The best camping near Princeton with wildlife watching

·
96% (979)

Top-rated campgrounds

Twin Oaks - Approaching the site from the parking area.

2. Twin Oaks

99%
(119)
47mi from Princeton · 2 sites · Tents · Columbia, NJ
This campsite provides a great location to use as a base for day hikes. The tent site is situated beneath a canopy of two large Red Oak trees. This property was formerly a farm and has since grown back to a pioneer Hardwood Forest. There are stone rows throughout the farm and some areas that have been cleared of invasive vegetation and planted with native grasses to enhance the deer population. We suggest day hikes such as Catfish Fire Tower, Van Campen's Glen, and Buttermilk Falls. Here's a list of our recommendations for hiking, fishing, and just plain old exploring: The Delaware Water Gap National Recreational Area (DWG) and nearby Walpack Fish and Wildlife Management Area in Layton have many hiking trails (See the National Park Service's website). Great areas for sightseeing, hiking, biking, fishing, hunting. Buttermilk Falls, (trailhead on) Mountain Road in Layton. Hike to the top of the beautiful waterfalls near Walpack and take a 6.8 mile loop trail to Crater Lake. Walpack Inn, National Park Service Rd 615, Layton. A beautiful restaurant with an entire back wall of windows with a view of the Kittatinny Valley. The Walpack is open on weekends for dinner only. Appalachian Trail (AT). Check out the AMC Mohican Outdoor Center located along the trail in Blairstown. The AT runs through the DWG. \ Long Pine Pond amp; Crater Lake in Walpack. Both are spring fed and great for swimming and boating (clear water). Van Campen's Glen, Old Mine Road, Hardwick. The 2.1 mile loop trail features several cascades and waterfalls, a narrow stone valley, and a lush hemlock ravine. Catfish Fire Tower, Millbrook Road, Hardwick. A rocky 2.0 or longer 4.4 mile hike to the top of the ridge. Great views on NJ and PA. Also check out "Hiking Our Preserves" on the Ridge and Valley Conservancy's website for information on 4 local hiking trails. Delaware River- Great for swimming, boating, tubing, canoeing, fishing. Keep your eye out for Bald Eagles! White Lake - 97 Stillwater Rd. Hardwick, NJ 07825. The Paulinskill (Blairstown) and FlatBrook (Old Mine Road, Hardwick) rivers are local spots for trout fishing. On Saturdays during the summer, you may want to try out the Blairstown Farmers Market on Stillwater Road. Hours 9:30 to 1:00 pm.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
FernRock Retreat

6. FernRock Retreat

100%
(128)
39mi from Princeton · 2 sites · Lodging · Green Lane, PA
This land had been a summer camp owned by 8 families, each having their own cabin and outhouse. We bought it in 2000 for use as a retreat space for people who need a get away of peace and quiet. It's close to many towns and restaurants and the turnpike, but surrounded by trees and a creek, it feels far away from anything demanding your attention. It's a place to relax and enjoy nature. We offer a beautiful and sacred place in the woods of Bucks County, PA. The rustic cabin includes as much privacy as you desire, with a full kitchen, small bathroom, two bedrooms, and a meditation loft. The property includes a labyrinth, prayer path, treehouse, multiple fire pits (firewood included), and a creek with a dock, bird blind, kayaks, paddle boards and a rowboat. We are also offering discounts for stays longer than 3 nights. If you'd like to take advantage of one of these, 15% off for a 4-6 night stay or 20% off for a stay longer than 6 nights, please contact us, BEFORE BOOKING, and we can send you a code.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$120
 / night
Wildflower Hill

7. Wildflower Hill

100%
(14)
25mi from Princeton · 1 site · Tent · Gillette, NJ
Nestled on the ridgeline of the 3rd Watchung Mountain, the property sits above The Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. You'll be in a neighborhood, for sure, but a quiet one with lots of room for people and pets to stretch. The property has a 3000 square foot Summer wildflower field with a cozy tent spot in the center. There is also a grand flat grass area for setting up multiple tents. A 100-foot dog trolley run spans the land so your fluffy can run and stay close, too. Numerous outdoor chairs and tables are set up in various spots to best enjoy the land. There is a fire pit and free firewood available. Use of up to two 8-foot single kayaks or a single 17-foot canoe is available. The Passaic River has a number of drop-in spots nearby and Round Valley and Spruce Run reservoirs are a short drive. Hiking trails go throughout the Great Swamp. They have a terrific education center and the famous Raptor Trust.
Pets
Campfires
Trash
from 
$50
 / night
Great Times Camp Ground

