Most wildfires are preventable. Learn to be fire safe
- Mendham
Best in New Jersey: Finalist
Named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2024.
Nomadic camping
Best for self-contained campers. There are no toilets, showers, or potable water at this Hipcamp.
Rig suitability
Vehicles under 45 feet allowed
Allowed rigs: travel trailers, fifth wheels, toy haulers, pop-up campers, class A RVs, class B RVs, class C RVs, campervans, cars, truck campers, and rooftop tents
Pull-in site
Accommodates slideouts
Surface type: Loose Gravel
Surface levelness: Flat
No electrical hookup
No water hookup
No sewage hookup
No TV hookup
Generators not allowed
What to expect
RV/tent site
9 guests max
Campfires allowed
Pets allowed
No toilet; campers must bring camp toilets
Bins available
Picnic table present
No potable water
No showers
Cooking equipment absent
No wifi
Laundry absent
Hot Tub absent
No playground
Things to know
Getting there
Check in: After 1:00 PM
Check out: Before 12:00 PM
On arrival: Head straight to site
Cancellation policy: Super Strict (30 Days)
Minimum nights: 1 night
Accepts bookings: 18 months out
Park at listing
Wheelchair access
Max 2 vehicles
2WD accessible
During your trip
Follow the
Leave it better
Inclusion policyWe have a zero-tolerance policy against discrimination at Hipcamp. We are committed to helping our Host and Hipcamper communities be inclusive.
RV/tent sites
1 site
Instant book
Historical Lake Front Barn
88%
(25)Campfires allowed
Pets allowed
Reviews
88% Recommend25 ratings · 23 reviews
It was the first camp for my 5y son, with my wife 3 of us arrived to the well described spot.
The Host was very well prepared and communicative all time.
Its a really nice territory, we saw wild life as well. The nearby creek is super great and clear, even we found the white rectangle path to a waterfall!
Its like a private forest, easy to reach, clean nice site place.
Its a nomad site without any disturbances!
Certainly ll come back!
P
Peter K.
2 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· June 2026
16 ft car ·
Historical Lake Front Barn
TJ was a great host and I had a positive experience. The property is gorgeous so would recommend.
Charles L.
4 reviews
Not recommend
· June 2026
19 ft campervan ·
Historical Lake Front Barn
There has been zero effort to set this place up for camping. It’s a muddy end of a gravel driveway, clearly a work location for splitting wood. In front of an abandoned and falling down home (not a historic barn). There is no fire ring no nice place for a tent out of the roadway, no table, etc. The location is peaceful and beautiful but to charge over $100/night and put no effort into making a decent camping area for guests is really not cool. By far the most expensive hipcamp I’ve stayed at and by far the least impressive. Go figure.
To be generous, I was happy to wake up near beautiful hiking but I drove around to the trailhead for buttermilk falls since the way in from this property is overgrown and will likely be worse later this summer.
C
Christy S.
8 reviews
Mixed feelings
· September 2025
About 85% amazing, 15% not ideal
Tent · Group trip ·
Historical Lake Front Barn
The spot has many incredibly amazing features, especially the very quick hop over the creek to a great network of hiking trails. It's an easy drive from NYC, quiet, and we saw some great birds. The firewood sold at the entrance was high quality and easy to access. The area around the firepit is flat, great for tents, and mostly has lovely views. We were adequately warned that there were no toilets or potable water, but we were expecting a picnic table, which was listed on hipcamp but not present at the site. We made do with some cut logs nearby as seats & surfaces to prep food. The broken down house on site together with the old swimming pool now covered in algae definitely felt creepy. We got used to it, and the view in other directions from the firepit was lovely. But it's really a collapsing house, not exactly what "historic barn" calls to mind. We still had an enjoyable campout with a really nice hike - the communications from the owner were helpful, and the ease of check in was excellent. But the price was pretty expensive given these downsides.
D
Deborah A.
5 reviews
We stayed here for two nights during Labor Day weekend, absolutely beautiful weather, no bugs. Good swimming hole in the creek and a stone skipping lake nearby. The abandoned house was fine, and overall quiet. This area is rich horse ppl mansions everywhere, I wasn’t worried about my safety at all. Great spot for my dog too and a nice walking trail. We weren’t bored. Around 9:30 am the host with police badge on windshield of truck came and told us there was a large group coming and asked us to leave earlier than check out time, he was cool though, and luckily we have very little to pack up. There is also a camera at the site, but we felt like we were left alone the whole time we were there, and really weren’t bothered at all by the camera there. We would def come back here again, I felt like it was worth the money and a nice area! Nice camp site!
