M
Michael M.
Scout
ScoutTurkey Swamp Park
Water/power at the campsite, and and centrally located dump station. Lots of trees and nice separation of sites
Tent Camping near Randolph, NJ
3 campgrounds with availability next weekend
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Several tent camping options exist near Randolph, New Jersey, primarily within state parks and forest areas. Round Valley State Park Campground offers primitive tent camping accessible by hiking or canoeing, with sites situated 3-6 miles along trails or reachable via boat across the reservoir. Jenny Jump State Forest provides established tent sites with more amenities, while Kittatinny Valley State Park Campground features spacious tent-only sites within a natural setting.
Tent campsites at these locations typically include fire rings and picnic tables, though amenities vary significantly. Round Valley provides primitive experiences with no vehicle access, requiring campers to pack in all supplies. Kittatinny Valley offers just four tent sites across the public park, with Site A noted for seclusion and proximity to the lake. Most tent campgrounds maintain seasonal operations from April through October, with some closing during winter months. Water availability differs between locations—Jenny Jump provides drinking water and showers, while primitive sites like those along Stonetown Circular Trail require carrying all water.
The tent camping experience near Randolph emphasizes natural surroundings and relative seclusion. "This campground is hike-in or boat-in. The campsites are primitive and include a fire ring as well as a picnic table," commented one visitor about Round Valley State Park. Wildlife sightings are common at these tent sites, particularly at Kittatinny Valley where campers report seeing deer and rabbits. Tent campers appreciate the separation from RV areas, creating quieter experiences. Sites at Jenny Jump are positioned to ensure privacy while maintaining reasonable access to bathroom facilities. The terrain at most locations accommodates standard tent setups, though some primitive sites along hiking trails require careful placement to avoid rocks and uneven ground.
Best Tent Campgrounds near Randolph (38)
1. Round Valley State Park Campground
"The crystal-clear water is home to huge lake trout and the forests are bursting with wildlife. The sunsets across the lake are to die for."
"Unlike traditional campgrounds, the campsites are accessible only by hiking or boating, so getting anywhere here requires some planning and a willingness to travel light."
2. Kittatinny Valley State Park Campground
"Site A is the best for seclusion and a spot closer to the lake (also amazing sunsets)"
3. Wawayanda State Park Campground
"Fantastic loop hike near some amazing hidden lakes. One downside is there were obviously people who had visited and didn't understand what LEAVE NO TRACE means. We'll bring a trashbag next time."
"It is off the beaten path without any running water or showers within walking distance."
4. Stonetown Circular trail Primitive #1
"Stonetown Circular trail is a 11 mile medium/high difficulty loop trail. This is the first of two primitive sites along the trail. The trailhead is across the street from a large parking lot."
5. Camp Mohican Outdoor Center — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
"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."
"You can rent kayaks and canoes and swimming is allowed on Catfish Pond -- plenty of fish, snapping turtles, and other wildlife."
Check Availabilityfrom $5 - $75 / night
6. Stonetown Circular trail Primitive #2
"Stonetown Circular trail is a 11 mile medium/high difficulty loop trail. This is the second of two primitive sites along the trail. The trailhead is across the street from a large parking lot."
7. Namanock Island — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
"There is a ten dollar fee per day to park your car so bring cash as the parking area is not always manned and you’ll have to leave the fee in an envelope that is available just past the entrance."
"There is no public road access to the campsite. Secondly, the site is maintained by the NPS, (National Park Service) within the DWGNRA, (Delaware Water Gap National Recreational Area)."
8. Moon Valley Campground
"This was a great campsite nestled in the foothills of Northern NJ on the NY border. Small, clean with great views and great location for hiking , cruising etc."
"The campground is also near the Appalachian trail while still only about an hour from Manhattan! Check them out and leave a review with your adventures during your stay!"
Check Availabilityfrom $50 - $275 / night
9. Steam Mill Campground
"Campsite is flat, grassy, some rocks to avoid, one tree in center, large fire ring, picnic table, short walk to the pit toilet, short walk to the water spigot that is always running and ice cold, short"
"Fire rings don't seem centered on their cement bases, but other than being aware of the edges as a tripping hazard this is not an issue -- no worse than any other rock or root. "
Check Availabilityfrom $20 / night
10. Wooded Campground
"Perfect land for an overnight before hitting the trail. There’s open field and wooded options, and the hosts Mel and Jeff couldn’t have been more accommodating."
