Camping options near Long Valley, New Jersey range from rustic tent sites to full-service RV campgrounds, with elevations varying between 500-1,200 feet across the region. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter temperatures often dropping below freezing. Horse owners seeking equestrian-friendly accommodations will find several options within a 45-minute drive that allow trailer parking and provide access to bridle trails.
What to do
Fishing and boating: Spruce Run Recreation Area offers a 1,290-acre reservoir where anglers can catch bass, trout, and catfish. "Many sites have a lovely water view of the reservoir. Several playgrounds, boat launches, and life guarded swimming area," notes Jocelyn G. about Spruce Run Recreation Area.
Hiking: The region features numerous trails ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs. At Stokes State Forest, "There are 21 marked trails that cover over 63 miles within the boundaries of Stokes State Forest. Twelve miles are part of the Appalachian Trail," according to Trip Over Life.
Horseback riding: While dedicated horse camping facilities are limited, riders can trailer their horses to trails at Stokes State Forest for day use. Local outfitters occasionally offer guided trail rides for visitors without horses who want to experience equestrian activities near Long Valley.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Mountainview Campground provides well-spaced camping areas. "The property is well kept and campsites are a good distance from each other. Plenty of open field as well as wooded areas," explains Mario M. about Mountainview Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The natural surroundings support diverse wildlife. Christina H. reports at Mountainview Campground: "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!"
Lake access: Many campsites offer water proximity. "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!" shares Kara L. about Ocquittunk.
What you should know
Bathroom conditions: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. A camper at Spruce Run notes: "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 levels: Some campgrounds experience more activity than others. At Turkey Swamp Park, one reviewer appreciated that "This place was just so calming and quiet, it was really just such a relaxing place to be. There was no irritation from loud, busy nearby roads, no city noise, no people yelling or stomping about."
Bear safety: This is bear country, so proper food storage is essential. "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes," warns a camper at Stokes State Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Turkey Swamp Park, a reviewer notes "There is a playground for kids" and another mentions "Centralized playground for the kids with bathrooms and showers next door."
Educational opportunities: Camp Mohican Outdoor Center provides nature-based learning. "The Conservation Walk on the island is short, easy, and beautiful. Well-marked," reports Alaina Z. about activities in the region.
Swimming areas: Supervised swimming locations add safety for families. "Lake camping...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," shares Jules T. about waterfront camping options.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose your site based on specific needs. At Pickerel Point Campground, Nancy L. advises: "Certain sites allow pets. My favorite site does, plus I can launch my kayak right from there!"
Hookup availability: Electrical service varies by campground. "We had full hookups (20/30/50 amp, water & sewer). There's no cable but we were able to pickup about 6 channels with our digital antenna," shares Debbie W. about Pickerel Point.
Length restrictions: Some campgrounds can't accommodate larger vehicles. "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," cautions Douglas P. regarding clearance issues at certain sites.
Guide
