Timberland Lake Campground is definitely the place to be if you want to be close to the attractions and theme parks in the Shore Region of New Jersey. It is the closest campground to Six Flags Great Adventure, which of course is a great park for both kids and adults, and is often considered one of the “must see” activities in this part of New Jersey. The advantage to staying at the Timberland Lake Campground is that they offer a good discount package deal that makes the tickets to get in to Six Flags a bit less expensive. Timberland Lake Campground is also very close to the Jackson factory outlet mall, so if you want to do some shopping (or if you forget something that you need) this is handy too. Of course, being in the Jersey Shore area you aren’t far from the beach. Be sure to remember your swimming and fishing gear if you plan to camp here or anywhere in the shore area. There are also lots of places where you can rent or buy gear if you happen to forget yours or find that there’s something else that you want or need.

The campsites themselves are pretty good sized. You don’t feel as though you are camping right on top of your neighbor. They are wooded enough to give some sense of privacy also. If you have an RV with a cable TV hookup you’ll be glad to know that Timberland Lake campground offers free cable TV. They’re open from March 1st to December 1st, and pretty reasonably priced at $34/night. The campground itself was large enough to accommodate a pretty good number of campers without feeling cramped or overcrowded. Overall I would recommend that you check out this campground if being close to Six Flags (and getting a discount there) is important to you. Their motto is “Family Camping in a Natural Environment” and Timberland Lake Campground does a good job of providing exactly that.

For More Info: Timberland Lake Campground

Tags: campground, camping new jersey, nj campgrounds

Established in 1914 as New Jersey's first state park, Swartswood is well known for its great fishing and tranquil surroundings.  Little Swartswood and Swartswood Lake were formed by glaciers thousands of years ago and are now home to a variety of fish.  Both lakes have been the focus of water quality improvement efforts including invasive aquatic weed control and watershed protection.

From bald eagles to the unique plant life found in the sinkhole ponds, whether you are on land or water, there is always a chance you will catch a glimpse of the spectacular wildlife in Swartswood State Park.  The park is open year round with a variety of recreational activities available depending on the season.  During the summer, colorful sailboats take to the water either on a leisurely sail around the lake or while participating in the sailing regattas scheduled throughout the season.

Camping in the Park

Swartswood State Park provides 65 tent and trailer sites each with a fire ring, picnic table and lantern holder.  The maximum occupancy is six per site.  Flush toilets, showers and laundry facilities are within easy walking distance.  There is a trailer sanitary and water station available.  Campsites 1-21 are open all year while campsites 22-65 are open from April 1 through October 31 each with a charge of $20 per night.

The 3 group sites each offer picnic tables, a fire ring and lantern holder.  The minimum occupancy is seven and maximum occupancy is twenty.  Water and sanitary units are within walking distance of each of these sites.  Open from April 1 through October 31 each site rents for $20 per night. 

In addition the park provides 6 yurt sites with a fire ring, picnic table and lantern holder. Yurts are circular tents built on a wooden frame with concrete floors.  Each yurt has a skylight, lockable wood door, window screens with flaps and two double deck bunks, which can sleep up to four people.  Assembly of additional tents is not permitted on yurt sites. These sites are open from April 1 through October 31 and rent for $30 per site. 

Alcohol and pets are prohibited in overnight facilities.

Highlights of Swartswood State Park

Trails in Swartswood State Park:

Duck Pond Multi-Use Trail
This 0.6 mile-paved path provides a level surface for walking, biking, rollerblading, and skate boarding.  It is also accessible for persons with disabilities.  The trail meanders through a forested area along Duck Pond with wayside exhibits found along the trail that  provide information on the unique natural features found in the area.  A bird blind has been constructed to allow visitors to view birdlife in the area with little disturbance to their habitat.

Spring Lake Trail
This 2.8-mile trail begins at the end of the paved Duck Pond Trail.  Follow the white markers along the natural hilly terrain through a secondary succession forest to the secluded Spring Lake.  This trail is considered to be a moderate level hike.

