Voorhees State Park

For New Jersey residents looking to disconnect from the daily grind and immerse themselves in the beauty of the outdoors, Voorhees State Park, located in Glen Gardner, offers a fantastic solution. This state park isn't just a place to visit for a day; it features a well-regarded campground that provides an ideal setting for a memorable camping experience. Nestled in the picturesque rolling landscape of Hunterdon County, Voorhees State Park serves as a serene retreat, blending natural beauty with accessible recreational opportunities.

Voorhees State Park encompasses approximately 1,400 acres, boasting a rich history as a former farm generously donated to the state by Governor Foster McGowan Voorhees. It also served as a Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp during the 1930s, with many of the park's current trails and facilities constructed by the CCC boys. This historical background adds an interesting layer to your visit, offering a glimpse into the past while enjoying modern amenities.

The campground itself is a highlight for many visitors, providing a clean, comfortable, and welcoming environment. As real customer reviews attest, the park is known for its quiet ambiance and well-maintained facilities, making it a favorite among those who appreciate cleanliness and respect for nature. Whether you’re a seasoned camper with your own tent or RV, or looking for a unique stay in a rustic log hut, Voorhees State Park aims to cater to various camping preferences, providing a convenient and enjoyable outdoor escape right here in New Jersey.

Voorhees State Park is conveniently located at 251 County Rd 513, Glen Gardner, NJ 08826, USA. This address places it in Hunterdon County, a region renowned for its scenic beauty, rural charm, and excellent outdoor recreational opportunities. For residents across New Jersey, the park's location offers a manageable drive, making it an ideal destination for weekend camping trips or longer family vacations without requiring extensive travel time.

County Road 513 provides straightforward access to the park, connecting easily to major state routes and highways. While the main road within the park might be a "little bumpy" as some reviews note, the accessibility to the park itself is generally considered good. Visitors arriving by car will find ample parking available at various points throughout the park, including at the campground, picnic areas, and trailheads, ensuring convenience upon arrival.

The park's setting in Glen Gardner means it's surrounded by the natural beauty of the Highlands region, offering stunning views of Spruce Run and Round Valley reservoirs from various overlooks. This proximity to other natural landmarks and charming local towns adds to the overall appeal, allowing campers to easily explore the wider area. For locals, Voorhees State Park provides a perfect blend of accessible wilderness and convenient access to regional attractions, making it a prime choice for an outdoor adventure.

Voorhees State Park's campground is designed to provide a comfortable and well-equipped camping experience. The services offered cater to different types of campers, ensuring a pleasant stay for everyone:

• Campsites: The park offers 47 individual campsites suitable for both tents and RVs. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, perfect for outdoor cooking and gathering around a campfire. While there are no hookups for RVs directly at the campsites, a trailer sanitary dump station is available for convenience.
• Log Huts / Shelters: For those seeking a slightly more structured camping experience, three rustic log huts (also referred to as shelters) are available for rent. These cabin-like structures are equipped with a wood stove for heat and two double-deck bunk beds, accommodating up to four people each. They also come with a picnic table and fire ring.
• Group Campsites: Voorhees State Park also features two designated group campsites, catering to larger parties. Campsite A can accommodate up to 50 people, while Campsite B can host up to 30 people, making them ideal for scout troops, family reunions, or other organized gatherings.
• Modern Restrooms and Showers: Public reviews highlight the cleanliness of the bathrooms and showers, which are modern and within walking distance of all campsites and shelters, enhancing the comfort of your stay. A mobile bathroom is accessible from April 1 through October 31.
• Dump Station: For RV and trailer campers, a trailer sanitary dump station is available for waste disposal.
• Playgrounds: The park includes playgrounds with shelters, providing excellent recreational opportunities for children. One specific playground is located near the picnic areas at Hoppock Grove.
• Picnic Areas: Numerous picnic areas with tables and grills are scattered throughout the park, ideal for day use or for campers looking for additional space for outdoor meals. Some areas also have shelters available for larger groups.

