Tent campers near Stewartsville, New Jersey have access to a diverse range of sites within Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and surrounding state parks. The terrain features rolling hills with elevations ranging from 300-1,500 feet, creating microclimates that can be 5-10 degrees cooler at higher elevations. While most tent camping locations close seasonally from November through March, several sites offer wilderness camping experiences requiring specific preparation.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: Round Valley State Park Campground offers clear water paddling with primitive campsites accessible by boat. According to one visitor, "Really nice spot to camp very peaceful and quiet. Gorgeous sunset, beautiful views. Really helpful people at the office. Would definitely recommend to come check it out for yourself." The reservoir provides excellent kayaking with water visibility up to 15 feet in spring months.
Mountain hiking: Explore the Appalachian Trail segments near Jenny Jump State Forest where tent sites connect directly to trail networks. A visitor notes, "This place was great, they allow dogs and had hiking trails with beautiful views you could enjoy right from your campground. It's also close to other local hikes like Mt. Tammany."
Wildlife observation: Early mornings at Kirkridge Shelter / Kittatinny Mountain provide chances to spot deer, turkey, and occasionally black bear. "This spot is right next to a beautiful view on the side of Kittany Mountain and just off the Appalachian trail. There is 4 spots to set up at all of which have a spot for a fire," explains one camper who appreciated the wildlife viewing opportunities.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Tent camping sites at Jenny Jump offer significant seclusion compared to other public campgrounds. One camper shared, "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."
Lake access: Many campers appreciate Walter's Boat In Campsites for their direct river placement. "The campsite in this review has two major points to express beyond the actual review. First, this site is only accessible by canoes or kayaks. There is no public road access to the campsite," notes a visitor who enjoyed the water proximity.
Camp shelters: Beyond standard tent sites, some locations offer alternative accommodations. One visitor to Jenny Jump reported, "The 'shelter' is what we would describe as a 'cabin'; four walls, a roof, locking door, locking windows, large picture frame front window, four beds(two bunks), a wood burning stove, and a porch. Even compared to our glamping this was luxury!!"
What you should know
Access challenges: Many sites require significant hiking or boating to reach. At Camp Mohican Outdoor Center, "The Group Campsite was really big. It had 5-6 platforms, privys, big fire ring, a grill, a beatbox, a large pavilion w/picnic tables and a real full sized bathroom only 100 yards away."
Water planning: Limited water access means planning ahead. Pack filtration equipment for camping at Stewartsville area sites, as many locations have only occasional pumps or require filtering from natural sources.
Weather variability: Temperature swings of 30+ degrees between day and night are common in spring and fall. One camper at Camp Starry Night shared, "It went down to 40 degrees that night so we had to make due with extra layers and bundle up but we made it through the night."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Sites with amenities make tent camping with children more manageable. At Washington Crossing State Park, "Have been visiting Washington Crossing State Park since I was a child. I always look forward to going because it is consistently clean, great for riding bikes and taking pets for a walk and children for a stroll."
Educational opportunities: Historical camping locations provide learning experiences. One camper noted about Washington Crossing, "Every year, they re-enact Washington's troops crossing the Delaware! It was VERY cold the year I went. To warm up, there is a small visitor's center where they have a reproduction of the famous painting commemorating the moment."
Wildlife encounters: Kids appreciate the natural elements at tent camping sites near Stewartsville. At Boulder Ridge Farm, one camper shared, "Great place to escape the stress of every day life. Plenty of fire wood, really cool huge rocks and waking up to owls was awesome."
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most primitive tent camping areas around Stewartsville cannot accommodate RVs due to access restrictions. Instead, RV campers should focus on established campgrounds with vehicle access.
Seasonal planning: RV sites open earlier and close later than tent-only campgrounds. At Alosa Boat In Campsites, "Primitive site for multi day river trips. There's usually always a port-a-potty at the campsite. Each area has its own fire ring and multiple river pull offs for easy finding and access."
Utilities access: Traditional tent camping spots near Stewartsville generally lack hookups. RV campers need self-contained systems for multi-day stays at most locations or must use developed campgrounds farther from primitive areas.
