Round Valley State Park Campground offers primitive wilderness camping 14 miles north of Neshanic Station, New Jersey. The reservoir-side campsites require a 3-6 mile hike or boat access, creating one of the few true wilderness camping experiences in the region. Winter temperatures average 20-40°F while summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F with moderate humidity.
What to do
Reservoir activities at Round Valley: The 2,350-acre reservoir at Round Valley State Park Campground provides excellent kayaking and canoeing opportunities. "Really nice spot to camp very peaceful and quit. Gorgeous sunset, beautiful views," shares T K., highlighting the water-based recreation potential.
Hiking mountain trails: The surrounding Cushetunk Mountain offers challenging trails with elevation changes of 300-500 feet. "The hike up in the cushetunk mountain is really nice as well. If you're looking for a getaway without doing backcountry planning this is the place," notes James R.
Fishing for trout: The reservoir contains a "crystalline bevy of trout-infused reservoir water" according to Stuart K. Anglers can catch rainbow and brown trout year-round with proper fishing licenses from the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife.
Archery practice: Turkey Swamp Park offers dedicated archery ranges with hay bale targets. "Bring your bow and shoot at the hay barrels," suggests Patrick M., making it an excellent alternative activity when not glamping near Neshanic Station.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Mountainview Campground, campers appreciate the natural separation between camping areas. Christina H. notes, "Campsites are either in thick, wooded areas, or in open fields," and explains that "our site was fully private (could not see or hear neighbors)."
Clean facilities: Spruce Run Recreation Area maintains their washrooms and common areas regularly. "Clean bathrooms with very hot water and flushable toilet. The grounds are full of grass which makes my tent easy to pitch," shares Yolanda T.
Wildlife encounters: The area around Round Valley provides numerous wildlife viewing opportunities. Campers report hearing "foxes fighting right outside our tent, the snorts of deer, and there were bats right above us all night making noise," according to Christina H. at Mountainview Campground.
Spacious campsites: Campers consistently mention the generous sizing of sites at Turkey Swamp Park. "Sites are in the woods and widely spaced apart to give you privacy and the feeling of being out in the Forrest," notes Katheryn N.
What you should know
Challenging access: Washington Crossing State Park has specific entry requirements. "This isn't the place for a cushy RV getaway or individual tenters looking to sneak in for the night, but rather a structured, group-style camping steeped in Revolutionary War atmosphere," explains Stuart K.
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds in the area operate from April 1 through October 31, with limited winter options. Spruce Run Recreation Area's facilities, including glamping accommodations near Neshanic Station, close during colder months.
Permit requirements: Many sites require advance reservations, particularly for group camping. At Washington Crossing State Park, "reservations are required, permits are non-negotiable and the max stay tops out at 14 nights."
Water conditions: Despite clear appearance, reservoir water may require treatment. "While the water in the reservoir may look crystal clear, it is not crystal clean and I would STRONGLY encourage anyone who thinks that it is OK to drink from the reservoir to at least use a Life Straw," advises Stuart K.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Colonial Woods Family Resort offers multiple play areas for children. "The pooL and splash pool for toddlers was clean with a lifeguard on duty at all times," shares Nicole S., adding that they "had a playground, lake where you could fish, cornhole, and minigolf."
Educational opportunities: Washington Crossing State Park provides historical learning experiences. "Visit the park's historic reenactments, especially the Christmas Day Crossing event as it's easily the most memorable history lesson you'll ever get outdoors," recommends Stuart K.
Activity planning: Campgrounds organize regular family events. At Colonial Woods, "they had a casino night where they had separate play areas for kids and adults. All the money made is donated to Shriners Children's Hospital," notes Nicole S.
Fishing access for kids: Several campgrounds offer shore fishing suitable for children. At Camp Carr Campground, "excellent view of the South Branch and extremely relaxing" conditions make fishing accessible for young anglers, according to Jim B.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Ringing Rocks Family Campground, RVers should consider site location carefully. "Our spot was #27 and pretty spacious. The landing for the camper was even with gravel and the rest of the site was mostly even. The power station was well intact with 15/20, 30, and 50amp," recommends sarah.
Water hookup preparation: Bring extended hoses when glamping near Neshanic Station. "Bring a LONG water hose," advises Shawn at Turkey Swamp Park, where hookup distances can vary significantly between sites.
Dump station timing: Colonial Woods has congestion issues at their waste disposal facilities. Nathan R. notes the "dump station location isn't ideal on a busy morning" and suggests asking "if it's ok to stick around until it dies down if our site isn't needed soon."
Tree clearance awareness: Colonial Woods presents challenges for larger vehicles. Brian C. cautions, "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)."