9. Great Times Camp Ground

99%
(65)
46mi from Princeton · 2 sites · Lodging · Waterford Works, NJ
Great Times Camp ground has been the home of "Great Times Day Camp" for 35+ years. In the heart of the pinelands, GTDC provides a beautiful ground for campers to enjoy the outdoors and experience new things like boating, hiking, and more. Update - We have added a parking location close to the main site area! It is now extremely easy to access the site location! AC Available! Great Times Camp Ground consists 52 acres of the amazing outdoors including a large natural lake, acres of woods to explore, and lots of fun activities such as volleyball, basketball, and even a beach to enjoy. Great Times operates as a children's day camp during the summer months, but now can be enjoyed all year round. Activities Available: - Basketball Courts - Tennis Courts - Fishing - Beach - Sport Fields for Activities If you would like the bunkhouse / cabin - you must add it as an extra, otherwise it will be assumed that you are tent camping. Pools are off limits to Hipcamp families.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$75
 / night
Sleep next to the enchanting sounds of a creek . . .

15. Theo's Creek Homestead

96%
(166)
50mi from Princeton · 2 sites · Tents · Phoenixville, PA
Closed for 2025. See you in 2026! Please read full description for info on the sites we have available. We purchased our dream homestead in 2020, and we would love to share it with others as we build it to become bountiful and as self-sustaining as possible. It is not in the middle of nowhere....it's in the middle of everywhere! Learn more about this land: Camp next to a peaceful trickling creek just outside Phoenixville and Kimberton. We are a suburban oasis, surrounded by a little bit of everything.  Our homestead has plenty of activity including kids, dogs, and chickens, bees and goats! We have a fully wooded area available to explore across the creek, and weather dependent- the creek is a great place to stay cool. You'll see lots of growing fruit trees in our developing orchard and we are happy to share our vision for this beautiful land! We have two campsites available for you to choose between for your stay. Both sites are along the creek, however, one has a view of some nearby houses and is a short walk to the parking spot [Creekside]. The other site is more secluded, past the tree line, but a further walk from where you are able to park. [Hillside] If needed, we are happy to lend you a wagon to haul your gear. Please let us know if you have questions and your preference of site. We have a cabin-like bathroom and partial kitchen you will have access to during your stay. We always have cold water available for purchase in the fridge. There is trail access easily accessible from our home (the closest is approximately 1 mile), for paved or natural trail exploration. We are are a great stopping point for cyclists enjoying the area. It's a short drive to downtown Phoenixville with some of the best breweries around. Phoenixville is home to a great farmers market on Saturday mornings and numerous festivals. Also, close-by is the lovely quaint village of Kimberton, home of the best organic grocery store and many opportunities for hiking and small farms.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night
Our helpful little goats, Rambo & Yari, munching on the overgrown grass

16. For Tomorrow Farms

100%
(43)
48mi from Princeton · 2 sites · Tents · Pottstown, PA
Our farmhouse was built in 1860 and we are only the fourth family to live here! In the past century and a half, this land was used as a willow and flax farm as well as a chicken farm. The property is on Lenni-Lenape land, and our hope is to bring back more of the native plants that have been used (and continue to be used) as food and medicine.Learn more about this land:Welcome to For Tomorrow Farms, our creekside permaculture farm and food forest! This site is still being planned and developed, but our mission is to create a productive and healing space in nature for individuals to connect with the environment, try fresh home-grown foods, and hang out with friendly farm animals. We are currently growing rare and heirloom fruits, veggies, and herbs (ask us what we’re growing!) in the backyard of our 1860s farmhouse, and our animals help with natural land maintenance and fertilization. Come say hi to the goats, take a dip in the creek, and explore our 10 acres of exotic wetlands! If you’re looking for a longer hike, we are also surrounded by plenty of gorgeous parks and trails, which are only a short drive away. This is the ideal location for a peaceful getaway just an hour outside center city Philadelphia. Plus, make sure to keep checking back as we continue to grow and improve our property. A few projects we’re looking forward to are converting one of the old farm sheds into a tiny guest house and adding a shower to our indoor campsite bathroom!We hope you’ll enjoy your stay here! Thanks for being a part of our journey.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night
Welcome to our abode

