Camping near South Orange, NJ

Round Valley State Park Campground offers one of the few wilderness camping experiences within an hour of South Orange. Sites range from hike-in locations requiring a 3-6 mile trek to boat-in spots along the reservoir shoreline. The park features a 2,350-acre reservoir that reaches 180 feet deep in some areas, providing opportunities for trout fishing and paddling. Cell service is minimal to non-existent at the primitive campsites, creating a true disconnect from urban environments.

What to do

Boat-in camping access: At Round Valley State Park Campground, paddlers can access remote sites without the strenuous hike. "We paddled in, the water is very clean and crystal clear," notes Riley K., who appreciated the well-maintained campsites with metal grate fire pits for cooking.

Urban exploration: While camping at Camp Gateway Staten Island, visitors can investigate abandoned structures within the park boundaries. "There are abandoned buildings here and you can do urban exploring. There are rangers taking you on a trek and exploring the abandoned building," reports Phillip L., who recommends this option for city dwellers seeking a quick escape.

Lakefront activities: Several campgrounds offer swimming, fishing, and small craft boating opportunities during summer months. "The lake and pool were a big plus, especially for hot days. While I did not take advantage, you are allowed to rent boats and take them out on the lake," writes Ethan K. about Panther Lake Camping Resort, noting the welcome center also sells camping essentials.

What campers like

City skyline views: Liberty Harbor RV Park provides urban camping with panoramic views of Manhattan. "Having a view of Lady Liberty out your window is priceless," comments Joe R., who found the experience worth the higher cost. The park's location offers easy access to ferries and trains into New York City.

Private wilderness sites: Despite being near populated areas, some campgrounds offer surprisingly secluded experiences. At Beaver Pond Campground, campers appreciate the spread-out design. "The biggest positive about Beaver Pond is how spread out it was. You definitely feel like you have your own space and are not camping on top of your neighbor," writes Ethan K.

Well-maintained trails: Many campgrounds connect to extensive trail systems. "Hike trails are all over the place and the lake is nearby," notes Kelvin about Beaver Pond Campground, where visitors often combine camping with exploring sections of surrounding forest trails, including portions of the Appalachian Trail.

What you should know

Bear safety precautions: Multiple campgrounds report bear activity. "Welcome to Bear Mountain" grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness!" describes Steve W. about Beaver Pond Campground, where visitors receive specific instructions about bear activity. Proper food storage is essential at most woodland campgrounds.

Noise levels vary drastically: Some campgrounds remain peaceful while others experience significant noise. "Quiet time at night is laughable as the enjoyment of being in nature rages on into the early morning," reports Steve W. about Beaver Pond, while Round Valley offers more isolation. "Located between two busy roads" notes Theresa G. about Cheesequake State Park Campground.

Limited facilities: Primitive sites typically have minimal amenities. "I would STRONGLY encourage anyone who thinks that it is OK to drink from the reservoir to at least use a Life Straw to ensure they don't get sick," advises Stuart K. about Round Valley, where potable water access can be limited despite the large reservoir.

Tips for camping with families

Child-friendly activities: Panther Lake Camping Resort offers numerous organized activities for children. "The ceramic class was fun for the girls," mentions Jojo P., adding that the lake and biking opportunities kept teenagers entertained throughout their stay, even during busy holiday weekends.

Platform tent options: Some sites feature raised wooden platforms that keep tents dry during wet weather. "Many of the camping options were on platforms which is especially nice if it recently rained or if you are expecting rain during your stay," explains Ethan K. about his experience at Beaver Pond Campground.

Wildlife encounters: Beyond bears, families should prepare for other wildlife. "We had some issues with a skunk that visited our campsite multiple times in one night. Was not afraid of humans," reports Colleen C. from Panther Lake, suggesting secure food storage applies to all scented items regardless of predator size.

Tips from RVers

Manhattan access: Cheesequake State Park Campground serves as a convenient base for RVers wanting to visit New York City. "This is a great site for those who are not avid campers. It's close to town if you forget something and it has all the facilities you may need," explains Maggie A. The campground provides electric hookups with bathrooms and showers.

Parking limitations: Several campgrounds restrict vehicle access to camping areas. "No cars are permitted in the campground, so you will have to lug your gear to your spot so choose wisely my friends!" warns Christy K. about Sandy Hook Gateway, information particularly important for RVers planning to bring additional equipment.

Site spacing considerations: RV sites vary significantly in privacy between campgrounds. "The sites were a little too close together," notes Katrina Z. about Cheesequake, while Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers "large, wooded campsites with electric and water" according to Jeff W., who appreciates the paved and mostly level sites.