Stokes State Forest and surrounding areas provide designated trail systems for horseback riding across diverse terrain. The region spans elevations from 400 to 1,650 feet with a humid continental climate featuring four distinct seasons. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing with occasional snowfall, while summer daytime temperatures typically range from 75-85°F with cooler evenings.
What to do
**Kayaking and fishing: Lake Ocquittunk offers calm waters ideal for paddling. Anglers can catch various fish species in the clear water. "Outdoors activities in the area abound. Go fishing, hiking, biking, horseback riding, kayaking, and more," notes a visitor to Stokes State Forest.
**Fire tower hiking: A moderate 5-mile trail leads to an observation tower with panoramic views. "After packing up we drove down the road and were able to get in a nice 5 mile hike up to the fire tower," shares a camper who stayed at Ocquittunk.
**Winter camping experiences: Several cabins in the area include wood stoves for cold-weather comfort. "I bought wood from a house across the street from the entrance to the cabins and it was damp, but in November, I wasn't complaining, it took awhile but I got a nice blaze going. You need that wood stove to heat up the cabin," explains one winter camper.
What campers like
**Rustic cabin options: The cabins provide basic amenities while maintaining a wilderness feel. A visitor to Stokes notes, "It's great to have the small kitchen when camping with the family. A must see campground."
**Lakeside camping platforms: Elevated tent sites keep gear dry and provide a stable surface. "Campsite was very spacious and had a platform where we were able to fit two tents. There was plenty of space on the site for more tents," explains a camper at Pickerel Point Campground.
**Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area supports diverse animal species including beavers. "Beavers! Far away but exciting nonetheless," shares one visitor to Pickerel Point, adding that "the Conservation Walk on the island is short, easy, and beautiful. Well-marked."
What you should know
**Equestrian camping near Ringwood, New Jersey: While dedicated horse camping facilities are minimal, the extensive trail networks make day rides worthwhile. The Steam Mill Camping Area offers the most primitive experience but can accommodate small horse trailers at select sites.
**Bear safety protocols: Proper food storage is mandatory throughout the region. "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided," warns a camper at Stokes State Forest.
**Off-season considerations: Services and facilities operate on seasonal schedules. "We went to Stokes for a one nighter to test out my new truck tent... Due to cooler temps there were really no bugs to complain about while camping," notes a visitor to Camp Mohican Outdoor Center.
Tips for camping with families
**Blueberry picking opportunities: Seasonal wild berries provide a family-friendly activity. "If you're there in the summer, I'd recommend taking a kayak around the lake and filling it with wild blueberries," suggests a Camp Mohican visitor.
**Weekday camping for quieter experience: Campgrounds fill on weekends with more noise and activity. "We came on a Friday night. Everyone was up pretty late, but was not crazy loud. The rest of the weekend it seemed like everyone's simmered down. The campground was full of mostly families," shares a camper at Spruce Run Recreation Area.
**Educational hiking options: Short nature trails with interpretive features suit families with children. "This visit we hiked the Tillman Ravine trail (tip: make the trail a loop and visit both the ravine and the nearby old cemetery)," recommends a Stokes State Forest visitor.
Tips from RVers
**Site selection for horse trailers: Request spacious sites with easy access when bringing equestrian equipment. "Individual sites were generously sized, shady, and relatively private thanks to the vegetation," notes one visitor about Lake Ocquittunk.
**Satellite reception considerations: Tree coverage impacts connectivity in most forested sites. A camper at Liberty Harbor RV Park suggests: "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."
**Water and hookup limitations: Most equestrian-friendly sites lack full hookups. "We fill our fresh water tank and bring drinking water," explains a Spruce Run visitor, adding that "there are some RV sites with water & electric which are not on the water, but in the parking lot."
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