Bear Claw Trail
This 0.8 mile trail is marked in yellow and begins at the Duck Pond parking area just to the right of our kiosk.  This is an easy to moderate hike on an earthen, hilly path.  The trail ends where it meets the paved Duck Pond Trail allowing you to combine the two trails for a full loop back to the parking area.

Grist Mill Trail
This 1.5 loop trail can be found at the most southern end of Swartswood Lake by the dam.  The steep rocky terrain makes this a moderate to difficult hike with rewarding views of Swartswood Lake.

Fishing for the freshwater angler can be enjoyed year-round in Little Swartswood and Swartswood Lakes.  The lakes are stocked with brown, rainbow and brook trout in the spring.  Summer and fall catches include bass, sunfish, catfish, walleye, perch and pickerel.  Fishing is available along the shores or by boat.  Fishing also is permitted in the mill pond near Keen's Grist Mill.  All fishing is subject to the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife regulations.

Hunting is available in most of the area east of County Route 619.  Game commonly found in the park includes ring-necked pheasant, ruffed grouse, wild turkey, gray squirrel, eastern cottontail and white-tailed deer.  All hunting is subject to the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife regulations.

Picnicking can be enjoyed in secluded picnic areas throughout the park.  Many overlook the lake and all have picnic tables and grills.  Charcoal fires must be contained to the metal grills provided at the site.  Visitors are free to bring their own metal grills.  Wood fires are not permitted at any of the picnic areas.  Food and refreshments are also offered at the concession stand.
A playground and open playing fields are located near the picnic area.  Volleyball and basketball courts and open areas for frisbee, golf and softball are located in the day-use area of the park.

Swartswood also offers a group picnic.  It holds a capacity of 100 people, provides shelter, play fields and playground equipment.  It may be reserved for a fee:
$55 per day, plus applicable parking fees
Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day
$80 per day
Day After Labor Day to Friday Before Memorial Day
50 percent of Fee
Group Picnic Cancellation Fee
• Groups of 20 or more people shall reserve picnic facilities at least five days in advance. Such group use is not permitted on Holidays except as authorized by the Superintendent. Reservations for picnic areas are handled by the individual park area offices.
Reservations can be made over the telephone using a credit card, or by mail using the Group Picnic Reservation form.  Payment in full of the appropriate group picnicking fee must accompany this application.

Boating is permitted and boat rentals are available in the park on a seasonal basis.  Please call for hours of operation prior to your visit.  The rental facility is typically open weekends only from May to the end of June.  The facility is open seven days a week from July through Labor Day.
 
Swimming is available in Swartswood Lake from Memorial Weekend to Labor Day, while lifeguards are on duty.  Swimming hours are 10 am to 6 pm.  Adjacent to the beach visitors can access facilities with changing areas, restrooms, showers, a first-aid station, and a concession building where food and beach supplies may be purchased.  The facilities are accessible for people with disabilities.
Inner tubes, rafts and other flotation devices are not permitted in the swimming area. Only Coast Guard approved life jackets are permitted.  Pets are prohibited on the beach.

Mailing Address:
P O Box 123
Swartswood, NJ 07877-5230
 (973) 383-5230 (973) 383-5230
GPS Coordinates
DMS 41° 04’ 25.07” N 74° 49' 07.62" W
Size: 2,472 acres
Fees: Entrance fees are charged per vehicle from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day.
$ 5.00
weekdays
$10.00
weekends
N/A
walk-in/bicycle

Directions:
From Route 80, take exit 25, Route 206 north to Newton, about 12 miles. From Newton, make a left at the second traffic light (Route 206 and Spring Street) then make a left at the next light onto Route 519. Follow 519 for approximately 1/2 mile, then make a left onto Route 622 at Sussex County College sign. Follow Route 622 for about 4 1/2 miles. Turn left onto Route 619. The park entrance is about 1/2 mile south on Route 619.
 

