Camping near Oxford, New Jersey provides access to the western edge of New Jersey's highlands region, where elevations range from 400-1,200 feet. The area features a mix of deciduous forest and river valley terrain along the Delaware River. Summer temperatures typically average 75-85°F during daytime hours, with cooler nights that can drop into the 50s even during peak camping season.
What to do
Kayaking the Delaware River: Both Driftstone Campground and Delaware River Family Campground offer direct river access. "Driftstone is set on a beautiful location on the Delaware River. River Road on which it is located, is picturesque and quiet enough to run, walk or bike on," notes Kathy G., who adds there's "a boat ramp that can accommodate small boats and kayaks for rent."
Visit the Lakota Wolf Preserve: Located on the grounds of Camp Taylor Campground, this unique attraction offers educational tours. "The Lakota Wolf Preserve is located on the camp and offers discounted tours for campers," shares Jean T. Campers can "take a short hike up the mountain there to see the wolves in the sanctuary. There are moments by the fire you can hear them howl in the distance," according to Julie F.
Fishing at Round Valley Reservoir: Round Valley State Park Campground offers excellent fishing opportunities. One visitor notes that the "crystalline bevy of trout-infused reservoir water" makes for great fishing conditions. James R. adds, "The water is crystal clear, the area is clean. There's bathrooms and pumps but we just filtered the water from the reservoir instead."
What campers like
Spacious, private campsites: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Oxford feature well-separated sites. At Jenny Jump State Forest, "the camp sites are nicely laid out to ensure privacy. This park is high up on a mountain and affords lovely views," according to Jocelyn G. Kelsey K. reports, "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."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the area maintain high standards for bathrooms and showers. At Mountain Vista Campground, Tori S. notes "Facilities were neat & clean, and there was a covered verandah with string lights, chairs & picnic tables outside the bathroom area." Similarly, at Driftstone Campground, Elke P. praises "the nicest showers I have ever seen at a campground."
Wilderness camping options: For those seeking a more rugged experience, some campgrounds offer remote sites. Stuart K. describes Round Valley State Park: "It is the only NJ SP that actually offers up true wilderness camping (a.k.a. primitive), which can only be accessed by hiking 3 to 6 miles—or if you come with your own boat, you can access by water." Riley K. adds, "Well maintained campsites. Fire pit had a medal grate to cook on. Beautiful area. We paddled in, the water is very clean and crystal clear."
What you should know
Quiet hours enforcement: Unlike some campgrounds that ignore noise issues, several locations strictly enforce quiet time. Dan B. says of Camp Taylor: "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 fire."
Weather considerations: The Delaware River valley can experience sudden storms and temperature shifts. When camping at Mountain Vista Campground, be prepared for variable conditions. One visitor noted they "camped during Memorial Day weekend and had a blast, even in the rain!"
Limited cell service: Don't count on staying connected at many area campgrounds. Cynthia H. warns about Panther Lake: "Only down side is that even though they say they have wifi, you can't hook up to it unless you are at the pavilion. And good luck getting cell service! It's like a black hole of signals there."
Reservation requirements: Most pet-accommodating campgrounds near Oxford require advance bookings, especially for summer weekends. At Triple Brook Camping Resort, visitors suggest making reservations well in advance as the "staff is really nice and friendly" but spots fill quickly.
Tips for camping with families
Look for organized activities: Great Divide Campground offers numerous family-oriented events. "Great family run campground. Owners are a blast," says Scott N., adding there are "lots of weekend activities." Another camper mentions, "Very family-friendly with lots of activities—games, activities, swimming, boating, plenty of open field for the kids."
Choose campgrounds with swimming options: During hot summer days, water access is essential for families. Jojo P. notes that Panther Lake has advantages: "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."
Book sites away from roads: When camping with children at Jenny Jump State Forest, Lindsay D. suggests choosing interior sites: "Primitive, has bathrooms and water spigots. Good hammocking trees and wasn't crowded at all. Plenty of privacy from other sites." Some campers note highway noise can be heard from certain sites.
Tips from RVers
Beware of steep terrain: Several campgrounds feature challenging topography. Jim G. warns about Driftstone: "PLEASE NOTE: if you are towing or have a motorhome, make sure you follow the directions on the website. Coming in from the wrong road could lead you to a hairpin turn and steep hill."
Consider site levelness: At Mountain Vista Campground, campers appreciate that "sites are nice and large" but note that some areas require more leveling than others. Bill F. recommends: "We enjoyed our stay and found the facilities to be clean and in working order."
Dog-friendly amenities: For RVers traveling with pets, pet-friendly campgrounds around Oxford offer varying levels of accommodation. Mountain Vista Campground features "a large dog park" that receives consistently positive reviews from campers with dogs. The camp is described as "very pet friendly" by multiple reviewers.
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