Voorhees, like Parvin State Park, served as a camp for the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) – Franklin Roosevelt’s program to get people back to work during the Depression. The CCC planted trees and constructed shelters, picnic sites and trails throughout the park.  Two overlooks provide scenic views of Round Valley Reservoir and Spruce Run Reservoir.

Camping in the Park

Voorhees State Park has 47 tent and trailer sites with fire rings and picnic tables available.  Modern toilets and showers are within an easy walking distance.  There is a trailer sanitary station which is open from April 1 through October 31.  The campsites are open from April 1 through October 31 and rent for $20 per night.

There are also two group campsites available at Voorhees State Park.  With a capacity of 50 campers each, each site offers picnic tables, fire rings, toilets, showers.  They are open from April 1 through October 31 and rent for $50 per night per site.

In addition to the above the park has three shelters.  These cabin-like structures each feature a wood stove for heat and two double-deck bunks that can sleep up to four people. The sites also include a fire ring and picnic table.  Open from April 1 through October 31 they rent for $10 a bunk per night, based on the number of bunks.

Alcohol and pets are prohibited in overnight facilities.

Highlights of Voorhees State Park

Civilian Conservation Corp programs were present in the area from 1933-1941 with about one thousand young men working at Voorhees and Hacklebarney in a Depression-era federal agency known as the Civilian Conservation Corps.  The CCC was the brainchild of one of the 20th century’s leading figures, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt.  The agency had two goals:  to give jobs to unemployed young men, between the ages of 17 and 24 and veterans of World War I, and to undertake thousands of conservation projects across the nation in parks, forests and at historic sites.

When the CCC boys arrived at Voorhees in 1933, they found three relatively undeveloped parcels of land.  The park still reflected Governor Voorhees’ use of the property as a farm including pastures, woodland, barns and an apple orchard.  By the time the CCC boys were finished working eight years later, under the supervision of the National Park Service (NPS) and the United States Army, they had built the present-day road systems, shelters, latrines, visitor amenities, and trail systems or major public access areas that still remain or are used in different ways today.

Each CCC Company had 200 men, although that number was not always maintained.  The CCC camp at Voorhees was initially known as Camp #20 or Camp Voorhees and later was given the designation of SP#5 with Company 1268 assigned to it.  SP designated State Park and the company number coincided with the Army Corps district.

The CCC boys were paid $30 a month with $25 of that amount automatically sent home to family members or guardians for their support.  That left the boys a salary of $5. which they received at a rate of $2.50 every other week.  For many enrollees at Voorhees, the CCC provided vocation and vocational classes.  The education program was known as “The School of the Woods” and included job training, current events and access to a camp library.

The staff of Voorhees State Park continues to pursue learning about their CCC history. All former enrollees or surviving family members of Company 1268 are encouraged to contact the park office at 908-638-6969 or 908-638-6969.  Additionally, in an effort to show our appreciation to the enrollees of CCC Company 1268, Voorhees is planning to erect a life-sized bronze statue of a CCC worker at the entrance of Company Street.  This statue would commemorate the outstanding work of the CCC throughout this great country during the years of 1933 to 1943.  Contact the Voorhees State Park main office at 908-638-6969 or 908-638-6969 to learn more about how to be a part of this effort!  The CCC history is courtesy of Peter Osborne, author
Images of America: Hacklebarney and Voorhees State Parks.

Observatory programs are available to the public in the park.  In 1965, the New Jersey Astronomical Association built an observatory on land leased from the state.  The 26-inch Newtonian reflector telescope is one of the largest privately owned telescopes in New Jersey.  The public is invited to explore the night sky at sky watching programs that are offered year round by the NJAA. For further information, call (908) 638-8500 or (908) 638-8500.

Trails in Voorhees State Park consist of 7 which are suitable for a wide range of abilities and interests.  With the exception of the Cross Park Trail and the Parcourse Circuit which are footpath trails, all other trails in the park are multi-use.  The trails range from wide and graveled to rocky and steep in places; the Parcourse is accessible for people with disabilities.

Picnicking is available at several areas which have tables and grills and are located throughout the park.  For larger groups, the park also offers three picnic areas with shelters that may be reserved.  Area A and Area B can accommodate 100 people each. Area C can accommodate 75 people.  They may be reserved for a fee:
$80.00 per day
April 1st thru October 31st
50 percent of Fee
Group Picnic Cancellation Fee
• Groups of 20 or more people shall reserve picnic facilities at least five days in advance. Such group use is not permitted on Holidays except as authorized by the Superintendent. Reservations for picnic areas are handled by the individual park area offices.
Reservations can be made over the telephone using a credit card, or by mail using the Group Picnic Reservation form.  Payment in full of the appropriate group picnicking fee must accompany this application.