J
Jessi H.
8 reviews
Recommends
· August 2025
Tent · With kids ·
Historical Lake Front Barn
2nd time booking this site and probably won't be the last! Kids had a great time, was bummed Buttermilk Falls was closed down though..
T
Timothy B.
2 reviews
Recommends
· July 2024
Tent · With kids ·
Historical Lake Front Barn
Great site with a lot to do with little kids! I brought my two boys and they loved hiking the brook and catch frogs and newts.
T
Timothy B.
2 reviews
This site was big and semi-private. There were some drawbacks that could have been avoided — some that are just part of the risk you take camping — and plenty of positives too!
Drawbacks:
— The wood provided by the host had a nest of bees or wasps which stung one member of our party and were almost impossible to avoid even when we were being very gentle.
— The “barn” has deteriorated SIGNIFICANTLY since the photo here on the listing and it injured two members of the party because it’s super easy to run into / bonk your head, especially in the dark. It makes it seem like you have rain cover, but the roof is collapsing so it’s partial at best.
Just a risk you take while camping:
— I got a flat tire on the gravel road necessitating a visit from AAA and then Mavis in the morning. The gravel road isn’t bad, bumpy in some places, but it happened and was annoying and expensive.
— Several folks wandered through our campsite including two teens who seemed confused that it was private land (obvs we directed them to the closest road). There’s a trail that goes right by the site so people are wandering through semi-regularly in good weather.
The good things:
— Lots of deer, chipmunks, herons, frogs, and foxes to see.
— Beautiful creek to dip in. It’s shallow but still delicious and cool!
— Tons of great spots to set up your tent.
— Neat, algae covered pool built into the ground to explore near.
All in all a fun stay but I wouldn’t make the two hours drive from Philly again!
Elle Z.
15 reviews
This is an absolutely gorgeous property near a picturesque brook and easy access to lovely hiking trails. The site is private and very quiet other than the calls of the birds and frogs, and the occasional crashing of deer. There is a abundant wildlife and amazingly few nuisance insects. There is some broken glass and poison ivy near the campsite, so be careful if you have kids and dogs. The poison ivy is very easy to avoid so long as you know to look for it.
Truly the best way to enjoy this site is in a tent, down into the wooded area away from the old barn.
K
Kathleen E.
2 reviews
Recommends
· May 2024
22 ft Class B · With pets ·
Historical Lake Front Barn
Review
To me...nature at it's finest. Secluded,safe, spiritual beyond belief! If you are wanting to find yourself, whether through a sudden tragedy or be it your own spiritual journey in life..this is definitely the place to go. It can be a little creepy at night given the location, but tat's just a added bonus lol👍
G
Gerri M.
2 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· April 2024
Tent ·
Historical Lake Front Barn
TJ’s site is absolutely wonderful. So beautiful, and the wildlife is plentiful. TJ was also a very helpful and communicative host, and happily answered any questions I had and offered great advice. You won’t regret your stay!
Alexis K.
6 reviews
Recommends
· April 2024
16 ft car · With pets ·
Historical Lake Front Barn
Private pond and stream very close to site. The place was private and secluded aswell. It was a great get away and balance of both small towns and nature. TJ was responsive and friendly.
E
Elisha Y.
2 years on Hipcamp
I enjoyed camping by the historical barn on TJ’s land. It was very private and rustic tucked in the woods. The fire pit was great. I brought my own wood and enjoyed a roaring blaze. The best part is the lake and the nearby Ireland Brook. With a short hike you can be at the edge of both. It was also soothing to hear the bubbling of the brook at night. I will be back to explore more!
H
Hali F.
2 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· December 2023
Tent ·
Historical Lake Front Barn
Nice and quiet. Lots of beautiful forest. Simple access. The old house appears a little spooky when setting up at night, but it’s not - especially after the sun came up. TJ was extremely kind and helpful. I would definitely return.
Dan M.
3 reviews
Recommends
· September 2023
Tent · Group trip ·
Historical Lake Front Barn
Really cool site. Drive in, park, and safely store your food away from your campsite. Walk about .25 miles in and pitch your tents in a grassy patch overlooking the brook. At night, the brook is a perfect sound machine. Explore historic trails, spot some deer, and enjoy a fire at night and in the morning. Kings is nearby for any and all last minute grocery needs. Would love to share this site with more friends.
