Round Valley State Park Campground offers wilderness camping options near New Vernon, with sites accessible by hiking 3-6 miles or arriving by boat. The primitive tent sites sit along the shores of the 2,350-acre reservoir, which reaches depths of 180 feet. Temperatures in this region typically range from the low 20s in winter to upper 80s during summer months, with the camping season running from April through October.
What to do
Hike to remote campsites: Round Valley's wilderness camping requires effort to reach, but rewards with seclusion. "It's a pretty strenuous hike, but you'll be rewarded for the effort! If you get a site on the water, you can take a boat across to your site (check the site for regulations/restrictions) - in-season rentals should be available on-site," notes Agbi B. from Round Valley State Park Campground.
Wolf preserve tours: Camp Taylor Campground connects directly to Lakota Wolf Preserve. "There are tours leaving the campground twice a day on both Saturday and Sundays for the wolf preserve. The camping selection of sites is excellent with Cabins, Glamping tents, primitive tent sites and of course RV sites," explains Denise D. from Camp Taylor.
Lake activities: Panther Lake offers multiple water recreation options. "The lake and pool were a big plus, especially for hot days. While I did not take advantage, you are allowed to rent boats and take them out on the lake," says Ethan K. about Panther Lake Camping Resort.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campgrounds offer secluded spots with natural surroundings. "The campsites are nicely laid out to ensure privacy. This park is high up on a mountain and affords lovely views. Well kept and clean," writes Jocelyn G. about Jenny Jump State Forest.
Wildlife encounters: The natural setting provides opportunities to observe native animals. "I have camped here on many occasions for over ten years... You can launch your kayak easily from the shore," shares Ruette W. about Spruce Run Recreation Area. Wildlife sightings often include deer, foxes, and various birds.
Access to trail systems: Hiking trails connect directly with many campsites. "We had a beautiful site along the creek, perfect white noise to get a great night sleep. Very woodsy so you definitely are in the woods. The camp ground is connected to the wolf preserve so you can hear them howl if you listen," says Karralee B. about Camp Taylor Campground.
What you should know
Tent platforms available: Some campgrounds offer elevated platforms for tent setup. "Campsite was very spacious and had a platform where we were able to fit two tents. There was plenty of space on the site for more tents," says E.M.V. about Stokes State Forest.
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds operate April through October. "This was our first time camping and it was a success. Sites had room to move and it was quiet and peaceful. Kids had lots of fun on the free kayaks and pool," notes Jojo P. about Great Divide Campground.
Terrain challenges: Some sites feature rocky or uneven terrain. "The drive to our site had some inclines and was relatively rocky and some vehicles would surely struggle," reports Christina H. about Mountainview Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Yurt camping options: For families seeking yurt camping near New Vernon, New Jersey, Great Divide Campground offers comfortable alternatives to traditional tent camping. "This is a beautiful campground with much to do around the grounds themselves. They had live music which was actually really good!!! A reggae band. We found plenty of trails to hike with our two dogs," writes Julie.
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated recreation areas. "Fun camping place to books groups. Very kid and pet friendly, lake to fish and kayak on, lots of activities, great pool and awesome hot tub," shares Cynthia H. about Panther Lake Camping Resort.
Quiet enforced hours: Some campgrounds strictly manage noise levels. "Unlike many other campgrounds we've been to, they are very good about actually enforcing the quiet hours at night, so you can have an actual peaceful and quiet night around the campfire," explains Dan B. about Camp Taylor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Choose sites carefully if bringing a larger RV. "Very clean and quiet. Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that. Our site (15) said 75' however the 50' hose reel made it to our rv connection," advises antruze about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Hookup availability varies: Water and electric connections differ between campgrounds. "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," notes Jeff W. about Mahlon Dickerson.
Dump station access: Plan for proper waste management. "Trash dumpster is an easy walk and the dump station has a flush hose point. Nice and easy little campground," shares antruze about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
