Camping near Wantage, NJ

The forests and ridgelines surrounding Wantage sit at elevations between 400-1,800 feet, creating distinct microclimates throughout the region's campgrounds. Winter camping options are limited, with many facilities closing between November and March due to snow accumulation and freezing temperatures at higher elevations. During summer months, valley campsites can experience temperatures 10-15 degrees warmer than ridge locations.

What to do

Fishing at small lakes: Stokes State Forest offers access to fishing spots at Lake Ocquittunk where campers can enjoy both shoreline and boat fishing opportunities. A camper noted, "We fit in a hike up to the Appalachian Trail from our campsite, swam at the pond (Lake Marcia), and got in a fishing session at Steeny Kill Lake."

Waterfall hiking: Within a short drive of many Wantage area campgrounds, trails lead to several scenic cascades. At Dingmans Campground, one visitor shared, "We also hiked Tumbling Falls which was a beautiful shady hike with water falls." Another camper mentioned a waterfall "was a 5 min drive from the campground and then a 40 min hike. Worth it!"

Wildlife viewing: The region's forests provide habitat for diverse wildlife including deer, black bears, and birds of prey. When camping at Beaver Pond Campground in nearby Harriman State Park, be prepared for encounters as "the wildlife do roam around your campsite so be mindful of putting food and garbage away before sleeping."

Delaware River paddling: Several campgrounds provide river access for kayaking or canoeing. One visitor at Dingmans Campground described their experience: "The kayak trip down the Delaware River was beautiful! Saw about 6 bald eagles!"

What campers like

Tent platforms: Many campgrounds in the region feature elevated wooden platforms for tents, providing advantages during wet weather. A visitor to Stokes State Forest mentioned, "The site was maybe a 50-yard walk-in and we barely heard anyone around us and had a real wilderness feel."

Morning mist views: Lakefront sites offer atmospheric morning views. A camper at High Point State Park noted, "The lake was beautiful in the morning with mist or steam."

Winter cabin options: While many tent sites close seasonally, several parks offer year-round cabin rentals. A visitor who stayed at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation shared, "The cabins are reasonably priced and well-appointed, if a bit rustic... The wood stove definitely heats the room up nicely."

Spacious sites: The region's campgrounds typically offer well-spaced sites. According to one camper at Stokes State Forest, "The site was a fair sized site with room for a couple large tents." Another mentioned, "The sites are very large and well cleared and shaded."

What you should know

Bear country precautions: The entire region requires proper food storage. A camper at Stokes State Forest advised, "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes."

Shower availability varies: Not all campgrounds provide shower facilities, and those that do often have limited hours. At High Point State Park, "Showers are only located INSIDE High Point State Park, not throughout the campsites, but entry is free for campers."

Cell service limitations: Signal strength varies significantly across the region's topography. A camper at Kittatinny Campground noted their campsite had cell service, while another at Pleasant Acres mentioned, "No phone service at campsite, but could get phone service by the kayak hut or the main entrance."

Firewood regulations: Most campgrounds prohibit bringing outside firewood due to invasive species concerns. Some parks sell wood on-site, but quality varies. One camper mentioned, "The wood was damp, but in November, I wasn't complaining, it took awhile but I got a nice blaze going."

Tips for camping with families

Animal encounters: Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort offers interactions with farm animals that appeal to younger campers. A visitor shared, "The farm has goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground. Very cool." Another mentioned, "My daughter loved the horses and goats."

Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. A visitor noted, "They have a small playground, a mini golf, and a large dog walk. The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable of the area."

Organized activities: Some campgrounds schedule family-focused events during peak season. A camper reported, "There were some organized activities which was nice, not as much as a Jellystone Park."

Fire tower hikes: Several moderate trails in the area lead to observation towers, providing rewarding destinations for family hikes. One visitor mentioned, "After packing up we drove down the road and were able to get in a nice 5 mile hike up to the fire tower."

Tips from RVers

Hookup availability: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation provides water and electrical connections for RVs. A camper mentioned, "There is electric and water hookups for your RV which is great!" Another noted, "Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that."

Dump station access: Most campgrounds with RV sites include sanitary dump stations. One visitor observed, "The dump station has a flush hose point. Nice and easy little campground."

Winter RV options: For cold-weather camping, Tri-State RV Park remains open year-round. A camper noted, "They have an onsite buffet with live entertainment if your timing is right. They are also located right on a river that you can easily access by foot."

Site leveling considerations: Many RV sites in the region require leveling. A visitor to Pleasant Acres Farm mentioned, "Rv sites were mostly pretty flat, spacious and in a wooded area which we loved."