Glamping accommodations near Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey sit within the hills of the New Jersey Highlands, where elevations range from 400 to 1,800 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter lows regularly dropping below freezing. Most glamping sites in this area operate in a seasonal capacity, typically closing between November and March due to freezing temperatures and snowfall.
What to do
Hiking trails with elevation gain: At Stokes State Forest, trails cover over 63 miles within the park boundaries. Visitors can access a portion of the Appalachian Trail within a short drive. According to one camper, "There are 21 marked trails that cover over 63 miles within the boundaries of Stokes State Forest. Twelve miles are part of the Appalachian Trail."
Fishing in stocked lakes: Swartswood State Park Campground offers fishing opportunities in its namesake lake. The park provides boat launches and shoreline access for anglers. One visitor noted, "The lake is great to kayak and fish, and the campsites are spacious and has bathrooms."
Water activities during summer months: High Point State Park Campground provides multiple water bodies for recreation. One camper shared their experience: "We fit in a hike up to the Appalachian Trail from our campsite, swam at the pond (Lake Marcia), and got in a fishing session at Steeny Kill Lake." Another noted, "The slight downside was that we had to drive between the different lakes."
What campers like
Secluded woodland sites: Many campers value privacy at Great Divide Campground in Newton. A visitor reported, "The W loop is by far our favorite! The sites could be very close depending upon where u go. We had r6 and we had neighbor on one side. If the other spot was occupied then it might be a little too close for us. But there are some other sites that def are separate."
Clean facilities: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation maintains well-kept bathroom and shower facilities. One reviewer described their experience: "Very clean and quiet. Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that. Our site (15) said 75' however the 50' hose reel made it to our rv connection."
Year-round options: Some glamping sites near Englewood Cliffs remain open during winter months. A winter visitor to Stokes State Forest shared: "Rented a cabin in November (#009) and again in December (#008) of 2021. I favored Cabin 8, the kitchen and bathroom were separated from the main room. The cabins are reasonably priced and well-appointed, if a bit rustic."
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Most glamping sites near Englewood Cliffs require proper food storage due to black bear activity. As one camper at Stokes State Forest warned, "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes."
Platform tent sites: Many parks offer elevated wooden platforms for tent setup. A Swartswood State Park visitor explained: "Some sites also have a tent platform. Many sites are a bit rocky."
Site privacy varies greatly: Panther Lake Camping Resort has a mix of open and more secluded sites. One camper advised: "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. If you can score a secluded spot in the woods that would be perfect but anywhere else can be a bummer."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Panther Lake Camping Resort offers numerous recreational options for children. A visitor noted, "Great atmosphere for families. The lake and pool were a big plus, especially for hot days. While I did not take advantage, you are allowed to rent boats and take them out on the lake."
Look for sites with space for games: Some campgrounds provide open areas for children to play. At Great Divide Campground, "The common area, along with the pool, had a small soccer field and volleyball court. They also had scheduled activities for kids."
Consider cabin options for comfort: Mountain Lakes Park offers alternative glamping options close to Englewood Cliffs. "A fun option available at Mountain lakes is to rent a yurt to camp in. The area, as the name implies, is home to several lakes which can be used for various recreational purposes."
Tips from RVers
Water hookup distances: At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, water connections may require additional equipment. A camper shared: "Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that. Our site (15) said 75' however the 50' hose reel made it to our rv connection."
Limited RV capacity: Many glamping sites close to Englewood Cliffs have restrictions on RV size. High Point State Park Campground visitor noted: "So, we got in with no reservation, which was great. It's in the same park as the high point, also great. The sites are varied, some have tent platforms, it's just off the AT, but we have a trailer and the 'trailer' sites aren't level."
Dump station accessibility: RV campers should confirm dump station availability before arrival. At Swartswood State Park Campground, facilities include sanitary dump stations, but hours may be restricted during off-peak seasons.
