Equestrian camping options around Linden, New Jersey remain limited, though several campgrounds in the region accommodate recreational activities near horses. While specialized horse facilities such as corrals are rarely available at campgrounds, the surrounding countryside provides access to riding trails and natural areas. Campers should contact individual campgrounds directly for current horse policies regarding trailer parking, manure management, and specific trail access permissions.
What to do
Fishing at local reservoirs: Spruce Run Recreation Area offers fishing opportunities on its 1,290-acre reservoir. "You can launch your kayak easily from the shore. The sites are large, many have nice mix of sun and shade," notes Ruette W. in a review.
Mountain biking on varied terrain: Allaire State Park provides trails ranging from easy paved paths to challenging single track. "Mountain Biking from easy, paved trails to several miles of single track with everything in between. Working village and antique train are available most of the year," reports Beau B.
Winter camping experiences: Stokes State Forest remains open year-round, allowing for cold-weather camping. "Getting a cabin in the winter and going for a snowy hike is wondrful there," writes Patrick M. The park features various accommodation options including cabins with wood stoves for winter warmth.
What campers like
Lake activities and boat rentals: Turkey Swamp Park provides water recreation options on its lake. "Kayaking/Canoeing, fishing, and swimming. In the summer, canoe, kayak, paddle boats, and row boats are available for rental," notes Lee D. in their review of the park.
Archery facilities: Turkey Swamp Park includes designated archery areas for target practice. "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," mentions Dan W.
Wooded, private campsites: Mountainview Campground offers secluded camping spots. "The campsites are spacious and the facilities are clean. Short drive to the Delaware River for tubing," comments Emily. The campground's natural setting creates a sense of isolation despite its convenient location.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary significantly: While some parks maintain clean facilities, others receive criticism. At Spruce Run Recreation Area, one camper noted, "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."
Noise considerations: Proximity to highways affects some campgrounds. At Allaire State Park, Justin S. observed, "Noisy with highway traffic. Well maintained though. Ticks galore." Similarly, Jules T. mentioned about Spruce Run: "The only con to this campground is its proximity to the highway. You can hear 78, especially at night once the campground settles down."
Seasonal pest issues: Ticks are common in warmer months at several campgrounds. "By the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2. That was so crazy because we were just sitting by our camper," reports Laura Y. about Turkey Swamp Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Several parks offer designated play areas for children. At Turkey Swamp Park, Lee D. notes, "There are age-appropriate playgrounds both in the campground and by the office."
Cabin options for mixed weather: Stokes State Forest Lake Ocquittunk provides cabins for families wanting more shelter. "The cabins are reasonably priced and well-appointed, if a bit rustic. The interior features are just what you'd expect for getting away for the weekend," notes W L., adding details about amenities like "a bunk bed and two twins, a table with benches, two Adirondack chairs, a wood stove set into a fireplace."
Group facilities: The Mohican Outdoor Center accommodates larger family gatherings. Dan X. reports, "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."
Tips from RVers
NYC access options: Liberty Harbor RV Park serves as a base for city exploration despite basic amenities. "Very plain & functional, no frills but right on the harbor & on the very edge of Jersey City, close to a ferry & the train that takes u across to New York City," explains Emily L. This location provides views of the Statue of Liberty while offering utilities for RVs.
RV site selection strategy: When choosing RV sites, consider shade factors carefully. Douglas P. advises at Spruce Run Recreation Area: "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."
Water and hookup access: Water access varies between campgrounds and specific sites. Frank J. notes about Spruce Run, "Reasonable cost from NJ state website. I paid $41 for 2 days. Campsites well spaced apart," but warns, "Showers were cold water only and very cold at that."
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