Haskin's Group Campsites

For New Jersey residents, finding the perfect spot for a large group getaway can be a challenge. Haskin's Group Campsites, nestled within the breathtaking 16,000-acre expanse of Stokes State Forest in Sandyston, New Jersey, provides an ideal solution. This dedicated camping area is specifically designed to accommodate larger gatherings, from scout troops and school clubs to extended family reunions. Known among locals for its pristine natural beauty and well-maintained facilities, Haskin's offers a true woodland retreat where the sounds of the modern world are replaced by the gentle rustle of the Kittatinny Mountains' forests.

Unlike standard individual family plots, Haskin's Group Campsites focus on providing ample space for collective activities. The area is characterized by its towering hardwoods and proximity to the Big Flatbrook, one of the state's most celebrated trout streams. New Jersey outdoor enthusiasts often praise this location for its "perfect gem" status—offering a sense of deep-woods privacy while maintaining the high standards of cleanliness and safety expected from the New Jersey State Park Service. It is a place where community is built over shared campfires and days spent exploring the rugged ridges of Sussex County.

Accessibility is a key advantage for this North Jersey destination. Located on Kittle Road in Sandyston, the campground is easily reached via Route 206, making it a convenient drive for residents from Bergen, Essex, and Morris Counties. While the sites offer a secluded atmosphere, they are supported by a well-planned infrastructure. On-site parking is available, allowing groups to transport gear efficiently to their designated areas. The campground's layout ensures that even when multiple groups are present, each site maintains its own perimeter of privacy, allowing your party to enjoy the wilderness without feeling crowded.

• Spacious Group Tent Sites: Specifically designed plots that can accommodate varying group sizes, ranging from small gatherings of 10 to large organizations of up to 65 people.
• Modern Sanitation Facilities: Access to public restrooms and flush toilets that are frequently cited by visitors for their exceptional cleanliness.
• Public Shower Facilities: The campground features clean, private hot showers, which are a highly valued luxury after a long day of trekking through the forest.
• Running Water and Potable Stations: Reliable access to clean drinking water is provided throughout the camping area for cooking and hydration.
• Individual Site Amenities: Each group site is equipped with heavy-duty picnic tables and large fire rings, perfect for group meals and evening gatherings.
• On-Site Parking: Dedicated space for vehicles ensures that groups can keep their supplies nearby while maintaining a safe and organized camp layout.

The highlights of Haskin's Group Campsites extend far beyond the tent pads. Being located in Stokes State Forest means you are at the heart of some of New Jersey's most iconic geological and recreational landmarks. The region is a hiker's paradise, offering everything from gentle valley walks to challenging climbs along the Appalachian Trail, which traverses the forest's high ridges.

• Direct Trail Access: The campground serves as a gateway to over 63 miles of marked trails, including paths leading to the stunning Tillman Ravine and Stepping Stone Falls.
• Sunrise Mountain: A short drive or a vigorous hike away, the summit of Sunrise Mountain offers one of the most spectacular panoramic views in the state, overlooking the pastoral Tuleletown valley.
• Kid-Friendly Recreation: The area is noted for being excellent for children, featuring kid-friendly hikes that are educational and manageable for younger explorers.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: Dogs are allowed at the campsites, provided they are leashed, allowing New Jersey families to include their four-legged members in the adventure.
• Proximity to Big Flatbrook: Anglers in the group will appreciate being near this premier fly-fishing destination, known for its abundant trout population.
• Wildlife Viewing: The surrounding protected land is home to diverse fauna, including white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and the occasional black bear, providing a true nature-immersion experience.

For groups looking to reserve a site or inquire about current seasonal conditions, the Stokes State Forest office serves as the primary point of contact. Because these sites are popular for organized youth groups and large family events, advance reservations through the New Jersey State Park Service's official system are highly recommended.

Haskin's Group Campsites (Stokes State Forest)
Address: Kittle Rd, Sandyston, NJ 07826, USA
Phone: (973) 948-3820 (Park Office)

What is worth choosing about Haskin's Group Campsites is the rare combination of ruggedness and reliability. Many group campgrounds can feel like open fields with little character, but Haskin's retains the authentic forest feel that makes New Jersey's Kittatinny region so special. The "immaculately clean" facilities mentioned by regular visitors are a testament to the dedication of the park rangers and staff, ensuring that even large groups can enjoy the outdoors without sacrificing basic hygienic comforts. For scout leaders and organizers, the safety and predictability of a state-run facility provide much-needed peace of mind.

Furthermore, the value of the experience is unmatched for local residents. The nominal camping fees go directly toward the preservation of New Jersey's natural resources, making your stay a contribution to the state's environmental legacy. Whether your group is looking to tackle the "Blue Mountain Trail" or simply wants a private, shaded area to enjoy a weekend of "fun outing" with friends, Haskin's provides the space and the scenery to make it happen. Choosing Haskin's means choosing a local treasure that has been a favorite for generations of New Jerseyans, offering a timeless backdrop for the stories and memories your group will create together.