Best Campgrounds near Mount Olive, NJ
Camping near Mount Olive, New Jersey encompasses a range of established campgrounds within the scenic Skylands region of northern New Jersey. The area is surrounded by several state parks and recreation areas, including Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, Stephens State Park, and the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Most campgrounds accommodate tent camping, RVs, and many offer cabin rentals. Great Divide Campground in nearby Newton and Panther Lake Camping Resort in Andover provide full-service options with amenities for families, while state park campgrounds offer more rustic experiences with access to hiking trails and water activities.
Most campgrounds in the Mount Olive area operate seasonally from April through October, with peak season running May through September. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for summer weekends when New York City residents seek outdoor escapes. Weather conditions vary significantly by season, with hot, humid summers and occasional thunderstorms, while spring and fall offer milder temperatures ideal for camping. Bear activity is present in the region, particularly in the Delaware Water Gap area, requiring proper food storage. Cell service can be spotty in more remote campgrounds, though coverage is generally reliable at private campgrounds closer to town.
State park campgrounds like Stephens State Park and Mahlon Dickerson Reservation provide more natural settings with larger, more private sites. According to reviews, Mahlon Dickerson offers "paved and mostly level sites that are wooded and large" with convenient access to hiking trails. Private campgrounds tend to have more amenities but can be busier. Great Divide Campground features "kayaks for camper use, horseshoes, volleyball, a pool, a playground, and a dog park," according to one visitor. For those seeking a unique experience, boat-in camping is available at several sites along the Delaware River, though these primitive sites require paddling access and have strict regulations enforced by the National Park Service.