Tags: campground, new jersey camping

The breathtaking and panoramic view from Sunrise Mountain, along the Appalachian Trail, rewards the hiker who has trekked up the steep side of the mountain.  The view encompasses the pastoral farmland of New Jersey to the east and undeveloped forests and mountain ridges to the west.  For those who don’t relish the idea of climbing up the side of a mountain and following a sometimes rocky and steep trail for a few hours, there is a short drive to the pavilion at the top of the mountain.
Stokes is famous for its impressive beauty, whether it is at the top of a mountain ridge or in the cool and fragrant Tillman Ravine with its rushing stream and steep cliffs.  Hikers, campers, fishermen and photographers are attracted to its wild setting.

Camping in the Forest

The forest has 51 tent and trailer sites with fire rings and picnic tables available at each. Some camping areas are open all year.  Each site rents for $20 per night.

In addition there are 9 group sites with a fire ring and picnic tables.  The site capacities vary.  These sites are open from April 1 through October 31

• Group Campsites A,B,C,D,E,F $30 per night, site capacity 30 people
• Group Campsite G $65 per night, site Capacity 65 people
• Group Campsite H $10 per night, site capacity 10 people
• Group Campsite I $45 per night, site capacity 45 people

There are also 9 lean-tos available with fire rings and picnic tables.  Open year round, each site rents for $30 per night.

The forest has 10 furnished cabins each with a wood stove, two single beds, one double-deck bunk, a kitchen with cold and hot running water, a refrigerator, an electric stove and a half-bath with toilet and sink.  Each cabin accommodates four people and has electric lights.  With prior permission from the superintendent, two additional people may be accommodated.  Cabins are adjacent to Lake Ocquittunk, open from April 1 through December 15 and rent for $45 per night or $315 per week.
From the Saturday before Memorial Day through and including Labor Day, cabins must be reserved for seven or fourteen consecutive nights only.  From April 1st to the Friday before Memorial Day and from the day after Labor Day through October 31st, cabins may be reserved for a minimum of two consecutive nights to a maximum of fourteen consecutive nights.
Cabins 7 & 15 can each accommodate eight people.  Facilities are the same as listed above, except they include a shower and hot and cold running water.  Cabin 7 has a fireplace and cabin 15 has a wood stove.  These cabins can accommodate people with disabilities.  Located 1/2 mile from Lake Ocquittunk and open from April 1 through December 15 the cabins rent for $85 per night or $595 per week.

Group Cabin 16 can accommodate twelve people.  The facility is the same as cabin 15 and includes two sleeping areas and two full bathrooms plus fireplace.  Located one mile from Lake Ocquittunk, the cabin is open from April 15 through November 30 and rents for $125 per night.

Alcohol and pets are prohibited in overnight facilities

Highlights of Stokes State Forest

“Homeowner Firewood Program” is a program to help you keep warm this winter by cutting your own firewood in designated areas of the park.  The program is available at seven state parks and forests statewide for $20 a cord while supplies last.  Homeowners are responsible for cutting and removing their own firewood.   Advance reservations are required and can be made for any two consecutive days.

Sunrise Mountain, especially its crest, is one of the most frequently visited sites in Stokes State Forest.  The mountaintop provides a breathtaking view at an elevation of 1,653 feet above sea level.  The thin soil and harsh climate characteristic of Sunrise Mountain is a difficult environment in which few plants can survive.  Mountain laurel, wild blueberry, pitch pine and scrub oak are among the natural vegetation found throughout the area.  The pavilion at the summit was built in the late 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps.  The Appalachian Trail runs along the ridge

Tillman Ravine Natural Area (525 acres) is a cool evergreen forest of eastern hemlock growing on the steep slopes carved by the rushing waters of Tillman Brook.  Several trails wander through this spectacular ravine, providing views of waterfalls and ferns clinging to rock crevices.  The area is home to the threatened barred owl and other endangered species.

Fishing and Hunting is available throughout the forest.  Stocked annually by the Division of Fish & Wildlife, the Big Flatbrook and its tributaries provide some of the best trout fishing in New Jersey.  Lake Ocquittunk and Stony Lake also are stocked with trout and the majority of the forest is open to hunting.  Both fishing and hunting at Stokes State Forest are subject to the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife regulations.

