Rachel L.
Scout
ScoutLiberty Harbor RV Park
Liberty Harbor RV Park
I love this location. Close to public transportation, great staff, and site security.
Best Campgrounds near New Vernon, NJ
The New Vernon area of New Jersey provides access to several established campgrounds within short driving distance. Round Valley State Park Campground and Mahlon Dickerson Reservation are two notable options offering different experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. Camping accommodations around New Vernon range from basic tent sites to full-service RV hookups, cabins, and even glamping options. These mixed-use campgrounds typically operate seasonally, with most facilities open from April through October. The nearby state parks and county-managed recreation areas create a network of camping possibilities with varying levels of amenities and natural settings.
Campers should note that many New Jersey campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly during summer weekends and holidays. Seasonal operation affects facility availability, with most campgrounds in the region closing during winter months. Water hookups are typically shut off during colder periods at campgrounds that remain open year-round. While cell coverage is generally reliable throughout the area, several campgrounds have terrain variations that may affect service in specific sites. State parks like Stephens and Cheesequake enforce alcohol prohibitions, while private campgrounds often permit responsible consumption. One camper noted, "The campsite was spacious. The bathrooms were struggling with the plumbing but were fairly clean. The river is just a small walk down the hill which was nice."
Mahlon Dickerson Reservation receives consistently high ratings for its spacious, well-maintained sites with electric and water hookups. Several visitors highlight the hiking opportunities directly accessible from the campground, with trails leading to nearby lakes and scenic views. As one reviewer shared, "The sites are nicely wooded, very well spaced, fairly level with 50A service and water hookup." Developed campgrounds in this region typically feature clean restrooms and shower facilities, though amenities vary significantly between state park and private operations. Family-friendly options like Panther Lake Camping Resort offer additional recreational facilities such as swimming areas and playgrounds, while more basic sites focus on natural surroundings and quiet environments. For those seeking a more rustic experience, several campgrounds offer primitive tent sites with fewer amenities but greater seclusion.
Best Camping Sites Near New Vernon, New Jersey (139)
1. Round Valley State Park Campground
25 ReviewsLebanon, NJ20 milesWebsite+1 (908) 236-6355"The crystal-clear water is home to huge lake trout and the forests are bursting with wildlife. The sunsets across the lake are to die for."
"Once you get to the campground trail it’s pretty easy going on asphalt surface."
2. Mahlon Dickerson Reservation
18 ReviewsJefferson, NJ19 milesWebsite+1 (973) 697-3140"Located in the Skylands of New Jersey, Mahlon Dickerson Campgound is a perfect place to spend a few nights or a couple of weeks. The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large."
"It's beautiful and quiet, and close to beautiful hiking trails, lakes, and other outdoor recreation opportunities."
3. Panther Lake Camping Resort
17 ReviewsAndover, NJ20 milesWebsite+1 (973) 347-4440"Panther lake was a pretty good campground with lots of spots to camp at. Our campsite had a picnic bench and a fire ring. They offer both RV and primitive camping."
"The Lake is the gem of the campground with a really nice beach, good for fishing and kayaking. The negatives were the bathrooms. They are very primitive and quite dirty."
4. Great Divide Campground
16 ReviewsAndover, NJ23 milesWebsite+1 (973) 383-4026"Our 4rth state in our 5 state trip is New Jersey! We wanted to see Delaware Water Gap NRA & I found a campground by Newton called The Great Divide. This is a private campground."
"All the positive reviews about this place are accurate! Beautiful, clean, well maintained, lots to do, great value for your $$"
5. Cheesequake State Park Campground
19 ReviewsMatawan, NJ25 milesWebsite+1 (732) 566-2161$200 / night
"I stayed at Cheesequake at the beginning of August and had a very positive experience."
"This park is on the list of 50 top NJ Hikes, and it has a few great trails. The trails range from easy to moderate with quite a few lookout locations."
6. Spruce Run Recreation Area
15 ReviewsBethlehem, NJ24 milesWebsite+1 (908) 638-8572"Park employees and park police drive around through the day. Some big groups of campers got a little rowdy at night. The bathrooms were absolutely disgusting."
"The actual site was nice and was close to the bathrooms. There was plenty of shade as the sun moved throughout the day."
7. Liberty Harbor RV Park
16 ReviewsJersey City, NJ24 milesWebsite+1 (201) 516-7500$145 - $180 / night
"This is all about location. The closest RV park to NYC. It's basically a parking lot with a dump station. Not much else. Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room."
"Basicly a parking lot, but the location can't be beat. 2 ferries that run to Manhattan. Path train is a 12 minute walk away that will take you yyo manhatten."
8. Jenny Jump State Forest
15 ReviewsJohnsonburg, NJ25 milesWebsite+1 (908) 459-4366"The bathroom/shower was only a few steps away which was convenient and clean."
"All the sites are set up nearby the office where people are all day should you ever need anything. The workers are super friendly and regularly make rounds of the grounds."