Hunting is permitted in designated areas within the park and is subject to Division of Fish and Wildlife regulations.

Location:
251 County Road Route 513
Glen Gardner, NJ 08826
Mailing Address:
c/o Spruce Run Recreation Area
68 Van Syckel's Road
Clinton, NJ 08809
 (908) 638-8572 (908) 638-8572
GPS Coordinates
DMS 40° 41’ 45.53” N 74° 53' 13.68" W
Size: 1,400 acres
Fees: No entrance fee.

Directions:
From New York or north Jersey: Take Route 78 west to exit 17, merge with Route 31 north. At second traffic light, make a right onto 513 north through High Bridge. Follow signs to the park.
From Pennsylvania and western New Jersey:  Take I-78 east to exit 16, cross Route 78 to traffic light.  Proceed through traffic light.  At stop sign turn left, merge onto Route 31 north.  At second light on Route 31 north turn right on Route 513 through High Bridge. Follow signs to park.

Tags: campground, new jersey camping

Established in 1914 as New Jersey's first state park, Swartswood is well known for its great fishing and tranquil surroundings.  Little Swartswood and Swartswood Lake were formed by glaciers thousands of years ago and are now home to a variety of fish.  Both lakes have been the focus of water quality improvement efforts including invasive aquatic weed control and watershed protection.

From bald eagles to the unique plant life found in the sinkhole ponds, whether you are on land or water, there is always a chance you will catch a glimpse of the spectacular wildlife in Swartswood State Park.  The park is open year round with a variety of recreational activities available depending on the season.  During the summer, colorful sailboats take to the water either on a leisurely sail around the lake or while participating in the sailing regattas scheduled throughout the season.

Camping in the Park

Swartswood State Park provides 65 tent and trailer sites each with a fire ring, picnic table and lantern holder.  The maximum occupancy is six per site.  Flush toilets, showers and laundry facilities are within easy walking distance.  There is a trailer sanitary and water station available.  Campsites 1-21 are open all year while campsites 22-65 are open from April 1 through October 31 each with a charge of $20 per night.

The 3 group sites each offer picnic tables, a fire ring and lantern holder.  The minimum occupancy is seven and maximum occupancy is twenty.  Water and sanitary units are within walking distance of each of these sites.  Open from April 1 through October 31 each site rents for $20 per night. 

In addition the park provides 6 yurt sites with a fire ring, picnic table and lantern holder. Yurts are circular tents built on a wooden frame with concrete floors.  Each yurt has a skylight, lockable wood door, window screens with flaps and two double deck bunks, which can sleep up to four people.  Assembly of additional tents is not permitted on yurt sites. These sites are open from April 1 through October 31 and rent for $30 per site. 

Alcohol and pets are prohibited in overnight facilities.

Highlights of Swartswood State Park

Trails in Swartswood State Park:

Duck Pond Multi-Use Trail
This 0.6 mile-paved path provides a level surface for walking, biking, rollerblading, and skate boarding.  It is also accessible for persons with disabilities.  The trail meanders through a forested area along Duck Pond with wayside exhibits found along the trail that  provide information on the unique natural features found in the area.  A bird blind has been constructed to allow visitors to view birdlife in the area with little disturbance to their habitat.

Spring Lake Trail
This 2.8-mile trail begins at the end of the paved Duck Pond Trail.  Follow the white markers along the natural hilly terrain through a secondary succession forest to the secluded Spring Lake.  This trail is considered to be a moderate level hike.

Bear Claw Trail
This 0.8 mile trail is marked in yellow and begins at the Duck Pond parking area just to the right of our kiosk.  This is an easy to moderate hike on an earthen, hilly path.  The trail ends where it meets the paved Duck Pond Trail allowing you to combine the two trails for a full loop back to the parking area.

Grist Mill Trail
This 1.5 loop trail can be found at the most southern end of Swartswood Lake by the dam.  The steep rocky terrain makes this a moderate to difficult hike with rewarding views of Swartswood Lake.

Fishing for the freshwater angler can be enjoyed year-round in Little Swartswood and Swartswood Lakes.  The lakes are stocked with brown, rainbow and brook trout in the spring.  Summer and fall catches include bass, sunfish, catfish, walleye, perch and pickerel.  Fishing is available along the shores or by boat.  Fishing also is permitted in the mill pond near Keen's Grist Mill.  All fishing is subject to the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife regulations.

Hunting is available in most of the area east of County Route 619.  Game commonly found in the park includes ring-necked pheasant, ruffed grouse, wild turkey, gray squirrel, eastern cottontail and white-tailed deer.  All hunting is subject to the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife regulations.