Picnicking at Stokes State Forest is offered at 2 picnic areas, Stony Lake and Kittle Field. There is also a Group Picnic Area at Kittle Field which has a capacity of 120 people.  Here a shelter, playfields and playground equipment are provided.  The group picnic area may be reserved for a fee.

The Stony Lake picnic area has 45 tables with adjacent grills located next to the swimming area.  This area may not be reserved.  
$55 per day, plus applicable parking fees
Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day
$80 per day
Day After Labor Day to Friday Before Memorial Day
50 percent of Fee
Group Picnic Cancellation Fee
• Groups of 20 or more people shall reserve picnic facilities at least five days in advance. Such group use is not permitted on Holidays except as authorized by the Superintendent. Reservations for picnic areas are handled by the individual park area offices.
Reservations can be made over the telephone using a credit card, or by mail using the Group Picnic Reservation form. Payment in full of the appropriate group picnicking fee must accompany this application.

Boating is permitted for small boats with electric motors only on the waters of Lake Ocquittunk and is subject to all applicable boating laws.  There is no boat ramp.

Swimming is permitted in Stony Lake from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day while lifeguards are on duty.  Visitors will find a beach complex containing a changing area, restrooms a first-aid station and picnic facilities.  Inner tubes, rafts and other flotation devices are not permitted in the swimming area.  Only Coast Guard approved life jackets are permitted.  Pets are prohibited on the beach.

Trails in the Stokes State Forest consist of forest trails plus a portion 12.5 mile section of the Appalachian Trail.  This section of Applachian Trail follows the Kittatinny Mountain Ridge through Stokes State Forest. The AT’s designated use is restricted to hiking only for its entire length from Maine to Georgia and is marked with white blazes through this narrow and sometimes very rocky area.  A brochure is available regarding New Jersey's portion of the trail at the park office.

Along Kittatinny Mountain are outstanding views of the surrounding landscape.  Sunrise Mountain offers scenic vistas of the Kittatinny Valley to the east and the Delaware River Valley to the west.

In addition to the Applachian Trail, there are more than 33 miles of marked forest trails within Stokes State Forest.  Trails that vary in length from one half mile to four miles, and over terrains rang from flat lowlands to rocky mountains.  Many of the trails connect, offering the hiker a variety of trips from an hour to a full day.

Location:
Sussex County
Mailing Address:
1 Coursen Road
Branchville, NJ 07826
 (973) 948-3820 (973) 948-3820
GPS Coordinates
DMS 41° 11’ 04.03” N 74° 47' 50.33" W
Size: 16,067 acres
Fees: Entrance fees are charged per vehicle from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day.
$ 5.00
weekdays
$10.00
weekends
N/A
walk-in/bicycle
Directions:
Take Route 206, four miles north of Branchville.

Tags: campground, new jersey camping

Sea Pirate Campground is one that prides itself on putting lots of effort into being entertaining both for the kids and adults who camp or stay there. This makes it a great choice for families who are looking to camp. The Sea Pirate Campground features crabbing and a stocked fish pond so your kids (and the adults) can get their fill of both fishing and crabbing. The Crab Fest happens there every September so if you like crab even a little bit (and how could you not) you should definitely check it out for both the food and the live entertainment. Many other annual events happen nearby including a chili cookoff and an antique car show in June, and a Halloween Parade in October.

During the peak times of the year (mostly summer) the campground features a wide variety of planned activities to help entertain both kids and adults. These range from arts and crafts activities to Pilates classes. For teenagers who think they’re too cool for fishing and arts and crafts, the Sea Pirate Campground also offers areas where teens can play basketball, softball, and volleyball. There is a wide variety of restaurants nearby if you don’t want to cook over an open fire, and plenty of antique shops available if that suits your tastes. If you’re more interested in studying nature you’ll be happy to know that the Sea Pirate Campground is surrounded by the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge. This makes it an ideal spot for birdwatching or other environmental studies.

