Camping opportunities near Sussex, New Jersey extend through the northern highlands where elevations range from 400 to 1,800 feet. This region marks the southern end of the Kittatinny Mountains, featuring numerous lakes and streams that flow toward the Delaware River. Summer nights often drop below 60°F even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s, making proper sleeping gear essential.
What to do
Hiking at Namanock Island: This boat-in only primitive camping area in the Delaware Water Gap requires paddling approximately 4 miles downstream from Milford Beach. "I always seem to be lucky enough to get site 1 and it's one of the best sites I have ever stayed in. Always Clean, very spacious, great views," notes one regular visitor to Namanock Island.
Waterfall exploration: Several accessible waterfalls surround the camping areas. "If you paddle across the river from the site, it is only a 10-15 minute hike along the road on the Pennsylvania side of the river to reach Raymondskill Falls. A 'must-see' if your stopping here," reports a camper who frequents the river sites.
Wildlife observation: Birdwatching opportunities abound throughout the region. "Saw tons of bald eagles flying near the site and while paddling birds playing and baby geese with their mommas!" shared one solo paddler who stayed at Namanock Island. The early morning hours provide the best viewing conditions before day visitors arrive.
Canoeing and kayaking: The Delaware River offers calm stretches ideal for beginner paddlers. Dingmans Campground provides convenient river access with "a service to drive us up to Milford Beach to launch our kayak. They also rented canoes or kayaks if you needed one," according to a reviewer at Dingmans Campground.
What campers like
Tent platforms: Many sites at High Point State Park feature elevated platforms that keep tents dry during wet conditions. "Each campsite has a firepit/ring, picnic table, and lantern hook. Some sites also have a tent platform," explains a camper who stayed at High Point State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness varies significantly between campgrounds but receives particular praise at Dingmans. "The bathrooms/showers are the cleanest we've ever seen at any campground. They are newly built or refurbished and spotless," reports a camper who appreciated the upgraded amenities.
Lake access: Multiple state park campgrounds offer swimming and fishing opportunities. "The lake is beautiful! Great for swimming and fishing. There are several trail hikes that you can do from the campsite," states a visitor to Swartswood State Park Campground, noting the convenience of having water recreation directly from camp.
Site privacy: Several campgrounds feature wooded sites that provide separation from neighbors. "The sites were very large and secluded from each other," describes one Ocquittunk camper. Another adds, "The bathrooms are clean and nicely placed. The sites had a fire ring with a cooking grate and a picnic table and were well spaced out from other sites."
What you should know
Site variation within campgrounds: At most area campgrounds, site quality varies considerably. At Swartswood, "sites 1 to 30ish are wide open with ZERO privacy. That said, it's great for large groups that book a few sites next to each other. Starting there, sites get more separated and a wee bit secluded," explains a camper.
Bear activity requirements: All campgrounds in the region require proper food storage due to black bears. "The park office is not nearby, about 2(?) miles away. They sell wood, and there are a few road stands near the campground, but that wood is wet. You'll need to find some birch to get your fire going," warns a visitor to Stokes State Forest.
Weather preparedness: Mountain elevations can create unexpected weather patterns. "We went in November when there was a light rain that turned into a thunderstorm with hail and sleet! It was certainly an adventure," shares one camper who experienced rapidly changing conditions at Stokes.
Alcohol policies: State parks maintain strict no-alcohol policies that are actively enforced. "FYI.... Campground rules do not list anything about alcohol on the website or the emailed rules given after reservation, however there is an alcohol prohibited sign as you enter," notes a camper at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Tips for camping with families
Pet restrictions: Limited pet-friendly sites exist at most state campgrounds. At Swartswood, "There are only 4 dog friendly sites, which we need. They are 42-45. Be careful with site 44, no good place for a tent. The other are nice," advises a camper with pets at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Farm experiences: Several private campgrounds offer animal interactions for children. "The farm has goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground. Very cool," describes a visitor to Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort. These interactions provide entertainment without leaving the campground.
Playground access: State parks typically include play areas for children. "There was also a playground, beach, pavilion, and picnic tables, but we did not use any of that," mentions a Swartswood camper, highlighting available facilities even though they weren't utilized during their particular stay.
Site selection for young campers: Choose sites carefully based on access needs. "Drive in but ours had a drive in to a mini trail so it was a pain to load/unload," warns a parent who struggled with gear transport at High Point State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most state parks offer basic services with few full-hookup sites. "No full hooks, but everything is welcome," notes a Swartswood camper, reflecting the typical arrangement at state parks versus private campgrounds.
Dump station access: Plan emptying tanks strategically as not all parks have convenient facilities. "Bathrooms and shower were all single stall and very clean, only a 5 min walk from our site. Two water sources nearby as well," reports a camper at Ocquittunk.
Level site challenges: Many campsites require significant leveling for RVs. "We ended up staying a third, equally unimpressive spot. Imagine taking a slice of NYC and planting it off the side of the road in a picnic area," explains a frustrated RVer who encountered difficulties at Kittatinny Campground.
Water hose requirements: Some parks have unusual water hookup arrangements. "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," shares an RVer describing the unexpected but helpful setup at Mahlon Dickerson.
