Things to Do in Hopatcong Hills

A family-owned business of 11 years, Lockwood Farms blossoms with an ever-metamorphosing selection of plants and flowers. Owners Randi and Mark bustle around the garden center each day, overseeing the staff and offering assistance and gardening counsel to customers. Their gardens house more than 40 types of vegetables and herbs along with an eclectic mix of flowers, trees, and shrubs. An extensive selection of birdbaths, fountains, and pottery punctuates the grounds, and an onsite three-story gift shop stocks collectibles and decor from designers such as Jim Shore, Heritage Lace, and Willow Tree. The center's florists also snip fresh flowers into custom bouquets for a variety of occasions ranging from anniversary celebrations to birthdays.

Northeast Mountain Guiding's adventures take place everywhere from the lofty peaks of the Himalayas to the canyons of Arizona and the waters of upstate New York. Guided by outdoors experts that are trained by organizations such as the Professional Climbing Guides Institute, students and expedition groups tackle rocky inclines, mountainous trails, and swiftly flowing waters. Whether Northeast Mountain Guiding is organizing an overnight jaunt through the Adirondacks or a daylong introduction to ice climbing, the company ensures that every detail is considered, drawing on the local familiarity that each of its regional offices possesses to prepare for any possibility. In keeping with this meticulous approach, the professionals either provide any necessary gear for the journey or remind adventurers what they should bring, such as sunscreen or a pint-sized sleeping bag for their teddy bear.

With the distinction of Top Trainer from Today’s Equestrian, Heritage Stables, LLC owner Marc Harbers has come a long way since his days of training and growing up in the Netherlands. In his teen years, Marc began his pursuit of mares by working for a large show barn that allowed him to interact with more horses than it takes to fill a double-decker carousel. During this time, he developed the riding philosophies that he passes on to students today at his stateside facilities. His grounds house a large indoor ring and two outdoor rings—well-maintained spaces where Marc breeds champions by stressing balance and the importance of strong mental bonds.

Spring Valley Equestrian Center has been family owned for four decades. Current owners Marie Cotton and Chuck McWhirter spearhead instruction in both English and Western horseback-riding techniques on the scenic ranch, which abuts the Appalachian Trail Ridge. A large indoor arena complements the center's three riding rings, allowing horses to gallop comfortably throughout the year and eliminating the need for them to fly south for the winter. Spring Valley’s saddle shop allows equines to suit up onsite. In addition to group and private lessons, the center hosts summer horsemanship camps that include a week of lessons and conclude with a student horse show.

The Great Divide Campground lures campers out of their tents and cabins with diversions such as fishing in an onsite private lake, swimming in a heated long-course pool, and dethawing marshmallows over crackling fires. Each of the 270 campsites adds to the natural greenery of its surroundings with a fire ring and picnic table. The campground staff peddles ice and firewood and delivers it for free, unlike pack mules that always demand tips. A private lake hosts boating and paddleboating. Other amenities include everything from a basketball court and horseshoe pits to a laundry facility, restrooms with flush toilets, and free showers.