Camping sites near Mountain Lakes, New Jersey offer varied terrain options across the hilly Highlands region, with elevations ranging from 400 to 1,800 feet. The area experiences four distinct seasons, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and spring/fall bringing cooler 50-70°F conditions ideal for outdoor activities. Several campgrounds in the region provide alternatives to traditional tent camping, including yurt accommodations for those seeking a balance between comfort and wilderness immersion.
What to do
Hiking Appalachian Trail sections: From High Point State Park Campground, access stretches of the legendary trail without extensive travel. "Twelve miles are part of the Appalachian Trail. Pick up a hiking map at the park office or download the Avenza Maps app," suggests one visitor who valued the park's strategic location.
Wolf preserve excursions: Camp Taylor Campground offers a unique wildlife experience. "The Lakota Wolf Preserve is located on the camp and offers discounted tours for campers. We walked to the point at Mt Tammany for a great view of the river," shares a camper who combined wildlife viewing with scenic hiking.
Lake activities: Round Valley State Park Campground provides pristine water recreation. "Really nice spot to camp very peaceful and quiet. Gorgeous sunset, beautiful views. Really helpful people at the office," reports a visitor who enjoyed the reservoir setting. The park offers both boat-in camping and swim areas with crystal-clear water.
What campers like
Secluded campsites: Jenny Jump State Forest features spacious, private sites away from crowds. "This place was great, they allow dogs and had hiking trails with beautiful views you could enjoy right from your campground. The campgrounds and bathrooms were clean and well kept," notes one camper who appreciated the privacy factor.
Family-friendly amenities: Panther Lake Camping Resort offers extensive recreation options. "Big campground, lots of sites, nice pool, big community hot tub, boating is great, good fishing, nice playground, basketball court and great amenities," explains a reviewer who found plenty for everyone in their group to enjoy.
Winter cabin options: Stokes State Forest provides year-round camping including winter cabin rentals. "The cabins are reasonably priced and well-appointed, if a bit rustic. The interior features are just what you'd expect for getting away for the weekend. The main room has a bunk bed and two twins, a table with benches, two Adirondack chairs, a wood stove set into a fireplace," describes a winter visitor who appreciated the heating options.
What you should know
Bear awareness: Multiple campgrounds in the Mountain Lakes region require proper food storage. "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes," warns a Stokes State Forest camper who encountered wildlife during their stay.
Varied campsite privacy: Great Divide Campground offers different levels of seclusion based on site selection. "Sites had room to move and it was quiet and peaceful. Kids had lots of fun on the free kayaks and pool. Staff was friendly and helpful. Campgrounds have lots of hills so be prepared to hike up and down," shares a visitor who enjoyed the terrain but noted the topography challenges.
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds operate April through October. Water activities peak in summer months when temperatures reach 80-90°F, while fall camping (September-October) offers colorful foliage with cooler 50-65°F temperatures requiring warmer clothing and gear.
Tips for camping with families
Free water activities: Great Divide Campground includes complimentary boat usage. "Kids had lots of fun on the free kayaks and pool. Staff was friendly and helpful," notes a family who appreciated the no-cost recreation options that kept children entertained without additional expenses.
Animal encounters: For wildlife education, Camp Taylor Campground's wolf preserve creates memorable experiences. "The wolf preserve at the same location was just amazing - we learned so much and could hear the wolves howl from the campsite," shares a family who incorporated educational elements into their camping trip.
Yurt camping options: For families seeking yurt camping near Mountain Lakes, New Jersey, several parks offer these semi-permanent structures as alternatives to tent camping. Yurts typically include wooden floors, canvas walls, and basic furnishings that appeal to families wanting comfort without the full commitment to RV camping.
Tips from RVers
Hookup accessibility: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers well-designed RV sites. "Very clean and quiet. 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," advises an RVer who found the utilities well-planned despite initial concerns.
Level site selection: When selecting RV sites at Swartswood State Park Campground, investigate site angles. "Located in the Skylands of New Jersey, Mahlon Dickerson Campgound is a perfect place to spend a few nights or a couple of weeks. The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large. Water and electric hookups and a dump station," reports an experienced RVer who appreciated the terrain considerations.
Winter storage preparation: During off-season months (November-March), most campgrounds in the Mountain Lakes region close water systems. RVers should winterize equipment before temperatures drop below freezing, typically by mid-November when overnight lows can reach 20-30°F.