Picnicking can be enjoyed in secluded picnic areas throughout the park.  Many overlook the lake and all have picnic tables and grills.  Charcoal fires must be contained to the metal grills provided at the site.  Visitors are free to bring their own metal grills.  Wood fires are not permitted at any of the picnic areas.  Food and refreshments are also offered at the concession stand.
A playground and open playing fields are located near the picnic area.  Volleyball and basketball courts and open areas for frisbee, golf and softball are located in the day-use area of the park.

Swartswood also offers a group picnic.  It holds a capacity of 100 people, provides shelter, play fields and playground equipment.  It may be reserved for a fee:
$55 per day, plus applicable parking fees
Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day
$80 per day
Day After Labor Day to Friday Before Memorial Day
50 percent of Fee
Group Picnic Cancellation Fee
• Groups of 20 or more people shall reserve picnic facilities at least five days in advance. Such group use is not permitted on Holidays except as authorized by the Superintendent. Reservations for picnic areas are handled by the individual park area offices.
Reservations can be made over the telephone using a credit card, or by mail using the Group Picnic Reservation form.  Payment in full of the appropriate group picnicking fee must accompany this application.

Boating is permitted and boat rentals are available in the park on a seasonal basis.  Please call for hours of operation prior to your visit.  The rental facility is typically open weekends only from May to the end of June.  The facility is open seven days a week from July through Labor Day.
 
Swimming is available in Swartswood Lake from Memorial Weekend to Labor Day, while lifeguards are on duty.  Swimming hours are 10 am to 6 pm.  Adjacent to the beach visitors can access facilities with changing areas, restrooms, showers, a first-aid station, and a concession building where food and beach supplies may be purchased.  The facilities are accessible for people with disabilities.
Inner tubes, rafts and other flotation devices are not permitted in the swimming area. Only Coast Guard approved life jackets are permitted.  Pets are prohibited on the beach.

Mailing Address:
P O Box 123
Swartswood, NJ 07877-5230
 (973) 383-5230 (973) 383-5230
GPS Coordinates
DMS 41° 04’ 25.07” N 74° 49' 07.62" W
Size: 2,472 acres
Fees: Entrance fees are charged per vehicle from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day.
$ 5.00
weekdays
$10.00
weekends
N/A
walk-in/bicycle

Directions:
From Route 80, take exit 25, Route 206 north to Newton, about 12 miles. From Newton, make a left at the second traffic light (Route 206 and Spring Street) then make a left at the next light onto Route 519. Follow 519 for approximately 1/2 mile, then make a left onto Route 622 at Sussex County College sign. Follow Route 622 for about 4 1/2 miles. Turn left onto Route 619. The park entrance is about 1/2 mile south on Route 619.
 

Tags: campground, new jersey camping

The breathtaking and panoramic view from Sunrise Mountain, along the Appalachian Trail, rewards the hiker who has trekked up the steep side of the mountain.  The view encompasses the pastoral farmland of New Jersey to the east and undeveloped forests and mountain ridges to the west.  For those who don’t relish the idea of climbing up the side of a mountain and following a sometimes rocky and steep trail for a few hours, there is a short drive to the pavilion at the top of the mountain.
Stokes is famous for its impressive beauty, whether it is at the top of a mountain ridge or in the cool and fragrant Tillman Ravine with its rushing stream and steep cliffs.  Hikers, campers, fishermen and photographers are attracted to its wild setting.

Camping in the Forest

The forest has 51 tent and trailer sites with fire rings and picnic tables available at each. Some camping areas are open all year.  Each site rents for $20 per night.

In addition there are 9 group sites with a fire ring and picnic tables.  The site capacities vary.  These sites are open from April 1 through October 31

• Group Campsites A,B,C,D,E,F $30 per night, site capacity 30 people
• Group Campsite G $65 per night, site Capacity 65 people
• Group Campsite H $10 per night, site capacity 10 people
• Group Campsite I $45 per night, site capacity 45 people

There are also 9 lean-tos available with fire rings and picnic tables.  Open year round, each site rents for $30 per night.

The forest has 10 furnished cabins each with a wood stove, two single beds, one double-deck bunk, a kitchen with cold and hot running water, a refrigerator, an electric stove and a half-bath with toilet and sink.  Each cabin accommodates four people and has electric lights.  With prior permission from the superintendent, two additional people may be accommodated.  Cabins are adjacent to Lake Ocquittunk, open from April 1 through December 15 and rent for $45 per night or $315 per week.
From the Saturday before Memorial Day through and including Labor Day, cabins must be reserved for seven or fourteen consecutive nights only.  From April 1st to the Friday before Memorial Day and from the day after Labor Day through October 31st, cabins may be reserved for a minimum of two consecutive nights to a maximum of fourteen consecutive nights.
Cabins 7 & 15 can each accommodate eight people.  Facilities are the same as listed above, except they include a shower and hot and cold running water.  Cabin 7 has a fireplace and cabin 15 has a wood stove.  These cabins can accommodate people with disabilities.  Located 1/2 mile from Lake Ocquittunk and open from April 1 through December 15 the cabins rent for $85 per night or $595 per week.

