When you think of RVing in New Jersey, you might picture crowded highways and fighting for a spot with a view of a refinery. But let me tell you, there’s another New Jersey, a world away from the Turnpike, tucked into the rolling, forested hills of Sussex County. This is the Skylands region, and it’s where you’ll find a true gem like The Great Divide Campground. For travelers making their way between the concrete canyons of New York City and the gentle slopes of the Poconos, this campground offers more than just a place to stay; it provides a much needed, peaceful place to empty your tanks and reconnect with nature.
Finding this spot is an adventure in itself. You leave the interstate behind and wind your way through scenic country roads, past historic farms and charming small towns. The campground is a large, sprawling property with over 270 sites, ranging from open pull-thrus to secluded, wooded spots. It feels like a classic mountain retreat. The air is cleaner, the world is quieter, and the pace of life slows down a few notches. They welcome transient RVers to use their dump station, making it a fantastic alternative to searching for a less scenic option closer to the main highways.
This isn’t just a stopover; it’s a destination. The campground is located just a short drive from the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, a stunningly beautiful region where the Delaware River has carved a path through the Kittatinny Ridge. This is an outdoor lover’s paradise. You can spend a day kayaking on the river, keeping an eye out for bald eagles soaring overhead. You can hike to cascading waterfalls or explore historic colonial villages within the park. And for serious hikers, the famed Appalachian Trail runs right through this area. One of the most famous and challenging sections in New Jersey, the "Stairway to Heaven," is just a twenty minute drive away. It's a rugged rock staircase that climbs the ridge and rewards you with breathtaking 360 degree views. Imagine being able to dump your tanks and then go bag a famous AT segment all in the same afternoon.
The experience of using the dump station here reflects the overall vibe of the park. It’s relaxed and well maintained. You’ll check in at the camp office, and the friendly staff can direct you. The station is usually located near the entrance for easy access. Since this is a large park with many seasonal residents, it can get busy during checkout time on a Sunday morning. For a more relaxed experience, aim for a mid week visit. You’ll likely have the place to yourself, with nothing but the sound of birds and the rustle of leaves in the trees as your soundtrack.
The amenities are what you’d expect from a high quality, private campground. They have clean, modern restrooms and hot showers, which are an absolute blessing after a long, muddy hike on the AT. They have conveniently located trash dumpsters, so you can offload any garbage you’ve accumulated. One standout feature is a fenced in dog park, which is fantastic for letting your four legged co pilot run off some steam safely. However, you need to plan ahead for a few things. They don't sell propane or fuel on site, so make sure you fill up in the town of Newton before you head up into the hills. Also, there’s no laundry facility within the campground, so you'll need to use a laundromat in a nearby town if you need to get that chore done. A final, crucial tip: cell service can be spotty in these hills. Be sure to download your maps and driving directions before you lose signal.
When it comes to cost, private campgrounds on the East Coast, especially in a desirable area like this, will naturally charge more for a dump service than a truck stop. Expect a fee somewhere in the fifteen to twenty dollar range for non guests. It’s always best to call ahead to confirm the exact price, their hours, and to make sure they can accommodate you. Sometimes, if you arrive after hours, they may have an honor box system, so having some cash on hand is a smart idea.
So, what’s the final word on The Great Divide? This is the perfect stop for the RVer who wants to combine a necessary task with a healthy dose of natural beauty and recreation. It’s for the traveler who would rather pay a little more for a peaceful, park like setting than deal with the noise and bustle of a roadside plaza. It’s a place to dump your tanks, yes, but it’s also a place to breathe deep, hike a trail, and remember why you fell in love with the freedom of the RV lifestyle in the first place. It’s a wonderful, green oasis in the Garden State.
68 Phillips Rd, Newton, NJ 07860
(973) 383-4026
Cost: Price not available
Category: Campground
Has Water
campthegreatdivide.com