Tent campsites near Port Murray, New Jersey sit within the ridge and valley region of northwestern New Jersey, where elevations range from 400 to 1,600 feet above sea level. The local landscape features oak-hickory forests interspersed with streams that feed the Delaware River watershed. Many tent sites in this area maintain a primitive character with campgrounds typically operating from April through October, closing during winter when temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
What to do
Fishing the reservoir: Round Valley State Park Campground offers exceptional trout fishing in one of New Jersey's deepest lakes. "The water is crystal clear, the area is clean," writes Riley K. "We paddled in, the water is very clean and crystal clear."
Hiking mountain trails: Jenny Jump State Forest provides direct trail access from campsites. "It's set up nicely for primitive camping and you are able to hike out straight from the campsite (which is always a plus!)," notes Ethan K. "There is a great look out point as well."
Wildlife observation: Kittatinny Valley State Park Campground provides opportunities for watching deer and other local wildlife. "You'll see deer and rabbits it's really spacious and beautiful," reports Bee L. "Site A is the best for seclusion and a spot closer to the lake (also amazing sunsets)."
Blueberry picking: During summer months, the area around Mohican Outdoor Center offers wild blueberry picking. "If you're there in the summer, I'd recommend taking a kayak around the lake and filling it with wild blueberries," suggests Dan X.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Jenny Jump State Forest offers good site separation. "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," explains Kelsey K.
Quiet atmosphere: Tent campers appreciate the relative silence at many area campgrounds. "This is a great campground that is super private and quiet - great for getting out to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature," according to Agbi B. at Round Valley State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. "The bathrooms were standard, compost toilets. The showers were free and generally quite hot," notes Seth K. about Jenny Jump State Forest.
Tent platforms: Some sites offer raised wooden platforms. "Tent sites are either on the ground have wooden platforms," mentions Dan X. about Mohican Outdoor Center.
What you should know
Water sources vary: Access to drinking water differs significantly between camping areas. "There is a pump for potable water and vault/pit toilets. Trails are well-kept," states Agbi B. about Round Valley State Park Campground.
Hiking difficulty: Some tent sites require substantial effort to reach. "It's a pretty strenuous hike, but you'll be rewarded for the effort!" says Agbi B. Another camper notes, "The hike is a 3 mile minimum 6 max."
Noise considerations: Despite natural settings, some locations experience unexpected sounds. "My only complaint is that the noise from the highway was quite loud at night," reports Jocelyn G. about Jenny Jump State Forest.
Limited supplies nearby: Some campgrounds 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!" warns Kelsey K.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Some sites 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," shares Scott O.
Kid-accessible activities: Parks often provide family-oriented recreation. "This place was great, they allow dogs and had hiking trails with beautiful views you could enjoy right from your campground. The campgrounds and bathrooms were clean and well kept. Great place to get away for the weekend with the family!!!" recommends Fransheska A. about Jenny Jump State Forest.
Group camping areas: For larger family gatherings, dedicated group sites exist. "Large field with multiple group campsites with bearboxes, fire pit and garbage cans at each site," describes Christopher W. about Rivers Bend Group Campground.
Bathroom proximity: Consider site location relative to facilities when camping with children. "Shelter 2 is a minute walk from the restroom with sink/shower and water. Shelters 7 & 8 are even closer while 4 & 5 are the furthest, may an extra 5 minutes walk?" notes Dwight D.
Tips from RVers
Shelter alternatives: For those transitioning from tents to more substantial accommodations, rental options exist. "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," describes Dwight D. about Jenny Jump State Forest.
Parking considerations: Vehicle access varies significantly between campgrounds. "We found parking in the Southern Lot to be perfectly fine and while we were initially worried about leaving our vehicle parked there for a few nights, we were reassured by the park rangers who patrol the lot constantly," shares Stuart K.
Utility limitations: Most tent campgrounds near Port Murray lack electrical hookups. "We brought battery-powered lights since there is no electricity. There were coat hooks and a built-in shelf for our snacks, games, and other supplies," advises Dwight D.