9. Stephens State Park Campground
5 ReviewsHackettstown, NJ19 milesWebsite+1 (908) 852-3790"There are dumpsters but no recycling (not sure if New Jersey segregates recycling after pickup). ATT had some reception but we forgot to check the Verizon phone. "
"Was a bit hard to locate the office to check in but finally found it. The camp site was spacious. The bathrooms were struggling with the plumbing but were fairly clean."
10. Fla-net Park Campgrounds
2 ReviewsNetcong, NJ15 miles+1 (973) 347-4467"We had our 3 Labs with us and they had plenty of walking space. We were within walking distance of Chili's. Close to shopping if you needed something. Reasonably quiet."
Recent Camping Photos near New Vernon, NJ
446 Photos of 139 New Vernon Campgrounds
Barbara S.
Stephens State Park Campground
Paul N.
Mahlon Dickerson Reservation
Carlos M.
Round Valley State Park Campground
Kimberly M.
Great Divide Campground
Bee L.
Kittatinny Valley State Park Campground
Jim B.
Camp Carr Campground
Paula
Spruce Run Recreation Area
Brenda G.
Cheesequake State Park Campground
Damia F.
Jenny Jump State Forest
phillip L.
Staten Island — Gateway National Recreation Area - CLOSED for 2025
Jake R.
Campgaw Mountain Reservation
Mark P.
Jugtown Mountain Campsites
Recent Reviews near New Vernon, NJ
900 Reviews of 139 New Vernon Campgrounds
- RRuth M.
TravelerNew York City North/Newburgh KOA
Great place for a relaxing weekend
Going back for Memorial Day weekend my 3rd time going and always had a great time nice place ,clean Bathroom & Shower with hot water 👍🏽convenient location easy access to campground and lake
Lauren M.
GuideThunder Swamp Trailhead
Not a campsite
This is a trailhead, not a campsite. It is ranger enforced, I can confirm because it happened to me. Super nice ranger, but he said camping here is not allowed and considered “theft” since they do have sites available with purchase of a permit. You can find more information at reserveamerica.com under PA state parks. It is also right across from the Delaware State Forest District Office, so you can buy permits there as well. There is a campsite about a mile down the road from this trailhead that allows “motorized roadside camping” a.k.a. car camping. You can still try this gravel lot if you insist, just know you may be rolling the dice on this one.
Sue B.GuideMohican Walk-In Campsites
Great Spot for many Adventures!
The Mohican Outdoor Center is just steps away from the Appalachian Trail in Southern New Jersey. No matter what your adventure needs, there are many different outing and lodging options. They even host training classes run in conjunction with the Appalachian Mountain Club. You can come for a day hike, there is a camp store with hiking and backpacking gear as well as helpful staff. In season, there is a chef on-site cooking delicious breakfasts and lunches. You can rent a campsite, share a cottage with others with all the amenities (shared kitchen, bathroom, etc) or rent a cabin. And if you want free camping, hop on the A.T., the nicest A.T. campsite in NJ is just a few miles south of the Mohican Center!
- MMark P.Scout
Jugtown Mountain Campsites
A decent, clean campground.
I stopped by in early October 2025 for one night, as I was on my home from Dad's. The place is attached to a trailer company. Most of the good camping spots are for RV's. There is a small area up the hill for tents. I was the only one in the Tent area. The restroom was clean and simple; two toilets and two sinks.
Nadine R.GuideStokes State Forest
Lots to Love Here
We stayed at a tent platform site in Shotwell camping area. The platforms could use a little maintenance as there were a few tie down hooks that were missing or corroded. The campsites are close around this loop that includes lean-tos, but not so close that you are bothered by your neighbors normal sounds. The bathroom is close and clean. There is a bear box at each campsite which gave peace of mind. Firewood is available for sale at the park office. The staff there is very welcoming. Great Jersey getaway with gorgeous hiking trails.
- Nadine R.Guide
Jenny Jump State Forest
Calm Camp, Great Trails
This was a great weekend camping trip. Despite extreme thunderstorms both nights I'd stayed, this was still a great experience. The campsites are spaced a little close, but there is good enough separation with trees and shrubs you're not staring right at your neighbor. Everyone staying here was really friendly, and the vibes felt good and safe. Easy access to all hiking trails from this camping area. The staff works hard to maintain a clean and safe park, and had quickly cleared out fallen trees from a strong thunderstorm the night prior. This is a lovely park for solo campers or families.
- AAmy H.Scout
Otter Lake Camp Resort
Great campground!
It was our first time camping using our new RV and what a great camp ground to hang at! We came in November, limited use of activities but man, is there so much offered here. There was no limit of kids laughter and playing! Highly recommend, beautiful lake and sites!
