Stephens State Park Campground offers tent and RV camping just 18 miles west of Summit. The park provides non-electric sites with convenient access to the Musconetcong River. Campsites include picnic tables and fire rings, with vault toilets and free hot showers available throughout the camping area. Sites require a 3-night minimum booking on holiday weekends. The campground's location near both I-80 and the railroad tracks means some sites experience occasional noise from passing trains and highway traffic.
What to do
Fishing access: 2-minute walk from most campsites at Stephens State Park Campground to the river stocked with trout. "They stock the water with trout and there was an officer checking for fishing permits. You can hear the babbling of the river when it's quiet at camp which provided an extra layer of relaxation," notes Jacquelyn G.
Hiking trails: 3+ miles of marked paths at Round Valley State Park Campground ranging from moderate to difficult. "This is a great campground that is super private and quiet - great for getting out to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. It's a pretty strenuous hike, but you'll be rewarded for the effort!" reports Agbi B.
Water recreation: Kayaking and swimming at several locations. "The camp site was spacious. The bathrooms were struggling with the plumbing but were fairly clean. The river is just a small walk down the hill (you can stairs or a path which was nice)," according to a Stephens State Park visitor.
Winter activities: Ice skating at Turkey Swamp Park during colder months. "We go every year. It has everything the outdoorsman could ask for. 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.
What campers like
Wilderness camping: Boat or hike-in options at Round Valley Recreation Area for true isolation. "Even though I live 10 minutes away I like to camp here because you still feel a little isolated. With no roads to the campgrounds it takes some effort to get there and it's a beautiful place," writes G.V.
Spacious sites: 64 pull-through campsites at Turkey Swamp Park with ample spacing between neighbors. "Sites are all level, very generous in size, and reasonably spaced apart for privacy. A lantern hook, picnic table, and fire ring complete each site," notes Lee D.
Wooded privacy: Sites with natural screening at several campgrounds. "The campground is small but also secluded. We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful," according to Paulene-Amanda M. about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Tent platforms: Raised wooden pads at Mahlon Dickerson protect tents during wet weather. "They have these 12x12 platforms to put your tent on. This was pretty cool especially since some of the sites are all gravel with surrounding dirt," remarks Christina L.
Legend
