Tent camping near Pahaquarry, New Jersey offers diverse terrain experiences with elevations ranging from river level at approximately 300 feet to mountain sites reaching over 1,600 feet. Temperature variations across the Delaware Water Gap region can differ by 5-10 degrees between riverside and mountaintop campsites. Primitive sites throughout the area typically require campers to pack out all trash and bring their own water filtration systems.
What to do
Swimming and fishing in Catfish Pond: The pond at Camp Mohican Outdoor Center provides summer water activities with kayak and canoe rentals available. "You can rent kayaks and canoes and swimming is allowed on Catfish Pond -- plenty of fish, snapping turtles, and other wildlife. If you're there in the summer, I'd recommend taking a kayak around the lake and filling it with wild blueberries," notes camper Dan X.
Hiking directly from campsite: Several area campgrounds connect directly to trail systems. At Jenny Jump State Forest, campers can access trails without driving. "It's also close to other local hikes like Mt. Tammany. The campgrounds and bathrooms were clean and well kept. Great place to get away for the weekend with the family," reports Fransheska A.
Wild blueberry picking: Summer visitors can forage berries along hiking trails and lake shores between June and August. "Lots of hiking options as well," adds Dan X. about Camp Mohican, where waterside blueberries are particularly abundant.
What campers like
Private, well-spaced sites: Many campers appreciate the separation between sites in Pahaquarry area campgrounds. "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," writes Kelsey K. about Jenny Jump State Forest.
Elevated camping platforms: Tent platforms at some sites keep equipment dry during wet weather. "Tent sites are either on the ground have wooden platforms," notes Dan X. about Camp Mohican Outdoor Center.
Accessible wilderness: Campers value sites that balance remoteness with reasonable access. Rivers Bend Group Campground offers "Large field with multiple group campsites with bearboxes, fire pit and garbage cans at each site. Four outhouses centrally locates and a pump well that did not work. Quiet surrounding. To your right down a small hill is the flat brook that funnels out into a large 'U' bend of the Delaware river," according to Christopher W.
What you should know
Bathroom and shower availability varies: Some sites have modern facilities while others offer only pit toilets. At Kirkrige Shelter, "This spot is right next to a beautiful view on the side of Kittany Mountain and just off the Appalachian trail. There is 4 spots to set up at all of which have a spot for a fire," explains Nick E.
Highway noise reaches some sites: Sound carries in the mountains, bringing road noise to certain campsites. "This campground is a nice little hideaway not too far from the beaten path. You can hear some of the highway sounds from the campsites (especially the jake brake)," writes Seth K. about Jenny Jump State Forest.
Water access options: Riverside campsites require careful planning. At Bushkill Creek campsite, "The path up to the campsite from the river gets a little steep, but not bad. One downside - all the water directly off the campsite is pretty rocky and shallow, so not great for swimming," reports Anna M.
Limited supply access: Many sites lack nearby stores. "The only problem we encountered was that there wasn't a store close by for ice or other essentials, although the main office does sell firewood. They close at 4pm, though, so be sure to get there before then!" cautions Kelsey K.
Tips for camping with families
Group sites for larger gatherings: Family reunions work well at certain campgrounds. "The Group Campsite was really big. It had 5-6 platforms, privys, big fire ring, a grill, a beatbox, a large pavilion w/picnic tables and a real full sized bathroom only 100 yards away," describes Shawn B. about Camp Mohican Outdoor Center.
Beginner-friendly sites: Some locations work well for families new to camping. "I was looking forward to a Worthington State Park campgrounds visit but that day they were all packed and I was suggested to Jenny Jump State. I enjoyed the overnight camp out with my kids and they had a blast. Nice size primitive tent site we had and was nice for beginner camping," says Scott O.
Cabin alternatives for tent-hesitant families: Shelters provide comfort for those not ready for tent camping. "This is the first time we decided to forgo tent camping and reserve a shelter at a state park. We had a much better experience than we were expecting! The 'shelter' is what we would describe as a 'cabin'; four walls, a roof, locking door, locking windows, large picture frame front window, four beds(two bunks), a wood burning stove, and a porch," reports Dwight D.
Tips from RVers
Site surface conditions: RV campers note variable site terrain. "The sites are hit or miss in terms of comfort, some have large, flat, clear spaces for multiple tents, some you have to wedge a tent to avoid rocks," observes Seth K. about Jenny Jump State Forest sites.
Emergency access availability: For RVers concerned about reaching remote sites, some areas have emergency routes. "Primitive site for multi day river trips. There's usually always a port-a-potty at the campsite. Each area has its own fire ring and multiple river pull offs for easy finding and access. There is an emergency pick up/access road available as well with contact from the park," explains Stephanie S. about Alosa Boat In Campsites.
Seasonal closure information: Most Pahaquarry area campgrounds close during winter months, typically operating April through October, with some facilities reducing amenities in shoulder seasons.
