Equestrian camping near Randolph, New Jersey typically involves forested terrain with elevation changes between 400-1,200 feet across the northwestern highlands region. The area experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Several campgrounds operate year-round, though winter camping requires preparation for potentially harsh conditions with overnight temperatures dropping into the teens.
What to do
Kayaking on lakes: At Spruce Run Recreation Area, visitors can rent boats or bring their own to explore the reservoir. "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," notes Dan W.
Hiking connected trails: Stokes State Forest offers numerous hiking options beyond equestrian paths. "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. Pick up a hiking map at the park office or download the Avenza Maps app," mentions one camper.
Winter recreation: Unlike many regional campgrounds that close seasonally, Promised Land State Park maintains winter access. "This was my second visit in the cold months. Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by. Heated cozy bathhouse with clean showers. The park is large with many hiking trails and ice fishing," reports Mara S.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Mountainview Campground earns praise for its spacious layout. "The property is well kept and campsites are a good distance from each other. Plenty of open field as well as wooded areas," notes Mario M., an important consideration for those traveling with horses or larger parties.
Cabin accommodations: For alternatives to tent camping near horse trails, Stokes State Forest offers well-equipped cabins. "It's great to have the small kitchen when camping with the family. A must see campground," writes Amy B., while another reviewer describes, "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."
Lake views: Campsites with water access are particularly valued in this region. "We stayed at site 11 on Lake Ocquittunk. It was a fair sized site with room for a couple large tents. Site was located on a small hill next to the lake with the road directly in front and water about 50 yards away," Josh S. shares about his experience at Ocquittunk.
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: The regional black bear population necessitates proper food storage. "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 one camper about Steam Mill Camping Area.
Seasonal closures: Water systems at many campgrounds shut down during colder months. "Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by," notes a winter visitor to Promised Land State Park, reflecting typical winter conditions at most campgrounds in the region.
Bathroom facilities vary: Lower Lake Campground receives mixed reviews on facilities. "Bathrooms were clean and water was hot in the shower," reports Angie G., though another visitor to the region noted, "Went camping in late October, when a lot of the other parks are closed. Only one section of their camping was still open but the bathrooms and showers had been winterized."
Tips for camping with families
Platform tent sites: Many families appreciate the elevated sleeping surface. "Each large campsite has a picnic table, fire pit, and lantern hook. Some sites also have a tent platform," notes a camper at Stokes State Forest, with similar options available at other regional campgrounds.
Kid-friendly activities: Turkey Swamp Park provides multiple recreation options. "Plenty to do over a 2 night stay. Archery, boating, fishing, and hiking... Centralized playground for the kids with bathrooms and showers next door," explains Dan W.
Site selection for horse trailers: Families with horses should request specific sites. "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 Douglas P., a consideration equally important for horse trailers.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Water and electric connections aren't always ideally positioned. "Be sure to bring extra hose because the water spigot is a distance from the electric," advises Jean T. about Turkey Swamp Park, a tip applicable to most regional campgrounds with hookups.
Generator restrictions: Most public campgrounds limit generator use. "We luckily have some solar so we can go for awhile without running the generator. We fill our fresh water tank for and bring drinking water," explains Ruette W. about managing without hookups at Spruce Run.
Winter RV camping: For year-round options, Promised Land State Park maintains limited winter services. "This was my second visit in the cold months. Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by. Heated cozy bathhouse with clean showers," reports one winter camper.
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