Tent camping options near Mountainside, New Jersey include both developed and primitive sites within a 45-minute drive. The region sits at the edge of the Watchung Mountains with elevations reaching about 500 feet. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during camping season, with higher humidity levels in July and August compared to spring or fall months.
What to do
Paddle at Round Valley State Park: Access primitive campsites via kayak or canoe across the reservoir. One camper noted, "If you get a site on the water, you can take a boat across to your site - in-season rentals should be available on-site."
Disc golf at Campgaw Mountain Reservation: Campgaw Mountain Reservation offers free camping with permit requirements and recreational activities during daylight hours. A visitor mentioned, "There was also plenty to do during the day, like joining the hikers on those trails, disc golf, and sitting by the water."
Hike at Stonetown Circular Trail: This 11-mile loop trail includes primitive camping spots with challenging terrain. According to one camper, "This is a great spot to set up camp because it has a wide area and an amazing view. You will find the site right next to the American Flag at the top of the mountain."
Historical exploration at Washington Crossing: Though temporarily closed for 2024, this park typically allows camping near historic sites. A reviewer shared, "Washington's crossing is beautiful and historic. We often bike along the canal there. There are farms and animals to see, hikes along the Delaware river, Bowman's tower with a great view."
What campers like
Seclusion at Jenny Jump State Forest: Jenny Jump State Forest campsites provide privacy despite being relatively close to highways. A camper reported, "My husband and I tent camped in #34 with our dog. The space was reasonably priced, but we did have to pay an extra $5/day for our dog. However, we didn't mind as it was so private we felt like we had the entire Park to ourselves."
Water access at Sebago Cabin Camp: Located in Harriman State Park, these rustic cabins offer amenities beyond tent camping. One reviewer shared, "Sebago has a huge lake and great beach area. It was perfect for lounging and swimming in during a hot summer day."
Unique settings at Pleasant Valley Lavender: Pleasant Valley Lavender offers an unusual camping experience among lavender fields. A camper reported, "So pleasant to sleep near the blooming fields. Campsite is tucked in the woods. Tent camping in peace and quiet with easy access to major roads and highways to explore central NJ."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many sites offer encounters with local fauna. At Kittatinny Valley State Park, a camper noted, "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."
What you should know
Advance preparation required: Most sites have limited facilities. At Stonetown Circular Trail, a hiker advised, "The only difficult thing about this site is that it is at the top of a fairly difficult rock scramble. I would advise packing light if making camp at this site because a heavy pack would make this scramble up the mountain even harder."
Limited facilities: Many campgrounds have minimal amenities. At Jenny Jump, a visitor explained, "Bathrooms were standard, compost toilets. The showers were free and generally quite hot."
Seasonal considerations: Check availability as seasons vary. Sebago Cabin Camp offers alternative shelter options: "These cabins are VERY rustic, four walls, a cot, and a fridge. You still feel like you are 'roughing it' but with the convenience of a fridge. Absolutely zero phone service (for T-Mobile) which was AMAZING."
Reservation systems vary: Some require permits while others need reservations. A Campgaw Mountain visitor shared, "All-in-all, it is not a terrible site, especially considering the cheap price."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with activities: Sebago Cabin Camp offers family-friendly programming. A visitor noted, "Sebago has a ton of activities like outdoor movies and communal bonfires on weekends. I was told by ranger Joe they also do Karaoke nights too."
Consider cabins for easier family trips: For those not ready for tent camping, cabins provide compromise. A Sebago visitor explained, "It is great if you are going with a group/family and people want to sleep inside a cabin as oppose to a tent outside."
Look for educational opportunities: Some parks offer ranger programs. One parent shared, "Ranger Joe is 👌 with the kids and they have 🔥 wood for purchase on site most cabins have 2rooms with 4cots but some are larger inside has a full fridge and double hot plate outside a 🔥 pit and grill with table."
Bathroom proximity matters: Choose sites near facilities. At Jenny Jump, a camper mentioned, "The bathroom/shower was only a few steps away which was convenient and clean. The only problem we encountered was that there wasn't a store close by for ice or other essentials."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Round Valley State Park allows RVs but with significant limitations. According to site information, most camping requires boat-in or hike-in access, making RV camping challenging at many locations.
Check seasonal closures: Verify operating dates before planning trips. Staten Island Gateway National Recreation Area notes it's "CLOSED for 2025," affecting availability in the region.
Accessibility varies: Some campgrounds have difficult terrain. A Round Valley visitor explained, "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."
Consider cabin alternatives: When RV sites are limited, cabins offer similar comfort. A Sebago camper noted, "Near lake Welch- which is phenomenal for easy nearly- beach like camping. The cabins are 'rustic' - but there's what you need: cots, electricity, a fridge. Ignore the hotplate and just cook on a fire."