Check Availabilityfrom $59 - $60 / night
Drive Time
- 46 min from New York, NY
- 49 min from Kiryas Joel, NY
- 1 hr 12 min from Trenton, NJ
- 1 hr 14 min from Allentown, PA
Recent Tent Camping Photos near Randolph, NJ
75 Photos of 38 Randolph Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Kittatinny Valley State Park Campground
Round Valley State Park Campground
Campgaw Mountain Reservation
Wooded Campground
Camp Mohican Outdoor Center — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Moon Valley CampgroundD
Camp Starry Night at Gulyan Farms
Steam Mill Campground
Ratcliff's River Campsites — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Hornbeck's River Boat In Campsites — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
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Tent Camping Reviews near Randolph, NJ
953 Reviews of 38 Randolph Campgrounds
Stuart K.
LegendWashington Crossing State Park - TEMP CLOSED FOR 2024
Revolutionary History near Delaware River
Nestled along the picturesque Delaware River in beautiful Bucks County, Washington Crossing Historic Park is one of those destinations where American history practically jumps out from behind every tree. This sprawling, beautifully preserved historic park commemorates George Washington's daring Christmas night crossing of the Delaware in 1776, with charming colonial buildings, expansive green spaces, shaded walking paths and lovely riverfront scenery. Divided into Upper and Lower sections, the park offers plenty to explore, from historic homesteads and interpretive exhibits to scenic picnic areas and the impressive Bowman's Hill Tower. Unfortunately, while the park delivers a wonderful outdoor experience, traditional overnight camping isn't part of the equation unless your a Boy Scout or accompanying one of their troops.
HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Spectacular Revolutionary War history at the very site of Washington's legendary Delaware River crossing; (2) Beautifully maintained grounds featuring mature trees, open lawns and scenic riverfront views; (3) Fascinating colonial-era buildings, historic demonstrations and educational exhibits that bring America's founding history to life; (4) Wonderful recreational opportunities, including walking, cycling, fishing, kayaking and picnicking; and (5) Convenient proximity to charming New Hope, the Delaware Canal towpath and Bowman's Hill Tower, offering plenty of opportunities to extend your adventure.
LOWLIGHTS: (1) No conventional public tent or RV camping, with overnight group camping restricted to organized Scout groups by prior arrangement; (2) No dedicated RV campsites, electrical hookups, water connections or dump station; (3) Park grounds generally close at sunset, limiting opportunities to linger into the evening; (4) Some historic buildings and attractions require admission fees or operate on limited schedules; and (5) Periodic restoration projects and special events can restrict access to certain areas, while the historic Washington Crossing Bridge's three-ton weight limit makes it unsuitable for larger RVs.
Happy Camping!
Maria Mercedes M.LegendRound Valley State Park Campground
Peaceful Wilderness Escape for Adventurous Families
There's something wonderfully special about escaping into nature where the only sounds are rustling leaves, birds singing and the gentle movement of water along the shoreline. Nestled among the wooded hills surrounding the beautiful Round Valley Reservoir, this rustic SP campground offers families a chance to disconnect from everyday distractions and enjoy a little wilderness adventure together. Unlike traditional campgrounds, the campsites are accessible only by hiking or boating, so getting anywhere here requires some planning and a willingness to travel light. Once you've arrived, you'll find secluded, wooded campsites with picnic tables, fire rings and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Amenities are basic, with pit toilets and no showers, but the beautiful reservoir, scenic hiking trails, fishing and kayaking opportunities more than make up for the lack of modern conveniences. Our kids loved exploring the woods, spotting wildlife and gathering around a crackling campfire at night to share stories beneath the stars. For families comfortable with the hike, I'd recommend choosing one of the campsites along the reservoir shoreline for the lovely water views and peaceful surroundings. Just remember that swimming is limited to the park's designated beach area. Round Valley isn't your typical family campground, but for adventurous families who enjoy hiking, camping under the stars and making wonderful memories together, it's a beautiful place to experience nature at its finest!
Leo C.ScoutWinding Hills Park
Nice but dated
Nice campground, bathrooms are clean but dated, first come first serve for the sites.
Thomas B.
