Near Summit, New Jersey, campers find several established state parks and recreation areas within driving distance. The topography transitions between the Watchung Mountains and coastal plains, with elevations ranging from 200 to 1,600 feet above sea level. Most campgrounds in the region operate from April through October, closing during winter months when overnight temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
What to do
Hiking trails: At Stokes State Forest, campers access over 63 miles of marked trails, including 12 miles of the Appalachian Trail. "Did a small part of the Appalachian trail while there (about 15 miles). Would love to go back when I'm in better shape and try the whole trail," notes Stephanie T.
Water activities: Spruce Run Recreation Area provides reservoir access for boating, fishing, and swimming. "You can launch your kayak easily from the shore. The sites are large, many have nice mix of sun and shade," explains Ruette W. The recreation area features a life-guarded swimming area during summer months.
Winter recreation: While most campgrounds close for winter, Turkey Swamp Park offers winter activities. "Bring your bow and shoot at the hay barrels. Ice skate on the lake in the winter or just enjoy a gorgeous walk in the woods," shares Patrick M. The park maintains winter trails when conditions allow.
What campers like
Lake views: Campers value waterfront sites at Ocquittunk campground where sites face directly onto the water. "We stayed at site #T007, it was a short walk from the car to the site, but so worth it for many reasons. The site itself is huge and we were able to position our tent facing the lake, it was beautiful!" reports Kara L.
Spacious sites: Turkey Swamp Park receives praise for its site size and arrangement. "Sites are in the woods and widely spaced apart to give you privacy and the feeling of being out in the Forrest. Sites are all level, very generous in size, and reasonably spaced apart for privacy," notes Katheryn N.
Clean facilities: Despite limited equestrian campgrounds near Summit, New Jersey, available sites maintain clean facilities. "The bathrooms and showers are clean and well maintained. There is pretty lake with good fishing and they sell bait at the Ranger office," adds Katheryn N. about Turkey Swamp Park.
What you should know
Limited hookups: Most campgrounds offer basic services. At Mountainview Campground, "The power station was well intact with 15/20, 30, and 50amp. Overall it was a nice stay and served our purpose. We don't need frills like a pool so we enjoyed it and would go again," says Sarah.
Seasonal operation: Most parks close during winter, with typical seasons running April through October. Frank J. notes about Spruce Run: "I paid $41 for 2 days. Campsites well spaced apart. Staff friendly. Boats/Kayaks can be rented."
No horse facilities: While searching for horse campgrounds near Summit, NJ, it's important to note that designated equestrian camping is unavailable at most nearby sites. At Liberty Harbor RV Park, facilities focus on RV accommodations with "hookups and big laundry room," according to Erc L., but no horse-related amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Camp Mohican Outdoor Center provides family-friendly facilities. "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," describes Shawn B.
Bug protection: Prepare for insect encounters, especially during summer months. "We went camping with our 2- and 3-year-old kids. We were worried about bugs, but we didn't even use mosquito repellent and didn't get a single bite! The campground was super clean too," reports JAEWOOK P. about Turkey Swamp Park.
Activities options: Family-appropriate activities vary by location. "There is a lake with a boat dock and a small boardwalk. Kayaking/Canoeing, fishing, and swimming. In the summer, canoe, kayak, paddle boats, and row boats are available for rental," explains Lee D.
Tips from RVers
Urban access: Liberty Harbor RV Park provides proximity to New York City. "Very plain & functional, no frills but right on the harbor & on the very edge of Jersey City, close to a ferry & the train that takes u across to New York City. Shopping & restraunts are right next door," explains Emily L.
Site selection: For RVs at Liberty Harbor, location matters. "Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room. If it's packed, your neighbor with be within inches of your rig," advises Keith and Tia S.
Water and electric: Bring necessary supplies. "We fill our fresh water tank and bring drinking water. There are some RV sites with water & electric which are not on the water, but in the parking lot," notes Ruette W. about Spruce Run. Water hookups may not be available at all sites, requiring preparation.
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