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 Scotch Plains, NJ
3 campgrounds with availability this weekend
Search destinations
Add dates
Tent campgrounds close to Scotch Plains, New Jersey offer primarily wilderness and primitive experiences rather than developed facilities. Round Valley State Park Campground stands out as the region's most notable tent camping destination, providing true wilderness camping that can only be accessed by hiking 3-6 miles or boating across the reservoir. Pleasant Valley Lavender offers a more accessible alternative with peaceful tent sites tucked into wooded areas while maintaining proximity to central New Jersey's major roads.
Most tent campsites in the area require significant effort to reach, particularly at Round Valley where the hiking trail includes challenging terrain with rocky sections and elevation changes. Sites typically feature basic amenities such as fire rings and picnic tables, but lack modern conveniences. Potable water is available from scattered pumps, though these can be up to 1.5 miles from some campsites. Primitive outhouses with trash receptacles are positioned along the camping trails, but visitors frequently note their poor maintenance. Seasonal restrictions apply, with Round Valley's camping season running from April 1 to October 31.
The primitive tent setups around Scotch Plains provide genuine seclusion despite their proximity to urban areas. Round Valley's tent campsites offer waterfront experiences with views across the crystal-clear reservoir. The sites vary in quality and terrain, with some located directly on the water and others set back in forested areas. Campers should be prepared for variable conditions at individual sites, including uneven ground and occasional mud. Site selection makes a significant difference in the camping experience. A reviewer on The Dyrt emphasized that "this is a great campground that is super private and quiet - great for getting out to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. It's a pretty strenuous hike, but you'll be rewarded for the effort!"
Best Tent Campgrounds near Scotch Plains (34)
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. Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area
"There are 20 tent sites spread across four loops. There is NO beach access. Some sites have shelters, others do not. Pay attention when reserving. All sites have a fire pit and picnic table."
"Bathrooms are serviceable overall (no showers as others have noted), and the place is intermittently staffed; bring everything you need."
Check AvailabilityCampground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $30 - $50 / night
3. Staten Island — Gateway National Recreation Area - CLOSED for 2025
"You have a clear view of the Narrow bridge and at night the city lights light up your surroundings light a nigh light. The camp here has 7 campsites here and it fill up really fast."
"this place is awesome when it comes to finding an affordable place to stay while in NY, this camp ground isnt your usual forest camp sites, however there are some beautiful views, and it is located in"
Check AvailabilityCampground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $30 / night
4. Pleasant Valley Lavender
"So pleasant to sleep near the blooming fields. Campsite is tucked in the woods with. Tent camping in peace and quiet with easy access to major roads and highways to explore central NJ"
Check Availabilityfrom $35 - $50 / night
5. Washington Crossing State Park - TEMP CLOSED FOR 2024
"The Pennsylvania side is all about historic buildings, museums and picnic spots, while the New Jersey side (Washington Crossing State Park) offers organized group tent camping."
"The areas for that seemed well groomed, bathrooms were acceptable, and there was plenty of space. Some nice trees not too close allowed for good shade, without feeling like in a forest."
Check Availabilityfrom $50 - $100 / night
6. Kittatinny Valley State Park Campground
"Site A is the best for seclusion and a spot closer to the lake (also amazing sunsets)"
7. Tip Tam Camping Resort
"Just from walking around I saw the two pools, an RC track, bocci, shuffle and board. They did have organized activities set up as well."
"It feels like you're camping out in a field with mostly sand around. But having said that, I'd still recommend it for all of the positive they do have."
8. NWS Earle RV Park
"Small campground W/ 8 spaces in the main area and 7 in an adjacent area. All spaces are level concrete With fill hookups and attached concrete patio."
9. 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."
10. 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."
Drive Time
- 33 min from New York, NY
- 55 min from Kiryas Joel, NY
- 59 min from Trenton, NJ
- 1 hr 1 min from Allentown, PA
Recent Tent Camping Photos near Scotch Plains, NJ
63 Photos of 34 Scotch Plains Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Pleasant Valley LavenderE
Round Valley State Park Campground
Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area
Campgaw Mountain Reservation
Kittatinny Valley State Park Campground
Tip Tam Camping Resort
Moon Valley CampgroundD
Camp Starry Night at Gulyan Farms
Wooded Campground
Camp Mohican Outdoor Center — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Steam Mill Campground
Walter's Boat In Campsites — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Tent Camping Reviews near Scotch Plains, NJ
775 Reviews of 34 Scotch Plains 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!
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.
RangerTohickon 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!
Sue B.RangerDelaware Water Gap / Pocono Mountain KOA
Great off season camping
We camped here in our pop up for our Anniversary in November. We were impressed with the cleanliness and available amenities for the time of year we were camping in! Close proximity to DWG and PA AND NJ attractions.
