For equestrians searching for horse campgrounds near Glen Rock, New Jersey, options are limited but can be found within driving distance. The region sits within the Highlands physiographic province, characterized by forested ridges and valleys with elevations typically between 500-1,400 feet. Summer temperatures average 70-85°F while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder conditions with average daytime temperatures of 55-75°F.
What to do
Hiking trails: At Stokes State Forest, you can explore 63 miles of marked trails, including 12 miles of the Appalachian Trail. "We hiked the Tillman Ravine trail (tip: make the trail a loop and visit both the ravine and the nearby old cemetery)," mentions one camper, who also noted that you can "drive or hike to Sunset Mountain Scenic Overlook for a view of High Point Monument."
Water activities: The 1,290-acre reservoir at Spruce Run Recreation Area provides swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities. "You can launch your kayak easily from the shore," notes one camper. Another visitor adds that "boats/kayaks can be rented" directly from the park office for those without their own equipment.
Urban exploration: Located 15 minutes from Manhattan, Liberty Harbor RV Park offers easy access to New York City attractions. "My wife visited Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island," writes a camper, while another mentions that "the light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8" minutes walking distance, making city exploration convenient.
What campers like
Lakeside camping spots: Many sites at Ocquittunk offer direct water views. "We stayed at site #T007... The site itself is huge and we were able to position our tent facing the lake, it was beautiful!" reports one visitor. Another camper appreciated having "some fishing and hiking within walking distance from the site."
Cabin accommodations: For those seeking more comfort than tent camping provides, several parks offer cabin options. "The cabins are reasonably priced and well-appointed, if a bit rustic," notes a Stokes State Forest visitor who stayed in November. They detailed that "the interior features are just what you'd expect for getting away for the weekend" including "a bunk bed and two twins, a table with benches, two Adirondack chairs, a wood stove set into a fireplace."
Nature immersion: Despite limited equestrian camping facilities, the natural settings receive high marks. One camper at Spruce Run Recreation Area wrote, "I love the water views. The sites are large, many have nice mix of sun and shade." Another mentioned that "other campers were quiet making for a peaceful trip."
What you should know
Equestrian options: While horse-friendly camping near Glen Rock is limited, day-use equestrian trails can be found at several state parks. Bring your own portable corrals as permanent facilities are not available at most campgrounds.
Urban camping trade-offs: Camp Mohican Outdoor Center provides a more traditional outdoor experience than urban options. As one camper notes, it "has a little bit of everything... The Group Campsite was really big. It had 5-6 platforms, privys, big fire ring, a grill, a beatbox, a large pavilion w/picnic tables and a real full sized bathroom only 100 yards away."
Weather preparedness: Temperatures can vary significantly in spring and fall. A Stokes State Forest visitor noted, "I went in November when there was a light rain that turned into a thunderstorm with hail and sleet! It was certainly an adventure." Pack accordingly for potential weather changes.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: When booking at Spruce Run Recreation Area, consider location carefully. "If bringing your RV, the safest bet is to reserve a spot with no shade as the other spots often times have very low hanging tree limbs," advises one camper. For tent campers, "The grounds are full of grass which makes my tent easy to pitch."
Noise levels: Some campgrounds get livelier on weekends. A visitor to Spruce Run mentioned, "There were a decent amount of people on Friday, but significantly more on Saturday." Another camper noted it "was pretty much what you would expect in a state park camp ground in NJ. Clean, well kept."
Wildlife awareness: Spruce Run Recreation Area offers wildlife viewing opportunities. "Plenty of fish, snapping turtles, and other wildlife," reports one visitor to the area. Another camper noted a friendly "duck visited us every morning" at their lakeside site.
Tips from RVers
City access considerations: RVers at Liberty Harbor should follow specific routes. "Getting in and out of the city is an adventure. Stay right off the highway to avoid the $30 tunnel toll. Follow RV life pro and not Waze," advises one RVer, who also mentioned that "sites kind of level and very close."
Hookup availability: At Liberty Harbor, expect basic amenities. "It's basically a parking lot with a dump station. Not much else," notes one RVer, while another describes it as having "Power and water, and convenient dump station if staying and needing to dump."
Size constraints: Large rigs may face challenges at certain sites. "Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room. If it's packed, your neighbor with be within inches of your rig," warns one RVer about Liberty Harbor, while another mentioned they had "Easy access with our 32 foot RV pulling our Jeep."
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