Group Cabin 16 can accommodate twelve people.  The facility is the same as cabin 15 and includes two sleeping areas and two full bathrooms plus fireplace.  Located one mile from Lake Ocquittunk, the cabin is open from April 15 through November 30 and rents for $125 per night.

Alcohol and pets are prohibited in overnight facilities

Highlights of Stokes State Forest

“Homeowner Firewood Program” is a program to help you keep warm this winter by cutting your own firewood in designated areas of the park.  The program is available at seven state parks and forests statewide for $20 a cord while supplies last.  Homeowners are responsible for cutting and removing their own firewood.   Advance reservations are required and can be made for any two consecutive days.

Sunrise Mountain, especially its crest, is one of the most frequently visited sites in Stokes State Forest.  The mountaintop provides a breathtaking view at an elevation of 1,653 feet above sea level.  The thin soil and harsh climate characteristic of Sunrise Mountain is a difficult environment in which few plants can survive.  Mountain laurel, wild blueberry, pitch pine and scrub oak are among the natural vegetation found throughout the area.  The pavilion at the summit was built in the late 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps.  The Appalachian Trail runs along the ridge

Tillman Ravine Natural Area (525 acres) is a cool evergreen forest of eastern hemlock growing on the steep slopes carved by the rushing waters of Tillman Brook.  Several trails wander through this spectacular ravine, providing views of waterfalls and ferns clinging to rock crevices.  The area is home to the threatened barred owl and other endangered species.

Fishing and Hunting is available throughout the forest.  Stocked annually by the Division of Fish & Wildlife, the Big Flatbrook and its tributaries provide some of the best trout fishing in New Jersey.  Lake Ocquittunk and Stony Lake also are stocked with trout and the majority of the forest is open to hunting.  Both fishing and hunting at Stokes State Forest are subject to the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife regulations.

Picnicking at Stokes State Forest is offered at 2 picnic areas, Stony Lake and Kittle Field. There is also a Group Picnic Area at Kittle Field which has a capacity of 120 people.  Here a shelter, playfields and playground equipment are provided.  The group picnic area may be reserved for a fee.

The Stony Lake picnic area has 45 tables with adjacent grills located next to the swimming area.  This area may not be reserved.  
$55 per day, plus applicable parking fees
Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day
$80 per day
Day After Labor Day to Friday Before Memorial Day
50 percent of Fee
Group Picnic Cancellation Fee
• Groups of 20 or more people shall reserve picnic facilities at least five days in advance. Such group use is not permitted on Holidays except as authorized by the Superintendent. Reservations for picnic areas are handled by the individual park area offices.
Reservations can be made over the telephone using a credit card, or by mail using the Group Picnic Reservation form. Payment in full of the appropriate group picnicking fee must accompany this application.

Boating is permitted for small boats with electric motors only on the waters of Lake Ocquittunk and is subject to all applicable boating laws.  There is no boat ramp.

Swimming is permitted in Stony Lake from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day while lifeguards are on duty.  Visitors will find a beach complex containing a changing area, restrooms a first-aid station and picnic facilities.  Inner tubes, rafts and other flotation devices are not permitted in the swimming area.  Only Coast Guard approved life jackets are permitted.  Pets are prohibited on the beach.

Trails in the Stokes State Forest consist of forest trails plus a portion 12.5 mile section of the Appalachian Trail.  This section of Applachian Trail follows the Kittatinny Mountain Ridge through Stokes State Forest. The AT’s designated use is restricted to hiking only for its entire length from Maine to Georgia and is marked with white blazes through this narrow and sometimes very rocky area.  A brochure is available regarding New Jersey's portion of the trail at the park office.

Along Kittatinny Mountain are outstanding views of the surrounding landscape.  Sunrise Mountain offers scenic vistas of the Kittatinny Valley to the east and the Delaware River Valley to the west.

In addition to the Applachian Trail, there are more than 33 miles of marked forest trails within Stokes State Forest.  Trails that vary in length from one half mile to four miles, and over terrains rang from flat lowlands to rocky mountains.  Many of the trails connect, offering the hiker a variety of trips from an hour to a full day.

