Rockaway, New Jersey offers diverse camping options within the northern New Jersey highlands region, where elevations range from 600 to 1,800 feet. The area's climate features warm summers with temperatures averaging 75-85°F and cool evenings dropping to the 50s. Several campgrounds near Rockaway operate seasonally from April through October, though Stokes State Forest maintains limited year-round camping with heated cabins for winter yurt camping near Rockaway, New Jersey.
What to do
Hiking trails for all levels: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation provides excellent hiking with routes connecting to Headley Overlook. One visitor recommends, "Make sure to visit Headley overlook and hike the awesome trials that surround the campsites!" Trails range from easy lake walks to more challenging mountain paths.
Fishing in highland lakes: Jenny Jump State Forest offers fishing opportunities at Ghost Lake within its boundaries. Many campers enjoy the serene water access, with one noting, "Nice little hideaway not too far from the beaten path" while mentioning the peaceful fishing spots available.
Wildlife observation: Camp Taylor Campground provides unique access to the Lakota Wolf Preserve. A camper explains, "You can take a short hike up the mountain there to see the wolves in the sanctuary. There are moments by the fire you can hear them howl in the distance."
Kayaking and paddleboats: Several parks offer boat rentals, including Panther Lake Camping Resort where visitors can explore the lake. According to reviews, "The lake was not easy to get to due to the messy walkways and mud" but remains popular for water activities once accessed.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Great Divide Campground features secluded camping spots with natural buffers between sites. One camper shares, "This is a beautiful campground with much to do around the grounds themselves. The sites could be very close depending upon where u go. We had r6 and we had neighbor on one side. If the other spot was occupied then it might be a little too close for us."
Clean facilities: Stokes State Forest maintains well-kept restrooms and shower facilities. A visitor notes, "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."
Mountain views: High Point State Park Campground offers camping near New Jersey's highest elevation point. A camper describes, "You can drive to High Point monument that is 1803 feet above sea level and you get a spectacular panorama view."
Yurt accommodations: Several campgrounds offer alternative lodging including yurts. One visitor to Great Divide mentioned, "They also had covered wagons which I believe you can sleep in, but I did not pursue this option" showing the variety of unique accommodations beyond traditional yurt camping in Rockaway, New Jersey area.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially for weekends and holidays. Sites fill quickly from May through September.
Noise considerations: Swartswood State Park Campground has varying noise levels depending on location. A camper warns, "The park was incredibly noisy at night and there is little to no privacy between campsites. Everything could be seen by your neighbors. We were kept up all night because we could hear other campers snoring and talking."
Wildlife awareness: Bears are present throughout the region. A camper at Swartswood reports, "Three black bears strolled by the campsite next to ours in the early morning — gave us more of an energy boost after a sleepless night than our coffee!"
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds operate April through October. One camper notes about Spruce Run, "Mid week (July 4th) 2024... My campsite was 34W, right next the reservoir. Nice location however the website said it was full shade. The picnic table was in shade. The spot for the RV was full sun."
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds and kid-specific activities: Panther Lake Camping Resort offers family-friendly amenities. A visitor shares, "Panther lake was a pretty good campground with lots of spots to camp at... The lake and pool were a big plus, especially for hot days."
Check shower and bathroom facilities: Spruce Run Recreation Area has mixed reviews on bathrooms. One camper notes, "The bathrooms were absolutely disgusting. I thought with COVID they were cleaning them more, but for the entire weekend, someone's #2 remained all over the toilet, floor, and corner wall."
Consider cabin or yurt options for easier family camping: Several parks offer alternatives to tent camping. A visitor to Stokes State Forest comments, "Rented a cabin in November (#009) and again in December (#008) of 2021. I favored Cabin 8, the kitchen and bathroom were separated from the main room."
Research proximity to attractions: Many campgrounds are within 20-30 minutes of additional recreation. A camper at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation mentioned it's "only a 20 minute drive to a large mall in Rockaway," providing options for rainy days.
Tips from RVers
Check site length and hookup details: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers RV sites with some limitations. A camper advises, "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."
Plan for dump station timing: Several campgrounds have limited dumping facilities. At Mahlon Dickerson, "Trash dumpster is an easy walk and the dump station has a flush hose point. Nice and easy little campground."
Consider seasonal sites for longer stays: Panther Lake has many seasonal options. One visitor observes, "Majority of sites are season all campers with LOTS of cottages. Went early in the season so many had not been maintained in months."
