Best Campgrounds near Stanhope, NJ
The Skylands region surrounding Stanhope, New Jersey features diverse camping environments within a 30-minute drive. Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers large, wooded sites with water and electric hookups, while Great Divide Campground provides family-oriented amenities including a swimming beach, kayak rentals, and weekend entertainment. Stephens State Park Campground and Panther Lake Camping Resort represent the range of public and private options available. The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, approximately 20 miles west, contains primitive boat-in sites along the river, providing a more secluded experience. Most campgrounds accommodate both tent and RV camping, with several offering cabin rentals for those seeking additional comfort.
Camping regulations vary significantly between state parks and private campgrounds in the area. Most state park campgrounds operate seasonally from April through October, with limited winter availability. According to one camper at Mahlon Dickerson, "The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large. Convenient for hiking and exploring, it's also only a 20 minute drive to a large mall in Rockaway." Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for summer weekends when New York City residents seek outdoor escapes. Weather conditions remain relatively mild during camping season, though summer humidity can be significant. Bear activity requires proper food storage throughout the region, with several reviewers noting wildlife encounters.
Lakeside and riverside sites receive consistently high ratings from visitors but fill quickly during peak season. Stokes State Forest, which maintains four distinct camping areas including the more primitive Steam Mill Camping Area, provides varying levels of amenities and seclusion. One reviewer noted, "Stokes is nestled in a beautiful part of New Jersey and it's just remote enough that you can get away from the crowds and activity while still being in a short driving distance of restaurants, grocery stores, etc." Cell service can be spotty in more remote areas, particularly in the Delaware Water Gap region. Campers frequently mention the Appalachian Trail access as a highlight, with several campgrounds positioned near trail sections. Site sizes and privacy levels vary considerably, with some private campgrounds placing tent sites close together while state parks typically offer more separation between campsites.
