Glamping accommodations close to Cedar Grove, New Jersey provide a comfortable outdoor experience during the region's typical seasonal shifts. Located in the northeastern highlands at elevations between 400-1,800 feet, the area experiences temperatures averaging 75°F in summer months with cooler evenings around 55°F. Northern New Jersey's glamping structures are typically available from April through mid-November, with some locations offering heated options during spring and fall when overnight temperatures can drop below 40°F.
What to do
Hiking opportunities: 15+ miles of marked trails at Round Valley State Park Campground connect visitors with diverse terrain and wildlife viewing. "Beautiful and quaint..a nice place to get away and enjoy some nature," notes Ryan M. The park features trails ranging from beginner-friendly 1-mile loops to more challenging 6-mile routes with moderate elevation changes.
Water recreation: Crystal clear reservoir provides multiple activity options throughout warm months. "The water is crystal clear, the area is clean. There's bathrooms and pumps but we just filtered the water from the reservoir instead which tasted a million times better than the well water," according to James R., who visited Round Valley. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating when water temperatures reach 68-72°F from June through September.
Mountain viewpoints: Summit trails at High Point State Park Campground lead to panoramic vistas. "The view from the lighthouse is worth it," reports Kat, who hiked the monument trail. High Point Monument sits at 1,803 feet elevation, making it the highest point in New Jersey with visibility extending into neighboring states on clear days.
What campers like
Private woodland settings: Many glamping sites in the region feature natural separation between structures. At Stokes State Forest, "Each campsite has a picnic table, fire pit, and lantern hook. Some sites also have a tent platform. Many sites are a bit rocky," explains one visitor who appreciated the natural setting. Sites typically measure 30-40 feet apart with forest buffer zones.
Lake access and activities: Several glamping locations offer water features as focal points. "We stayed on a beautiful mossy bank, next to a river and a lake. The area was quiet and peaceful, and areas with waterfalls and great views were easily accessible," notes Kiya N. from Stokes State Forest. Water access points are typically within 100-300 yards of glamping structures.
Well-maintained facilities: Clean, accessible bathroom facilities matter to glampers. At Jenny Jump State Forest, "The bathroom/shower was only a few steps away which was convenient and clean," according to Kelsey K. Most glamping operations in the region provide bathroom facilities within 200 feet of accommodations, with regular daily maintenance.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most upscale glamping operations near Cedar Grove maintain limited schedules. "Seasonal considerations include operating dates from April through October for most glamping sites," while some locations like Swartswood State Park Campground operate specifically "April 1 to October 31," according to their season information.
Varying levels of privacy: Site layouts differ significantly between locations. "The sites are hit or miss in terms of comfort, some have large, flat, clear spaces for multiple tents, some you have to wedge a tent to avoid rocks," reports Seth K. about Jenny Jump State Forest. Some glamping sites maintain 50+ feet between structures while others may be more closely situated.
Wildlife considerations: The northern New Jersey region requires proper food storage practices. "This is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes," notes one visitor to Stokes State Forest. Glamping operations typically provide secure storage solutions or guidance for guest safety.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water features: Locations with swimming areas provide natural entertainment. "The lake is beautiful! Great for swimming and fishing. There are several trail hikes that you can do from the campsite," notes Ethan K. about Panther Lake Camping Resort. Many family-oriented glamping sites maintain shallow swimming areas with gradual entry points suitable for younger children.
Spacious sites for group activities: Family glamping requires adequate room for play and gathering. "Our campsite was very spacious and had a platform where we were able to fit two tents. There was plenty of space on the site for more tents," reports E.M.V. about Stokes State Forest. Family-friendly glamping locations typically provide sites measuring at least 800-1,000 square feet.
Accessible trails for all ages: Kid-appropriate hiking options matter for family outings. "We went on 4th of July weekend so the place was packed. We were able to get a secluded spot in the woods which was great! 2 teenage girls had a blast in the lake and riding their bikes around," says Jojo P. about Panther Lake. Many glamping locations maintain at least 1-3 miles of relatively flat, kid-friendly trails under 2 miles round-trip.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Choosing appropriate sites prevents setup challenges. At Great Divide Campground, "Sites had room to move and it was quiet and peaceful. Kids had lots of fun on the free kayaks and pool. Staff was friendly and helpful. Campgrounds have lots of hills so be prepared to hike up and down," advises Jojo P. Most glamping-friendly RV sites in the region require vehicles under 32 feet in length.
Seasonal RV access: Weather conditions impact site availability and access. "We stayed in the center lawn and it was lined with seasonal campers. We felt like we were staying in the middle of a neighborhood," notes Julie F. about Panther Lake Camping Resort. RV-accessible glamping locations typically maintain gravel or reinforced access roads but may become difficult during spring thaw or heavy rain periods.
Hookup availability: Power and water connections vary between sites. "Great family run campground. Owners are a blast. Most sites are level. Some areas are a little steeper then I would like to set up on, but that's me," reports Scott N. about Great Divide Campground. RV glamping sites with premium amenities generally provide 30-amp service and water connections, though some more remote locations may offer limited or no hookups.
