Tent camping near Tewksbury, New Jersey ranges from fully-serviced campgrounds with hot showers to remote sites requiring boat or trail access. The region sits at elevations between 500-1,100 feet with a humid continental climate producing warm summers and cold winters. Weekend sites frequently fill by Thursday during peak summer months, with temperatures averaging 75-85°F during camping season.
What to do
Hiking on established trails: Jenny Jump State Forest offers multiple hiking trails with viewpoints overlooking the surrounding valleys. "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," notes Fransheska A.
Kayaking and canoeing: Camp Mohican Outdoor Center provides water recreation opportunities on Catfish Pond. Dan X. reports, "You can rent kayaks and canoes and swimming is allowed on Catfish Pond -- plenty of fish, snapping turtles, and other wildlife. If you're there in the summer, I'd recommend taking a kayak around the lake and filling it with wild blueberries."
Historical sites: Washington Crossing State Park features historical significance with annual reenactments. "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," states David S.
What campers like
Lake access: Round Valley State Park Campground offers clear water for recreation. "Really nice spot to camp very peaceful and quit. Gorgeous sunset, beautiful views. Really helpful people at the office," shares T K. Sites require either hiking or boating to access.
Privacy between sites: At many campgrounds, the layout provides good separation. "The camp sites are nicely laid out to ensure privacy. This park is high up on a mountain and affords lovely views. Well kept and clean," explains Jocelyn G. at Jenny Jump State Forest.
Wildlife viewing: Kittatinny Valley State Park provides opportunities to see local fauna. "Four spots across the public park. You'll see deer and rabbits it's really spacious and beautiful. Site A is the best for seclusion and a spot closer to the lake," notes Bee L.
What you should know
Access challenges: Many primitive sites require significant effort to reach. At Kirkrige Shelter, Nick E. explains, "You can park on the side of Bangor mountain road where the app trail crossed the road, and then walk down kittany road (private road) all the way to the end where it turns into dirt."
Limited facilities: Most wilderness camping areas have minimal amenities. "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," reports Stephanie S. about boat-in camping.
Water options: Water availability varies significantly between campgrounds. James R. notes about Round Valley, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: For families with young children, consider Kittatinny Valley State Park Campground where basic facilities are available. "The staff is wonderful here and they know the area like the back of their hand. Such a pleasant place to go for the weekend," mentions Patrick M.
Plan activities: Many campgrounds offer organized events. Jackie G. shares, "They had activities for everyone and we had a blast at bingo and won! There are so many things to do in the area with the farms and orchards and vineyards that it is great to get out and explore for a bit!"
Consider shelter options: Some campgrounds offer alternatives to tents. Dwight D. explains, "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."
Tips from RVers
RV site limitations: Camp Starry Night at Gulyan Farms accommodates small RVs but has limited hookups. "We are avid campers ranging from our early days of remote, rustic tent camping with just the two of us and 20 years later upgraded to our travel trailer that houses our two kids and two dogs," shares Jen R., noting the campsite is better suited for tent camping than large RVs.
Parking considerations: Many campgrounds have restrictions on vehicle size and access. Seth K. notes about Jenny Jump State Forest, "This campground is a nice little hideaway not too far from the beaten path. You can hear some of the highway sounds from the campsites (especially the jake brake)."
Seasonal access: Most campgrounds in the area operate from April through October due to weather conditions. Winter camping options are extremely limited, with most facilities closing completely during colder months.