17. 60's Surf Camper

83%
(50)
47mi from Princeton · 3 sites · Lodging · Inwood, NY
Located in the heart of Rockaway Beach NYC, this vintage 1963 Shasta camper is perfect for a small getaway with a few pals to enjoy the sun and the surf! Take a trip back in time! The camper can sleep up to 4, where the second bed is created from the seating area. There is a beautiful city view over the bay that can be seen from the seating area. All linens are provided. A fridge to keep your drinks ice cold, a BBQ, 2 beach chairs with umbrella, a cooler, and a coffee maker with coffee, are all yours to enjoy and are included free in the rental! We also have two surfboards available to rent for an extra fee. Guests have access to a private toilet, and an outdoor shower for rinsing off after a long day on the beach or shredding the surf. Fishing, and the most amazing city view sunsets are just a 1 minute walk up the block to the bay park. Quality Wifi is included.The Atlantic ocean, the beach, concession stands, and our wonderful new boardwalk are just a few short blocks away, a 4 minute walk. Great neighborhood restaurants and bars are within walking distance. Rent a surf board and hit of the surf beaches or just head to the beach to relax. Perfect for couples or a small family getaway, come and enjoy this vintage camper, and all that this beach town has to offer!
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
$117
 / night
MEDITATION AREA

18. Historical Lake Front Barn

91%
(22)
30mi from Princeton · 1 site · Tent, RV · Mendham, NJ
Nestled in the mountainside in Morris County this 10 acre farm estate is home to a plethora of wildlife, small lake, and large brook that runs through the property. The lake is home to native wildlife and the brook is loaded with trout. There are a couple of professionally maintained landscaping areas perfect for camping and firepit. It comes with a firepit, and everything you need for an amazing night out in the wilderness. There are beautiful hiking trails on site as well as right across the way adjacent to the property that are highly regarded in the state. The most secluded property you can imagine, it is home to some truly magnificent wildlife. There is no littering, and absolutely no hunting. As a nature lover, the respect I have shown these animals, is the reason why they love it here. Who knows what you may see! Firewood is available for purchase at the top of the driveway. It is handcut and seasoned for 3 years and stored in a custom hutch. $5 a compartment money goes in the mailbox.
Pets
Campfires
Trash
from 
$119
 / night
96% (979)

Top-rated campgrounds

Twin Oaks - Approaching the site from the parking area.

2. Twin Oaks

99%
(119)
47mi from Princeton · 2 sites · Tents · Columbia, NJ
This campsite provides a great location to use as a base for day hikes. The tent site is situated beneath a canopy of two large Red Oak trees. This property was formerly a farm and has since grown back to a pioneer Hardwood Forest. There are stone rows throughout the farm and some areas that have been cleared of invasive vegetation and planted with native grasses to enhance the deer population. We suggest day hikes such as Catfish Fire Tower, Van Campen's Glen, and Buttermilk Falls. Here's a list of our recommendations for hiking, fishing, and just plain old exploring: The Delaware Water Gap National Recreational Area (DWG) and nearby Walpack Fish and Wildlife Management Area in Layton have many hiking trails (See the National Park Service's website). Great areas for sightseeing, hiking, biking, fishing, hunting. Buttermilk Falls, (trailhead on) Mountain Road in Layton. Hike to the top of the beautiful waterfalls near Walpack and take a 6.8 mile loop trail to Crater Lake. Walpack Inn, National Park Service Rd 615, Layton. A beautiful restaurant with an entire back wall of windows with a view of the Kittatinny Valley. The Walpack is open on weekends for dinner only. Appalachian Trail (AT). Check out the AMC Mohican Outdoor Center located along the trail in Blairstown. The AT runs through the DWG. \ Long Pine Pond amp; Crater Lake in Walpack. Both are spring fed and great for swimming and boating (clear water). Van Campen's Glen, Old Mine Road, Hardwick. The 2.1 mile loop trail features several cascades and waterfalls, a narrow stone valley, and a lush hemlock ravine. Catfish Fire Tower, Millbrook Road, Hardwick. A rocky 2.0 or longer 4.4 mile hike to the top of the ridge. Great views on NJ and PA. Also check out "Hiking Our Preserves" on the Ridge and Valley Conservancy's website for information on 4 local hiking trails. Delaware River- Great for swimming, boating, tubing, canoeing, fishing. Keep your eye out for Bald Eagles! White Lake - 97 Stillwater Rd. Hardwick, NJ 07825. The Paulinskill (Blairstown) and FlatBrook (Old Mine Road, Hardwick) rivers are local spots for trout fishing. On Saturdays during the summer, you may want to try out the Blairstown Farmers Market on Stillwater Road. Hours 9:30 to 1:00 pm.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
FernRock Retreat

