Sun-Air Lakeside Camp

- 115 Cozy Lake Rd, Oak Ridge, NJ 07438

Introduction / Overview

For those in Northern New Jersey seeking a traditional, deep-woods camping experience, Sun-Air Lakeside Camp in Oak Ridge presents itself as a rustic, family-owned establishment nestled on 105 wooded acres. Established in a time when camping was more about simplicity and a close connection to nature, this site has a long history, with some local residents having camped there seasonally for decades, returning generation after generation to their favorite spots. It is a place that offers a genuine escape from the fast pace of suburban life, providing a wooded setting around a picturesque five-acre private lake.

The campground operates primarily on a seasonal basis, allowing dedicated campers to keep their RVs or trailers on-site for extended periods, typically from May through October. This focus on seasonal guests fosters a tight-knit community atmosphere, making it feel less like a temporary stop and more like a summer home for many New Jersey families. For casual weekend visitors, it offers sites for both RVs and tent camping, focusing on the core experience of campfires, fishing, and enjoying the fresh air of the Oak Ridge area.

However, local users should note that Sun-Air Lakeside Camp embraces a decidedly rugged, 'back-to-basics' aesthetic. While the natural setting is beautiful, with great fishing potential and peaceful surroundings, public reviews suggest the infrastructure and maintenance of certain facilities may reflect the camp’s age and rustic charm. Potential visitors seeking modern resort-style amenities, perfectly paved roads, or luxury comfort stations should be prepared for a more authentic, hands-on camping experience. A realistic expectation is key to enjoying the natural beauty and community spirit the camp has to offer.

Location and Accessibility

Sun-Air Lakeside Camp is located at 115 Cozy Lake Rd in the scenic community of Oak Ridge, New Jersey, deep within Jefferson Township. Its location places it squarely in the heart of Northern New Jersey's lake and mountain region, providing an easily accessible nature retreat for residents of Morris, Sussex, and Passaic counties, as well as those traveling from the wider NYC metropolitan area.

The camp's proximity to major North Jersey roadways, while still being tucked away off a local road, offers a perfect balance. It is remote enough to provide the feeling of a genuine wilderness escape, yet close enough that a weekend trip doesn't require excessive driving time. The name 'Oak Ridge' itself suggests a heavily wooded area, which is precisely what visitors will find—a dense, natural buffer from the stresses of urbanity.

Accessibility by car is straightforward, though local knowledge and public reviews indicate that the internal campground roads may be unpaved and potentially rugged, often described as having ruts. Due to the unmaintained condition of internal roads, having a vehicle with adequate clearance, such as a truck or SUV, may be beneficial for navigating the campsite to your reserved spot, particularly after heavy rain. This is an important detail for New Jersey residents planning to bring a low-clearance RV or trailer.

Services Offered

Sun-Air Lakeside Camp focuses its service offerings on the essentials of traditional camping and seasonal residency. The camp provides the fundamental infrastructure necessary for an enjoyable outdoor stay, centered around the 105-acre property.

• Campsites: Approximately 160 sites are available, catering to various needs including tent camping, RV sites, and sites for seasonal trailers.
• RV Hookups: Sites include RV hookups for water and electric service (30-amp service is generally available, with 50-amp availability unknown) to support modern camping units.
• Waste Disposal: A dump station is provided for RV waste disposal, a crucial service for both weekend and seasonal RV campers.
• Lake Access: Access to the private five-acre lake with a sandy beach area is a key amenity, suitable for swimming and non-motorized recreation.
• Restroom and Shower Facilities: Community bathhouses are provided, which typically include restrooms and coin-operated heated showers for camper use.
• Pet Policy: Leashed pets are welcome at the campground, making it a viable option for New Jersey families who wish to bring their dogs along on their outdoor adventures.
• Recreational Facilities (Reported): Available amenities include courts for basketball and volleyball, a recreational hall, and a children's playground area, although their current operational status and condition may vary.
• Extended Access: Seasonal campers pay an annual fee to have their units remain on-site, providing year-round access to the land (though utility hookups may be seasonal).

Features / Highlights

The primary attractions of Sun-Air Lakeside Camp lie in its natural environment and long-standing community feel, offering a true escape from New Jersey’s suburban landscape.

• Private Lakeside Setting: The five-acre private lake and its sandy beach are the centerpiece of the camp, offering a refreshing spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxation during the warm summer months.
• Great Fishing Opportunities: The lake is known for providing excellent fishing, allowing campers to enjoy a classic outdoor pursuit right at their campsite's doorstep.
• Expansive Wooded Acreage: Campers are surrounded by 105 nicely wooded acres, providing abundant shade, privacy, and a deep-woods ambiance ideal for wildlife watching and enjoying fall foliage.
• Rustic Charm and History: The camp's long history and seasonal focus create a unique, rustic charm and a strong sense of community among repeat visitors, which many New Jersey locals appreciate as an authentic experience.
• Scenic Trails Nearby: While the camp focuses on lakeside and site activities, its location in Oak Ridge means it has easy access to nearby trails for hiking and exploring the beautiful Northern New Jersey terrain.

Contact Information

For the most accurate and current information regarding rates, site availability, seasonal contracts, and the status of on-site amenities, New Jersey residents are advised to contact the Sun-Air Lakeside Camp directly.

Address: 115 Cozy Lake Rd, Oak Ridge, NJ 07438, USA

Phone: (973) 697-3489

Mobile Phone: +1 973-697-3489

Conclusion: Why This Place Is Suitable for Locals

Sun-Air Lakeside Camp is uniquely suited for Northern New Jersey residents who prioritize a genuine, rustic camping experience over modern luxury. Its suitability for locals is rooted in its accessible location in the beautiful Oak Ridge area and its strong focus on long-term, seasonal camping. For many families in the region, the camp functions as an affordable, local 'second home' during the warmer months, allowing them to escape to their private wooded retreat without the stress of an annual pilgrimage to a distant vacation spot.

This camp is ideal for the camper who is self-sufficient, values a peaceful, forested environment, and enjoys the community of seasonal campers. The private lake access for swimming and fishing is a significant draw, providing immediate recreational value. While it is essential for visitors to manage their expectations regarding the condition of the physical infrastructure—as acknowledged in customer feedback regarding the rustic nature of facilities and roads—those who embrace the 'roughing it' aspect and cherish a deeply authentic, non-commercialized New Jersey camping atmosphere will find Sun-Air Lakeside Camp to be a treasured, convenient, and historically rich option right in their backyard. It's a true classic for those who understand and appreciate the charm of a less polished, more organic outdoor experience.

Sun-Air Lakeside Camp

115 Cozy Lake Rd, Oak Ridge, NJ 07438, USA