The Great Divide Campground, LLC

For residents of New Jersey looking to escape the hustle and bustle of suburban life without a day-long drive, The Great Divide Campground, LLC offers a refreshing retreat in the scenic highlands of Sussex County. Nestled in the rolling foothills near Newton, this destination has evolved into one of the most beloved family-owned campgrounds in the region. Spanning 100 acres of lush fields and dense forests, the park provides a perfect balance of rustic charm and modern convenience. It is a place where traditions are born, whether you are a first-time camper or a seasoned traveler who views the outdoors as a second home. The atmosphere is professional yet incredibly warm, reflecting the personal touch of owners Carmine and Lisa, who have dedicated themselves to creating a community-focused environment since 2012.

The Great Divide is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it is a full-service resort designed to cater to various styles of outdoor living. From the "kinda-camping" crowd who prefer cozy cabin trailers with air conditioning and kitchens to the "unplugged" enthusiasts seeking primitive sites under the stars, the layout accommodates everyone. The campground is meticulously maintained, with clean facilities and a staff that treats every visitor like a neighbor. Locals from across the Garden State frequently return for the themed weekends and live entertainment, making it a social hub where families from different towns connect over shared campfires and summer festivities.

Location and accessibility are key highlights for New Jersey travelers. Situated on Phillips Road in Newton, the campground is easily reached from Route 206 and is approximately 50 miles outside of New York City, making it an ideal weekend getaway for those in Northern and Central Jersey. The entrance features a monitored security gate for peace of mind, and the internal roads lead to a variety of wooded and open sites. Recognizing the importance of inclusivity, the facility provides wheelchair-accessible restrooms and a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, ensuring that the beauty of the Sussex County wilderness is available to all guests regardless of mobility needs.

• Full-service RV camping with 30-amp and 50-amp electric hookups and water connections.
• Spacious, landscaped wooded and open sites for traditional tent camping.
• "Kinda-Camping" rentals including cozy cabin trailers, yurts, and covered wagons with modern amenities.
• On-site camping store stocked with groceries, ice, firewood, and essential RV supplies.
• Olympic-sized heated swimming pool overlooking a private lake.
• Professional onsite services including seasonal site management and pump-out stations.
• Clean, modern restroom facilities and hot showers with accessibility features.
• Laundromat facilities available for extended stay convenience.

The highlights of a stay at The Great Divide are often centered around its robust activities calendar. The park is famous for its themed weekends, such as "Christmas in July," "Time of Your Life Weekend," and "Pirate Weekend," which bring a festive energy to the grounds. For those who prefer natural recreation, the site offers direct access to hiking and nature trails that showcase the unique geography of the Skylands region. The private two-acre lake is a centerpiece for relaxation, offering catch-and-release fishing and free kayak rentals for guests to explore the water at their own pace.

• Kid-friendly environment featuring multiple playgrounds and a dedicated rock-scape climbing area.
• Dog-friendly facilities including a dedicated dog park and "dogi-pot" stations for pet owners.
• Live musical entertainment every weekend at the outdoor pavilion and the historic "Great Divide Barn."
• Recreation hall and game room equipped with an arcade, giant chess, and indoor activities.
• Sports courts for basketball, volleyball, tetherball, and horseshoes.
• Organized family activities like arts and crafts, mining for gemstones, and communal picnics.
• Close proximity to the local dining and shops of historic Newton and Andover.

Planning your visit is straightforward, and the management encourages early reservations, particularly for popular holiday weekends like Memorial Day or the highly anticipated October festivals. The office is staffed by a knowledgeable team ready to assist with site selection or information about local Sussex County attractions.

Address: 68 Phillips Rd, Newton, NJ 07860, USA

Phone: (973) 383-4026

What is worth choosing about The Great Divide Campground is the palpable sense of community that the Torella family and their staff have fostered. In an era where many campgrounds are becoming corporate-owned and impersonal, this location stands out for its heart. Choosing this campground means you are investing in an experience where the owners are often on-site, ensuring the grounds are spotless and the activities are engaging. The mix of seasonal residents and weekend travelers creates a friendly, safe neighborhood feel that is particularly reassuring for parents with young children.

The "Kind-to-Camping" philosophy is another reason to choose this park. If you have family members who are hesitant about sleeping on the ground, the high-quality trailer rentals provide a "glamping" bridge that allows everyone to enjoy the forest without sacrificing comfort. Furthermore, the commitment to the "little things"—like ice and firewood delivery directly to your site—allows you to spend more time relaxing and less time running errands. Whether you are there to hike the rugged trails of Sussex County or simply want to float in a heated Olympic-sized pool while a live band plays in the background, The Great Divide delivers an authentic, top-tier New Jersey camping experience that truly lives up to its name.