water access. "We had a site on the water and it was really nice. A duck visited us every morning," explains a camper at Spruce Run. Many waterfront sites require advance booking, especially for summer weekends.
Variety of accommodation options: Beyond standard tent and RV sites, some campgrounds offer unique accommodations. Great Divide Campground provides distinctive options including "covered wagons which I believe you can sleep in," according to one visitor. These alternative accommodations often book quickly during peak season.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects sound levels at several campgrounds. At Cheesequake State Park, "the Parkway is right there so it's not a nice quiet place," notes one camper. Another mentions using "a fan in the trailer to block out the sound of traffic with the exception of some sports cars/motorcycles speeding loudly."
Site terrain varies significantly: Level sites can be difficult to find at some locations. At Liberty Harbor RV Park, "Sites kind of level and very close. Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room," advises one visitor. Some campgrounds have significant elevation changes throughout.
Bathroom facilities differ widely: Quality and cleanliness of facilities vary considerably between parks. "Bathrooms were clean but there wasn't soap in any of the dispensers," reports a camper at Cheesequake. At other locations, visitors mention issues ranging from cold showers to maintenance problems.
Tips for camping with families
Activity-focused campgrounds: Families often prefer locations with organized recreation. "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 visitor at Panther Lake Camping Resort.
Playgrounds and swimming areas: Several parks offer designated children's areas. "Several playgrounds, boat launches, and life guarded swimming area," notes a camper at Spruce Run. Swimming beaches typically operate with lifeguards from Memorial Day through Labor Day with specific hours.
Weekend programming: Some campgrounds schedule regular events for children. "They have scheduled activities for kids," mentions a Great Divide visitor. Activities often include crafts, nature programs, and holiday-themed events during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Hose length requirements: At certain parks, water connections may require longer than standard hoses. "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 a visitor at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Low-hanging branches: Tree clearance can be problematic at several parks. "If bringing your RV, the safest bet is to reserve a spot with no shade as the other spots often times have very low hanging tree limbs," warns a Spruce Run visitor.
Dump station access: Several parks have limited dump facilities with potential wait times. "You might get lucky enough to not wait in line for the dump station" on slower days, notes one RVer. Some sites offer full hookups while others provide central dump stations with varying hours of operation.
