Dispersed camping near Netcong, New Jersey offers diverse terrain from wooded forests to riverside sites. The region, situated in the Ridge and Valley physiographic province of northern New Jersey, features elevations ranging from 700 to 1,200 feet in surrounding state forests. Seasonal temperature swings can be significant with summer highs reaching 90°F while fall nights often drop below 50°F.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: 10-15 minute hike from camping areas near the Delaware River brings you to impressive cascades. At Camp Mohican Outdoor Center, campers note the outdoor opportunities beyond just camping: "There's a great look out point as well. If you want, they have the option of renting a small cabin/shelter that you can stay in if you are not into tent camping."
River paddling: 4-mile stretch between Milford Beach and Namanock Island offers beginner-friendly water travel. "Lots of peace and natural all around. Saw tons of bald eagles flying near the site and while paddles birds playing and baby geese with their mommas!" reports one paddler who visited the area.
Trail connection: Direct access to major hiking networks from several campsites. At Jenny Jump State Forest, a camper mentioned, "This place was great, they allow dogs and had hiking trails with beautiful views you could enjoy right from your campground. It's also close to other local hikes like Mt. Tammany."
What campers like
Night sky viewing: The minimal light pollution creates stellar stargazing conditions. At Round Valley State Park Campground, campers praise the natural darkness: "The stars and moon were absolutely amazing. We got some great night shots and the moon is so bright it actually looks like the sun in the photos."
Island camping solitude: Complete separation from main roads and day-use areas. "Once night falls the absence of light sources beyond your camp remind you that you are truly alone in the wilderness," writes one camper about their experience at Namanock Island.
Wildlife encounters: Morning and evening animal sightings are common at most sites. One camper at Kittatinny Valley State Park Campground reported, "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)."
What you should know
Site selection considerations: Terrain varies significantly even within single campgrounds. One camper at Jenny Jump State Forest noted, "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."
Water access planning: Many sites require filling containers at central locations. "There was a pump for potable water and vault/pit toilets. Trails are well-kept. Definitely a great place to start with getting into backpacking and enjoying nature," explains a visitor to Round Valley.
Highway noise impact: Some otherwise secluded sites experience occasional traffic sounds. A camper mentioned, "This campground is a nice little hideaway not too far from the beaten path. You can hear some of the highway sounds from the campsites (especially the jake brake)."
Reservation timing: Weekend spots fill quickly from May through September. "We hosted group camping trips here for years. Excellent spot! The lodge has bathrooms and a small store. You can rent kayaks and canoes and swimming is allowed on Catfish Pond," notes a regular visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Group site availability: Several designated areas accommodate larger family gatherings. At Rivers Bend Group Campground, visitors find "Large field with multiple group campsites with bearboxes, fire pit and garbage cans at each site. Four outhouses centrally located and a pump well."
Shelter options for beginners: Cabins and yurts provide transition options for families new to tent camping. A visitor to Jenny Jump described, "This is the first time we decided to forgo tent camping and reserve a shelter at a state park. We had a much better experience than we were expecting! The 'shelter' is what we would describe as a 'cabin'."
Nature program scheduling: Some parks offer ranger-led activities on summer weekends. "I was looking forward to a Worthington State Park campgrounds visit but that day they were all packed and I was suggested to Jenny Jump State. I enjoyed the overnight camp out with my kids and they had a blast," shared a father who visited the area.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most campgrounds near Netcong accommodate smaller trailers only. At Steam Mill Campground, a camper noted the site layout: "These sites are for people truly there to camp, either in a tent or small travel trailer."
Primitive setup reality: Limited hookups require self-contained operation. "I would say that Steam Mill campground was much quieter and more secluded then the rest of the camping options in Stokes State Forest. They had a fairly nice and well maintained bathroom facility."
Supply planning: No nearby stores for essentials at most locations. A camper at Jenny Jump shared this experience: "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. The only problem we encountered was that there wasn't a store close by for ice or other essentials."
