Tent camping near Mount Holly, New Jersey offers wilderness experiences within an hour's drive of urban centers. Most campgrounds in this region sit in valleys or along waterways at elevations between 100-500 feet, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during day and 55-65°F at night. Several sites require advance permits with occupancy limits strictly enforced during peak summer months.
What to do
Fishing at Green Lane Park: The 2,350-acre reservoir provides excellent trout fishing opportunities about an hour from Mount Holly. "Really nice spot to camp very peaceful and quit. Gorgeous sunset, beautiful views," notes a visitor to Round Valley State Park Campground.
Bird watching at Fort Washington: The observation deck offers prime viewing of seasonal raptor migrations including osprey, Cooper's hawks and bald eagles. "If you are planning on tent camping there isn't really any flat area to set up around the shelter so you might want to keep moving to one of the next sites," advises a camper about wilderness options near George W. Outerbridge AT Shelter.
Disc golf courses: Multiple courses are available within a 30-minute drive from most campgrounds. "Even though I live 10 minutes away I like to camp here because you still feel a little isolated. With no roads to the campgrounds it takes some effort to get there," explains a regular visitor about the secluded feeling at Round Valley.
What campers like
Protection from weather: Sheltered valley locations provide wind breaks during spring storms. "This spot is right next to a beautiful view on the side of Kittany Mountain and just off the Appalachian trail. There is 4 spots to set up at all of which have a spot for a fire," reports a camper at Kirkrige Shelter.
Unexpected wildlife: Dawn and dusk bring active wildlife viewing opportunities even at sites close to suburban areas. "Lots of tree cover running along a small running creek," notes a visitor about Evansburg State Park Campground.
Natural springs: Several sites feature natural spring water access for filtering. "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," shares an experienced camper about water options.
What you should know
Variable amenities: Facilities range from primitive to moderately developed with unpredictable maintenance schedules. "Sites are hit or miss in terms of comfort, some have large, flat, clear spaces for multiple tents, some you have to wedge a tent to avoid rocks. Bathrooms were standard, compost toilets," explains a visitor at Jenny Jump State Forest.
Access limitations: Many tent sites require physical effort to reach. "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," cautions a Round Valley camper.
Limited supplies nearby: Most remote sites have no nearby stores. "The only downside is having to haul gear by foot to the campsite. Some are further than others," notes a camper about Evansburg State Park, reflecting a common challenge in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Gradual wilderness introduction: Sites with both developed and wilderness options allow families to build camping skills incrementally. "We are avid campers ranging from our early days of remote, rustic tent camping with just the two of us and 20 years later upgraded to our travel trailer that houses our two kids and two dogs," shares a visitor at Boulder Ridge Farm.
Educational opportunities: Historical sites provide learning contexts for children. "This campground is a nice little hideaway not too far from the beaten path. You can hear some of the highway sounds from the campsites (especially the jake brake)," notes a Jenny Jump camper.
Swimming access considerations: Not all water bodies permit swimming despite appearances. "I would STRONGLY encourage anyone who thinks that it is OK to drink from the reservoir to at least use a Life Straw to ensure they don't get sick," advises an experienced camper regarding water safety.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: The best tent camping near Mount Holly, New Jersey frequently excludes larger RVs. "The campground is secluded and right on the Delaware River. Very enjoyable," explains a visitor to Washington Crossing State Park.
Supply planning: With limited hookups, RVers must calculate water and power needs carefully. "If you're looking for a getaway without doing backcountry planning this is the place," suggests a camper regarding the balance between wilderness and convenience.
Parking constraints: Many areas have strict parking regulations with designated lots far from camping areas. "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," shares an experienced visitor.
