Haven't taken the trip yet...planning on going June/July timeframe. In NJ, there is a park called Round Valley Reservation Area which has a huge reservoir and holds many state records for freshwater fishing. The reservoir is relatively round with 1 parking lot and trails covering 2/3 the perimeter of the reservoir. With the parking lot on one side, there is a "backcountry" campground on the exact opposite side. Only 2 ways to get there: backpacking or paddling. The hike is about 2.5 - 3 miles from the PL. I figure this is a good distance for his first trip AND it will help control the typical camping riff raff. Very much looking forward to it and I will be sure to post pics and a report when we get back.