Location:
Sussex County
Mailing Address:
1 Coursen Road
Branchville, NJ 07826
 (973) 948-3820 (973) 948-3820
GPS Coordinates
DMS 41° 11’ 04.03” N 74° 47' 50.33" W
Size: 16,067 acres
Fees: Entrance fees are charged per vehicle from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day.
$ 5.00
weekdays
$10.00
weekends
N/A
walk-in/bicycle
Directions:
Take Route 206, four miles north of Branchville.

Tags: campground, new jersey camping

The Musconetcong River, an excellent freshwater fishing spot, flows over and around boulders through Stephens State Park.  An easy walking, but rocky path follows the river with places for picnicking in shaded areas.
Less than one mile east along Waterloo Road at Saxton Falls are the remains of one of the Morris Canal’s twenty-three locks and a section of the old canal’s towpath.  The original canal was 90 miles in length, stretching from Newark to Phillipsburg, and was used to ship coal and iron across the state.  The canal could not however, compete with the development of the Morris and Essex Railroad in the late 1800s, and was eventually abandoned.

Camping in the State Park

Stephens State Park has 40 tent and small trailer sites with fire rings and picnic tables available at each.  Flush toilets are within an easy walking distance.  These sites are open from April 1 through October 31 and rent for $20 per night.

Alcohol and pets are prohibited in overnight facilities.

Highlights of Stephens State Park

Waterloo Village takes the visitor through time from a 400-year old Lenape (Delaware) Indian village to a bustling port along the once prosperous Morris Canal.  This early 19th-century restored village contains a working mill complex with gristmills, sawmills, a general store, blacksmith shop and several historic houses.

Park Programs are available at Stephens State Park and visitors are invited to participate in the Interpretive Nature Programs.  These programs are sponsored by the park free of charge.  Attendees meet at the end of the main parking lot at 1:00 pm each day.  In case of inclement weather, you are urged to contact the park office to determine if a program has been cancelled or rescheduled.

Trails at the park consist of 6 miles of marked trails for walking, hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding.  The trail surfaces range from flat to steep and rocky. A 2-mile section of the Highlands Trail runs the length of Stephens State Park.

Fishing is available in the Musconetcong River located in the park.  During the spring the Division of Fish and Wildlife stocks the Musconetcong with brown, rainbow and brook trout.

Hunting is open on more then 470 acres of Stephens State Park.  Both fishing and hunting is subject to NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife regulations.

Rock Climbing is available in an area which is located near Waterloo Village on Waterloo Road.  A waiver is required prior to rock climbing.  Specific information may be obtained from the park office. 

Boating is allowed for boats with both electric motors or gas motors boats on the Musconetcong River. Each person must have on a wearable Coast Guard approved Personal Floatation Device (PFD). Alcoholic beverages are prohibited.

Picnicking is available at sites along the scenic Musconetcong River and at the Upper picnic area.  Tables, charcoal grills and sanitary facilities are provided at these sites. Playground equipment and a small open play field are available at the Upper picnic area. All picnic facilities are on a first come first serve basis, except for the group picnic shelter which can be reserved.  Alcoholic beverages are prohibited.

For larger groups, we also offer a Group Picnic Shelter.  It may be reserved for a fee.
$80.00 per day
Open year round
50 percent of Fee
Group Picnic Cancellation Fee
• Groups of 20 or more people shall reserve picnic facilities at least five days in advance. Such group use is not permitted on Holidays except as authorized by the Superintendent. Reservations for picnic areas are handled by the individual park area offices.
Reservations can be made over the telephone using a credit card, or by mail using the Group Picnic Reservation form.  Payment in full of the appropriate group picnicking fee must accompany this application.

Mailing Address:
800 Willow Grove St.
Hackettstown, NJ 07840
 (908) 852-3790 (908) 852-3790
GPS Coordinates
DMS 40° 52’ 09.06” N 74° 48' 36.00" W
Size: 805 acres
Fees: No entrance fee.

Directions:
Willow Grove Street (Route 604), 2 miles east of Hackettstown or 7.5 miles west of Route 206 on Waterloo Road (Route 604).
 

Tags: campground, new jersey camping

Surrounded by the rolling hills of Hunterdon County, Spruce Run Recreation Area is popular with picnickers, swimmers, fishermen, boaters and campers.  The reservoir was one of the first water supply facilities to be constructed and operated by the state and covers 1,290 acres with 15 miles of shoreline for recreation.  Spruce Run is the third largest reservoir in the state after Round Valley and Wanaque reservoirs.

Camping in the Recreation Area

Spruce Run Recreation Area has 67 tent and trailer sites with picnic tables and fire rings available at each.  Flush toilets and showers are within an easy walking distance.  Open from April 1 through October 31 each site rents for $20 per night.

Alcohol is prohibited. Pets are prohibited in overnight facilities.

