Happy Camping Cougars

A debut of the five best places to camp overnight in NJ for students and staff to explore with their friends and family

Essentials > Happy Camping Cougars

"{\"blocks\":[{\"key\":\"5e4vd\",\"text\":\"Pictures of NJ Campgrounds \",\"type\":\"unstyled\",\"depth\":0,\"inlineStyleRanges\":[],\"entityRanges\":[],\"data\":[]}],\"entityMap\":[]}"

Jaclyn Lukas, Staff Writer

Ever been interested in a camping trip with friends or family? But not really sure where to go and not wanting to travel too far from home. Not to worry because there are five amazing spots right here in NJ for campers of any experience to enjoy a weekend away. Let’s dive into them together. 

First on the list is Stephens State Park in Hackettstown. Here one will find the Musconetcong River which runs through the State Park and makes great spots for fishing. With picnic tables along the river and six miles of marked hiking trails, there will be plenty of daytime activities for everyone to enjoy. Fire rings and wooden tables are included with all 40 campsites and flush toilets reside within walking distance. 

If one is looking for a little more “luxury” during their camping experience, then The Great Divide in Newton may be the place. Over 100 acres of land and 270 campsites, this campground has room for everyone. Designated campsites have fire rings, tables and are within walking distance of the bathroom but the main attraction is the amenities. There is a unique service that provides firewood and ice delivered right to the campsites. Along with a private lake for fishing and boating but no swimming - because there is a pool on site.

At the northwest tip of NJ, in Wantage Township, is High Point State Park. With very mountainous terrain and breathtaking views, getting active on this trip should not be hard. High Point Monument and a part of the Appalachian Trail, hold the most astonishing views of the campground. In the months between Memorial and Labor Day, Lake Marcia is open and 50 campsites with two group campsites that hold up to 35 people. 

Glamping is the word that comes to mind when people hear about Turkey Swamp Park in Freehold. With 64 sites for camping, trailers or even cabins there is no fear of being uncomfortable at this campground. Water and electricity are provided at every site and a charcoal grill. The pond nearby provides for fun with canoes, rowboats, kayaks and paddle boats along with being loaded with bass and catfish. 

Last but not least is the Mohican Outdoor Center in Blairstown. The heart of the facility is the catfish pond, which provides lovely views right from one's campsite. Rustic and private, guests can explore Rattlesnake Swamp hiking trail without feeling smothered by other campers. 

Getting together and getting away is important for the mind and the body. Take a break and plan a camping trip at one of these gorgeous campsites and get back to nature, before the summer is over.

Stay Safe, Cougars!


about the author

Jaclyn Lukas, Staff Writer

lukasja@kean.edu

Jaclyn Lukas is an English major with a concentration in writing. She joined The Cougar’s Byte staff in Spring 2021. After her time at Kean, Jaclyn hopes to start her professional career in publishing for books or newspapers/magazines.