RangerNeversink River Resort
Cool Riverside Campground
I'll start by saying this is a site-specific review (C20). I booked using Campspot and didn't select my own site but put in the criteria for my rig (30ft TT plus truck) and got a 50A back-in spot. The site was big but abnormal. Between the picnic table placement and the trees, I ended up right around 50ft from the electric and water, and the water spigot was so low I could barely put on my camco filter. With the uneven dirt roads, I had to unhitch with my truck in a gigantic puddle (lol). The site was otherwise fine aside from my gate code not working on Day 2. As for the campground as a whole, I thought it was pretty unique place by the river that offered several good amenities and activities, like downstream river tubing, an arcade, bathroom/shower facilities, a small store, little trails, and more. I would say this place borders the more primitive side.
Edwin R.ScoutCheesequake State Park Campground
Park uses county cops to shut down park by 9pm.
On Friday, September 4, 2026, I rented a trailer and brought my family to Cheesequake State Park to celebrate our 10th wedding anniversary over the extended Labor Day weekend. Around 9:20 PM—well before the park's designated 10:00 PM quiet hours—we were sitting inside our canopy, playing Jenga, and listening to low background music. Two officers from the Matawan Police Department approached our campsite. They were polite and courteous, simply offering a standard reminder to wrap things up by 10:00 PM. Before they could leave, however, a third, senior officer intervened. Wanting to"show them how it's done," he made the two polite officers return and stand by to watch as he demonstrated how to aggressively harass campers. Flashlight in hand, the senior officer approached with an immediate hostile attitude, treating us like criminals as he demanded to know who rented the site. He began reiterating rules and claimed we had too many vehicles. We had three cars, one belonging to my brother-in-law's girlfriend, who was visiting with her daughter. She had paid the$10 visitor fee at the main office and was instructed by staff to obtain the gate access code from us, the primary renters, if she got locked in. No staff member ever informed her of an 8:00 PM visitor departure deadline, leading us to reasonably assume visitors were permitted until quiet hours began at 10:00 PM. The officer rudely snapped that she had been given wrong information. The senior officer then used profanity in front of three small children, aggressively telling her to ("get her shit and get the fuck out!") in that manner or use profanity, the officer went from hostile to furious. He angrily declared that these were official violations and threatened that he could be issuing us tickets instead. Desperately searching for anything and everything to throw at us, he demanded that we turn off our idling car—which was supplying power to our campsite—and instructed us to make sure the campfire was doused before shutting down for the night. He then proceeded to shine his flashlight into our private setup—including our canopy, tents, and the inside of our trailer—searching for any other possible violation while the two polite officers were forced to watch. What was supposed to be a special 10th wedding anniversary celebration with my family was completely ruined by a senior officer misusing his authority to put on an unnecessary display of intimidation. Worse than just ruining our night, he spent that evening teaching those two police officers how to be bad cops. He corrupted two officers in real time, demonstrating firsthand exactly why most people have lost faith in the police force. The next day we was ready for them. We turned off our lights and quietly by the fire while they went next door to harass an asian family that had just set up camp and had their leds lights on.
- Thomas B.Ranger
Tohickon Family Campground
Simple, peaceful FHU
We stayed just a couple nights here on our way north. The camp host was helpful before our stay and during check-in. Our site was pretty isolated from the others, so it was very quiet (no complaints here). There is a decent mix of sunny sites by the river and shady sites under the trees. The weather was perfect mid September. There wasn't anything spectacular for me, but it was a good experience and it was a nice taste of fall PA scenery. Beware that the roads are tight for a big rig. Side note, it did seem like most campers lived there.
- KKelly B.
GuideStephens State Park Campground
Great last min getaway
Booked the day before—even on the holiday weekend! Just 1.5 hours outside of NYC, site was a bit close to the neighbors (fire pit was very far back and basically in the neighbors’ campsite, but we put up a “privacy clothesline” and hung a tarp over it for a bit of extra coverage.
The staff was friendly and helpful, they said it was the busiest they’ve seen the campground all year (there were lots of large groups but everyone seemed to settle down by 9:30pm
Poison ivy was EVERYWHERE at our site so make sure to stick to the open areas and the paths. Lots of families around, we felt very safe Bathrooms were fine—it was my impression they’re usually cleaner but the high traffic of the weekend left a bit to be desired, (lots of families around=dirty diapers in the bathroom trash bin) but it’s camping! I’m not gonna argue w a flushing toilet!
- KKevin F.
TravelerTri-State RV Park
A place to stay in an area lacking campgrounds.
