Primitive camping around Mount Olive, New Jersey offers opportunities for both novice and experienced outdoor enthusiasts. Located in Morris County at approximately 850 feet above sea level, the region features rolling highlands and numerous waterways. Weather conditions typically include warm summers with temperatures in the 80s and cool nights in the 50s, making tent camping near Mount Olive viable from late spring through early fall.
What to do
Hiking trails with water views: At Jenny Jump State Forest, explore paths leading to scenic overlooks. "You can enjoy right from your campground. It's also close to other local hikes like Mt. Tammany. The campgrounds and bathrooms were clean and well kept," notes Fransheska A.
Paddle across reservoirs: The 2,350-acre reservoir at Round Valley State Park Campground offers kayaking and canoeing options. "If you get a site on the water, you can take a boat across to your site (check the site for regulations/restrictions) - in-season rentals should be available on-site," advises Agbi B.
Stargazing without light pollution: Camp sites on Namanock Island provide exceptional night sky viewing. "Once night falls the absence of light sources beyond your camp remind you that you are truly alone in the wilderness," shares John B. The dark sky makes star viewing exceptional during summer months.
Visit nearby waterfalls: Within a 10-15 minute hike from your river campsite on the Pennsylvania side, you can reach Raymondskill Falls. "A 'must-see' if your stopping here," according to local campers who frequent the Delaware Water Gap area.
What campers like
Spacious, private campsites: Kittatinny Valley State Park Campground offers well-separated sites. "Four spots across the public park. You'll see deer and rabbits it's really spacious and beautiful. Site A is the best for seclusion and a spot closer to the lake," reports Bee L.
Primitive camping challenge: The hike-in experience at Round Valley requires preparation but rewards effort. "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!" states Agbi B.
Clean facilities: Jenny Jump State Forest maintains good standards for their basic amenities. "The bathroom/shower was only a few steps away which was convenient and clean," notes Kelsey K., who also mentions the campsite was "reasonably priced" though there was an additional $5/day fee for dogs.
Natural setting: Many campers appreciate the undeveloped terrain. "Primitive, has bathrooms and water spigots. Good hammocking trees and wasn't crowded at all. Plenty of privacy from other sites," according to Lindsay D. who camped at Jenny Jump.
What you should know
Limited supplies nearby: Plan ahead for essentials when tent camping around Mount Olive. At Jenny Jump, "there wasn't a store close by for ice or other essentials, although the main office does sell firewood. They close at 4pm, though, so be sure to get there before then!" warns Kelsey K.
Highway noise: Some campgrounds aren't completely isolated from civilization. "The camp sites are nicely laid out to ensure privacy. This park is high up on a mountain and affords lovely views. My only complaint is that the noise from the highway was quite loud at night," reports Jocelyn G. about Jenny Jump State Forest.
Variable site conditions: Sites differ significantly in comfort and setup. "The 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," explains Seth K.
Access challenges: Namanock Island requires careful planning. "Spring time trips can find the water levels much higher and swifter making it more difficult to arrive safely, or dry," cautions John B. who recommends checking river conditions before departure.
Tips for camping with families
Shelter camping option: For families new to tent camping, consider the shelter accommodations. "This is the first time we decided to forgo tent camping and reserve a shelter at a state park. The 'shelter' is what we would describe as a 'cabin'; four walls, a roof, locking door, locking windows, large picture frame front window, four beds(two bunks), a wood burning stove, and a porch," shares Dwight D. about his experience at Camp Mohican Outdoor Center.
Group camping areas: Rivers Bend provides ample space for larger family gatherings. "Large field with multiple group campsites with bearboxes, fire pit and garbage cans at each site. Four outhouses centrally located and a pump well," notes Christopher W.
Beginner-friendly options: Start with established campgrounds before attempting primitive sites. "I enjoyed the overnight camp out with my kids and they had a blast. Nice size primitive tent site we had and was nice for beginner camping," explains Scott O. who found Jenny Jump State Forest suitable for families.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids enjoy spotting animals. "Lots of peace and natural all around. Saw tons of bald eagles flying near the site and while paddles birds playing and baby geese with their mommas!" reports Sean M. who camped along the Delaware River.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most campgrounds near Mount Olive have minimal RV amenities. Rivers Bend Group Campground accommodates RVs but without hookups. Sites are on a "large field with multiple group campsites" according to Christopher W.
Accessibility considerations: Many sites require significant walking from parking areas. "Some of the shelters are wheelchair accessible. Some of the others are not," notes Dwight D. about the facilities at Camp Mohican, an important consideration for RVers with mobility concerns.
Seasonal restrictions: Most campgrounds operate from April through October. "Located just south of I78 and near the small hamlets of Clinton and Lebanon," Round Valley State Park has specific seasonal closures affecting RV access, according to Stuart K.
Parking limitations: RV parking may be available only in designated 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 Stuart K. about Round Valley's parking situation.
