Best Equestrian Camping in New Jersey

New Jersey may get a bad rap for its highways and a reality show shot on its famous shore, but there’s a reason it’s been dubbed The Garden State. About 22% of its land area is covered in pristine wilderness – in fact, it’s Pineland National Reserve was named an International Biosphere Reserve by the United Nations back in 1983. The tiny state, which is the most densely populated in the United States, has more than 50 protected areas spread throughout its mostly water-carved borders. So throw on your bathing suit or hiking boots and get ready to find the best camping in New Jersey.

The state’s gentle sand dunes have been attracting beach-goers for well over a century: one of the top destinations is Cape May, the oldest seaside resort in the entire country. Visiting nature-lovers head to Cape May Point State Park to hike the rambling trails and watch wildlife from the Hawk Watch platform. Those seeking some cardio climb the 199 steps to the top of fully restored 1859 Cape May Lighthouse, which offers prime views of the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay.

Although there is no coastal camping in New Jersey’s Cape May County, the area is home to nearly 50 campgrounds – more per square mile than other resort destination in the state – tucked away in the forests of the mainland areas.

For those who want to escape the often crowded campgrounds near the beach, Belleplain State Forest in the northern part of Cape May County offers some of the most stunning camping in New Jersey. It features idyllic sites set among the young pines, oak and Atlantic white cedar trees that are spread throughout the 21,000-acre preserve, a top pick for hikers, kayakers and swimmers, who prefer to get off the beaten tourist path. With the Dyrt, you can be sure to find the best camping in New Jersey, from the southern beaches to the northeastern Palisades.

Best Equestrian Sites in New Jersey (9)

    1. Stokes State Forest

    27 Reviews
    Layton, NJ
    Website

    $7 - $55 / night

    "It was a solid choice: private but close to the toilet and water. Some sites located around the opposite side of the ring back up to a babbling brook. The rushing water will soothe you to sleep."

    "We stayed at the campsite at Lake Ocquittunk Area. 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."

    2. Turkey Swamp Park

    26 Reviews
    Freehold, NJ
    Website
    +1 (732) 462-7286

    $42 - $79 / night

    "   We stayed in New Jersey for our 5th campground on the East Coast: Turkey Swamp Park in Freehold. This is a County park.

     Near some Revolutionary War battlefields.

     I really liked this park!"

    "Heavily wooded and supremely quiet, it’s located not far from anywhere you’d want to be. 30 minutes to the shore. Every site is a pull-through, large and spacious with great woodland views. 30amp and"

    3. Brendan Byrne State Forest

    17 Reviews
    Chatsworth, NJ
    Website
    +1 (609) 726-1191

    $3 - $60 / night

    "Campsite decent size, but some don't have clear boundaries to neighbors, and sometimes not optimally configured (e.g., the site next door's fire pit was placed on the edge of its site/right next to my"

    "First off, I will start by saying you have to drive a good amount of distance to get into the campground and that is something I really enjoyed!"

    4. Mountainview Campground

    16 Reviews
    Bloomsbury, NJ
    Website
    +1 (908) 996-2953

    "We were kindly escorted to our site (a nice refreshing change from having to wander around to find the sites ourselves), which was the one farthest away from the entrance."

    "Close by to a couple of nice state parks. Cute sheep and goats that wander about during the day! Sweet little spot, we'll definitely be back!"

    5. Allaire State Park - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

    18 Reviews
    Allenwood, NJ
    Website
    +1 (732) 938-2371

    "Lots of walking paths surround the park & you are also close to Belmar, Point Pleasant, Manasquan (all fun shore towns)."

    "Nice state park with trails nearby."

    6. Spruce Run Recreation Area

    15 Reviews
    Bethlehem, NJ
    Website
    +1 (908) 638-8572

    "Park employees and park police drive around through the day. Some big groups of campers got a little rowdy at night. The bathrooms were absolutely disgusting."

    "The actual site was nice and was close to the bathrooms. There was plenty of shade as the sun moved throughout the day."

    7. Liberty Harbor RV Park

    13 Reviews
    Jersey City, NJ
    Website
    +1 (201) 516-7500

    $149 / night

    "This is all about location. The closest RV park to NYC. It's basically a parking lot with a dump station. Not much else. Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room."

    "Basicly a parking lot, but the location can't be beat. 2 ferries that run to Manhattan. Path train is a 12 minute walk away that will take you yyo manhatten."

    8. Ocquittunk

    7 Reviews
    Layton, NJ
    Website
    +1 (973) 948-3820

    "The caping set up was nice and I enjoyed the proximity to available hikes in the area. The ‘lake’ however, was kind of a disappointment."

    "We stayed at site #T007 is was a short walk from the car to the site, but so worth it for many reasons."

    9. Camp Mohican Outdoor Center — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

    3 Reviews
    Unity House, NJ
    Website
    +1 (603) 466-2727

    $5 - $75 / night

    "If you're there in the summer, I'd recommend taking a kayak around the lake and filling it with wild blueberries. Lots of hiking options as well."

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Guide to New Jersey

Horse camping in New Jersey offers a unique way to explore the state's beautiful landscapes while enjoying the company of your equine friends. With a variety of campgrounds catering to horse enthusiasts, you can find the perfect spot to saddle up and enjoy the great outdoors.

Tips for equestrian camping in New Jersey

  • Ensure you have access to water and feeding areas for your horse at campgrounds like Brendan Byrne State Forest, which provides essential amenities for horse camping.
  • Check the trail conditions before your trip; many campgrounds, such as Stokes State Forest, offer nearby trails specifically designed for horseback riding.
  • Always pack extra supplies for your horse, including feed and first aid kits, especially when visiting remote locations like Camp Mohican Outdoor Center.

Equestrian campers like these nearby activities

  • Enjoy scenic trails and beautiful views at Turkey Swamp Park, where you can ride through lush landscapes and explore various outdoor activities.
  • Take advantage of the fishing opportunities at Spruce Run Recreation Area, which also offers spacious sites for equestrian camping.
  • Experience the historical charm of Allaire State Park while riding through its picturesque trails and participating in seasonal events.

Equestrian campgrounds include great amenities

  • Mountainview Campground features spacious sites with electric hookups, making it a comfortable choice for horse campers.
  • At Ocquittunk, you can enjoy well-maintained facilities and easy access to trails for horseback riding.
  • Liberty Harbor RV Park offers a unique urban camping experience with proximity to NYC, perfect for those looking to combine city adventures with equestrian activities.