Round Valley State Park offers both boat-in and hike-in primitive campsites near Somerville, New Jersey. Located within the Cushetunk Mountain area at elevations reaching 500 feet, these sites provide a true wilderness experience rarely found in the region. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-95°F during camping season, with cooler nights in spring and fall. The reservoir spans 2,350 acres and reaches depths of 180 feet in certain areas, creating unique camping conditions compared to other parks in the region.
What to do
Stargazing at secluded sites: Turkey Swamp Park's wooded campsites offer excellent night sky viewing opportunities with minimal light pollution. As one camper notes, "Nice, remote, private. Some sites unlevel. Nice lake. Showers and washers and dryers" (Shawn, Turkey Swamp Park).
Kayaking on pristine waters: Mountainview Campground provides easy access to multiple water recreation areas. "Close to the River Towns in NJ...close to the Delaware River, Spruce Run Reservoir, and Round Valley Reservoir. Wildlife everywhere!" (Christina H., Mountainview Campground).
Hiking varied terrain: The surrounding parks offer trails ranging from easy lakeside paths to more challenging mountain routes. "The park is very big... There are many beautiful sights around including the Delaware River, ringing rocks Park, and Nockamixon. The park is clean and well-maintained" (Lynn R., Ringing Rocks Family Campground).
Birdwatching in diverse habitats: The area's mix of forests, wetlands, and water bodies creates excellent bird-spotting opportunities. "Spent many weekends here and met great friends...great place to just relax" (Kathie M., Ringing Rocks Family Campground).
What campers like
Peaceful surroundings: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation provides a quiet escape despite its proximity to urban areas. "Very clean and quiet. Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that...Nice and easy little campground" (antruze, Mahlon Dickerson Reservation).
Well-maintained facilities: Cleanliness is consistently mentioned in reviews. "Stayed at one of the primitive sites. Very clean and quite. Bath stalls and showers are basic but clean. Great spot for stargazing. Owners are very nice" (Scott A., Mountainview Campground).
Spacious campsites: Unlike some crowded campgrounds, several parks offer generous site dimensions. "The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large. Water and electric hookups and a dump station. Convenient for hiking and exploring" (Jeff W., Mahlon Dickerson Reservation).
Family-friendly atmosphere: Turkey Swamp Park caters well to families with children. "We went camping with our 2- and 3-year-old kids. We were worried about bugs, but we didn't even use mosquito repellent and didn't get a single bite! The campground was super clean too" (JAEWOOK P., Turkey Swamp Park).
What you should know
Wildlife encounters: Ringing Rocks Family Campground and other area parks have active wildlife. "I've never heard so much wildlife there as I did here. Only shortly after we settled into our tent did we hear foxes fighting right outside our tent, the snorts of deer, and there were bats right above us all night making noise!" (Christina H., Mountainview Campground).
Tick awareness: Some parks report tick issues during warm months. "By the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2. That was so crazy because we were just sitting by our camper" (LAURA Y., Turkey Swamp Park).
Water access varies: Some sites offer direct water access while others require hiking or driving. "If you get a site on the water, you can take a boat across to to your site (check the site for regulations/restrictions) - in-season rentals should be available on-site" (Agbi B., Round Valley Recreation Area).
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds operate from April through October with limited winter access. "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" (Stuart K., Round Valley Recreation Area).
Tips for camping with families
Check noise policies: Camp Carr Campground offers pet-friendly camping near Somerville with specific quiet hours. "Have been coming to Camp Carr for nearly 50 years. All the sites are along the river so the view and peaceful sound of the river are wonderful" (melissa N., Camp Carr Campground).
Plan for weather shifts: Summer afternoons can bring thunderstorms, so pack rain gear even during dry periods. "We took it to Mountain View this weekend, with a little trepidation on how we were going to get the trailer backed into the space. Not to worry, they gave us a nice drive through space" (Robert J., Mountainview Campground).
Pack extra water for pets: Despite proximity to water bodies, potable water for pets is limited at primitive sites. "There is a pump for potable water and vault/pit toilets. Trails are well-kept. Definitely a great place to start with getting into backpacking and enjoying nature" (Agbi B., Round Valley Recreation Area).
Select sites strategically: Sites furthest from facilities offer more privacy but longer walks. "Our site was on a hill and most likely not in a flood area. Strict rules so that nature lovers can enjoy the outdoors without worrying about noisy neighbors or trash everywhere" (Christina H., Mountainview Campground).
Tips from RVers
Water hose length matters: Washington Crossing State Park and others require longer-than-standard water hoses. "Nice, remote, private. Some sites unlevel. Bring a LONG water hose. Nice lake. Showers and washers and dryers" (Shawn, Turkey Swamp Park).
Reserve early for holiday weekends: The limited number of RV sites fill quickly for summer holidays. "Very nice forest! The campground is clean, paved nicely and well run. Our site is easily the nicest- all the way in the back with only one neighbor" (Greg S., Mahlon Dickerson Reservation).
Dump station protocols: Follow specific procedures for using sanitary facilities. "Our spot was #27 and pretty spacious. The showers were free and clean with hot water and decent pressure. The landing for the camper was even with gravel and the rest of the site was mostly even" (sarah, Mountainview Campground).
Road conditions vary: Some access roads may challenge larger rigs. "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill. Peaceful. Close to train to N.Y. City" (Nancymike K., Mahlon Dickerson Reservation).
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