Campground#9, Independence Township, NJ

Introduction / Overview

Welcome to Campground#9, a beloved retreat nestled within the stunning Jenny Jump State Forest in the heart of Northern New Jersey. For local residents seeking a true escape into nature without traveling far, this campground offers a rustic and tranquil experience atop the scenic Jenny Jump Mountain Range. Known for its dramatic panoramic vistas of the Highlands, the Kittatinny Mountains, and the expansive Great Meadows, Campground#9 provides an accessible haven for hikers, stargazers, and anyone looking to unplug. Operating under the umbrella of the New Jersey State Park Service, this location is dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of the region while providing safe, maintained facilities for outdoor enthusiasts. It is an ideal spot to reconnect with the natural world, whether you are planning a weekend trip with the family or a solo hike-in adventure. Visitors should note that the experience here leans toward rustic and mountainous, promising a genuine dose of the New Jersey wilderness.

Location and Accessibility

Campground#9 is conveniently situated within Jenny Jump State Forest, making it a highly accessible destination for residents across New Jersey, particularly those in the northern and central counties. The official address for the facility is 330 State Park Rd, Great Meadows, NJ 07838, USA. This location places the campground in Warren County, a region celebrated for its picturesque farmlands and mountain views.

Accessing the park typically involves navigating off major routes, leading you up the winding State Park Road to the park headquarters and camping area. While the remoteness is part of the appeal, providing a genuine forest feel, local users should plan their route carefully, especially the final approach. The campground’s setting near the top of the mountain contributes to its incredible views but also means some campsites may require a short climb—as one former visitor noted, some sites are about "37 steps up to campsite." This characteristic adds to the secluded, elevated atmosphere. It is advisable for visitors to follow signs for Jenny Jump State Forest from nearby towns like Hope or Great Meadows. Despite its wild setting, the campground is strategically located to offer a quick return to civilization, should you need supplies or wish to explore the nearby historic villages and attractions of the Skylands region.

Services Offered

Campground#9 and its surrounding State Forest offer a range of facilities and amenities designed to cater to various camping styles, from traditional tent pitching to more comfortable shelter stays. The services available help ensure a memorable and manageable outdoor experience for local families and groups.

Variety of Campsite Types: The campground provides 22 designated tent and trailer sites, two larger group campsites, and eight rustic "shelters" (often described as cabins).
Campground Amenities: Each campsite generally comes equipped with a fire ring for campfires and an outdoor picnic table. The group sites feature large stoves for cooking.
Restroom Facilities: Restrooms, including flush toilets and showers, are available within walking distance of many sites, a significant convenience for a mountain campground. There are also pit toilets available at the group campsites.
Drinking Water: Potable water is available via water collection points and spigots throughout the camping area.
Year-Round Accommodations: The shelters are available for rent year-round, offering an option for winter camping with their wood-burning stoves.
Pet-Friendly Options: Specific areas and certain campsite types are designated as pet-friendly, allowing residents to bring their furry companions on their outdoor adventure.
Park Office Staff: The park office is staffed during operating hours, providing information, assistance, and a feeling of security. Reviewers frequently praise the staff, including the law enforcement officer, as being "very nice people" and "righteous strait up fellows."

Features / Highlights

The true allure of Campground#9 lies in its unique natural features and the array of recreational activities available within Jenny Jump State Forest. These highlights make it a standout camping location for local New Jersey outdoor enthusiasts.

Spectacular Vistas: The high elevation of the Jenny Jump Mountain Range offers stunning, expansive views of the Delaware Water Gap, the Kittatinny Mountains, and the Great Meadows. These scenic viewpoints are accessible via well-maintained hiking trails.
Diverse Trail System: Fourteen miles of hiking trails traverse the forest, accommodating various skill levels. These paths showcase evidence of glacial history with numerous rocky outcroppings and boulders, appealing to geology enthusiasts.
Astronomy Observatory Site: Uniquely, the park hosts an astronomy observatory site, capitalizing on the high elevation and relatively "dark sky" conditions, making it a special attraction for stargazers.
Rustic Shelters/Cabins: The eight available shelters provide a "glamping" or rustic cabin experience with double-deck bunks and wood-burning stoves, offering a more comfortable stay than traditional tent camping, perfect for a cozy getaway.
Fishing and Boating: Nearby Ghost Lake and Mountain Lake are accessible via a car-top boat launch for activities like fishing, canoeing, and kayaking.
Seasonal Beauty: The campground and forest provide different experiences throughout the year, from peak hiking season (April to October) to opportunities for cross-country skiing and ice fishing in the winter.
Wildlife Viewing: The diverse habitat is home to various wildlife, including deer and wild turkeys, providing excellent opportunities for nature observation.

Contact Information

For reservations, current operating hours, or specific inquiries regarding a stay, New Jersey residents are encouraged to contact the official office for Jenny Jump State Forest.

Address: 330 State Park Rd, Great Meadows, NJ 07838, USA

Phone: +19084594366 (Jenny Jump State Forest Office)

Reservations for campsites and shelters can typically be made online through the official New Jersey Outdoors website, often up to 11 months in advance, which is highly recommended due to the limited number of sites.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For New Jersey residents, Campground#9 in Jenny Jump State Forest represents an invaluable local resource. It offers a genuine, unplugged wilderness experience that feels miles away from the hustle and bustle, yet remains easily reachable for a quick weekend trip. Its location provides an immediate escape from urban and suburban life into the elevated tranquility of the Skylands. The mix of tent sites, trailer accommodations, and year-round shelters makes it versatile enough for all local families and groups, from seasoned hikers to first-time campers. The peace of mind provided by friendly, present staff, and the opportunity to experience the unique features like the astronomy site and the glacial-era geology, solidify its status as a must-visit local gem. Visitors should, however, take seriously the need to "come prepared for the mosquitoes," as local conditions can sometimes make insect repellent ineffective. Adequate preparation, including proper food storage to manage potential encounters with wildlife, is essential for a great trip. By choosing Campground#9, New Jersey locals support their state park system while gaining direct access to some of the most rewarding natural landscapes Northern New Jersey has to offer. It is a fantastic place for New Jersey families to build lasting outdoor memories.