Highlights of Spruce Run Recreation Area

The Highlands Millennium Trail is located in the Spruce Run Recreation Area. It is 0.91miles (one way) within the park boundaries and will eventually connect the Delaware River to the Hudson River.  This leisurely hike is not ADA accessible. The park grounds and roadways are excellent areas for other strolling, jogging and biking activities.

Fishing is available in the Recreation Area.  There are twenty-nine species of fish contained within the waters of Spruce Run including largemouth bass, catfish, sunfish, yellow perch and carp.  Trout, northern pike and hybrid bass are stocked by the NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife.  For fishing regulations please refer to the NJ Fish and Wildlife Digest.

Hunting in Spruce Run consists of a variety of waterfowl, which may be hunted on a seasonal basis.  The Clinton Wildlife Management Area is adjacent to the recreation area and is also open for public hunting.  Maps and information may be obtained from Division of Fish and Wildlife by calling (908) 735-8240 or (908) 735-8240.

Picnicking in Spruce Run is available in 6 picnic areas which are spaciously located in wooded and open areas overlooking the reservoir.  Each area includes tables, charcoal grills and restroom facilities.  Visitors may bring their own grills in accordance with fire regulations in effect at that time.  For larger groups, we also offer the Group Picnic Area. Open from April 1 through October 31, this area holds a capacity of 225 people, provides shelter, playground equipment and may be reserved for a fee:
$55.00 per day, plus applicable parking fees
Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day:
$80.00 per day
Day After Labor Day to Friday Before Memorial Day:
50 percent of Fee

Group Picnic Cancellation Fee:
• Groups of 20 or more people shall reserve picnic facilities at least five days in advance. Such group use is not permitted on Holidays except as authorized by the Superintendent. Reservations for picnic areas are handled by the individual park area offices.
Reservations can be made over the telephone using a credit card, or by mail using the Group Picnic Reservation form. Payment in full of the appropriate group picnicking fee must accompany this application.

Boating, either electric or gas with a 10hp limit, sailing (25 feet in length and 30 feet above the water line height limit), canoe/kayaking, windsurfing are all permitted.  The recreation area has a trailer launch ramp and a car top launch area.  Rentals (908-638-8234 or 908-638-8234) available seasonally and boat storage (dry) available year round. Call for information.
Boat Storage (Dry)

Summer Season (April 1 – October 31)

Single Boat Trailer
$155.00
Double Boat Trailer
$230.00

Winter Season (November 1 – March 31)

Single Boat Trailer
$120.00
Double Boat Trailer
$180.00

Swimming is available in the reservoir from Memorial Weekend to Labor Day while lifeguards are on duty.  Visitors will find a beach complex containing changing areas, restrooms, showers, a first-aid station, and a concession building where food and beach supplies may be purchased.  Inner tubes, rafts and other flotation devices are not permitted in the swimming area.  Only Coast Guard approved life jackets are permitted. Pets are prohibited on the beach.  Grilling is prohibited along the beachfront including the posted grassy area.  There is a playground and open fields to accommodate various ball and net games.

Special Events are held at Spruce Run several times a year.  These events include walk-a-thons, sailing regattas, watershed clean-up days, triathlons, and weddings.

Winter Sports are available during the winter months.  Many visitors cross-country ski, ice fish, and ice boat at the recreation area.  Please contact the recreation office for snow conditions or visit the local weather channel.

Mailing Address:
68 Van Syckel's Road
Clinton, NJ 08809
 (908) 638-8572 (908) 638-8572
GPS Coordinates
DMS 40° 52’ 09.06” N 74° 56' 19.79" W
Size: 2,012 acres
Fees: Entrance fees are charged per vehicle from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day.
$ 5.00
weekdays
$10.00
weekends
$ 2.00
walk-in/bicycle

Directions:
From the intersections of Interstate 78W and Route 31N, follow 31 north to the third traffic light – Van Syckels Road.  Turn left and continue 1.5 miles to the Park entrance which is on the left
 

Tags: campground, new jersey camping

When you decide to camp in New Jersey you will find, with a bit of research, that there are a wide variety of public and private campgrounds from which to choose.  All of these campgrounds will vary as to the amenities they offer and accordingly the price they charge for a nights stay.  Rather than try to delve into all of the camping opportunities New Jersey has to offer at one time, this article will focus on some of the National Park units located in New Jersey and touch slightly on the private sector.

Public campgrounds are those managed by some level of a government agency.  Whether the agency is federal, state or local, the grounds are open to the public and generally present a low cost vacation with limited amenities.  Advanced reservations may or may not be made depending on the campground.  When planning a camping trip, many campers look to our National Parks as their first choice.  Research will show that some of the most treasured and scenic areas of our country are preserved and managed by the National Park Service and sprinkled throughout the nation.