- AAmy P.Guide
Skyline RV Camp - Waterfront
Waterfront Skyline Views, Clean Bathrooms
A little intimidating driving in to a nondescript gate at the end of a narrow street but the overall experience exceeded expectation. It’s essentially a spacious parking lot with electrical pedestals but the view of the skyline across the water is spectacular and there’s a metro station within a 10-minute walk. The area feels safe and is pedestrian friendly, even at night (we were there Halloween night and we took our kids out trick-or-treating just outside the gate). During the day, I saw another RV patron walking to do their laundry just outside the complex on the next street over (I didn’t ask where exactly). On-site bathrooms were warm and clean. There were portable showers available but beware the broken shower head holders and lack of shelving/hooks for towels & clothing. This was a minor issue considering the convenience of RV accommodations so easily accessible within the NYC region, would definitely recommend. I couldn’t find a map prior to my booking but would suggest requesting the highest number site available for best direct views.
Guide to New Vernon
Round Valley State Park Campground near New Vernon, New Jersey offers a unique wilderness camping experience in the region. Access to these primitive sites requires either a 3-6 mile hike or boat transportation across the reservoir. Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally between April and October, with varying terrain from mountainous forests at Jenny Jump State Forest to the waterfront settings at Spruce Run Recreation Area.
What to do
Paddle to your campsite: At Round Valley State Park Campground, campers can access sites by water rather than hiking. "We paddled in, the water is very clean and crystal clear," reports Riley K., who appreciated the well-maintained waterfront sites with cooking amenities.
Stargazing opportunities: The higher elevation campsites at Jenny Jump State Forest provide excellent night sky viewing. "This campground is a nice little hideaway not too far from the beaten path," notes Seth K., though he mentions some highway sounds are audible from certain sites.
Fishing access: Several campgrounds offer fishing opportunities in stocked waters. "They stock the water with trout and there was an officer checking for fishing permits," explains Jacquelyn G. about Stephens State Park, adding that "You can hear the babbling of the river when it's quiet at camp which provided an extra layer of relaxation."
What campers like
Seclusion and privacy: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation receives praise for its spacious sites. "Very clean and quiet. Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that," explains a camper who appreciated the campground's amenities and tranquility.
Waterfront views: Campers consistently highlight the scenic water views at Spruce Run Recreation Area. "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," reports Ruette W., who has camped there for over ten years.
Hiking accessibility: The ability to access trails directly from campsites rates highly in reviews. "My fiancé, dog, and I have been going here for over 2 years and we love it. We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful," shares Paulene-Amanda M. about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially for weekend stays. For tent sites at Jenny Jump, Kelsey K. noted, "The space was reasonably priced, but we did have to pay an extra $5/day for our dog," adding that despite the fee, "we felt like we had the entire Park to ourselves."
Bathroom facilities vary: Quality and type of restroom facilities differ significantly between parks. At Cheesequake State Park Campground, campers report mixed experiences with bathrooms: "Bathrooms were clean but there wasn't soap in any of the dispensers," according to one reviewer.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds. Katrina Z. notes of Cheesequake, "If you're truly looking to get away from it all I would go elsewhere since the parkway runs through/over the park, you will be able to hear traffic noises."
Tips for camping with families
Recreation activities: Panther Lake Camping Resort offers numerous family-friendly amenities. "Fun camping place to book groups. Very kid and pet friendly, lake to fish and kayak on, lots of activities, great pool and awesome hot tub," recommends Cynthia H., though she warns about limited connectivity.
Playgrounds and facilities: Several parks offer dedicated children's play areas. Jojo P. shares, "2 teenage girls had a blast in the lake and riding their bikes around. Pool was packed so didn't spend time there but the ceramic class was fun for the girls."
Site selection: For families needing more space, certain campgrounds offer larger group areas. At Great Divide Campground, a reviewer noted, "The campgrounds were very big and spread out and the campsites have their own space so you can enjoy quiet at night."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Water and electric options vary significantly. At Mahlon Dickerson, Jeff W. explains, "This county park has large, wooded campsites with electric and water. It's beautiful and quiet, and close to beautiful hiking trails, lakes, and other outdoor recreation opportunities."
Site levelness: Several campgrounds have challenging terrain for larger rigs. Laura M. notes about Stephens State Park, "The campground as a whole and the individual sites are kind of tricky for bigger rigs. We are in a 26ft class c and we squeezed through, but I can imagine a big class A or 5th wheel having a tough time."
Dump station access: RVers should note varying dump station facilities. At Great Divide Campground, a visitor shared that "Each site had a water spout and electric plug in," making it convenient for shorter stays without needing to relocate for dumping.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near New Vernon, NJ?
What camping is available near New Vernon, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, New Vernon, NJ offers a wide range of camping options, with 139 campgrounds and RV parks near New Vernon, NJ and 3 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near New Vernon, NJ?
Which is the most popular campground near New Vernon, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near New Vernon, NJ is Round Valley State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 25 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near New Vernon, NJ?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near New Vernon, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 free dispersed camping spots near New Vernon, NJ.
What parks are near New Vernon, NJ?
What parks are near New Vernon, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 parks near New Vernon, NJ that allow camping, notably Gateway National Recreation Area and Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.
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