Voorhees State Park is rich with features that make it a standout destination for outdoor enthusiasts in New Jersey. These highlights contribute to its reputation as a beloved state park:

• Extensive Trail System: The park boasts 11 official hiking trails spanning nearly 10 miles. These trails cater to various skill levels, from wide, graveled paths to rocky, single-track routes. Notable trails include the Highlands Trail, the Cross Park Trail, and the unique Solar System Trail, which features interpretive signs detailing the planets to scale.
• New Jersey Astronomical Association Observatory: A truly distinctive feature, Voorhees State Park hosts an observatory with a 26-inch Newtonian reflector telescope, one of the largest working public telescopes in New Jersey. The New Jersey Astronomical Association administers sky-watch programs from March to November, offering incredible opportunities for stargazing.
• Family-Friendly Environment: With its clean grounds, playgrounds, and diverse animal and bird populations, the park is highly suitable for families with children, providing ample opportunities for exploration and outdoor play.
• Serene and Quiet Atmosphere: Customer reviews consistently praise the park for its beautiful, quiet, and peaceful ambiance, making it perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature without excessive noise.
• Well-Maintained and Clean: The park is known for being very clean, with visitors commending the efforts to keep it litter-free, contributing significantly to a pleasant experience.
• Fishing Opportunities: Several small ponds within the park are home to bass and bluegill, offering tranquil fishing opportunities for anglers (a valid NJ fishing license is required).
• CCC History: The park's historical connection to the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) adds a layer of depth, with many structures and trails built by these young men during the Great Depression.
• Winter Sports: During the colder months, the park is open for winter activities such as sledding and cross-country skiing, extending its recreational appeal year-round.

As a New Jersey State Park, Voorhees State Park operates under a standardized fee structure determined by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. While specific "promotions" in the commercial sense are not typically offered, there are established pricing tiers and potential discounts that New Jersey residents should be aware of:

• Resident vs. Non-Resident Pricing: New Jersey residents typically enjoy lower base rates for campsites and other park facilities compared to non-residents. For example, a base campsite might be $16.00 per night for residents and $21.00 for non-residents.
• Discounts for Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities: New Jersey State Parks often offer reduced rates for seniors (62 years and older) and people with disabilities. For camping, this can be a discount of $4.50 per night.
• Weekly Discounts: For extended stays, a weekly discount might be applied, such as $15.00 off per 7 days for residents.
• Seasonal Rates: Prices may vary slightly during peak season (e.g., Saturday before Memorial Day to Labor Day), which might include minimum stay requirements (e.g., a two-night minimum if a Saturday is included).
• Additional Charges: Be aware of potential additional charges for amenities like electricity ($7.00/night), water ($8.00/night), or if you bring an extra vehicle ($5.00/night).

All reservations typically incur a non-refundable $6.50 transaction fee. It is highly recommended to visit the official New Jersey State Parks website or call the park office directly for the most current pricing, availability, and to make reservations. Early booking, especially for popular seasons and weekends, is advisable.

For more information, to inquire about availability, or to make reservations for camping or other facilities at Voorhees State Park, you can use the following contact details:

Address: 251 County Rd 513, Glen Gardner, NJ 08826, USA

Phone: (908) 638-8572

Mobile Phone: +1 908-638-8572

As Voorhees State Park is part of the New Jersey State Park Service, general inquiries can also be directed to the main park office, which often manages several nearby parks. For the most detailed and up-to-date information on camping, specific site availability, or program schedules, calling the park directly is the best course of action.

Voorhees State Park stands out as an exceptionally suitable destination for New Jersey locals seeking an accessible, enriching, and peaceful outdoor experience. Its prime location in Hunterdon County means it's a relatively short and convenient drive for residents across the state, minimizing travel time and maximizing relaxation time. This accessibility makes it perfect for spontaneous weekend getaways or longer, planned family vacations, without the need to cross state lines or endure extensive journeys.

The park's diverse offerings cater to a wide range of interests and age groups. For families, the clean campground, playgrounds, and opportunities for observing local wildlife create an ideal environment for children to connect with nature. Active individuals and groups can take advantage of the extensive and well-maintained network of hiking trails, suitable for various skill levels. A truly unique feature, the New Jersey Astronomical Association Observatory, provides an unparalleled opportunity for stargazing, distinguishing Voorhees State Park from many other local camping options.

Furthermore, the consistent positive feedback regarding the park's cleanliness, quiet atmosphere, and friendly environment underscores its commitment to providing a high-quality experience. For New Jerseyans who value a well-maintained space where they can truly unwind and appreciate the natural beauty of their home state, Voorhees State Park offers an excellent choice. It’s a place where you can pitch a tent, park your RV, or settle into a cozy log hut, all while enjoying the tranquility, recreational activities, and community spirit that make for a truly memorable outdoor adventure.

Voorhees State Park

251 County Rd 513, Glen Gardner, NJ 08826, USA