Moon Valley Campground sits on the New York-New Jersey border about 60 miles from Manhattan. The area features rolling foothills with elevations around 1,000 feet, creating temperature variations that can be 5-10 degrees cooler than nearby urban areas. This region experiences distinctive seasonal changes with spring bringing moderate rainfall, summers averaging 75-85°F, and fall temperatures dropping to 50-65°F with vibrant foliage displays.
What to do
Hike the Appalachian Trail: The Pine Island region offers several access points to the Appalachian Trail. At High Point State Park Campground, hikers can connect directly to the AT. "I stopped at this shelter while hiking the AT in High Point SP. It was raining the entire day and the shelter provided a dry place to take a break," reports Richard M., noting the practical amenities like "privy, water source (must be filtered), bear box."
Visit scenic overlooks: Take a short drive to nearby viewpoints for panoramic vistas. "You can drive to High Point monument that is 1803 feet above sea level and you get a spectacular panorama view," writes Yolanda T., who also notes the "hiking trails and fresh water for kayaking" in the area.
Enjoy water activities: The region features several lakes and rivers for swimming and paddling. At Stokes State Forest, Justin P. explains, "We fit in a hike up to the Appalachian Trail from our campsite, swam at the pond (Lake Marcia), and got in a fishing session at Steeny Kill Lake." He notes, "The slight downside was that we had to drive between the different lakes."
What campers like
Private, secluded sites: Many campers appreciate the quiet atmosphere at area campgrounds. At Shotwell Campground, Joyce H. notes: "Campsites nice and private. Only one other camper on the other loop. Rustic. Perfect for me. Spacious campsites."
Unique glamping experiences: Beyond Moon Valley's geodesic domes, luxury glamping near Pine Island includes other distinctive options. Kymers Camping Resort offers a woodsy setting that Eugene T. describes as "rustic" with "management very helpful and willing to help with even the smallest of requests." Jessica D. adds that the property has "a brook that flows adjacent to the property. It's peaceful & magical."
Variety of accommodation types: From tent platforms to cabins, the area offers diverse camping styles. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, Christina L. notes: "They have these 12x12 platforms to put your tent on. This was pretty cool especially since some of the sites are all gravel with surrounding dirt. The sites are very large."
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: This region is active bear country, requiring proper food storage. At Steam Mill Camping Area, a reviewer cautions: "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes."
Campsite selection matters: Some sites have significant limitations. Dwight D. warns about Deerpark New York City NW KOA: "Certain loops/areas definitely better than others... we had to try 2 different spots bc some of them are VERY un level."
Seasonal considerations: The Pine Island area experiences distinct seasons affecting camping conditions. Lori M. notes that visiting "in one of the last weekends of August" meant "it was a busy weekend, so of course there was loud music and partying." For a quieter experience, spring and fall weekdays typically have fewer visitors.
Tips for camping with families
Look for interactive farm experiences: Several campgrounds near Pine Island feature agricultural activities. At Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort, Janelle G. describes: "Plenty to occupy the kids. Playground, hayride, animals to feed (goats, chickens, donkey and pony)."
Consider swimming options: During summer months, pool access is important for families. Coffee&Camping T. notes that Pleasant Acres has "the office, playground, dog park, pool, laundry located at the top of the hill," though they are "a good distance from the office and amenities."
Check noise policies: Family-friendly campgrounds enforce quiet hours. Ryan G. warns about Kittatinny Campground: "A great place if you're a college kid looking to blast music and party into the late hours. Loud music blasting until 1-2am (ie: reggaeton being blasted by loud car speakers)."
Tips from RVers
Water hook-up distances: RV sites may require long hoses. At Mahlon Dickerson, one camper notes: "Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that. Our site (15) said 75' however the 50' hose reel made it to our rv connection."
Dump station availability: Most campgrounds in the area have dump stations, but facilities vary. At Oakland Valley Campground, David S. mentions: "Only reason I didn't give 5 stars was because the sites were a bit difficult to back into and unlevel. Otherwise a very nice place to relax."
Site leveling challenges: Many RV sites in the Pine Island region require leveling blocks. Antruze at Mahlon Dickerson reports: "The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large. Water and electric hookups and a dump station."
