Camping near Long Valley, New Jersey offers diverse terrain with elevations ranging from 600-1,200 feet in the Highlands region. The area experiences average summer temperatures of 75-85°F with occasional thunderstorms from June through September. Most campgrounds in the region operate from April through October with limited winter accessibility.
What to Do
Hiking trail access: At Jenny Jump State Forest, campers can explore numerous trails directly from their sites. "This place was great, they allow dogs and had hiking trails with beautiful views you could enjoy right from your campground. It's also close to other local hikes like Mt. Tammany," notes Fransheska A.
Observatory visits: Less than 8 miles from Long Valley, Voorhees State Park Campground features an astronomical observatory open to campers on select weekends. "We stayed 2 nights in Cabin Z for our anniversary getaway and we loved having the whole place to ourselves... there was plenty of wildlife to see roam through the surrounding areas," shares Meredith C.
Kayaking opportunities: Several campgrounds offer water access within 30 minutes of Long Valley. "The water in the reservoir may look crystal clear, it is not crystal clean and I would STRONGLY encourage anyone who thinks that it is OK to drink from the reservoir to at least use a Life Straw to ensure they don't get sick," advises Stuart K. about paddling options.
What Campers Like
Privacy between sites: Mountainview Campground receives praise for its layout. "The property is well kept and campsites are a good distance from each other. Plenty of open field as well as wooded areas," writes Mario M., highlighting the spacing that many campgrounds lack.
Evening wildlife encounters: Many campsites offer opportunities to hear nocturnal animals. "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!" reports Christina H. about her nighttime experience.
Stargazing conditions: The rural location provides excellent night sky viewing. "Great spot for stargazing. Owners are very nice," reports Scott A. about his primitive site experience at Mountainview Campground, where limited light pollution creates optimal viewing conditions.
What You Should Know
Campfire restrictions: Most campgrounds enforce specific firewood policies to prevent invasive species. Christina H. notes, "They do not allow you to gather your own firewood, but they do sell it in their camp store."
Limited cellular service: Connectivity varies widely throughout the region. "Even though they say they have wifi, you can't hook up to it unless you are at the pavilion. And good luck getting cell service! it's like a black hole of signals there," warns Cynthia H. about Great Divide Campground.
Reservation timing: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season (June-August). "We went on 4th of July weekend so the place was packed. We were able to get a secluded spot in the woods which was great!" shares Jojo P., highlighting the importance of advance booking.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Long Valley offer dedicated children's areas. "The common area, along with the pool, had a small soccer field and volleyball court. They also had scheduled activities for kids," mentions Ethan K. about Great Divide Campground.
Wildlife education opportunities: Camp Taylor Campground features a unique attraction. "Easy access from Rt 80 and located close to the Lakota Wolf Preserve. With tours leaving the campground twice a day on both Saturday and Sundays for the wolf preserve, I was glad there was camping so close," shares Denise D.
Water recreation: Family-friendly swimming options exist at several locations. "The swimming pond is pleasant and great to cool off in. The bathrooms/showers are clean and well maintained. The small mini-golf course is a fun distraction for a bit," notes Kathy G. about Camp Taylor.
Tips from RVers
Hookup considerations: Driftstone Campground provides essential utilities but with limitations. "Sites include water, electric and cable. There is an inexpensive pump out service available daily. People are friendly as is the management," explains Kathy G., noting the daily service option.
Site selection strategies: Positioning matters for comfort at pet-friendly campgrounds. "We stayed in the center lawn and it was lined with seasonal campers. We felt like we were staying in the middle of a neighborhood... If you can score a secluded spot in the woods that would be perfect but anywhere else can be a bummer," advises Julie F.
Accessibility challenges: Some campgrounds have terrain limitations. "The drive up to our site had some inclines and was relatively rocky and some vehicles would surely struggle," Christina H. warns about Mountainview Campground, highlighting access considerations for larger vehicles.
