RV Rental Morris Plains, NJ

Dozens of wilderness parks, some pocket-sized, others, huge, dot this part of New Jersey. Rent an RV in Morris Plains and explore them all. New Jersey is home to a few species of rare, threatened, and endangered animals, and some can be found in Morris Plains’ backyard. The Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge protects the habitats of the blue-spotted salamander, Indiana bat, and bog turtle. Spotting one would be quite a feat. Other species like the river otters and white-tailed deer are common visitors. There are several miles of hiking trails, and though boating is not allowed, hikers can veer off the trail into the marshes. Hip waders are recommended, though.

To the west, the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, also known as the Gap, yawns its way between Pennsylvania and New Jersey. A narrow but deep river slices in between the valley. The ancient river was born millions of years ago when two continents collided to form this unique geological feature. Hundreds of miles of multi-use trails criss-cross both sides of the valley, and it would take a lifetime to hike them all. For much of the year, the river is a popular recreational spot, and sailboats and motorboats drift up and down the waters all day. In springs and early summers, just after snowmelt, the river transforms into Class III and IV rapids. Daredevils in kayaks and rafts will brave the giant rock obstacles, fallen trees, and towering sprays of water as they attempt to make their way down the river intact. Inevitably, one will disappear into frothy waters only to pop back up a few yards downstream. Bring your rental RV and enjoy both public and private campgrounds here.

In the heart of suburbia, there are covenants and rules in place prohibiting overnight street parking. When you book an RV rental in Morris Plains, NJ, be sure to figure out where you will be parking overnight or while out exploring. There are a few campgrounds within a 10-mile radius that may work.

The Great Divide Campground in Newton, which is roughly halfway between New York City and the Gap, is a large campground with roomy lots. It boasts several amenities like fire rings at each lot, hot showers, and a private lake.

Mahlon Dickerson Reservation may be a good option, too. Although its amenities are more spartan, the Sparta, campground is set in sun-dappled woods encompassing 3,495 acres of wilderness. The trailheads for nearly 25 miles of hiking trails are just a few steps away.

Beat the city crowds and explore New Jersey in a luxury RV rental. The Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange succeeds at uniting recreational experience and conservation efforts. Gone are the antique cages that were popular in the 1960s. Zoo visitors enjoy wildlife in naturalistic habitats, a 4,000 square foot reptile center, interactive displays, and touch tanks. Behind-the-scenes tours are available as well. Learn about the turtle rehabilitation efforts, how to care for the wild animals, and quiz zookeepers on their encyclopedic knowledge.

Ever wonder what it would be like to live as a gunslinger in the infamous Dodge City, Kansas? Wonder no more. Step back into time to the 1880s at Wild West City in Stanhope. The cowboy theme park delivers 22 different live action shows that engage with the crowds. Faceoff with the mysterious gunslinger at high noon! Visitors also learn what it’s like to ride a genuine stagecoach (hint: bumpy) or hop onto a bombproof pony and yippie-yi-kay-o. The museum exhibits bona fide cowboy artifacts and tools used in that era.

It might be surprising to some that New Jersey loves their ice cream. There are dozens of ice cream shops churning out homemade, mouth-watering ice creams, which seems to be a dying art. Denville Dairy is a local favorite. In the biz for over 50 years, they’re so popular that people will travel from a couple towns over just to get a scoop. Sit down outside your Morris Plains camper rental, kick up your heels, and enjoy the delicious cone before it melts.