Primitive camping
Best for self-contained campers. There are no toilets, showers, or potable water at this Hipcamp.
Nestled on the ridgeline of the 3rd Watchung Mountain, the property sits above The Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. You'll be in a neighborhood, for sure, but a quiet one with lots of room for people and pets to stretch. The property has a 3000 square foot Summer wildflower field with a cozy tent spot in the center. There is also a grand flat grass area for setting up multiple tents. A 100-foot dog trolley run spans the land so your fluffy can run and stay close, too. Numerous outdoor chairs and tables are set up in various spots to best enjoy the land. There is a fire pit and free firewood available. Use of up to two 8-foot single kayaks or a single 17-foot canoe is available. The Passaic River has a number of drop-in spots nearby and Round Valley and Spruce Run reservoirs are a short drive. Hiking trails go throughout the Great Swamp. They have a terrific education center and the famous Raptor Trust.Welcome to the Summer Flower Bed on Rolling Hills at Long View. Enjoy a peaceful camp between civilization and rustic charm, surrounded by a border of nature.
Bring your own tent and gear to settle into this cozy spot nestled amongst the wildflowers. Your tent can be no bigger than 88 x 54 inches to fit snuggly into the bed area.
Just down below is the Great Swamp National Wildlife Reserve. Enjoy its miles of hiking trails year round as you keep your eyes open for any number of birds. Be sure to visit the famous Raptor Trust, where all kinds of birds are rehabilitated.
The great Passaic River winds through the area on the other side of the hill. There are a number of drop-in spots for paddling or fishing. This Hipcamp site has a pair of 8-foot kayaks, paddles, and PFDs available for use along with a 17-foot canoe. Ask for assistance before use.
Round Valley Reservoir and Spruce Run Reservoir are both just a short drive from here if you want to explore more open water.
Visit the historic downtowns of Bernards, Chatham, or Basking Ridge (once home to a 600-year-old oak tree). Drink a pint at the Oakflower Brewery in nearby Millington or taste the greatest bread around early in the day at Biagio's Bakery in Stirling. Any of these destinations are reachable by bike for those who are keen to enjoy a scenic ride between 2 and 7 miles each way.
For creature comforts, there are the usual national coffee suspects around the corner and major grocery and discount shopping nearby. Plus a good number of local restaurants to imbibe inside or out. If you prefer to cook for yourself, there is a full-sized propane grill at the back door, complete with a side burner. There are 2 farms very close that sell seasonal produce and local honey, and Lombardo Farms is highly recommended.
The neighborhood is very quiet and tranquil. You will see other homes nearby, but it is not your typical suburban sprawl. Although we get a ton of dog walkers going past the property as this is the flattest road in the neighborhood.
The Wildflowers die off in late Fall and are cut back for the Winter. They begin to sprout in Spring but do not reach the blooming height shown in the photos until mid Summer.
July brings a flush of winberries along the property border. So delicious and plenty to share with the animals. Early autumn is when the black walnuts start falling in the yard. Pay no mind to the thunks, but be sure to sit under an umbrella when hanging out there for the beginning of October.
The house on the property is a former cabin used by woodsmen in the 1920s and by youth at a summer camp in the 1950s. It's only been updated a bit on the inside and wrapped in modern siding outside. The property catches a lovely breeze along the hill that keeps things comfortable most of the year.
I find it absolutely fitting that the property can maintain the connection to it's camping history in this delightful area.
