Bedminster, New Jersey sits in the northern part of Somerset County at 380 feet above sea level, with nearby camping opportunities in the surrounding Piedmont and Highlands regions. The area's moderate seasonal temperatures make camping accessible from early April through late October, with peak humidity in July and August. Most campgrounds in the broader region operate within a 45-minute to 1-hour drive from Bedminster.
What to do
Trail riding outside established campgrounds: While direct equestrian camping options are limited around Bedminster, riders can enjoy day trips on trails at nearby Hacklebarney State Park, then return to their camping base. As one camper at Spruce Run Recreation Area notes, "My first time camping trip in a few decades... So can't compare to others (yet). My campsite was 34W, right next the reservoir. Nice location however the website said it was full shade. The picnic table was in shade. The spot for the RV was full sun."
Kayak in peaceful surroundings: Many campgrounds in the region offer water access where you can launch kayaks and enjoy the water. At Turkey Swamp Park, "There is a lake with a boat dock and a small boardwalk. Kayaking/Canoeing, fishing, and swimming. In the summer, canoe, kayak, paddle boats, and row boats are available for rental."
Archery practice: Some campgrounds offer unique recreational activities beyond the standard hiking and water sports. Turkey Swamp Park provides an archery range where visitors can practice their skills. One camper observed, "Plenty to do over a 2 night stay. Archery, boating, fishing, and hiking. Boat rental rates are acceptable and there are four different styles to choose from."
What campers like
Spacious, private campsites: Many campers appreciate the generous spacing between sites at campgrounds in the region. At Mountainview Campground in Little York, "The campsite was wonderful and isolated. This campground is perfect for a getaway if what you're looking for is no more than spending some time in nature. The property is well kept and campsites are a good distance from each other."
Wildlife encounters: Campsites in more secluded areas provide opportunities to experience local wildlife. One camper at Mountainview Campground shared, "We've tent camped here three or four times. It's a quiet wooded campground (not all spots, but most). Only shortly after we settled into our tent did we hear foxes fighting right outside our tent, the snorts of deer, and there were bats right above us all night making noise!"
Lakeside views: Several campgrounds feature waterfront sites that enhance the camping experience. At Ocquittunk in Stokes State Forest, "We stayed at site #T007 is was a short walk from the car to the site, but so worth it for many reasons. The site itself is huge and we were able to position our tent facing the lake, it was beautiful!"
What you should know
Limited direct horse facilities: While equestrian camping near Bedminster is challenging to find, some campgrounds might accommodate horses with advance arrangements. Most parks that allow horses for day use don't offer dedicated overnight horse facilities. One visitor at Stokes State Forest noted that "Sussex county is beautiful. Stokes is such a peaceful campground!" but doesn't mention specific horse accommodations.
Seasonal challenges: Some campgrounds face specific seasonal issues. At Turkey Swamp Park, one camper reported, "I was so excited when we got here. The sites are spacious and it's really beautiful. But by the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2."
Bathroom conditions vary: Facility quality can differ significantly between campgrounds and even within the same park. At Spruce Run Recreation Area, "The bathrooms were absolutely disgusting. I thought with COVID they were cleaning them more, but for the entire weekend, someone's #2 remained all over the toilet, floor, and corner wall. The other stalls weren't as bad, but definitely not clean."
Tips for camping with families
Look for multi-generational activities: Some campgrounds offer activities suitable for all age groups. At Mohican Outdoor Center, "We hosted group camping trips here for years. Excellent spot! The lodge has bathrooms and a small store. You can rent kayaks and canoes and swimming is allowed on Catfish Pond -- plenty of fish, snapping turtles, and other wildlife."
Consider cabins for comfort: For families new to equestrian camping near Bedminster, cabins offer a comfortable introduction to outdoor living. At Stokes State Forest, "We stay in the cabins. It's great to have the small kitchen when camping with the family. A must see campground."
Plan for variable weather: The region's weather can change rapidly, so prepare accordingly. At Stokes State Forest Lake Ocquittunk, "The camping set up was nice and I enjoyed the proximity to available hikes in the area. One big positive was the covered picnic area which was a nice place to bring food and eat and hang out during the day to get out of the sun."
Tips from RVers
Water and electric hookup locations: At some campgrounds, the utilities aren't ideally positioned. As one RVer at Turkey Swamp Park noted, "This campground has all pull-through sites. Nicely wooded with water and electric. Be sure to bring extra hose because the water spigot is a distance from the electric. Sites are level and well maintained."
Consider proximity to urban amenities: RVers seeking a balance between nature and city access might find Liberty Harbor RV Park convenient, despite being primarily a parking lot. "This is all about location. The closest RV park to NYC. It's basically a parking lot with a dump station. Not much else. Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room."
Expect traffic noise at some sites: Some campgrounds in the region are affected by highway sounds. At Spruce Run Recreation Area, "Our site was on the water and it was really nice. A duck visited us every morning. Not including the bathroom situation, the only con to this campground is it's proximity to the highway. You can hear 78, especially at night once the campground settles down."
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