C
Cade S.
4 reviews
TJ was super responsive to all of our questions leading up to the trip. It's great that he's local and knows much about the surrounding areas and local features.
The site was everything we needed in mid summer- shaded, wonderful, peaceful and private. Understandably, parts of the terrain and trees show damage from the recent and severe storms, but there's ample space to set up camp.
I understand the property in three distinct sections: the Entryway, the Main camp site and Back Trail. The entryway is a manicured Certified Wildlife Habitat. The main camp ground includes a rougher gravel driveway, surrounded by trees. Through the old barn, you'll find the back trail that parallels the India Brook Natural Area, a trail system leads to the Buttermilk Falls! There's no official stream crossing to connect TJ's to the White Trail, but it can be done with caution and care (or without fear of getting wet).
I highly recommend it for hiking or trail running. The terrain can get a little rocky and technal, so be mindful of what you can handle. The India Brook system is clearly marked on the Strava Fitness App.
Christopher G.
3 years on Hipcamp
I can't wait to rave about this amazing campsite! It was an absolute paradise nestled between a babbling brook and a serene lake. The scenery was simply breathtaking! But what truly made this experience exceptional was the proximity to some fantastic hiking trails, perfect for adventure seekers.
And let me tell you about the host! He was incredibly responsive and welcoming. From the moment we arrived, Thomas made sure we had everything we needed to make our stay comfortable and enjoyable. His warmth and friendliness added an extra layer of coziness to the whole experience.
We spent our day exploring the stunning hiking trails located on the property that connect to buttermilk falls trails, and kayaking on the lake. Our evening was filled with the soothing sounds of the brook, making it the ultimate relaxation spot. The peaceful atmosphere was just what I needed to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
I can't recommend this campsite enough. It's a true gem for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. If you're looking for an unforgettable getaway surrounded by nature's beauty and hosted by a responsive and caring individual, this is the place for you! I'm already counting down the days until I can return and create more cherished memories in this slice of heaven.
T
Tiffany S.
3 years on Hipcamp
A special place thru and thru. TJ was beyond accommodating and the property itself is more than worth the money. Waking up soaking wet to the gorgeous view made it absolutely worth it! Frogs galore!! So much to explore. We thoroughly enjoyed our time. Thank you TJ!
K
Kayla M.
3 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2023
Tent · With pets ·
Historical Lake Front Barn
The space is huge and quiet and peaceful…but near everything at the same time. Despite acres of land there was really only one suitable place to set up our huge tent and place tons of our gear. We walked around and went in the water and saw frogs and deer and heard coyotes and chilled. Definitely use tick spray and check nightly for bites. TJ was responsive and kind. Only about an hour outside of NYC so convenient as well. Thank you!
S
Sara H.
15 reviews
Recommends
· June 2023
Tent · Group trip ·
Historical Lake Front Barn
Beautiful, calm site. Lots of cool features, and set aside from people. Felt very private while not being in the middle of nowhere. TJ was super kind and accommodating!
M
Marnie S.
3 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· June 2023
22 ft Class C ·
Historical Lake Front Barn
A little slice of country heaven in a very upscale suburb.
J
Jason R.
3 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· June 2023
Tent · With pets ·
Historical Lake Front Barn
This was a great spot! It’s next to an abandoned house/barn which is really interesting. There’s an old pool on the property and a lake at the bottom of the hill that is beautiful. Easy private hiking trail down to the brook with a simple rock crossing to get onto the white yellow red trails of India brook. My dog had a blast running around the property and rolling in the grasses. We will definitely be back
L
Lyndee J.
2 reviews
Recommends
· May 2023
19 ft travel trailer · With pets ·
Historical Lake Front Barn
If you are someone who truly appreciates nature at its finest, this campsite is a gem. We are talking about a place where nature preservation is an ongoing and serious project, where wildlife of all kinds and foliage of incredible varieties are there for your hiking and visual pleasure. If you just want to drink beer and sit around, go somewhere else. This place is special and unique.
J
Joseph F.
2 reviews
Location
Mendham, Morris, New Jersey, United StatesTo respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking
Hosted by Tj C.
Joined in October 2022Things to do nearby
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