The diverse terrain surrounding Stanhope, New Jersey provides camping experiences ranging from rustic tent sites to full-amenity RV accommodations. The region sits within the New Jersey Highlands, with elevations between 700-1,500 feet creating cooler microclimates than nearby urban areas. Most campgrounds in the area experience a 15-20°F temperature drop at night compared to daytime highs, even during summer months.
What to do
Hiking on the Appalachian Trail: Access points near Camp Taylor Campground connect directly to miles of trails. "There are miles of hiking trails and direct access to the Appalachian Tr. The Lakota Wolf Preserve is located on the camp and offers discounted tours for campers," notes Jean T.
Waterfront activities: The Delaware River and area lakes offer swimming, fishing, and paddling opportunities. At Panther Lake Camping Resort, "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," explains Ethan K.
Wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse wildlife, including black bears, deer, and wolves. "The wolf preserve at the same location was just amazing - we learned so much and could hear the wolves howl from the campsite," shares Dina S. about Camp Taylor Campground.
Mountain biking: Trail networks throughout the region accommodate riders of various skill levels. Stephens State Park offers "a lot of hiking, mountain biking and fishing there. Great for a weekend get away," according to Barbara S.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Many campgrounds offer secluded spots with natural screening. At Jenny Jump State Forest, "The space was reasonably priced, but we did have to pay an extra $5/day for our dog. However, we didn't mind as it was so private we felt like we had the entire Park to ourselves," writes Kelsey K.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds consistently maintain their amenities. "The bathrooms and showers were clean. The sink for dishes was clean and well maintained. The other campers were all very nice and it was pretty quiet," notes Barbara S. about Stephens State Park.
Accessibility to conveniences: Despite feeling remote, most campgrounds provide easy access to supplies. "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." explains one reviewer about Stokes State Forest.
Fishing opportunities: Trout and other species populate area lakes and streams. "Our campsite was located along the Delaware river with a short walk down to be able to launch our canoe and kayak. With the exception of a few noisy campers up from us it was an enjoyable time," shares Mitchell E. about Worthington State Forest.
What you should know
Bear activity is common: Proper food storage is essential at all campgrounds in the region. "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes," warns Trip Over Life about Stokes State Forest.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly between locations. At Great Divide Campground, one camper noted, "Love the place! People were nice. Bathrooms were clean. Only issue is the internet is terrible u have to be near the wifi zones," according to Umar A.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "We chose site T219. It was a solid choice: private but close to the toilet and water. Some sites located around the opposite side of the ring back up to a babbling brook," shares Trip Over Life about Steam Mill Camping Area in Stokes State Forest.
Terrain challenges: Some sites feature significant slopes or rocky ground. "The campgrounds were very big and spread out and each campsite gets their own space with decent privacy. The grounds were fairly large and each campsite gets their own space with decent privacy," explains Ethan K. about Panther Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer structured programs for children. At Great Divide Campground, "Nice small beach. Lots of weekend activities. Will be back in the future," shares Scott N.
Playground access: Many campgrounds include play areas. "This campground is lovely. Very wooded. Some sites are more private than others but all have a wooded and private feel. It's GREAT For kids. A nice playground with tons of kids running all over," remarks Kathy G. about Camp Taylor Campground.
Swimming options: Lake and pool facilities provide cooling opportunities during summer. "We went on 4th of July weekend so the place was packed. We were able to get a secluded spot in the woods which was great! 2 teenage girls had a blast in the lake and riding their bikes around," notes Jojo P. about Panther Lake Camping Resort.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds enforce quiet hours more strictly than others. At Camp Taylor, "Unlike many other campgrounds we've been to, they are very good about actually enforcing the quiet hours at night, so you can have an actual peaceful and quiet night around the campfire," Dan B. explains.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many campsites require significant leveling. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, "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 antruze.
Water and electric access: Hookup availability varies between campgrounds. "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill. Peaceful. Close to train to N.Y. City," shares Nancymike K. about Mahlon Dickerson.
Size restrictions: Some campgrounds cannot accommodate larger RVs. "Lovely campground, but maybe not the best for big rigs. The campground as a whole and the individual sites are kind of tricky for bigger rigs. We are in a 26ft class c and we squeezed through," explains Laura M. about Stephens State Park.
Weather preparedness: Temperature fluctuations require planning. "There is a section of RV spots that are each cut out in the woods so very private. Once you have backed into the spot and leveled out it's a good time," Julie F. shares about Camp Taylor Campground.