The $32 nightly fee for camping is a good deal considering all of the activities and amenities that the campground offers. Overall this is a very family-friendly place and the Sea Pirate Campground works hard at making sure all of their guests are happy and enjoying themselves. It is definitely worth checking out if you have small children or teenagers and want to make sure they will be entertained and having a great time.

For More Info: Sea Pirate Campground

Tags: campground, camping recipe, nj campgrounds

The Musconetcong River, an excellent freshwater fishing spot, flows over and around boulders through Stephens State Park.  An easy walking, but rocky path follows the river with places for picnicking in shaded areas.
Less than one mile east along Waterloo Road at Saxton Falls are the remains of one of the Morris Canal’s twenty-three locks and a section of the old canal’s towpath.  The original canal was 90 miles in length, stretching from Newark to Phillipsburg, and was used to ship coal and iron across the state.  The canal could not however, compete with the development of the Morris and Essex Railroad in the late 1800s, and was eventually abandoned.

Camping in the State Park

Stephens State Park has 40 tent and small trailer sites with fire rings and picnic tables available at each.  Flush toilets are within an easy walking distance.  These sites are open from April 1 through October 31 and rent for $20 per night.

Alcohol and pets are prohibited in overnight facilities.

Highlights of Stephens State Park

Waterloo Village takes the visitor through time from a 400-year old Lenape (Delaware) Indian village to a bustling port along the once prosperous Morris Canal.  This early 19th-century restored village contains a working mill complex with gristmills, sawmills, a general store, blacksmith shop and several historic houses.

Park Programs are available at Stephens State Park and visitors are invited to participate in the Interpretive Nature Programs.  These programs are sponsored by the park free of charge.  Attendees meet at the end of the main parking lot at 1:00 pm each day.  In case of inclement weather, you are urged to contact the park office to determine if a program has been cancelled or rescheduled.

Trails at the park consist of 6 miles of marked trails for walking, hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding.  The trail surfaces range from flat to steep and rocky. A 2-mile section of the Highlands Trail runs the length of Stephens State Park.

Fishing is available in the Musconetcong River located in the park.  During the spring the Division of Fish and Wildlife stocks the Musconetcong with brown, rainbow and brook trout.

Hunting is open on more then 470 acres of Stephens State Park.  Both fishing and hunting is subject to NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife regulations.

Rock Climbing is available in an area which is located near Waterloo Village on Waterloo Road.  A waiver is required prior to rock climbing.  Specific information may be obtained from the park office. 

Boating is allowed for boats with both electric motors or gas motors boats on the Musconetcong River. Each person must have on a wearable Coast Guard approved Personal Floatation Device (PFD). Alcoholic beverages are prohibited.

Picnicking is available at sites along the scenic Musconetcong River and at the Upper picnic area.  Tables, charcoal grills and sanitary facilities are provided at these sites. Playground equipment and a small open play field are available at the Upper picnic area. All picnic facilities are on a first come first serve basis, except for the group picnic shelter which can be reserved.  Alcoholic beverages are prohibited.

For larger groups, we also offer a Group Picnic Shelter.  It may be reserved for a fee.
$80.00 per day
Open year round
50 percent of Fee
Group Picnic Cancellation Fee
• Groups of 20 or more people shall reserve picnic facilities at least five days in advance. Such group use is not permitted on Holidays except as authorized by the Superintendent. Reservations for picnic areas are handled by the individual park area offices.
Reservations can be made over the telephone using a credit card, or by mail using the Group Picnic Reservation form.  Payment in full of the appropriate group picnicking fee must accompany this application.

Mailing Address:
800 Willow Grove St.
Hackettstown, NJ 07840
 (908) 852-3790 (908) 852-3790
GPS Coordinates
DMS 40° 52’ 09.06” N 74° 48' 36.00" W
Size: 805 acres
Fees: No entrance fee.

Directions:
Willow Grove Street (Route 604), 2 miles east of Hackettstown or 7.5 miles west of Route 206 on Waterloo Road (Route 604).
 