6. FernRock Retreat

100%
(128)
39mi from Princeton · 2 sites · Lodging · Green Lane, PA
This land had been a summer camp owned by 8 families, each having their own cabin and outhouse. We bought it in 2000 for use as a retreat space for people who need a get away of peace and quiet. It's close to many towns and restaurants and the turnpike, but surrounded by trees and a creek, it feels far away from anything demanding your attention. It's a place to relax and enjoy nature. We offer a beautiful and sacred place in the woods of Bucks County, PA. The rustic cabin includes as much privacy as you desire, with a full kitchen, small bathroom, two bedrooms, and a meditation loft. The property includes a labyrinth, prayer path, treehouse, multiple fire pits (firewood included), and a creek with a dock, bird blind, kayaks, paddle boards and a rowboat. We are also offering discounts for stays longer than 3 nights. If you'd like to take advantage of one of these, 15% off for a 4-6 night stay or 20% off for a stay longer than 6 nights, please contact us, BEFORE BOOKING, and we can send you a code.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$120
 / night
Wildflower Hill

7. Wildflower Hill

100%
(14)
25mi from Princeton · 1 site · Tent · Gillette, NJ
Nestled on the ridgeline of the 3rd Watchung Mountain, the property sits above The Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. You'll be in a neighborhood, for sure, but a quiet one with lots of room for people and pets to stretch. The property has a 3000 square foot Summer wildflower field with a cozy tent spot in the center. There is also a grand flat grass area for setting up multiple tents. A 100-foot dog trolley run spans the land so your fluffy can run and stay close, too. Numerous outdoor chairs and tables are set up in various spots to best enjoy the land. There is a fire pit and free firewood available. Use of up to two 8-foot single kayaks or a single 17-foot canoe is available. The Passaic River has a number of drop-in spots nearby and Round Valley and Spruce Run reservoirs are a short drive. Hiking trails go throughout the Great Swamp. They have a terrific education center and the famous Raptor Trust.
Pets
Campfires
Trash
from 
$50
 / night
Great Times Camp Ground

9. Great Times Camp Ground

99%
(65)
46mi from Princeton · 2 sites · Lodging · Waterford Works, NJ
Great Times Camp ground has been the home of "Great Times Day Camp" for 35+ years. In the heart of the pinelands, GTDC provides a beautiful ground for campers to enjoy the outdoors and experience new things like boating, hiking, and more. Update - We have added a parking location close to the main site area! It is now extremely easy to access the site location! AC Available! Great Times Camp Ground consists 52 acres of the amazing outdoors including a large natural lake, acres of woods to explore, and lots of fun activities such as volleyball, basketball, and even a beach to enjoy. Great Times operates as a children's day camp during the summer months, but now can be enjoyed all year round. Activities Available: - Basketball Courts - Tennis Courts - Fishing - Beach - Sport Fields for Activities If you would like the bunkhouse / cabin - you must add it as an extra, otherwise it will be assumed that you are tent camping. Pools are off limits to Hipcamp families.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$75
 / night
Sleep next to the enchanting sounds of a creek . . .

15. Theo's Creek Homestead

96%
(166)
50mi from Princeton · 2 sites · Tents · Phoenixville, PA
Closed for 2025. See you in 2026! Please read full description for info on the sites we have available. We purchased our dream homestead in 2020, and we would love to share it with others as we build it to become bountiful and as self-sustaining as possible. It is not in the middle of nowhere....it's in the middle of everywhere! Learn more about this land: Camp next to a peaceful trickling creek just outside Phoenixville and Kimberton. We are a suburban oasis, surrounded by a little bit of everything.  Our homestead has plenty of activity including kids, dogs, and chickens, bees and goats! We have a fully wooded area available to explore across the creek, and weather dependent- the creek is a great place to stay cool. You'll see lots of growing fruit trees in our developing orchard and we are happy to share our vision for this beautiful land! We have two campsites available for you to choose between for your stay. Both sites are along the creek, however, one has a view of some nearby houses and is a short walk to the parking spot [Creekside]. The other site is more secluded, past the tree line, but a further walk from where you are able to park. [Hillside] If needed, we are happy to lend you a wagon to haul your gear. Please let us know if you have questions and your preference of site. We have a cabin-like bathroom and partial kitchen you will have access to during your stay. We always have cold water available for purchase in the fridge. There is trail access easily accessible from our home (the closest is approximately 1 mile), for paved or natural trail exploration. We are are a great stopping point for cyclists enjoying the area. It's a short drive to downtown Phoenixville with some of the best breweries around. Phoenixville is home to a great farmers market on Saturday mornings and numerous festivals. Also, close-by is the lovely quaint village of Kimberton, home of the best organic grocery store and many opportunities for hiking and small farms.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night
Our helpful little goats, Rambo & Yari, munching on the overgrown grass

