Voorhees State Park Campground

For residents of New Jersey looking to trade the hum of the city for the quiet rustle of the forest, Voorhees State Park Campground offers a premier destination in the rolling hills of northern Hunterdon County. Spanning approximately 1,400 acres, this state park is steeped in history and natural beauty, once serving as a camp for the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) during the 1930s. Today, it stands as a testament to those early conservation efforts, with mature forests and stone structures providing a picturesque backdrop for local adventurers. Whether you are an avid stargazer, a weekend hiker, or a family seeking a screen-free vacation, Voorhees provides a serene environment that feels worlds away from the daily grind while remaining conveniently accessible to the greater New Jersey and New York City metro areas.

The campground is particularly well-regarded for its peaceful atmosphere and well-maintained facilities. Unlike more crowded coastal sites, Voorhees offers a sense of seclusion and a deep connection to the local ecosystem. From the vibrant wild berries that line the paths in the summer to the crisp, clear night skies that attract astronomers from across the state, there is a distinct local charm here. It is a place where you can spend your morning hiking to overlooks with views of the Round Valley and Spruce Run Reservoirs and your evening exploring the wonders of the cosmos at the on-site observatory.

Location and accessibility are among the top reasons New Jerseyans choose Voorhees State Park. Situated on Observatory Road in Glen Gardner, the park is easily reached via Interstate 78, taking Route 31 North to Route 513. Its northern Hunterdon County location makes it a favorite for those coming from Newark, Jersey City, or even across the river from Pennsylvania. For those without a vehicle, the campground is even reachable via New Jersey Transit; a train ride from Newark Penn Station to the High Bridge station leaves travelers just a short ride or a healthy 48-minute walk from the park gates, though visitors should note that train service to High Bridge typically operates only on weekdays.

Inside the park, the campground is thoughtfully laid out to accommodate different types of visitors. The entrance is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring wheelchair-accessible parking and entry points. On-site parking is available at each campsite, generally accommodating up to two vehicles. Local users should be aware that some parking spots feature the natural, rugged terrain of the area, including rocks and stumps that require careful maneuvering for larger vehicles. Once settled, everything you need—from the hiking trailheads to the modern restroom facilities—is within a comfortable walking distance.

• Family Camping: 47 designated tent and trailer sites available from April 1 through October 31.
• Group Camping: Two large group sites (Campsite A for up to 50 people and Campsite B for up to 30 people) designed for scouts or large gatherings.
• Shelter Lodging: Three rustic, cabin-like shelters equipped with wood-burning stoves and bunk beds for a more "glamping" style experience.
• RV Support: Specific sites offer electric hookups, and a trailer sanitary station is located nearby at Spruce Run Recreation Area.
• Sanitation Services: Modern public restrooms and hot showers are centrally located and praised for their cleanliness.
• Food Prep Amenities: Each site is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring with an attached barbecue grill.
• Water Access: Potable running water and outdoor washing sinks for dishes are provided throughout the campground.

The highlights of Voorhees State Park Campground extend far beyond just a place to pitch a tent. The Paul Robinson Observatory, operated by the New Jersey Astronomical Association (NJAA), is perhaps the park's most famous feature. Located at the highest point in the park, 840 feet above sea level, it houses the largest public telescope in New Jersey. On Saturday evenings and Sunday afternoons, the observatory often opens its doors to the public, offering a rare opportunity to view planets and distant galaxies through high-powered equipment. For children, the park is a literal playground, featuring swings, slides, and designated play areas that keep younger campers entertained while parents relax by the fire.

Hikers will find a paradise here with over 11 marked trails, including a 2.3-mile section of the famous 150-mile Highlands Trail. The trails range from easy, kid-friendly walks to more moderate paths that challenge your fitness with elevation changes. One unique feature is the Solar System Trail, which begins at the observatory and uses interpretive signs to show a scale model of the distances between planets. For those who enjoy a bit of history with their exercise, remnants of the old CCC camps and stone walls from the area's 18th-century farming past are scattered throughout the woods, waiting to be discovered.

• Paul Robinson Observatory: Stargazing programs and educational lectures held throughout the season (primarily weekends).
• Hiking & Nature Trails: Access to the Highlands Trail and the interpretive Solar System Trail.
• Playground Facilities: Safe and fun slides and swings for children located within the campground loops.
• Scenic Overlooks: Breathtaking views of the Round Valley Reservoir from the Vista Trail and Observatory Road.
• Dog-Friendly: Pets are welcome to join the fun, provided they are leashed and cleaned up after.
• Picnicking: Numerous shaded picnic areas with charcoal grills, ideal for day-use or large family reunions.
• Winter Sports: While the main camping season ends in October, the park remains a local favorite for sledding and cross-country skiing in the winter.

For reservations or specific inquiries regarding Voorhees State Park Campground, visitors are encouraged to contact the main office. Please note that Voorhees is administered through the Spruce Run Recreation Area, so all check-ins and firewood purchases typically occur at that location.

• Physical Address: Observatory Rd, Glen Gardner, NJ 08826, USA
• Phone Number: (908) 638-8572
• Mobile Phone: +1 908-638-8572
• Mailing/Check-in Address: c/o Spruce Run Recreation Area, 68 Van Syckles Rd, Clinton, NJ 08809

What makes Voorhees State Park Campground worth choosing is its incredible balance of modern convenience and raw natural beauty. For New Jersey residents, it provides a "best of all worlds" scenario. You have the comfort of modern, impressive bathrooms and outdoor dish-washing stations that make the camping experience feel less like a chore and more like a retreat. At the same time, the park’s commitment to preserving its historical and ecological integrity ensures that you are getting an authentic outdoor experience. The presence of the observatory adds an educational and awe-inspiring layer to your trip that you simply cannot find at most other campgrounds.

Furthermore, the park’s versatility is a major draw. It caters equally well to the solo backpacker looking to clock miles on the Highlands Trail and the family of four looking for a safe, kid-friendly environment with playgrounds and easy hikes. The fact that it is a dog-friendly location means no member of the family has to stay behind. By choosing Voorhees, you are not just booking a campsite; you are securing a front-row seat to some of the most beautiful sunsets and starry nights the Garden State has to offer. It is a local treasure that continues to be a "new favorite spot" for everyone who discovers it.