Tags: campground, new jersey camping

Indian Rock Resort is a campground that is family owned and operated. This is great for campers who stay there because the owners really care and try to keep that personal touch in everything that they do. The camp is very scenic and peaceful in an area that’s heavily wooded. This means that campsites are fairly private and families can do their own thing. In addition to that, there are several different “community” areas that campers can also use. The Indian Rock Resort has a gigantic swimming pool, picnic areas, and badminton/volleyball courts. They can even accommodate wedding receptions and company picnics on site!

Indian Rock Resort offers lots of activities to help its campers stay engaged in something. These include country western dancing and lessons every Friday. They also offer arts and crafts sessions, and plaster painting for the craftier members of your family.

Indian Rock Resort is very close to Six Flags Great Adventure. They even offer discount camping/Six Flags packages that make a family vacation there that much more affordable. They’re also close to Jenkinson’s Aquarium, which is a great place to take kids or anyone interested in sea life. For those campers or RV-ers who just can’t leave the laptop at home, Indian Rock Resort is a WiFi hotspot which means you can get your internet fix without having to hunt for a Starbucks in town.

The campsites are $45/night which is a bit expensive for my tastes, but the amenities available might make it worth it for many families. There are also small cabins available for $65-$85/night with a minimum 2-3 night stay required. The cabins are geared towards families who, “like everything about tent camping except for the tent.” You need sleeping bags, air mattresses, and anything else you would bring for camping, but you get to sleep under a solid roof and walls that will keep the mosquitoes at bay.

For More Info: Indian Rock Resort

Tags: campground, camping new jersey, nj campgrounds

The Cedar Creek Campground considers itself the premiere campground for outdoor recreation in New Jersey, and they work hard to fulfill this promise. They have a full service canoe and kayak rental company that operates on site. Even if you have never done any canoeing or kayaking before, the experts at Cedar Creek can get you squared away and having fun out on the river in no time. If you don’t want to kayak or canoe there is plenty for the landlubbers to do as well. The campground features a large playground, volleyball court, ice cream parlor, basketball court, and a game room for when the weather just refuses to cooperate. They have a huge swimming pool complete with water slides that is sure to keep your kids swimming until they’re too exhausted to move. There is also a convenience store and even a café just in case you don’t feel like cooking over an open fire.

The Cedar Creek Campground can accommodate a variety of setups from RV’s to tents and from primitive to full hookup. They also offer several options for those who are less accustomed to roughing it. These include cabin and trailer rentals, priced both by the day and by the week. Renting one of these cabins or trailers is a great way to get the experience of camping without the discomfort of sleeping on the hard ground. The trailers are large enough for a family of 6 to sleep comfortably, and the cabins can sleep 12 in two separate rooms, meaning that they could even be used for a multi-family or group getaway. Both the trailers and the cabins are equipped with mattresses, full-sized bathrooms, complete kitchens, air conditioning, and heating. There are also smaller cabins available that are designed to sleep families of 4-6 people.

The close proximity to the water along with the availability of kayaks and canoes make the Cedar Creek Campground a great choice if you want to get out on the river. The wide range of accommodations means that there is something to fit every preference and budget. If you’re going to be vacationing in the area, I suggest you check it out.

For More Info: Cedar Creek Campground
 

Tags: campground, camping new jersey, nj campgrounds

The brisk blue waters of Round Valley Reservoir attract swimmers, boaters, fishermen, picnickers and campers to its scenic shore.  The Round Valley Reservoir swimming area was created by the construction of an earth dam across a narrow waterway on the west side of the reservoir, separating it from the main part of the reservoir.  The deepest lake in New Jersey at 180 feet, the reservoir covers over 2,000 acres and has a water capacity of 55 billion gallons. It is well stocked with lake trout.
Round Valley is one of the few parks that offers wilderness camping.  The campsites on the eastern side of the reservoir are accessible only by hiking or boating as the campers' parking lot is three miles away from the nearest site, accessible by a steep and rugged trail.  Cross-country skiers and sledding enthusiasts congregate at Round Valley in the winter months.

