April 14, 2025
Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life?
New Jersey might not be the first place that pops into your mind for outdoor adventures, but trust me, the Garden State has some seriously awesome spots for kayaking and camping.
I've paddled and pitched tents across NJ, and I'm excited to share my favorite spots with you.
In this post, I'll show you 7 amazing places to kayak and camp in New Jersey.
In my opinion, Wharton State Forest is the BEST place to kayak and camp in southern New Jersey.
It’s the largest state forest in New Jersey, stretching over more than 120,000 acres!
There are several rivers running through it, including the Mullica , Batsto, Oswego and Wading rivers.
These give you you miles and miles of beautiful waterways to explore.You’ll get to paddle through thick pine forests, past sandy banks, and under low wooden bridges that make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Camping here is just as good. You can find sites right along the river which makes it super easy to pull your kayak ashore, set up camp, and relax under the stars.
If you’re looking for an overnight paddle, the Mullica River Campground on the Mullica River offers a well-marked route with a designated camping area about halfway through the trip. Just make sure to book your campsite ahead of time! This is a true wilderness experience—no electricity, no running water, just you and the Pines.
Oh, and keep your eyes peeled - Wharton is home to an abundance of wildlife!
Check Out Our: River Trips In Pine Barrens
If you’ve got a thing for mountains and rivers, Delaware Water Gap is your spot. This area is jaw-droppingly beautiful, and is a great place to kayak and camp.
The Delaware River cuts through mountains, creating some incredible views! Picture towering cliffs, lush forests, and plenty of wildlife—think bald eagles, deer, and maybe even a black bear in the distance (don’t worry, they mostly keep to themselves).
It’s perfect for all skill levels, with calm stretches for beginners and some more exciting sections for those who want a challenge.
The river is wide and slow-moving in most areas, so it’s great for beginners.
But if you want a little extra excitement, there are some sections with Class I and II rapids to keep things interesting.
Camping here is awesome too. There are a few campgrounds by the river, and you can also try backcountry camping if you're feeling adventurous.
If you love both water and mountains, this is a must-visit.
This is one of those places that flies under the radar, but it’s absolutely worth a visit.
Parvin State Park is a small but scenic park located in southern New Jersey. It’s home to Parvin Lake, where you can enjoy kayaking on calm waters surrounded by dense woods.
The lake is pretty peaceful, making it a great place for beginners or anyone just looking to relax and paddle around.
The camping here is pretty comfortable, too.
The campsites are shaded by trees and just a short walk from the lake. It's one of those spots where you can wake up, grab your kayak, and start your day on the water. In the evenings, you can unwind at the campground, surrounded by nature.
It’s a quiet, family-friendly spot to enjoy a weekend on the water.
Also Read: How Much To Rent A Kayak In New Jersey?
If you’re up for something different, this is the place to go.
The Sedge Islands are part of a coastal reserve off Barnegat Bay, and they offer a totally unique kayaking experience. Instead of rivers or lakes, you’ll be paddling through salt marshes, weaving between small islands, and exploring tidal creeks.
It’s an amazing spot for spotting wildlife—ospreys, herons, and even seals in the colder months.
Camping here is a little more rugged. There aren’t a ton of traditional campsites, but there are primitive spots available if you’re okay with roughing it.
You won’t find big crowds here either which makes it a peaceful escape from the usual hustle and bustle.
If you want a true coastal adventure, this is it.
Round Valley Reservoir is one of the most stunning spots to kayak and camp in New Jersey.
The water here is a deep blue, and the surrounding hills make the views straight-up breathtaking. And it's one of the deepest lakes in New Jersey, reaching depths of over 180 feet!
What makes Round Valley special for campers is the boat-in only wilderness campsites. You can only reach these sites by water, which means fewer crowds and a true wilderness experience.
Load up your kayak with gear and paddle to your own private campsite!
Just keep in mind that the reservoir can get windy in the afternoons which can be a bit challenging for kayakers. So plan your paddling for mornings or evenings.
The effort is worth it – these campsites offer some of the most peaceful overnight stays you'll find in the state.
Also Read: Kayaking In South Jersey
The Raritan River might not always get the love it deserves, but it’s a fantastic place to kayak and camp.
Duke Island Park offers easy access to the river, with some scenic views along the way. The river is calm for the most part, so it’s great for beginners or people looking to relax on the water.
While Duke Island Park itself doesn't have camping, there are nearby campgrounds just a short drive away. This makes it perfect for a weekend trip – paddle during the day and retreat to your campsite in the evening.
The Raritan is also great for fishing. Smallmouth bass, catfish, and sunfish are abundant in these waters.
Nothing beats cooking your fresh catch over a campfire after a day on the water!
Last but definitely not least, Lake Wawayanda is a fantastic kayaking destination.
This beautiful lake sits in the far north of New Jersey, surrounded by forested hills. The water is calm, making it perfect for an easygoing paddle while soaking in the stunning views.
If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of some local wildlife along the shoreline.
The park offers several campgrounds that cater to tent campers and RVers alike. Waking up to the sound of birds chirping and being able to step straight into your kayak for a morning paddle is something you’ll never forget.
There’s also plenty of hiking and fishing to keep you busy, making it a great destination for those who love to do a little bit of everything.
New Jersey may not always get the spotlight when it comes to outdoor adventures, but it definitely deserves some attention.
These seven spots are perfect for kayaking and camping for both beginner and seasoned pros. The mix of lakes, rivers, and forests gives you plenty of variety, and each place has its own special charm.
The best part? Most of these locations are within a couple hours' drive from major population centers - you don't need to travel across the country to find adventure!
