Pompton Lakes sits in the hilly woodlands of northern New Jersey where elevations range from 200 to 400 feet above sea level. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F, while fall brings crisp nights perfect for campfire gatherings. Winter camping options are limited, with only select sites remaining open year-round in this region.
What to do
Hiking the Appalachian Trail: 12 miles accessible from the western edge of Stokes State Forest, connecting to High Point State Park. "The hiking trails near the campsites are really pretty peaceful. A visitor can get in a nice 5 mile hike up to the fire tower," notes a Stokes State Forest reviewer.
Swimming in Lake Marcia: Located within High Point State Park, this swimming area provides a refreshing break during summer months. "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," shares a High Point State Park Campground visitor.
Kayaking at no extra cost: Some campgrounds offer free water equipment. "Kids had lots of fun on the free kayaks and pool. Staff was friendly and helpful," reports a Great Divide Campground reviewer about their family's experience.
Explore Tillman Ravine: This unique geological formation features a small stream cutting through rocky terrain. "This visit we hiked the Tillman Ravine trail (tip: make the trail a loop and visit both the ravine and the nearby old cemetery)," suggests a Stokes State Forest camper.
What campers like
Secluded woodland sites: Many campers appreciate the privacy of forested sites. "Sites are very large and I suggest site 7. It is on a hill so have a hand truck or a few people to carry stuff. Trust me it is worth it and I think it's the best tent site they have," remarks a Mahlon Dickerson Reservation visitor.
Dome structures with panoramic views: Unique glamping options offer modern comforts with nature immersion. "Headed back for a fall weekend in the 'dome' which has incredible views. Try it you won't be sorry," shares a Moon Valley Campground reviewer about these distinctive yurt-like accommodations near Pompton Lakes.
Rustic camping platforms: Many sites feature raised wooden platforms for tent setup. "Each large campsite has a picnic table, fire pit, and lantern hook. Some sites also have a tent platform," notes a Stokes State Forest camper, highlighting these practical features.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms matter to campers. "Clean bathrooms with flush toilets and showers, masks required for the pandemic," observed a Swartswood State Park Campground visitor, appreciating the attention to cleanliness.
What you should know
Bear activity requires proper food storage: This region has black bears that may visit campsites. "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 Stokes State Forest camper.
Limited RV options at some sites: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger vehicles. "Steam Mill Camping Area is tucked out the of the way and is the most primitive. It is the smallest of the campgrounds with 27 sites only suitable for tents or small trailers/campervans," explains a visitor.
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds close during winter months. "Open most of year. Fun if u lik3 camping," notes a brief Stokes State Forest review, though several parks close between October and April.
Yurt camping near Pompton Lakes: Alternative accommodations are available at select sites. "Located in the Skylands of New Jersey, Mahlon Dickerson Campgound is a perfect place to spend a few nights or a couple of weeks," shares a reviewer about an area with yurt-style accommodations.
Tips for camping with families
Book group sites in advance: Larger family gatherings need special accommodations. "The group campsites are big enough for the amount of people you can have, have picnic benches, a fire ring, a composting outhouse toilet just for the site, and one of those flat charcoal 'grills'," explains a High Point State Park Campground visitor.
Animal encounters for kids: Farm-based campgrounds offer unique experiences. "The farm has goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground. Very cool," shares a Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort visitor about their family stay.
Weekend vs. weekday differences: Timing affects crowd levels and noise. "Weekend was busy as usual but during the week it seems to be seasonal that stay," notes a Pleasant Acres Farm visitor about the changing atmosphere.
Evening activities: Some campgrounds offer organized nighttime events. "There is an arcade room (fun for kids but kind of an odd thing to have at a campsite in my opinion) and a covered sitting area also next to the welcome center," mentions a Panther Lake Camping Resort visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness varies significantly: Bring leveling blocks to most area campgrounds. "The RV sites aren't level. Showers are at the day use area, from 10-5:30, no trailer dump, website says laundry, but apparently not," cautions a Great Divide Campground visitor.
Water connection distances: Be prepared with extra hose length at some sites. "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 a Mahlon Dickerson Reservation reviewer.
Restricted vehicle policies: Some campgrounds limit vehicle access. "The one downside about this site was that you are not allowed to keep your car at your site. You have to drop your supplies off and drive it back to the parking lot which was slightly annoying," notes a Great Divide Campground visitor.
Winter cabin options with heating: For off-season RVers seeking alternatives. "The cabins are reasonably priced and well-appointed, if a bit rustic. The interior features are just what you'd expect for getting away for the weekend," explains a Stokes Forest visitor about the heated cabin options.