Camping in the Recreation Area

The Recreation Area offers 85 wilderness family campsites with fire rings, drinking water and pit toilets within walking distance.  Although there is no trailer or vehicle access, campsites are a three to six mile hike from the parking lot, include a swimming area and may be reached by boat, canoe, or backpacking.  Each family site accommodates up to 6 people.  Open from April 1 through October 31, each site rents for $17 per night.  Campers must check-in at the park office by 4:00 p.m.

There are also group wilderness campsites.  These eight sites each have a fire ring with running water and pit toilets within walking distance.  Each group site accommodates up to 25 people and is open from April 1 through October 31 at a rate of $25 per night.

Alcohol and pets are prohibited in overnight facilities.

Highlights of Round Valley Recreation Area

Trails at Round Valley consist of three that are marked:  The Cushetunk Trail, which accesses the campsites and the Pine Tree Trail and the Family Hiking and Biking Trail. All trails are accessed from the South Parking Lot within the Day-use Area.  These trails are open throughout the year.  Visitors should plan their trail activities so that they will be out of the park by closing and are reminded to stay on the path as wandering off dedicated paths causes erosion, damage to vegetation and may, in some areas, result in trespassing onto private property.  Fires are not permitted along the trails and pets must be leashed at all times.  The pet owners are responsible for picking up after their pets. Drinking water is available along the lower service road located in the campground.

The nine-mile Cushetunk Trail and the three-mile lower service road are multi-use trails that pass through open and heavily wooded areas.  The Cushetunk trail surface is rugged, rocky and steep in places that makes it more suitable for experienced hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders.  Users must follow the same trail back as it ends at the Water Supply Authority's Restricted Area and therefore, has no outlet.

The Pine Tree Trail is approximately a one mile loop and the Family Hiking and Biking Trail is 1/2 mile loop.  Both pass through pinewoods and are ideal for young children, birdwatchers, and seniors.  The Pine Tree Trail connects the day-use area with Division of Fish and Wildlife property. There is a fourth unmarked water trail that is approximately 1 1/2 miles.  You can access it from the camper’s boat launch area. There are no trails that completely circle the reservoir. Be aware of the park hours, so that you plan your hiking or biking trip accordingly. Please be sure to be out of the park before it closes.

Fishing is permitted in the Round Valley Reservoir.  There are 19 species of fish inhabiting the Reservoir, including largemouth and smallmouth bass.  Rainbow and brown trout are stocked annually and lake trout are abundant.  The Division of Fish and Wildlife manages the reservoir as a trophy lake.  Anglers must follow the posted special fishing regulations that apply and Fishing is subject to the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife regulations.  Fishing is prohibited in the swimming area and a valid NJ fishing license is required.

Hunting for waterfowl is permitted at Round Valley Recreation Area on a seasonal basis. Waterfowl hunting is permitted by boat only and hunting is subject to the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife regulations.

Picnicking is available at three picnic areas within the recreation area.  Two are located on tree-shaded grassy spots at each end of the beach, and the third is on a hill overlooking the reservoir and park.  At each picnic area the visitor will find tables and grills, restrooms, and playgrounds.  Alcoholic beverages are prohibited.

Boating is assessable at the public boat launch which is located north of the day use area, and is regulated by the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife.  Sailboats, canoes, kayaks, motor boats (up to 10 horsepower) and three chambered inflatable vessels are permitted on the reservoir and must be registered through Motor Vehicle if over 12 feet in length.  NJ Boating Rules & Regulations pertain to Round Valley Reservoir at all times.  Each person must have on a wearable Coast Guard approved Personal Flotation Device (PFD).  Alcoholic beverages are prohibited.

A parking permit must be obtained through the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife to access the reservoir at the public boat launch, or a copy of your fishing, hunting or trapping license must be placed on the dash board of your vehicle.

Swimming is permitted at Round Valley in the Day-use Area only from Memorial Day through Labor Day while lifeguards are on duty and swimming is not allowed in the main reservoir.  Visitors will find a beach complex containing changing areas, restrooms, showers, a first-aid station, and a concession building where food and beach supplies are available for purchase.  Grilling is prohibited along the beachfront.  There are two playgrounds and volleyball nets on the beachfront.  Inner tubes, rafts and other flotation devices are not permitted in the swimming area.  Only Coast Guard approved life jackets are permitted.  Pets are prohibited on the beach.

