River Bend Group Campground

River Bend Group Campground, often referred to as Rivers Bend, is a dedicated primitive camping facility designed specifically for larger parties and organizations. Managed as part of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, this campground offers a unique opportunity for New Jersey residents to experience the rugged beauty of the Sussex County wilderness. Nestled along the eastern banks of the Delaware River near Layton, the campground is defined by its expansive grassy fields, towering hardwoods, and the peaceful sounds of the nearby Big Flatbrook Creek. It is an ideal setting for those who prioritize a deep connection with nature and a sense of isolation from the standard commercialized camping experience.

As a group-only facility, River Bend serves a specific niche for the local community, accommodating everything from family reunions and scout troops to large groups of friends. The atmosphere is one of rustic simplicity; there are no paved pads or manicured lawns here. Instead, you will find vast open spaces that allow for flexible tent arrangements and communal gatherings. This is a place where the stars are bright, the wildlife is active, and the river provides both a scenic backdrop and a recreational playground. For groups looking to bond over a campfire or explore the historical and natural wonders of the Delaware Water Gap, River Bend offers an authentic and secluded home base.

Location and accessibility are central to the appeal of River Bend Group Campground. Tucked away on Old Mine Road in Layton, NJ (07851), the site feels worlds away from the urban sprawl of the tri-state area, yet it remains reachable for a weekend trip. Accessibility is managed through a compacted gravel entrance road that allows for standard vehicle traffic, though the park also features a unique river-access trail for those arriving by canoe or kayak. The campground is inclusive in its design, offering wheelchair-accessible entrances and a wheelchair-accessible parking lot to ensure all group members can reach the sites. It is important to note that the road to the campground can be narrow and winding, reflecting its status as one of the oldest and most historic routes in the United States.

The services offered at River Bend Group Campground are focused on supporting a primitive, self-sufficient camping style. This is not a facility with modern electrical hookups or luxury bathhouses; rather, it provides the essential bones for a successful wilderness stay. The emphasis is on "leave no trace" principles and group cooperation. Guests should come prepared with their own supplies, including potable water, as the onsite well water involves a manual pump that can be physically demanding. The facility is strictly for tent camping, ensuring that the natural landscape remains undisturbed by heavy machinery and loud generators.

• Large, designated group tent sites capable of hosting between 5 and 25 people each.
• Dedicated on-site parking with an allotment of up to eight vehicle spaces per group site.
• Seasonal access to drinking water via a centrally located manual hand pump.
• Basic restroom facilities consisting of vault toilets (outhouses) maintained by the National Park Service.
• Bear-proof food lockers and trash containers provided at each site for wildlife safety.
• Sturdy fire rings and multiple picnic tables included at every campsite for group meals.
• Direct river access for paddlers with a crushed gravel portage trail leading to the camp.
• Proximity to park rangers and emergency services via the main recreation area infrastructure.

The features and highlights of River Bend are what make it a standout for outdoor purists in New Jersey. The primary attraction is the Delaware River itself, which offers world-class paddling, fishing, and scenic beauty. The campground is also a prime spot for wildlife watching; it is not uncommon to see bald eagles soaring overhead or even the occasional black bear roaming the riverbanks—a reminder of the area's wild character. For those who enjoy terrestrial adventures, the campground serves as a gateway to the extensive trail system of the Delaware Water Gap, including the famous Appalachian Trail and the nearby trails of Stokes State Forest.

• Scenic riverside location providing immediate access to the Delaware National Scenic and Recreational River.
• Massive, level grassy fields that offer ample room for large tents and group activities.
• Secluded environment far from highway noise, perfect for stargazing and peaceful retreats.
• Close proximity to Big Flatbrook Creek, a renowned spot for local fly fishing.
• Kid-friendly environment with wide-open spaces for play and gentle, nearby hiking trails.
• Access to historic Old Mine Road and the nearby 19th-century Millbrook Village.
• Integration with the park's "Bear Aware" program, including necessary food storage infrastructure.
• A "back-to-basics" atmosphere that encourages traditional camping skills and group bonding.

For groups looking to secure a spot at River Bend, reservations are mandatory and must be made through the official federal recreation portal. Because there are only five sites available in this exclusive area, early booking is highly recommended, especially for peak summer weekends. The campground generally operates on a seasonal basis, typically opening in April and closing in November, depending on weather and river conditions.

Contact Information:
Address: Old Mine Road, Layton, NJ 07851, USA
Phone: (570) 426-2452
Mobile Phone: +1 570-426-2452

What is worth choosing about River Bend Group Campground is the rare sense of true seclusion it offers within the most densely populated region of the country. For New Jersey residents, it is a place to escape the "resort" style of camping and embrace a more meaningful, rugged adventure. The ability to accommodate up to 25 people in a single, massive site makes it one of the few places where a large community can stay together under the canopy of the stars without being separated by small, cramped individual lots. The value lies in the experience of the river—the sounds of the water, the lack of light pollution, and the shared effort of setting up a primitive camp.

Furthermore, the campground is worth choosing for its historical and environmental significance. Staying here means you are camping in a landscape that has remained largely unchanged for decades, protected by the National Park Service. While you must bring your own water and be prepared for a "work-for-it" environment (especially with the hand-pumped well), the payoff is a pristine riverside morning and a level of quiet that is hard to find elsewhere. For the group leader who wants to provide their members with a lesson in self-reliance, nature appreciation, and river safety, River Bend is an unparalleled choice. It is a destination that demands respect for the environment and rewards visitors with a uniquely authentic New Jersey wilderness experience.