Walpack campers have access to the Delaware River and surrounding highlands with elevations ranging from 320 feet at river level to 1,803 feet at High Point Monument. Summer temperatures typically average 75-85°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms in July and August. Winter camping is available at several locations, though access becomes more limited with many forest roads closing from December through April.
What to do
Kayaking and paddling access points: At Namanock Island, you can paddle approximately 4 miles downstream from Milford Beach to reach primitive island campsites. "The water is fairly shallow for about the first third of the river, but once you get out to the deeper water it's a very easy paddle of maybe an hour and you are at the Dingman's Ferry area," explains one camper.
Wolf preserve exploration: Located at Camp Taylor Campground, the Lakota Wolf Preserve offers camper discounts. "There are moments by the fire you can hear them howl in the distance. It's one of our favorite places to camp," notes a visitor. The preserve conducts tours twice daily on weekends.
Winter activities: Several campgrounds remain open year-round with limited facilities. At Stokes State Forest, winter visitors can access cross-country ski trails directly from some cabin sites. "I bought wood from a house across the street from the entrance to the cabins and it was damp, but in November, I wasn't complaining, it took awhile but I got a nice blaze going."
What campers like
Secluded tent platforms: At Stokes State Forest, many sites feature raised wooden platforms ideal for tent camping. "Campsite was very spacious and had a platform where we were able to fit two tents. There was plenty of space on the site for more tents. Site came with bear proof bin for garbage and fire ring."
Star-viewing opportunities: The darkness at riverside campsites creates exceptional night sky viewing. A camper at Namanock Island reports, "Once night falls the absence of light sources beyond your camp remind you that you are truly alone in the wilderness." Sites further from populated areas provide the best celestial viewing.
Lake views: Swartswood State Park offers some of the area's best lakeside camping opportunities. "You can drive or hike to the the main beach area without camping. In the camp area there is no beach area but there is a boat launch and places you can get your feet wet," explains one visitor. Morning mist rising from the lakes creates scenic views from waterfront sites.
What you should know
Camping permits and limitations: River campsites have strict one-night limits enforced by park rangers. At Worthington State Forest, "The spots are huge, and mostly private. When we go camping we don't want to be right up against our neighbors and at Worthington we pretty much had our own little island."
Wildlife precautions: Beyond bears, smaller wildlife can cause problems. "As for local wildlife, you can expect to be visited by a masked robber or two during the night, but a bear bag hanging will eliminate any issues." Ticks remain active whenever temperatures exceed 40°F, even in winter.
Variable facilities: Bathroom and shower facilities vary widely between campgrounds. "The bathrooms/showers are clean and well maintained. The small mini-golf course is a fun distraction for a bit." Others like Namanock Island have only primitive toilets requiring campers bring their own solution.
Tips for camping with families
Best swimming options: Great Divide Campground receives high marks for its water recreation. "Small swimming pond with paddleboat and kayak rentals. Clean Bathrooms," notes one family. Most state parks prohibit swimming outside designated beach areas due to strong river currents.
Playground access: Family-friendly campgrounds typically offer playground equipment. "It's GREAT for kids. A nice playground with tons of kids running all over. The swimming pond is pleasant and great to cool off in," according to a Camp Taylor visitor.
Educational programs: Several state parks offer ranger-led programs during summer months. "The camp ground is connected to the wolf preserve so you can hear them howl if you listen." Many programs run weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day with schedules posted at park offices.
Tips from RVers
Electric-only options: Pickerel Point Campground offers RV sites with varying hookups. "We had full hookups (20/30/50 amp, water & sewer). There's no cable but we were able to pickup about 6 channels with our digital antenna." Most state park campgrounds offer electric hookups only.
Terrain considerations: Many campgrounds in the area have challenging grades. "The sites were large and spread out, and we felt like we had a good amount of privacy." However, some sites have steep approaches, with one camper noting, "The gravel driveway is on a 30-40 degree incline."
Dump station locations: Dump stations are limited in the area. "Sites have electric and water hook ups, no sewer, but there is a dump station," according to a visitor to Camp Taylor. Dingmans Campground provides the most reliable year-round dump station access in the immediate Walpack area.
