Round Valley State Park Campground offers unique wilderness camping access within driving distance of South Plainfield, New Jersey. The campground sits at the edge of a 2,350-acre reservoir and reaches depths of 180 feet. Primitive sites can be reached by hiking 3-6 miles or by boat, with most campers preferring water access due to the strenuous nature of the trails. The park operates seasonally from April 1 to October 31, with limited facilities at campsites.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing: At Turkey Swamp Park, visitors can enjoy paddling on the scenic lake. "Plenty to do over a 2 night stay. Archery, boating, fishing, and hiking. Boat rental rates are acceptable and there are four different styles to choose from," notes Dan W.
Hiking mountain trails: The trails around Mahlon Dickerson Reservation provide various difficulty levels with forest and lake views. A camper mentioned, "We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful." The reservation features multiple interconnected trails suitable for day hikes.
Wildlife observation: Early morning and evening offer prime wildlife viewing opportunities at Round Valley State Park Campground. "One interesting fact about this place–believe it or not–it is the only NJ SP that actually offers up true wilderness camping(a.k.a. primitive), which can only be accessed by hiking 3 to 6 miles–or if you come with your own boat," shares Stuart K.
What campers like
Spacious sites with privacy: Mountainview Campground receives praise for its secluded camping experience. "Sites are all level, very generous in size, and reasonably spaced apart for privacy. A lantern hook, picnic table, and fire ring complete each site," reports Lee D.
Water access for fishing: Spruce Run Recreation Area offers lakeside camping with direct water access. "Most sites have a lovely water view of the reservoir. Several playgrounds, boat launches, and life guarded swimming area," notes Jocelyn G.
Yurt camping options: South Plainfield, New Jersey visitors seeking yurt accommodations can find them at Allaire State Park. These yurt camping opportunities near South Plainfield provide a comfortable middle ground between tent camping and cabin rental. According to a camper, "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."
What you should know
Tick awareness: Summer months require vigilance against ticks in wooded campgrounds. "I was so excited when we got here. The sites are spacious and it's really beautiful. But by the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2," reports LAURA Y. from Turkey Swamp Park.
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds near South Plainfield have spotty cell coverage. "Fun camping place to books groups. Very kid and pet friendly, lake to fish and kayak on, lots of activities, great pool and awesome hot tub. Only down side is that even though they say they have wifi, you can't hook up to it unless you are at the pavilion. And good luck getting cell service! its like a black hole of signals there," explains Cynthia H. from Panther Lake Camping Resort.
Hiking difficulty: When accessing remote camping areas, be prepared for challenging terrain. "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," warns a Round Valley camper.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with organized activities: Great Divide Campground offers scheduled programs for children. "This was our first time camping and it was a success. Sites had room to move and it was quiet and peaceful. Kids had lots of fun on the free kayaks and pool. Staff was friendly and helpful," shares Jojo P.
Pack for varying temperatures: Spring and fall camping near South Plainfield requires layered clothing as temperatures can drop significantly at night. "The campsites were just okay. If bringing your RV, the safest bet is to reserve a spot with no shade as the other spots often times have very low hanging tree limbs," suggests Douglas P.
Consider yurt options: Families seeking yurt camping near South Plainfield, New Jersey appreciate the convenience of pre-built structures. Yurts typically include elevated platforms, electrical outlets, and more protection from weather than tents, making them ideal for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Water hookup preparation: At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, water spigots may be distant from electrical hookups. "Very clean and quiet. 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," notes an RVer.
Site selection for larger rigs: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger RVs comfortably. "This campground has all pull-through sites. Nicely wooded with water and electric. Be sure to bring extra hose because the water spigot is a distance from the electric. sites are level and well maintained," advises Jean T. from Turkey Swamp Park.
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds operate with limited services in early spring and late fall. "Showers were cold water only and very cold at that. Late at night you can hear the drone of a major highway," reports Frank J. from Spruce Run.