16. For Tomorrow Farms

100%
(43)
48mi from Princeton · 2 sites · Tents · Pottstown, PA
Our farmhouse was built in 1860 and we are only the fourth family to live here! In the past century and a half, this land was used as a willow and flax farm as well as a chicken farm. The property is on Lenni-Lenape land, and our hope is to bring back more of the native plants that have been used (and continue to be used) as food and medicine.Learn more about this land:Welcome to For Tomorrow Farms, our creekside permaculture farm and food forest! This site is still being planned and developed, but our mission is to create a productive and healing space in nature for individuals to connect with the environment, try fresh home-grown foods, and hang out with friendly farm animals. We are currently growing rare and heirloom fruits, veggies, and herbs (ask us what we’re growing!) in the backyard of our 1860s farmhouse, and our animals help with natural land maintenance and fertilization. Come say hi to the goats, take a dip in the creek, and explore our 10 acres of exotic wetlands! If you’re looking for a longer hike, we are also surrounded by plenty of gorgeous parks and trails, which are only a short drive away. This is the ideal location for a peaceful getaway just an hour outside center city Philadelphia. Plus, make sure to keep checking back as we continue to grow and improve our property. A few projects we’re looking forward to are converting one of the old farm sheds into a tiny guest house and adding a shower to our indoor campsite bathroom!We hope you’ll enjoy your stay here! Thanks for being a part of our journey.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night
Welcome to our abode

17. 60's Surf Camper

83%
(50)
47mi from Princeton · 3 sites · Lodging · Inwood, NY
Located in the heart of Rockaway Beach NYC, this vintage 1963 Shasta camper is perfect for a small getaway with a few pals to enjoy the sun and the surf! Take a trip back in time! The camper can sleep up to 4, where the second bed is created from the seating area. There is a beautiful city view over the bay that can be seen from the seating area. All linens are provided. A fridge to keep your drinks ice cold, a BBQ, 2 beach chairs with umbrella, a cooler, and a coffee maker with coffee, are all yours to enjoy and are included free in the rental! We also have two surfboards available to rent for an extra fee. Guests have access to a private toilet, and an outdoor shower for rinsing off after a long day on the beach or shredding the surf. Fishing, and the most amazing city view sunsets are just a 1 minute walk up the block to the bay park. Quality Wifi is included.The Atlantic ocean, the beach, concession stands, and our wonderful new boardwalk are just a few short blocks away, a 4 minute walk. Great neighborhood restaurants and bars are within walking distance. Rent a surf board and hit of the surf beaches or just head to the beach to relax. Perfect for couples or a small family getaway, come and enjoy this vintage camper, and all that this beach town has to offer!
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
$117
 / night
MEDITATION AREA

18. Historical Lake Front Barn

91%
(22)
30mi from Princeton · 1 site · Tent, RV · Mendham, NJ
Nestled in the mountainside in Morris County this 10 acre farm estate is home to a plethora of wildlife, small lake, and large brook that runs through the property. The lake is home to native wildlife and the brook is loaded with trout. There are a couple of professionally maintained landscaping areas perfect for camping and firepit. It comes with a firepit, and everything you need for an amazing night out in the wilderness. There are beautiful hiking trails on site as well as right across the way adjacent to the property that are highly regarded in the state. The most secluded property you can imagine, it is home to some truly magnificent wildlife. There is no littering, and absolutely no hunting. As a nature lover, the respect I have shown these animals, is the reason why they love it here. Who knows what you may see! Firewood is available for purchase at the top of the driveway. It is handcut and seasoned for 3 years and stored in a custom hutch. $5 a compartment money goes in the mailbox.
Pets
Campfires
Trash
from 
$119
 / night

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field