Campers visiting Picatinny Arsenal, New Jersey can find several woodland retreats within a 30-mile radius. The region sits at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains with elevations ranging from 500-1,800 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F while autumn brings temperature drops to 45-60°F and vibrant foliage displays, extending the camping season from April through October.
What to do
Hiking the Appalachian Trail: Access this historic trail directly from Stokes State Forest, which offers over 63 miles of marked trails. "We fit in a hike up to the Appalachian Trail from our campsite, swam at the pond (Lake Marcia), and got in a fishing session at Steeny Kill Lake," reports one camper.
Kayaking and swimming: Several parks offer water access for different activities. "We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful," notes a regular visitor to Mahlon Dickerson Reservation. This location offers both fishing spots and kayaking opportunities.
Visit local monuments: The highest elevation in New Jersey sits near many campgrounds. "We took one afternoon to visit the High Point Monument, which was lovely," shares a visitor. The monument stands 1,803 feet above sea level and offers panoramic views across three states.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Many campers appreciate the privacy found at Jenny Jump State Forest. "My husband and I tent camped in #34 with our dog. 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: Several campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms and showers. "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. Bathrooms and shower were all single stall and very clean, only a 5 min walk from our site."
Affordable rates: Budget-conscious campers appreciate the value. "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. Though basic in amenities, the campground's affordable rates make it accessible for most visitors."
What you should know
Bear awareness: Most campgrounds in the region have active black bear populations. At High Point State Park, "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes."
Limited services: Many campgrounds have restricted operating hours. "The park office is not nearby, about 2 miles away. They sell wood, and there are a few road stands near the campground, but that wood is wet."
Seasonal variations: Facilities availability changes throughout the camping season. "If you are looking for more secluded campsites try to get 13 or 14 as they seem to sit back more. Sites 8-11 are adjacent to the road and in peak times probably have a fair amount of foot and vehicle traffic."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some pet-friendly camping near Picatinny Arsenal includes kid-friendly amenities. At Panther Lake Camping Resort, "Fun camping place to book groups. Very kid and pet friendly, lake to fish and kayak on, lots of activities, great pool and awesome hot tub."
Group campsite options: Families traveling together can reserve adjacent sites. "The campsite was beautiful, clean, well maintained, with nice facilities. The last time we were there we were at site 28 which was nice and secluded but the smell from the pit toilets wafted over after a while."
Platform tent sites: Many parks offer raised platforms for easier family tent setup. "We stayed in the center lawn and it was lined with seasonal campers. Lots of activities to keep kids busy which was nice but this place is a party place for sure."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Swartswood State Park Campground provides RV access with some utilities. "One of my favorite camping locations to go with my family. Some areas are grass with shade and others have shade but on dirt. Camping near the main road that goes into the camping area provides the best grassed areas."
Size limitations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. "The campground as a whole and the individual sites are kind of tricky for bigger rigs. We are in a 26ft class C and we squeezed through, and there were a few sites where we could have made it work, but I can imagine a big class A or 5th wheel having a tough time."
Hose management: RVers should prepare for various water connection distances. "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."
Legend