The National Park Service was first established in 1916 under the United States Department of Interior with Franklin Lane as its first Director.  The primary goal, as stated by Lane, was to “faithfully preserve the National Parks in absolutely unimpaired form for the use of future generations as well as those of our own time.”  Today the mission of the Park Service is basically the same.  You will find however, the Park Service now manages “other types of land units” as well as our National Parks.  In New Jersey the land managed by the Park Service falls under some of those “other types of land unites” with names such as National Recreation Areas, National Scenic and Recreational Rivers, National Reserves and National Monuments. 

Some of these areas found in New Jersey are the:

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area which contains the Delaware National Scenic River.  This National Recreation Area covers parts of New Jersey as well as Pennsylvania.  Camping in this National Recreation Area is under the control of the New Jersey State Forest and is available at Worthington State Forest as it is located in the middle of the National Recreation Area.  This State Forest has a campground with 69 tent and trailer sites and is open from April1 to December 31.  For further information call (908)841-9575

Gateway National Recreation Area which covers parts of Brooklyn, Queens and Staten Island, New York and Monmouth County in New Jersey.  The section of this National Recreation Area found in New Jersey is the Sandy Hook Unit.  Although there are no campgrounds within this unit there are many opportunities for boating, canoeing and site seeing with private camping nearby.  For further information call (732)872-5900.

Great Egg Harbor River National Scenic and Recreational River which starts near Berlin, New Jersey and gradually widens as it picks up the waters of 17 tributaries on its way to Great Egg Harbor at the Atlantic Ocean.  Established by Congress in 1992, nearly all of this 129-mile river system rests within the Pinelands National Preserve.  This National Park Service unit is unusual in that local jurisdictions continue to administer the lands so camping opportunities are found in the local jurisdictions with quite a few campgrounds along the river.  For further information call (215)597-5823

The New Jersey Pinelands National Reserve was created by Congress under the National Parks and Recreation Act of 1978.  The Pinelands National Reserve is the first National Reserve in the nation.  The Reserve encompasses approximately 1.1 million acres and covers portions of seven counties and all or parts of 56 municipalities.  The Reserve is a wonderful place to visit and exhibits a unique ecosystem.  Camping is available in the local jurisdictions at four New Jersey State Forest located inside the Reserve.  For further information call (609)894-7300.

There are other units of the National Park Service in New Jersey which bear mentioning for their historic and scenic value.  Although they are small and do not offer camping, they are worth visiting.  You might want to take a look at the Edison National Historic Site, Ellis Island National Monument and Morristown National Historic Park and then plan to stay at one of the private campgrounds nearby.

Similar to public campgrounds, in that everyone is welcome, private campgrounds, such as the well known KOA’s (Kampgrounds of American), are privately owned, franchised businesses.  Although they usually cost more for a nights stay, they generally offer superior amenities that include, but are not limited to, swimming pools, game rooms, movie nights, laundry facilities and camp stores with fast food and microwaves.  Many of these privately franchised campgrounds offer catalogs (at a price) which allow you to not only book your trip in advance, but often pick your site and book side trips prior to your arrival.
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that New Jersey is home to the New Jersey Coastal Heritage Trail and also proud to encompass parts of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail.  Both of these trails offer outstanding opportunities for camping and outdoor recreation, a must for the avid outdoor user. 

Whatever you decide, public or private campground for a day, a night or a weeks stay, be safe and enjoy the natural beauty of the outdoors.

Till Next Time

Eric
 

Tags: camping in nj, camping new jersey, new jersey camping, nj campgrounds, nj camping

When picking a place to camp in New Jersey, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, which is a division of Parks and Recreation, provides a wide range of camping experiences in their state parks and forests.  From tent and trailer sites to well established group campgrounds and primitive campsites to shelters and yurts the state of New Jersey offers some, if not all, of these facilities.  Therefore, when planning your camping experience you need to be aware of the rules and regulations that are common to all the camping areas and then individually check each site as to the specific regulations that might affect your experience.  Following are regulations taken directly from the department’s website: http://www.state.nj.us/dep/parksandforests/parks/camping.html .

General Camping Rules for New Jersey State Parks
Minimum age of a permittee – A campsite, lean-to, camp shelter, cabin or yurt must be reserved and occupied by at least one responsible person, 18 years of age or older.  A group campsite or cabin must be occupied by a minimum of one adult supervisor, age 18 years of age or older, for each nine campers who are under 18 years of age in the group.

Re-registration – If camping facilities are available, campers may re-register before 10 am on the expiration day of their permit, provided they have not exceeded their maximum limit of stay, and facilities are available.

