The northern New Jersey wilderness offers varied camping sites near Newfoundland, New Jersey, particularly in Sussex County where elevations reach over 1,800 feet at High Point. The region features a mix of deciduous forest and small lakes with camping seasons typically running April through October, though some facilities remain open year-round. Winter camping options exist but require additional preparation for temperatures that can drop below freezing at higher elevations.
What to do
Kayaking on local lakes: Swartswood State Park provides excellent paddling opportunities with boat rentals available. "We took one afternoon to visit the High Point Monument, which was lovely. No room for yard games, but we spent the time relaxing and burning stuff. The site was very secluded," notes one camper at High Point State Park Campground.
Fishing accessible spots: Multiple campgrounds offer fishing access with varying regulations. "The lake is beautiful! Great for swimming and fishing. There are several trail hikes that you can do from the campsite. The longest is 3 miles but you can connect between each trail to make a longer hike," reports a visitor to Swartswood State Park Campground.
Hiking varied terrain: Trails range from flat lakeside paths to challenging mountain climbs. At Stokes State Forest, one camper explains, "This visit we hiked the Tillman Ravine trail (tip: make the trail a loop and visit both the ravine and the nearby old cemetery)."
What campers like
Platform camping options: Many sites feature wooden platforms that keep tents dry during wet weather. "Many of the camping options were on platforms which is especially nice if it recently rained or if you are expecting rain during your stay. I also particularly enjoyed the communal sink which made it very convenient and easy to wash dishes and fill up water," notes a visitor to Beaver Pond Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse wildlife including black bears, which require proper food storage. A camper at Swartswood mentions, "Three black bears strolled by the campsite next to ours in the early morning — gave us more of an energy boost after a sleepless night than our coffee!"
Secluded sites: Many campgrounds offer more private spots away from crowds. "We stayed at site 11 on Lake Ocquittunk. While making reservations it said almost all sites were full but upon arrival the vast majority of sites were empty which made for a quiet/relaxing night," reports a Stokes State Forest visitor.
What you should know
Bear safety precautions: Black bears are common throughout the region. "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes," warns a reviewer at Stokes State Forest.
Varying privacy levels: Site layouts differ significantly between campgrounds and even within the same facility. "There are about 50 camp sites but many of them, from 1 to 30ish are wide open with ZERO privacy. That said, it's great for large groups that book a few sites next to each other," explains a camper at Swartswood.
Water access considerations: Not all campsites have close bathroom or water facilities. At Panther Lake Camping Resort, "Probably the worst shower ever. The lights are timed. The water is a button. The space is small as hell."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer child-friendly amenities. "Short distance from NYC, very organized, clean pond, has a playground, showers, bathroom. Your phone will have signal," notes a Beaver Pond camper.
Camp activities: Many locations provide organized events. "We went on 4th of July weekend so the place was packed. We were able to get a secluded spot in the woods which was great! 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," shares a visitor to Panther Lake.
Cabin options: For families new to camping, cabins provide a comfortable alternative. At Camp Glen Gray, "Cabins are always clean and stocked with firewood. Lots of hiking trails. Trading post is well stocked and volunteers are always friendly and able to answer any questions."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring blocks or levelers. "Not a fan of the platform for the tent. Nice hikes. The view from the lighthouse is worth it," mentions a High Point State Park visitor.
Hookup limitations: Services vary widely across facilities. "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," reports a camper at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds with RV sites have on-site dump facilities. "So, we got in with no reservation, which was great. It's in the same park as the high point, also great. The sites are varied, some have tent platforms, it's just off the AT, but we have a trailer and the 'trailer' sites aren't level. Showers are at the day use area, from 10-5:30, no trailer dump," reports an RVer at High Point State Park.
