Tent campsites near Wantage, New Jersey cluster around the northwestern corner of the state where elevations reach over 1,800 feet at High Point. The region experiences typical northeastern seasons with cold winters dropping to 15°F and summer highs averaging 85°F. Primitive camping spots throughout the area tend to fill quickly on summer weekends, especially at lakeside locations.
What to do
Lake activities: Sebago Cabin Camp offers swimming access with a beach area for day use. As one camper noted, "Sebago has a huge lake and great beach area. It was perfect for lounging and swimming in during a hot summer day."
Hiking on the AT: At Wawayanda State Park Campground, hikers can access sections of the Appalachian Trail. A reviewer mentioned, "I was section hiking the NJ section of the AT which passes through Wawayanda State Park. I stopped at the shelter for a break. It is small compared to other shelters, listed capacity is 6, but offers the normal facilities of a shelter in that region."
Wildlife observation: The primitive camping areas near streams and lakes provide excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. At Namanock Island, campers report seeing "deer, doves, robins, woodpeckers, quail, chipmunks, squirrels, skunk, and heard frogs." The secluded nature of these sites makes animal encounters more common than at established campgrounds.
What campers like
Island camping: Camping on an island creates a unique sense of isolation. A Namanock Island visitor shared, "You totally feel that your party is alone out on the river, the entire world is yours and yours alone. There are no public interactions beyond the neighboring sites on the river for miles."
Night sky viewing: Kittatinny Valley State Park Campground offers exceptional stargazing due to its distance from urban light pollution. One camper at Site A noted it's "really spacious and beautiful" with "amazing sunsets" and better views of the night sky than more developed areas.
Waterfront sites: Primitive campsites along the Delaware River provide constant water sounds and access. At Sandyston Boat In Campsites, "very nice views of the river from all of the sites, as well as being a short morning paddle away from Dingman's Ferry Access, waterfalls, and historical locations worthy of the exploration make this an ideal location."
What you should know
Bathroom facilities: Most primitive sites have basic or no facilities. At Steam Mill Campground, campers report "primitive bathrooms need ventilation. Clean enough, but hold your breath." Some experienced campers bring their own solutions: "I bring my own cassette toilet" to avoid relying on primitive facilities.
Fire regulations: Rules about fires vary between sites. The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center restricts campfires "to certain areas and you have to share," while most primitive sites include fire rings but require you to bring your own firewood or collect it onsite.
Bugs and wildlife: Prepare for insects, especially in summer months. One camper reported sites being "very buggy spots, LOTS of centipedes and other creatures at night, so bring a chair instead of sitting on the bench or log." Bears are present throughout the region, with campers at Steam Mill noting "I store my food in my car overnight and toss garbage bags in the dumpster nightly as well."
Tips for camping with families
Platform camping: Consider platform sites for family camping with younger children. The Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center offers "camping spots on platforms which are great, especially when it rains." This provides a cleaner, more comfortable experience while still feeling like camping.
Site selection: For families wanting more privacy, look for end sites. At Stonetown Circular trail Primitive #2, the campsite is "marked by a sign on a tree that says 'The Island'. This is a pretty spread out site with plenty of level space to set up multiple tents."
Organized activities: Some campgrounds offer scheduled activities. At Moon Valley Campground, the location provides both seclusion and structure, being "near the Appalachian trail while still only about an hour from Manhattan." Several state parks offer ranger-led programs during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Most primitive sites near Wantage have limited access for larger vehicles. At Port Jervis Elks Brox Hiker/Biker Campground, one camper warned "I would not drive an RV in here except maybe a small type trailer." The access road is 0.8 miles in and can be challenging for larger vehicles.
Site terrain: RV campers should research site terrain carefully. Steam Mill Campground notes that "Site #3 is on a hill which doesn't make for a comfortable night of sleep," which is particularly important for RV leveling.
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds close during winter months. Wawayanda State Park is only open "April 1 to October 31," making seasonal planning crucial for RV campers who need to reserve spots ahead of time.
