Tent campsites near Neshanic Station, New Jersey sit within the Piedmont Plateau region, characterized by gently rolling hills between 100-500 feet in elevation. Most campgrounds in this area operate seasonally from April through October, closing during winter months when temperatures regularly drop below freezing. Primitive camping options typically require reservations, with weekend availability filling up to 3-4 weeks in advance during peak summer months.
What to do
Bird watching at dawn: Jenny Jump State Forest offers exceptional viewing opportunities with diverse bird species. "This shelter is not situated too close to the other shelters and feels very private. During the day the parking lots filled up and there was some overflow parking for day-hikers across the road. We got to see their dogs, so that was a bonus for us!" reports a visitor at Jenny Jump State Forest.
Kayaking the Delaware River: Washington Crossing State Park provides boat access for paddlers exploring historic waterways. "Kayakers should launch from the Pennsylvania side's boat access for an iconic paddle on the Delaware River," notes a camper who stayed at Washington Crossing State Park.
Hiking mountain trails: The Kittatinny Valley trails offer routes for various skill levels through diverse terrain. "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 (also amazing sunsets)," shares a reviewer about Kittatinny Valley State Park Campground.
What campers like
Clear reservoir water: The water clarity at Round Valley gets frequent mentions from visitors. "We paddled in, the water is very clean and crystal clear," writes a camper who gave Round Valley State Park Campground five stars.
Privacy between sites: Many appreciate the space between camping spots. "The sites are hit or miss in terms of comfort, some have large, flat, clear spaces for multiple tents, some you have to wedge a tent to avoid rocks. Bathrooms were standard, compost toilets. The showers were free and generally quite hot," mentions a visitor to Jenny Jump State Forest.
Historical significance: Several camping areas offer direct connections to Revolutionary War history. "Every year, they re-enact Washington's troops crossing the Delaware! It was VERY cold the year I went. To warm up, there is a small visitor's center where they have a reproduction of the famous painting commemorating the moment," explains a Washington Crossing State Park camper.
What you should know
Limited amenities at primitive sites: Most wilderness camping options have minimal facilities. "This campground is rustic with no showers or electricity. Tenting only, with all gear needing to be carried to the site. No vehicles allowed at the campsite. Some of the sites do have a wooden pavilion covering the picnic table," warns a reviewer of Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience unexpected sounds. "My only complaint is that the noise from the highway was quite loud at night," noted a Jenny Jump State Forest visitor. Similarly, at Sandy Hook, "Sometimes other campers with motor boats in the middle of the night can be pretty annoying, but overall the place is great."
Early risers dominate: Several campgrounds report early morning activity. At Tip Tam Camping Resort, a camper warned: "The only downside I saw was people here are up way too early. 7am place was already loud. 7:45am a propane truck pulled in to fill the propane and was extremely loud. 8am people with leaf blowers and chopping wood. Don't expect to sleep past 7:30am."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Some locations offer simplified camping experiences. "I think this would be great for a family who are just starting to get interested in camping and would like to experience it first without making a large investment into buying your own equipment," suggests a visitor to Camp Starry Night at Gulyan Farms.
Activity-rich campgrounds: Look for sites with built-in entertainment. "The place was fun... they have peddle cars and playgrounds. They deliver wood to your site by the truck full! Nice little store and staff are all friendly," shares a camper from Tip Tam Camping Resort.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer animal sightings kids enjoy. "There's plenty to do or not. Kids can go. Mini golf, swimming, pedal cars. Wooded sites. Owner Darren is great. Like family. Big sites," notes a visitor to Tip Tam Camping Resort.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most camping near Neshanic Station offers minimal RV amenities. "While mostly a seasonal campground there are several transient sites with full hookup. This campground is well managed and it shows. All sites are well maintained and cared for. They also are a Good Sam and Passport America park," explains an RVer who visited Tip Tam Camping Resort.
Site spacing considerations: Some RV sites lack privacy. "My family and I stayed at Tip Tam this weekend. The owners and staff were very friendly and accommodating. The camp store was great also. The sites are very close together, and you can hear your neighbors easily," notes a recent visitor.
Generator restrictions: Many nearby parks prohibit generator use. At Fort Washington State Park, one camper noted: "Clean, great bathroom and water access. Great trails. Easy to get to. There's at least two fire pits per camp ground. There's only group camping. They give you firewood—if you bring your own, leave with any left over."