Limit of stay per area – Total initial length of stay allowed is fourteen consecutive nights.  Additional stays may be granted in intervals of not more than seven nights provided the applicant has vacated the camping facility for at least seven nights between each occupancy.

Alcohol – Alcohol is prohibited.  Additional rules and regulations are printed on the back of the camping permit and are posted in the area.

Fires – Fires are permitted only in stoves, fireplaces or ground fireplaces or in approved camp stoves provided by the camper.  Fires may be prohibited due to forest fire threat when prevailing conditions warrant this precaution.

Firewood – Firewood is not provided at campsites, lean-tos or shelters, but it can be purchased at some areas.  Firewood is provided at cabins.

Pets – Pets are not permitted in camping facilities.

Firearms – A person shall not possess or discharge any firearm, pellet gun, bow and arrow, slingshot or other weapon capable of injuring people or wildlife.  Hunters in compliance with Division of Fish, Game and Wildlife hunting laws are exempted.  Target practice is prohibited.

Vehicle Limit – No more than two vehicles (including trailers) may be parked at a camping facility.  Additional vehicles may be parked in a location designated by the superintendent.  More than two vehicles may be parked at group campsites and group cabins subject to approval of the superintendent.

Visitors – Visitors are allowed at camping facilities between 8 am and 8 pm.  All visitors must pay day-use parking fees, if applicable.  The number of visitors may be restricted due to limited facility capacities.

Trailer hook-ups – Water, electric and sewer hook-ups are not provided at campsites.

Check-out time – Check-out time is noon at all campsites.  Check-out time is indicated on permits issued for lean-tos, shelters, and cabins.

Reservations for campsites can be made up to 11 months in advance and fees generally run $20.00 per campsite per night.  For further information call 1-800-843-6420 or 609-984-0370.

Be safe, follow the rules and enjoy your camping experience! 

Till Next Time

Eric

Tags: camping in nj, camping new jersey, new jersey camping, new jersey events, nj campgrounds, nj camping

Do you want to camp near one of the many beaches in New Jersey?

So do I!

Luckily, there are many options for exactly that. Whether you want to visit Ocean City, Sea Isle City, Long Beach Island, Atlantic City, Cape May, Seaside, Island Beach State Park or any of the other beaches in the Garden State.

Depending on which beach you want to visit you can get within two or three miles of that beach and stay at some very nice and clean campgrounds. If you want to camp directly on the beach unfortunately the State doesn't allow that anymore. Island Beach State Park used to but for some reason they stopped allowing it, even though you can still drive on the beach with the right kind of permit.

New Jersey beach camping can be lots of fun even though you can't get right on the beach. Some people actually think it's better to stay a couple of miles away because you don't have to worry about paying the sometimes exorbitant prices associated with staying right at the beach.

You can spend the day at the beach enjoying the sand, sun and waves and then head back to your campground, get cleaned up and enjoy a nice homecooked meal and then participate in the local campground activities or just sit around a campfire and enjoy the company of those you travelled with.

My family and I absolutely love the beach but we also like being able to get away from the noise, congestion and overpriced attractions. So this type of "beach camping" is absolutely perfect for us.

Currently our favorite location to call "home" for this kind of trip is the Sea Pirate Campground. It is only minutes away from Long Beach Island. It is a nice, quiet campground that is very well maintained by the polite and very accomodating staff that has lots and lots of activities planned during the summer.

The sites are a good size, moderately priced and all the facilities are in great shape. This campground gives us the ability to spend the day at the beach and then to come back go for a swim, cook up a nice dinner and then decide what we want to do that night. There are also a couple of really good restaurants in the area that we enjoy visiting if we don't want to cook ourselves.

We have also stayed at and really enjoyed the Outdoor World Lake & Shore Campground many times. Great facilities including a cedar lake, big swimming pool and a small outdoor water park make up for the moderately sized sites and slightly higher fees. The proximity to Sea Isle City, Wildwood and Cape May make this campground perfect for our version of beach camping. If you decide to check out this campground you do need an Outdoor World membership.

So for us (and lots of our friends) "New Jersey beach camping" is more about the enjoyment of the beach and then the enjoyment of a clean campground away from the hustle and bustle than about pitching a tent within 20 feet of the waves.

Till Next Time…

Eric

Tags: beach camping, Camping, new jersey camping

There are lots and lots of people, who have asked me over the years, why go camping in New Jersey? The state is so overcrowded and there are so many other options for vacationing in the state so why would I put up a tent or drag a trailer to that little state?

My answer is because New Jersey has it all!

I have been camping in 10 or 11 different states in my lifetime and while that is only about 20% of this country I haven’t find any other state that offers so many different options and different types of camping in such a small area.

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Tags: new jersey camping