Camping near Neshanic Station occurs in the rolling hills of Somerset County, where elevations range from 130 to 620 feet above sea level. Most campgrounds open from April 1 through October 31, with seasonal limitations due to the area's northern climate. Summer daytime temperatures typically reach 80-90°F, while spring and fall nights can drop to 40-50°F.
What to do
Outdoor climbing: Tohickon Valley County Park features a substantial climbing wall for visitors seeking adventure. "This place is amazing! Everything you could want, from tent and RV camping to cabin rentals. They also have a pool and playground. Some of my favorite parts of this park are a good 100' rack wall perfect for climbing, great fishing, trails for miles that even connects to the AT," notes Brett C.
Water activities: Spruce Run Recreation Area offers boating, kayaking, and swimming options at its reservoir. One camper observed, "You can bring a camper, tent, or use one of the cabins. Many sites have a lovely water view of the reservoir. Several playgrounds, boat launches, and life guarded swimming area." Sites on the water provide scenic views, though the area gets crowded on weekends.
Stargazing: Mountainview Campground provides excellent night sky viewing opportunities. "Stayed at one of the primitive sites. Very clean and quite. Bath stalls and showers are basic but clean. Great spot for stargazing. Owners are very nice," reports Scott A. The campground's location away from major light pollution sources creates ideal conditions for astronomical observation.
What campers like
Privacy in wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the secluded tent sites at Mountainview Campground. "We've tent camped here three or four times. It's a quiet wooded campground (not all spots, but most). Easy to get to, and friendly family ownership," shares Robert J. The campground offers both wooded and open field sites depending on preference.
Water-view campsites: Camp Carr Campground receives high marks for its riverside locations. "I love the water views, The sites are large, many have nice mix of sun and shade. You can launch your kayak easily from the shore," notes Ruette W. The South Branch of the Raritan River provides a peaceful backdrop for camping experiences.
Wildlife encounters: Tohickon Valley County Park attracts nature enthusiasts with its abundant wildlife. "We came late and left early but our campsite was big, we weren't on top of our neighbors, it was set back into the trees, and the sounds were incredible. We saw lots of deer and signs for a pool!" Karen P. explains. The park's location near the Delaware River creates a rich habitat for various animal species.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities: Campground restroom quality varies widely in the region. At Colonial Woods Family Resort, "The showers were free and clean with hot water and decent pressure." In contrast, at Spruce Run Recreation Area, one camper reported, "The bathrooms were absolutely disgusting. I thought with COVID they were cleaning them more, but for the entire weekend, someone's #2 remained all over the toilet, floor, and corner wall."
Site characteristics: Colonial Woods Family Resort has some terrain challenges. "Sites are very close together. Site numbers are on the back of the sites, very hard to see from the road," notes Kim B. Another camper observed, "For whatever reason the sites are all covered in stone, and I don't mean just the area where you park, I mean it was like camping on a stone driveway."
Noise considerations: Highway noise affects some campgrounds. At Cheesequake State Park Campground, a camper mentioned, "Used a fan in the trailer to block out the sound of traffic with the exception of some sports cars/motorcycles speeding loudly." Weekend crowds can also create disturbances at popular sites.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Colonial Woods Family Resort organizes regular events for children. "The pooL and splash pool for toddlers was clean with a lifeguard on duty at all times. They had a playground, lake where you could fish, cornhole, and minigolf. They did a few activities the one we did go to was the casino night where they had separate play areas for kids and adults," shares Nicole S.
Easier camping options: Ringing Rocks Family Campground provides conveniences for families new to outdoor experiences. "We went on Halloween weekend and they had so much for the kids to do! Friendly staff and clean sites!" reports Shannon C. The campground's proximity to Ringing Rocks County Park adds a unique geological attraction where children can create metallic sounds by striking the rocks.
Safety considerations: When camping with children at Spruce Run Recreation Area, be aware of weekend crowds. "Gets packed but lots to do. Still trying to catch a fish here. A quick treat at Rita's around the corner," advises Gregg G. The reservoir's swimming area has lifeguards during summer months, but parents should maintain supervision.
Tips from RVers
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have limitations for larger vehicles. At Ringing Rocks Family Campground, Brian C. warns, "This place is not the place for you if you have a fifth wheel. The roads are very narrow, pretty sizable boulders on both sides, trees are very low and need to be trimmed (almost took my ac out with a huge limb)."
Hookup availability: At Camp Carr Campground, RV sites offer limited connections. "Sites are water and 30 amp electric only no sewer so I recommend bringing your own portable dump tank. They have a dump station for use when leaving," advises Melissa N. Planning water usage becomes important during multi-day stays.
Site selection: Washington Crossing State Park and surrounding areas require careful research before arrival. "The best group sites are the ones tucked furthest from the trailhead as (surprise, surprise) they're quieter and offer more privacy," notes Stuart K. For RVers at Spruce Run, "My campsite was 34W, right next the reservoir. Nice location however the website said it was full shade. The picnic table was in shade. The spot for the RV was full sun."
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