Stokes State Forest provides equestrian camping options about 12 miles from Campbell Hall, New York. The forest covers 16,447 acres of mountainous terrain in the Kittatinny Range with elevations reaching over 1,500 feet in some areas. Winter camping is available in the cabins which feature wood stoves for heat, while summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F during peak camping season.
What to do
Hiking on Appalachian Trail access points: Stokes State Forest offers direct connections to the Appalachian Trail with twelve miles of the trail running through the forest boundaries. "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," notes one visitor at Stokes State Forest.
Kayaking on Lake Ocquittunk: Launch directly from lakeside campsites or rent equipment at the park office. "We selected 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 a camper at Ocquittunk.
Winter activities: The area maintains some trails for cross-country skiing during winter months. "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 a winter visitor at Pickerel Point Campground.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many campsites offer generous spacing between neighbors and natural screening. "Individual sites were generously sized, shady, and relatively private thanks to the vegetation. Some sites are along the lake. The campground seemed pretty full in August," according to a reviewer at Ocquittunk.
Access to water features: Several campgrounds provide direct access to lakes, streams, and brooks. "We stayed on a beautiful mossy bank, next to a river and a lake. The area was quiet and peaceful, and areas with waterfalls and great views were easily accessible," shares one Stokes State Forest visitor.
Well-maintained facilities: Campgrounds typically offer clean bathrooms and hot showers. "The bathrooms are clean and nicely placed. The sites had a fire ring with a cooking grate and a picnic table and were well spaced out from other sites. The views of the lake are nice, very peaceful," notes a camper at Camp Mohican Outdoor Center.
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: All camping areas require proper food storage practices. "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes," cautions a visitor to the Steam Mill Camping Area.
Site selection impacts experience: Different campgrounds offer varying levels of amenities and settings. "There are four campgrounds that are all pretty different, we stayed at Shotwell across from the pond. For the most part, each campsite has its own porta potty or it shared with a couple other sites," explains one camper at Stokes.
Trail difficulty varies: Some trails feature significant elevation changes. "Analyze the NY NJ Trail Conference Maps to get an idea of difficulty/elevation," recommends a visitor who also noted "The trails nearby are varied" during their stay at Stokes State Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Cabin options for easier family stays: Cabins provide kitchen facilities and more comfort for families. "We stay in the cabins. It's great to have the small kitchen when camping with the family. A must see campground," recommends a family camper at Stokes State Forest.
Kid-friendly water activities: Several lakes offer swimming and fishing opportunities for children. "The lake is crystal clear and the beach is spotless. You absolutely have to bring a kayak/inflatable boat, but if you don't own one, don't worry, you can rent one," suggests a family at Pickerel Point.
Seasonal programs: Some parks offer educational activities during peak season. "Was pleasantly surprised they have programs for kids. Can never go wrong here," notes a repeat visitor with children.
Tips for RVers
Limited hookup options: Most campsites lack full hookups, with only select areas offering electric. "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 an RVer at Promised Land State Park.
Site surface challenges: Many sites have rocky or uneven surfaces. "Most of the campsites were very rocky, but you can find some that have a little bit of grass," warns a camper, while another notes "chunky bluestone gravel on the sites, so bring a sleeping pad!"
Horse campgrounds near Campbell Hall, New York: For equestrian camping needs, the Steam Mill Camping Area is most suitable for trailers, though without dedicated horse facilities. "It is the smallest of the campgrounds with 27 sites only suitable for tents or small trailers/campervans," explains a visitor who also mentioned the park's horse riding opportunities.
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