Camping options near Succasunna, New Jersey extend into the Highlands region of the state, with elevations reaching 1,200 feet in surrounding areas. The region experiences four distinct seasons, with summer temperatures typically ranging between 75-85°F and moderate humidity. Winter camping is limited as most campgrounds close from November through March, with average temperatures dropping to 20-30°F during those months.
What to do
Fishing at prime locations: Round Valley State Park Campground offers exceptional fishing opportunities in its 2,350-acre reservoir. One camper noted, "The water is crystal clear, the area is clean. There's bathrooms and pumps but we just filtered the water from the reservoir instead which tasted a million times better than the well water." The reservoir is stocked with trout and fishing permits are required.
Hiking to scenic viewpoints: Camp Taylor Campground connects directly to extensive trail systems. "We hiked to Mt. Tammany from the campsite for the best view in NJ (9 miles round trip)," shares one visitor. The campground provides direct access to the Appalachian Trail and features multiple shorter trails suitable for day hikes.
Wildlife observation: Experience unique wildlife encounters at Worthington State Forest Campground. "This was a very pleasant stay with beautiful views and privacy. We especially enjoied seeing the wolves-- it was really neat and definetly a draw to the area (you can hike from the campsite to the preserve)," reports one camper. The nearby Lakota Wolf Preserve offers educational tours that depart directly from some campgrounds.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation provides secluded camping experiences. "This county park has large, wooded campsites with electric and water. It's beautiful and quiet, and close to beautiful hiking trails, lakes, and other outdoor recreation opportunities," explains one reviewer. The campsites are paved, mostly level, and set back from the road.
Water recreation options: Jenny Jump State Forest offers diverse water activities. "My husband and I Tent camped in #34 with our dog. 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," notes one camper. Ghost Lake within the park provides a peaceful setting for fishing and relaxation.
Organized activities: Great Divide Campground coordinates regular events for guests. "They had live music which was actually really good!!! A reggae band. We found plenty of trails to hike with our two dogs. Staff were very helpful and kind," mentions a visitor. Weekend programming often includes concerts, games, and seasonal celebrations throughout the camping season.
What you should know
Bathroom conditions vary widely: Panther Lake Camping Resort receives mixed reviews about facilities. "Probably the worst shower ever. The lights are timed. The water is a button. The space is small as hell," notes one camper. Another adds, "Bathrooms were clean. Only issue is the internet is terrible u have to be near the wifi zones."
Seasonal resident populations: Several campgrounds have limited availability for short-term campers. At Panther Lake, one visitor observed, "Majority of sites are season all campers with LOTS of cottages. Went early in the season so many had not been maintained in months. Only a handful of full hook up sites surrounded by seasonal cottages."
Noise factors: Many campgrounds experience weekend crowds and associated noise. At Spruce Run Recreation Area, a camper mentioned, "It was very loud and rowdy into the late night. There were campers making lots of noise, arming/disarming their car alarms, slamming doors, cars driving in/out, bright lights flashing, etc. all PASSED 2am!!" Weekday camping typically offers quieter experiences.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Spruce Run Recreation Area offers family-friendly water recreation. "You can bring a camper, tent, or use one of the cabins. Many sites have a lovely water view of the reservoir. Several playgrounds, boat launches, and life guarded swimming area," notes one family. Boat and kayak rentals are available seasonally.
Playground access: Great Divide Campground provides dedicated play areas. "This is a beautiful campground with much to do around the grounds themselves... Really nice spot to camp very peaceful and quit. Gorgeous sunset, Beautiful views," writes one visitor with children. The playground is centrally located and visible from many campsites.
Activities during rainy days: Panther Lake Camping Resort offers indoor options when weather doesn't cooperate. "The welcome center has a store where you can buy essentials you may have forgotten and then some (cold drinks, milk, cups, pans, condiments, ice cream, etc.). There is an arcade room (fun for kids but kind of an odd thing to have at a campsite in my opinion)," shares a parent.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers some of the most level RV sites. "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill. Peaceful. Close to train to N. Y. City," reports one RVer. Most sites have water and electric hookups with a central dump station.
Hookup availability: Camp Taylor Campground provides partial services. "Electric and water hookups, no sewer but there's a dump station on the way out," notes an RV camper. Most sites can accommodate vehicles up to 35 feet, though larger units may have limited options.
Low-clearance warnings: Several campgrounds have access challenges. One camper at Camp Taylor mentioned, "If you're looking for some peace and quiet? Beautiful and quaint..a nice place to get away and enjoy some nature," but warned about low-hanging branches on access roads. RVers should call ahead to confirm clearance on interior roads before booking.