- JJay
TravelerDelaware Water Gap / Pocono Mountain KOA
Large sites & friendly staff!
Another great experience. Sites were large. Staff was friendly with many different things for kids to do. Great base camp for local hikes.
Kelvin R.ScoutTohickon Valley County Park
First time camping
As far as experience it was good. The main issue was the campsite where we were was uneven and caused many of the sleeping arrangements that we had to be not level. This seems to be a specific issue to the group campsite number two as when we went inwards it seemed like everything else was much better.
Guide to Scotch Plains
Tent camping options near Scotch Plains, New Jersey range from wilderness sites requiring boat access to family-friendly options within an hour's drive. While central New Jersey isn't known for mountainous terrain, elevation changes on hiking trails to wilderness campsites can present moderate challenges. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with high humidity, requiring proper hydration during hikes to remote sites. Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from April through October.
What to do
Swimming in crystal-clear water: Round Valley State Park Campground features a 2,350-acre reservoir that spans 180 feet deep in the middle, offering swimming opportunities. "The water is very clean and crystal clear," notes Riley K., who paddled to the campsite.
Hike challenging trails: The wilderness camping area at Round Valley involves trails with significant elevation changes. One camper noted, "I have hiked throughout the entire US and consider myself somewhere between a moderate to skilled hiker and I found these trails challenging and uneven, so while the hike we made was only 3 miles, it was not easy."
Visit historic sites: Washington Crossing State Park offers both camping and Revolutionary War history. "Visit the park's historic reenactments, especially the Christmas Day Crossing event as it's easily the most memorable history lesson you'll ever get outdoors," suggests one reviewer.
What campers like
Genuine seclusion: Campers appreciate the privacy at sites like Jenny Jump State Forest, where one reviewer mentioned, "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."
Sunset views: Many campsites offer exceptional views, particularly those on the water. At Round Valley, a camper described: "Really nice spot to camp very peaceful and quit. Gorgeous sunset, beautiful views."
Access to nature despite urban proximity: Pleasant Valley Lavender provides an unusual setting where campers can enjoy both natural surroundings and easy urban access. "So pleasant to sleep near the blooming fields. Campsite is tucked in the woods with. Tent camping in peace and quiet with easy access to major roads and highways to explore central NJ," reports one camper.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary significantly: While some campgrounds offer modern facilities, others have primitive options. At Sandy Hook, "The campground is rustic with no showers or electricity. Tenting only, with all gear needing to be carried to the site."
Reservation requirements: Most camping areas require advance booking, particularly during summer months. Some campgrounds have strict capacity limits and fill quickly on weekends.
Noise considerations: While wilderness sites offer genuine quiet, some campgrounds have ambient noise. At Jenny Jump State Forest, a reviewer noted: "My only complaint is that the noise from the highway was quite loud at night."
Water access planning: For boat-in camping at Round Valley, proper planning is essential. "If you get a site on the water, you can take a boat across to your site (check the site for regulations/restrictions) - in-season rentals should be available on-site," advises one camper.
Tips for camping with families
Start with easier sites: For families new to wilderness camping, choose accessible locations. At Tip Tam Camping Resort, "There is plenty to do or not. Kids can go. Mini golf, swimming, pedal cars. Wooded sites. Owner Darren is great. Like family. Big sites."
Check for kid-friendly activities: Some campgrounds offer organized programming. One reviewer noted at Tip Tam: "We have been here several times and our daughter loves it. Great place for kids and tons of activities."
Consider cabin options for mixed comfort levels: For families with members who prefer not to tent camp, look for hybrid options. At Sebago Cabin Camp, "We were able to rent a cabin which was equipped with an outside grill and picnic area. It is great if you are going with a group/family and people want to sleep inside a cabin as oppose to a tent outside."
Tips from RVers
Limited full-hookup options: Most wilderness camping near Scotch Plains isn't suitable for RVs. Tip Tam Camping Resort provides RV accommodations with full hookups on concrete pads, though sites are described as close together.
Check size restrictions: Many campgrounds in the region have limited space for larger rigs. Look for specifications on maximum vehicle length before booking.
Consider military options if eligible: For military personnel and veterans, NWS Earle RV Park offers an affordable alternative with full hookups. A reviewer noted, "It's only an hour from Manhattan & 20 more minutes from the shore. If you're planning a visit to either this campground is cheap, clean & quiet."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent
campsite near Scotch Plains, NJ?
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Scotch Plains, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Scotch Plains, NJ is Round Valley State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 26 reviews.
What is the best site to find
tent camping near
Scotch Plains, NJ?
What is the best site to find tent camping near Scotch Plains, NJ?
TheDyrt.com has all 34 tent camping locations near Scotch Plains, NJ, with real photos and reviews from campers.
Keep Exploring