Scuba and Skin Diving is available at Round Valley.  Water clarity and rich aquatic life make the Reservoir one of the best freshwater lakes in New Jersey for scuba and skin diving.  Diving is permitted from April 1st through October 31st depending on water conditions.  Scuba divers must be certified and all divers are required to register at the area office, have a dive buddy, inflatable vest and a dive flag.  Divers must check-in prior to, and checkout after, each dive.

Mailing Address:
1220 Lebanon-Stanton Road Lebanon, NJ 08833-3115
 (908) 236-6355 (908) 236-6355
GPS Coordinates
DMS 40° 37’ 21.93” N 74° 51' 18.13" W
Size: 3,684 acres
Fees: Entrance fees are charged per vehicle from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day.
$ 5.00
weekdays
$10.00
weekends
$ 2.00
walk-in/bicycle

Directions:
Take I-78 west to exit 20 A to Route 22 west, follows signs to the park.
Take I-78 east to exit 18 (Route 22 east), follow signs to the park
 

Tags: camping in nj, nj campgrounds

The Atlantic City North Family campground is a great one to stay at. It is in the Pinebarrens area  of New Jersey, which means the views are simply spectacular. This is a great area to camp in if you want to see the best that New Jersey has to offer as far as scenery. The campground is also in a prime location with relation to other Shore area hot spots. The Atlantic City campground is only a 15 minute drive from Long Beach Island. This is great if you also want to spend some time hitting the sand. Of course swimming, surfing, and snorkeling are all popular pastimes in the Long Beach area. If you want to save some money, the campground also offers free Long Beach Island passes during peak season. Besides the proximity to Long Beach Island, the Atlantic City campground is close to its namesake as well. It is only 30 minutes drive from all of the fun and excitement of Atlantic City. You can camp in the Pinebarrens and yet be only a short drive away from the novelty and action on the Boardwalk. Even better, the Atlantic City North campground offers a free van service to and from Atlantic City provided you are staying two nights at the campground. This is helpful if you’re driving a large RV or trailer that you want to be able to leave at the campground instead of having to deal with parking in the Boardwalk area.

The Atlantic City North Family Campground is reasonably priced with rates starting at $25/night for tent camping and going up to $35/night for a site equipped with water, electric, and sewer hookups. Obviously this is much cheaper than a hotel in the same area and you get to be closer to nature and the beautiful scenery. If you’re looking for great views without being too far away from the action then the Atlantic City campground might be just the place for you.

For More Info: Atlantic City North Family Campground

Tags: campground, camping new jersey, nj campgrounds

Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park is the place to be if you have kids or pets. The campground describes itself as a pet friendly resort with many planned activities to ensure that none of their guests will have time to be bored. They feature a heated swimming pool, go carts, and a stocked fishing pond. These are great activities to do if you have small kids and just aren’t up for any more sightseeing. The heated pool in particular is one of my favorite things about this campground. Spending some time in the pool is a great way for kids to burn off some extra energy while the adults relax after a long day. There are also many scheduled activities such as hay rides and games in the game room.

If you travel in an RV, the campground also provides full hookups as well as a laundry area and dump station. Jellystone Park also has the option for its guests to rent cabins or trailers, for those who want to camp but don’t want to bring the tent with them. No matter what your camping style is from primitive to modern, Jellystone Park has something to make sure that you get exactly the experience that you’re looking for.

Jellystone Park is a campground with just about anything you could want on site. They pride themselves on making sure all of their guests are happy. The base rate is $40/night for a campsite, and more for renting a cabin or trailer. Given all of the amenities on site, this could turn out to be a good deal if you use the swimming pool and other facilities. The Jellystone Park campground has won the Pinnacle Club Award in every year since 1998, meaning that it has a long history of fun times and quality service. Many families enjoy camping here so much that they return to the park year after year to keep making new memories.
 

For More Info: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park

Tags: campground, camping new jersey, nj campgrounds