🌤 Weather at Hacklebarney State Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30–73 °F | 58–86 °F | 33–78 °F | 21–44 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Somerville Somerset Airport, 10 mi away, elevation 105 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
Hacklebarney State Park is a public state park in New Jersey near Long Valley in Morris County. Spanning 1,186 acres and established in 1924, this park offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.
Quick Facts
| State | New Jersey |
| Nearest City | Long Valley |
| County | Morris |
| Park Size | 1,186 acres |
| Established | 1924 |
| Google Rating | ⭐ 4.6/5 (1100 reviews) |
Location & Getting There
Hacklebarney State Park is located near Long Valley, New Jersey. The park’s coordinates are 40.7561, -74.7286.
Things to Do
New Jersey state parks defy the state’s industrial reputation, protecting vast tracts of wilderness including the unique Pine Barrens, Appalachian ridgetops, and wide Atlantic beaches. Visitors can hike sections of the Appalachian Trail, kayak through the tea-colored waters of the Pinelands, swim at ocean or glacial lake beaches, fish in well-stocked streams, and camp in deep forest. The state also preserves crucial moments in American history, offering tours of key Revolutionary War sites, battlefields, and historic villages.
Best Time to Visit
Fall (September–October) is arguably the best time, offering cool hiking weather, beautiful hardwood foliage in the northern parks, and fewer bugs in the Pine Barrens. Summer (June–August) is peak season for coastal parks and lake swimming, but inland parks can be hot, humid, and buggy. Spring brings excellent birding during the coastal migration and good conditions for trout fishing. Winter is quiet, perfect for solitary hikes and, occasionally, cross-country skiing when snow falls.
Visitor Tips
Entrance fees are typically charged from Memorial Day through Labor Day ($5-$10 per vehicle for residents, $10-$20 for non-residents). A State Park Pass ($50 for residents) covers parking for the season. In the heavily forested Pine Barrens (like Wharton State Forest), ticks are extremely common from early spring through late fall; use strong insect repellent and perform thorough tick checks. Coastal parks like Island Beach State Park often fill to capacity by mid-morning on summer weekends, so arrive very early.
Explore More New Jersey State Parks
Hacklebarney State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in New Jersey. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in New Jersey guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Wildlife & Nature
Hacklebarney SP — in the Black River Gorge — features a dramatic hemlock-lined gorge with glacial boulders, cascading waterfalls, and rapids. The park’s ravine, hemlock forest, and river support brook trout (in the cold, spring-fed water), barred owls, and river otters. Wild rhododendrons bloom spectacularly in June.
Nearby Attractions
Chester — adjacent. Voorhees SP — adjacent. Kay Environmental Center — nearby. Black River — through the park.
Keep exploring: The closest neighbors are Stephens State Park (a short drive away) and Voorhees State Park (a short drive away).
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Hacklebarney State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are allowed in NJ state parks and forests on leash but are prohibited from buildings, swimming beaches and non-designated campsites.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash 6 feet or less, with the pet under physical control at all times.
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are prohibited from swimming beaches and swimming waters statewide.
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets are prohibited from cabins/lodging; the Pet Friendly Camping Program designates campsites at 13 areas (e.g. Round Valley all sites, Allaire 1-8, Bass River 1-85, Stokes 101-137) for up to two dogs or cats per permit.
- Pet fees statewide rule
- $5.00 per night additional charge for a pet-friendly campsite; no day-use pet fee.
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Pet Friendly Camping requires current rabies vaccination with written proof at check-in; caged birds/reptiles only allowed inside RVs.
Are dogs allowed at Hacklebarney State Park?
Pets are allowed in NJ state parks and forests on leash but are prohibited from buildings, swimming beaches and non-designated campsites. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via dep.nj.gov. More: New Jersey state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Hacklebarney State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
