Round Valley State Park Campground provides primitive wilderness camping options near Mountainside, New Jersey. Located at elevations reaching 180 feet above the reservoir, these campsites require either a 3-6 mile hike or boat access to reach. During summer months, temperatures range from 75-90°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms in July and August.
What to do
Kayaking at spring-fed reservoirs: Round Valley State Park Campground offers crystal clear water perfect for paddling. "Located just south of I78 and near the small hamlets of Clinton and Lebanon, what I love most about Round Valley SP is the fact that it has its very own eponymous fresh water reservoir, which spanning some 2,350 acres and is 180 feed deep in the middle," notes Stuart K.
Waterfront fishing: Turkey Swamp Park provides fishing opportunities with bait available on-site. "There is a lake with a boat dock and a small boardwalk. Kayaking/Canoeing, fishing, and swimming. In the summer, canoe, kayak, paddle boats, and row boats are available for rental," explains Lee D.
Mountain hiking with views: Explore the varied terrain with several connected trail systems. "You can launch your kayak easily from the shore. The surrounding forests offer peaceful settings with miles of trails for daytime exploration," mentions one visitor at Spruce Run Recreation Area.
What campers like
Private, wooded campsites: Jenny Jump State Forest offers secluded camping areas with natural barriers. "The camp sites are nicely laid out to ensure privacy. This park is high up on a mountain and affords lovely views. Well kept and clean," says Jocelyn G.
Glamping structures with comfort amenities: Great Divide Campground features unique accommodations beyond standard tents. "They also had covered wagons which I believe you can sleep in, but I did not pursue this option," reports Ethan K., highlighting some of the glamping close to Mountainside, New Jersey.
Accessibility to water features: Many campers appreciate direct water access. "Beautiful campsite right by the lake. Really nice spot to camp very peaceful and quit. Gorgeous sunset, Beautiful views," shares T K. about Round Valley.
What you should know
Wilderness camping requires preparation: For true primitive sites, expect minimal facilities. "When you finally do arrive to this primitive CG immersed in NJ's thick wild foliage, you'll experience waterfront bliss with a crystalline bevy of trout-infused reservoir water, and you won't get much in the way of amenities," explains Stuart K.
Bear activity requires precautions: Stokes State Forest and surrounding areas have active wildlife. "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 camper.
Seasonal availability varies: Most glamping options near Mountainside operate from April through October. "We stayed in one of the RV areas across the pond. It was peaceful to hear the frogs chirping at night, but definitely didn't think about how many more bugs the pond would bring," notes Adeline M.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Panther Lake Camping Resort offers dedicated play areas. "Great atmosphere for families. Liitte crowded for couples who want peace and quiet the staff was great to deal wwith," reports Joseph R.
Water activities for kids: Select campgrounds with swimming options. "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 Cynthia H.
Educational forest experiences: Some sites offer ranger-led activities. "The area was incredibly peaceful in December with many cabin reservations abandoned due to rain in the forecast. It did rain, but was still a great trip," mentions W L. about winter glamping near Mountainside.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation accommodates various RV sizes. "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill. Peaceful. Close to train to N. Y. City," advises Nancymike K.
Water connection preparation: Many sites require extra equipment. "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," notes antruze at Mahlon Dickerson.
Seasonal RV site options: Some campgrounds offer long-term stays. "Majority of sites are season all campers with LOTS of cottages. Only a handful of full hook up sites surrounded by seasonal cottages," reports April L. at Panther Lake.
