Located in northwestern New Jersey's highlands region at about 800 feet elevation, Tranquility offers access to diverse camping environments ranging from mountain forests to riverside settings. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures typically ranging from 60-85°F, while spring and fall camping often requires layered clothing for temperature fluctuations of 30+ degrees between day and night.
What to do
Hiking through forest preserves: Jenny Jump State Forest offers extensive trail networks with varying difficulty levels. "There are miles of hiking trails and direct access to the Appalachian Tr. The Lakota Wolf Preserve is located on the camp and offers discounted tours for campers," notes Jean T. about Camp Taylor Campground.
Lakefront recreation: Multiple water activities are available at several lakes within 15 minutes of Tranquility. "The lake is great to kayak and fish, and the campsites are spacious and has bathrooms. Very clean and enjoyable," shares Paul N. about his experience at Swartswood State Park Campground.
Wolf watching tours: A unique local activity that draws visitors specifically to this region. "You can take a short hike up the mountain there to see the wolves in the sanctuary. There are moments by the fire you can hear them howl in the distance," explains Julie F. about Camp Taylor Campground.
Kayaking on the Delaware: The Delaware River provides calm waters suitable for beginners and families. "Accept the Delaware River from campground and kayak trips offered. Plenty of things to do," mentions George from Driftstone Campground, which sits directly on the river.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Many campgrounds offer sites with more privacy than typical commercial campgrounds. "This campground is lovely. Very wooded. Some sites are more private than others but all have a wooded and private feel," reports Kathy G. about Driftstone Campground.
Affordable accommodations: State park campgrounds provide budget-friendly options with basic amenities. "Probally our go-to campground in NJ. The lake is great to kayak and fish, and the campsites are spacious and has bathrooms," shares Paul N. about Swartswood State Park.
Direct trail access: Campers appreciate sites with immediate access to recreational opportunities. "Our site was a good size and the facilities were clean. We live not to far away and wanted to stay close to home for our first trip with the camper," notes Teresa about Mountain Vista Campground.
Wildlife encounters: The region supports diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. "Three black bears strolled by the campsite next to ours in the early morning — gave us more of an energy boost after a sleepless night than our coffee!" reports Kaitlyn S. about her stay at Swartswood State Park.
What you should know
Bear safety protocols: The region has an active black bear population requiring proper food storage. "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes," explains Trip Over Life about Stokes State Forest.
Seasonal crowd patterns: Some campgrounds experience significant differences in noise and activity levels depending on season. "We went out of season so there were no lifeguards, or anything 'open' at the pavilion. We are always after campgrounds with as little going on as possible other than the nature so this would not be a place for us during the summer when I imagine it gets quite packed," shares Rob M. about Swartswood State Park.
Vaccination requirements: Most pet-friendly campgrounds require current documentation. "Sites had room to move and it was quiet and peaceful. Kids had lots of fun on the free kayaks and pool. Staff was friendly and helpful," notes Jojo P. about Great Divide Campground.
Variable cell service: Coverage can be spotty throughout the region. "Only down side is the internet is terrible u have to be near the wifi zones," mentions Umar A. about Panther Lake Camping Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Children's activities: Several campgrounds offer structured programs for younger campers. "The ceramic class was fun for the girls. Lots of seasonal campers so not much room for spots for weekend visits unless you want to be in the field areas with not much shade cover," explains Jojo P. about Panther Lake Camping Resort.
Playground accessibility: Consider campsite proximity to play areas when booking with children. "Our camp site was great (52), backed onto a wooded area and a big playground was directly in front of us, which worked out perfectly since we have school age kids," shares Penny C. about Delaware Water Gap / Pocono Mountain KOA.
Terrain considerations: Some campgrounds feature significant elevation changes challenging for small children. "Campgrounds have lots of hills so be prepared to hike up and down," warns Jojo P. about Great Divide Campground.
Weather preparations: The region experiences sudden weather changes requiring adaptability. "This was our second visit to the campground and the first weekend they opened to RVs after Covid. No amenities were open but we had a great time fishing in the lake," notes Jojo P. about Great Divide Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: RV sites vary significantly in privacy and shade. "There is a section of RV spots that are each cut out in the woods so very private. Once you have backed into the spot and leveled out it's a good time," advises Julie F. about Camp Taylor Campground.
Utility hookup lengths: Prepare for potentially long distances to water connections. "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," mentions antruze about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Access road considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging approach roads. "PLEASE NOTE: if you are towing or have a motorhome, make sure you follow the directions on the website. Coming in from the wrong road could lead you to a hairpin turn and steep hill," warns Jim G. about Driftstone Campground.
Seasonal campsite availability: Many campgrounds have limited spaces for non-seasonal campers. "Majority of sites are season all campers with LOTS of cottages. Only a handful of full hook up sites surrounded by seasonal cottages," notes April L. about Panther Lake Camping Resort.
