Campground

- Unnamed Road, Clinton, NJ 08809

Introduction / Overview

The Round Valley Recreation Area Wilderness Campground, nestled near the rolling hills of Clinton in Hunterdon County, New Jersey, offers one of the state’s most unique and challenging outdoor experiences. For residents of the Garden State seeking an authentic escape from the everyday hustle, this is not your typical drive-up campground. The Round Valley reservoir—one of the deepest lakes in New Jersey—forms the centerpiece of this vast recreation area. The camping experience here is fundamentally a primitive, ‘wilderness-style’ retreat, accessible only by a considerable hike of three to six miles or by boat across the reservoir. This deliberate isolation is designed to foster a deeply immersive connection with nature, making it a compelling destination for experienced hikers, boaters, and dedicated outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate a truly secluded environment. Its massive 2,350-acre reservoir and over 5,000 acres of surrounding parkland provide a dramatic backdrop for a weekend adventure. This location provides a rare opportunity for local residents to engage in a backcountry experience without having to travel outside of Central New Jersey.

However, in the spirit of professional transparency and to ensure a fully informed decision, potential campers must be aware of certain conditions. Recent years have seen challenging reports from visitors regarding campground etiquette, including issues with noise, overcrowding, and cleanliness, suggesting a lapse in the 'Leave No Trace' principles by some users. Furthermore, state advisories concerning Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) in the reservoir—a recurring issue in various New Jersey lakes—have impacted the recreational use of the water, specifically with regard to swimming in certain areas. While the stunning natural beauty remains, responsible management and community adherence to regulations are crucial for restoring and maintaining the intended wilderness quality of this cherished public land. We strongly urge all visitors to follow all rules diligently to preserve this precious resource.

Location and Accessibility

The campground’s registration and administrative access is handled through the park offices, which are centrally located near Clinton, New Jersey. While the primary mailing address points to a general area, the campground sites themselves are spread across the reservoir’s perimeter, reinforcing the remote nature of the experience. The seclusion is intentional and defines the camping experience.

Accessing the individual campsites is part of the adventure. Visitors must be prepared for a genuine commitment to outdoor travel:

• Hike-In Access: Campsites are located three to six miles from the main parking lot. The trail is often described as rugged, rocky, and steep in sections. Campers must carry all gear, food, and water necessary for their stay.
• Boat-In Access: Alternatively, many sites are accessible only by boat or canoe across the reservoir, which requires personal watercraft and the appropriate launching permits. This method is often preferred for managing gear, but requires careful attention to weather conditions on the vast, deep reservoir.

The remote location, while offering unparalleled tranquility, means that traditional services are far from the campsites, underscoring the necessity of self-sufficiency. Due to the limited access and the state park setting, this location is best suited for those driving to the area via major highways like I-78 and local Hunterdon County routes before heading to the designated parking/launch areas.

Services Offered

As a true wilderness experience, the amenities are intentionally minimal and rustic. Campers should view these offerings as basic necessities rather than comforts.

• Primitive Sanitation: Pit toilets or rudimentary restroom facilities are available, though visitors are advised that maintenance standards can vary.
• Drinking Water: Potable water is available via hand-pumped spigots located at the north and south ends of the main campground trail. Campers are highly encouraged to bring backup water or purification systems.
• Campsite Structure: Each designated site typically includes a fire ring for cooking and campfires, along with a picnic table.
• Waste Management: This is a carry-in/carry-out facility. Campers are strictly required to remove all trash and waste from their sites to maintain the wilderness setting.
• Registration and Check-In: All campers must register and check-in at the park office before accessing the remote camping areas.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: The wilderness campsites are generally pet-friendly, allowing local dog owners to bring their companions (check current regulations for specific rules).

Features / Highlights

The primary draw of Round Valley is its striking natural environment and the challenging recreational opportunities it affords.

• New Jersey’s Deepest Lake: The reservoir’s famously clear, deep blue waters provide spectacular views and excellent cold-water fishing, particularly for lake trout.
• Scuba Diving: Due to the water clarity and depth, the reservoir is noted as one of the state's best locations for freshwater scuba diving (registration is required).
• Vast Trail Network: The park features extensive trails, including the Cushetunk Trail, which is a multi-use path suitable for experienced hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders, offering rugged terrain and challenging distances.
• Boating and Sailing: The large open water is ideal for non-motorized and limited-horsepower boating, including sailing, kayaking, and canoeing.
• True Wilderness Experience: The hike-in/boat-in access ensures a level of solitude and quiet that is nearly impossible to find in drive-up New Jersey campgrounds, offering genuine seclusion once settled at the site.

Contact Information

For the most current information on site availability, conditions, and any potential public health advisories related to the reservoir’s water quality, please use the following contact details, which are managed by the park administration office:

Address: Unnamed Road, Clinton, NJ 08809, USA (General Area)

Phone: (908) 638-8572

Mobile Phone: +1 908-638-8572

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

The Round Valley Wilderness Campground is perfectly suited for New Jersey residents who are looking for a true, rugged outdoor challenge close to home. It is a necessary counterpoint to the more developed recreation areas in the state. For the local community, its accessibility—just a short drive from major Central Jersey population centers—combined with its primitive, secluded nature, offers an invaluable and cost-effective opportunity to disconnect and test their self-sufficiency skills. It is an ideal spot for experienced campers, backpacking enthusiasts, and local families committed to teaching their children core outdoor skills. Crucially, the local community has a vital role to play in its future. By respecting the wilderness mandate, adhering to quiet hours, and following all 'Carry In, Carry Out' policies, local users can directly address the recent negative reports of poor etiquette, helping to restore the park to its full potential as a serene and safe retreat. This gem on the reservoir is a testament to New Jersey's natural diversity, but its continued quality relies on the collective stewardship and respect of every person who sets foot on its trails.

Campground

Unnamed Road, Clinton, NJ 08809, USA