Round Valley State Park Campground offers a unique backcountry experience just south of New Vernon, New Jersey. The reservoir-adjacent sites require either a 3-6 mile hike or boat access, making this location distinctly different from drive-in campgrounds. Most pet-friendly camping options near New Vernon sit at elevations between 800-1,200 feet, creating moderate temperature variations between day and night even in summer months.
What to do
Hiking to Ghost Lake: Jenny Jump State Forest features trails leading to Ghost Lake with scenic overlooks along the way. "Nice big group site and fun walk to Ghost Lake," mentions Doug W., highlighting how the forest combines camping with immediate trail access.
Trout fishing: Stephens State Park Campground provides exceptional fishing opportunities minutes from campsites. "Great fishing hiking and campsites," notes Scott K., with the park regularly stocking the waters with trout for anglers.
Water recreation: Round Valley State Park Campground offers water-based activities on its 2,350-acre reservoir. "The water is crystal clear, the area is clean. There's bathrooms and pumps but we just filtered the water from the reservoir instead which tasted a million times better than the well water," writes James R., describing the pristine reservoir conditions.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation provides unusually large campsites compared to other options in the region. "The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large," explains Jeff W., highlighting the ample space between sites.
Quiet atmosphere: Jenny Jump State Forest offers a peaceful experience despite its accessibility. "I really enjoyed this campground. Primitive, has bathrooms and water spigots. Good hammocking trees and wasn't crowded at all. Plenty of privacy from other sites," writes Lindsay D., emphasizing the sense of seclusion.
Forest setting: Great Divide Campground maintains natural wooded areas throughout the property. "We were able to get a secluded spot in the woods which was great!" notes Jojo P., describing how the campground preserves natural areas even amid developed facilities.
What you should know
Backcountry preparation: Round Valley State Park Campground requires significant planning due to its remote sites. "Whether hiking or kayaking to this CG, you will want to bring as little with you as possible– packing too much to come here just isn't worth the work," advises Stuart K., providing essential context for first-time visitors.
Varied terrain: Stephens State Park Campground features uneven ground that can challenge tent setup. "Our site:29 was plenty big enough for a large tent and a hammock. We could have easily fit another large tent. It was set back from the road and shady," Barbara S. explains, noting that site selection matters greatly.
Wildlife encounters: Pet-friendly camping near New Vernon, New Jersey requires vigilance regarding local fauna. "We had some issues with a skunk that visited our campsite multiple times in one night. Was not afraid of humans," warns Colleen C. from Panther Lake Campground, highlighting why proper food storage matters.
Tips for camping with families
Adventure options: Great Divide Campground offers family-oriented activities beyond typical camping. "Great family run campground. Owners are a blast. Most sites are level. Some areas are a little steeper then I would like to set up on, but that's me. Nice small lake with boats to use. Nice small beach. Lots of weekend activities," reports Scott N.
Accessible facilities: Cheesequake State Park Campground provides comfortable amenities for family campers. "This is a great site for those who are not avid campers. It's close to town if you forget something and it has all the facilities you may need, bathroom, shower, etc. The best part is all the trails," writes Maggie A., highlighting why it works well for families.
Platform tents: Several sites at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation feature wooden platforms for easier tent setup with children. "They have these 12x12 platforms to put your tent on. This was pretty cool especially since some of the sites are all gravel with surrounding dirt," Christina L. notes, adding a practical feature for family campers.
Tips from RVers
Hookup details: Panther Lake Camping Resort offers full-service RV sites but with some limitations. "Majority of sites are season all campers with LOTS of cottages. Went early in the season so many had not been maintained in months. Only a handful of full hook up sites surrounded by seasonal cottages," warns April L., providing important context for visiting RVers.
Site leveling: Great Divide Campground features varied terrain requiring preparation. "Big and Spread Out... The campgrounds were very big and spread out and the campsites have their own space so you can enjoy quiet at night. Each site had a water spout and electric plug in," explains Ethan K., noting the electrical amenities available.
Hose access: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation addresses water hookup challenges with practical solutions. "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," explains reviewer antruze, detailing how the park accommodates varying RV configurations.
Legend