This area seems to be devoid of campgrounds except for this one. It’s basically just a large parking lot with hook ups. Completely open, which is great for Starlink. Bathrooms were slightly above average; fairly clean and places to hang clothes for your shower. Has a laundry but be sure to bring quarters. It is about 100 yards from the interstate so you’ll get a lot of noise and diesel exhaust fumes.
Guide to Randolph
Tent campsites near Randolph, New Jersey offer primitive to semi-developed camping options within Passaic and Sussex counties. The region sits at elevations ranging from 700 to 1,300 feet in the New Jersey Highlands, creating varied terrain for campers. Most locations require carrying water or filtering from natural sources during summer camping season when daytime temperatures typically reach 75-85°F.
What to do
Water activities at Round Valley State Park Campground: The reservoir spans 2,350 acres and reaches depths of 180 feet, providing opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and swimming. "Beautiful and quaint..a nice place to get away and enjoy some nature," notes camper Ryan M. Trout fishing is available throughout the season.
Hiking to primitive sites: The Stonetown Circular trail offers an 11-mile loop with moderate to high difficulty terrain. "This site is about 4 miles into the hike. This is a nice spot to set up camp because it is right next to a flowing stream with fresh water," explains Ethan K. about Stonetown Circular trail Primitive #2. The trail includes challenging rock scrambles.
Wildlife observation: The Delaware Water Gap area provides habitat for diverse species. "We got to see deer and rabbits it's really spacious and beautiful," reports Bee L. about camping at Kittatinny Valley State Park. Morning and evening hours offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
What campers like
Island camping privacy: Namanock Island in Delaware Water Gap provides a unique camping experience only accessible by water. "Once night falls the absence of light sources beyond your camp remind you that you are truly alone in the wilderness," writes John B. about Namanock Island. The island features four primitive sites with fire rings.
Spacious group sites: Jenny Jump State Forest accommodates larger groups with well-designed camping areas. "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," explains Seth K. Site selection matters for comfort.
Forest access and trail connections: Many campsites connect directly to hiking systems. "It's a beautiful area. The sites are a little close but that's ok, everyone was really friendly," notes Jackie G. about Kittatinny Valley State Park Campground. Campers often use sites as base camps for day hikes.
What you should know
Water planning requirements: Most primitive sites require carrying all water needs. "There is a pump for potable water and vault/pit toilets. Trails are well-kept," explains Agbi B. about Round Valley State Park Campground. Many campers filter water from streams or reservoirs.
Campsite accessibility challenges: Many sites require significant hiking effort. "Located just south of I78 and near the small hamlets of Clinton and Lebanon, what I love most about Round Valley SP is the fact that it has its very own eponymous fresh water reservoir," says Stuart K., who cautions that "I found these trails challenging and uneven, so while the hike we made was only 3 miles, it was not easy."
Booking and seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate from April through October. Sites at popular locations fill quickly on summer weekends. "The 2021 season has brought a few minor, but very important changes to the island. There are now only 3 approved sites on the entire island, eliminating 3 or 4 smaller sites," notes John B. about camping regulations.
Tips for camping with families
Cabin options for easier family stays: Some locations offer cabins as alternatives to tent camping. "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," explains Dwight D. about Jenny Jump State Forest. Shelters provide weather protection for families.
Site selection for toilet proximity: With young children, campsite location relative to facilities matters. "Site #3 is on a hill which doesn't make for a comfortable night of sleep. No trees for shade or to hang a hammock," warns M P. about Wawayanda State Park Campground, highlighting the importance of careful site selection.
Activity planning for children: Several campgrounds offer structured activities. "They had activities for everyone and we had a blast at bingo and won!" reports Jackie G. Early reservations for family-friendly sites with level ground recommended during peak season.
Tips from RVers
Access limitations for larger vehicles: Many campsites near Randolph have limited RV accessibility. "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," notes Shawn B. about Camp Mohican Outdoor Center. Most sites accommodate smaller RVs up to 25 feet.
Alternative glamping options: For RVers seeking more comfort without towing, several locations offer permanent structures. "Small, clean with great views and great location for hiking, cruising etc. Bring your tent or use the existing glamping tents," suggests Bob F. about Moon Valley Campground. Many sites with structures require advance booking.
Utility considerations: Electric hookups remain limited throughout the region. "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," reports Seth K. Most RV-suitable sites require self-contained systems as hookups remain limited.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Which is the most popular tent campsite near Randolph, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Randolph, NJ is Round Valley State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 26 reviews.
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