Glamping options near Essex Fells, New Jersey provide recreational access to the highlands of northern New Jersey, where elevations range between 400-1,800 feet. The region combines deciduous forest terrain with numerous lakes and reservoirs, creating a mix of waterfront and woodland camping environments. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing from November through March, while summer days typically reach 75-85°F with moderate humidity.
What to do
Hiking directly from camp sites: Round Valley State Park Campground offers wilderness camping with trail access directly from sites. "You can take a boat across to your site (check the site for regulations/restrictions) - in-season rentals should be available on-site. There is a pump for potable water and vault/pit toilets. Trails are well-kept," notes one camper who appreciates the park's accessibility.
Lake swimming options: Swartswood State Park Campground features a designated swimming area with lifeguards during summer months. "The lake is great to kayak and fish, and the campsites are spacious and has bathrooms," says a regular visitor. Swimming is permitted from Memorial Day through Labor Day with no additional fees for campers.
Panoramic viewpoints: High Point State Park Campground offers access to the highest elevation in New Jersey at 1,803 feet. "You can drive to High Point monument that is 1803 feet above sea level and you get a spectacular panorama view. There are hiking trails and fresh water for kayaking," explains one visitor who enjoyed the multiple recreational options available within the park boundaries.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the secluded nature of Jenny Jump State Forest sites. "The camp sites are nicely laid out to ensure privacy. This park is high up on a mountain and affords lovely views. Well kept and clean," mentions a visitor who found the elevated settings particularly appealing.
Accessible fishing opportunities: At Stokes State Forest, campers can fish in multiple streams and lakes. "Clear streams and lake. Stunning overall. Lake Ocquittunk campground had showers, flush toilets and was popular with families," notes a regular visitor who appreciates the water clarity for fishing visibility.
Varied accommodation types: Great Divide Campground provides multiple lodging options beyond standard tent sites. "They also had covered wagons which I believe you can sleep in, but I did not pursue this option," notes a visitor who observed the unique glamping option. The campground offers tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and specialty accommodations at different price points.
What you should know
Bear precautions required: The region has active black bear populations that necessitate proper food storage. "This is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided," warns a camper at Stokes State Forest. Visitors must bring bear-resistant containers or securely store food in vehicles overnight.
Seasonal facilities limitations: Most campground amenities operate seasonally from April through October, with reduced services outside this window. "Showers are only located INSIDE High Point State Park, not throughout the campsites, but entry is free for campers," explains one visitor detailing the facilities arrangement.
Terrain challenges: Several campgrounds feature steep or uneven terrain that requires physical mobility. "We found parking in the Southern Lot to be perfectly fine and while we were initially worried about leaving our vehicle parked there for a few nights, we were reassured by the park rangers who patrol the lot constantly," notes a Round Valley visitor who hiked to remote sites.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Panther Lake Camping Resort offers structured recreation programs for children. "Great atmosphere for families. Liitte crowded for couples who want peace and quiet the staff was great to deal wwith," observes one visitor who found the family orientation beneficial.
Noise considerations: Family glamping in Essex Fells area requires strategic site selection for optimal sleep conditions. "We got site 15 which was nice and secluded but the smell from the pit toilets wafted over after a while. Previously we had stayed on one of the sites (33 I think) across from the bathrooms and had no issues with smell," notes a Jenny Jump visitor regarding site selection factors.
Platform tent sites: Several campgrounds offer elevated wooden platforms for tents that keep gear dry during wet weather. "Our campsite had a picnic bench and a fire ring. They offer both RV and primitive camping. The grounds were fairly large and each campsite gets their own space with decent privacy," explains a Panther Lake visitor describing the site layout.
Tips from RVers
Water hookup access: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation provides water hookups but may require extended hoses. "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," explains an RVer who appreciated the campground's practical solution.
Dump station availability: Several campgrounds offer sanitary dump stations but with limited operating hours. "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill. Peaceful. Close to train to N. Y. City," notes a Mahlon Dickerson visitor highlighting the accessibility for larger vehicles.
Limited large rig accommodation: Most glamping and upscale camping options near Essex Fells limit RV size due to narrow roads and site dimensions. "The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large. Water and electric hookups and a dump station," describes a visitor who found the sites suitable for standard-sized recreational vehicles.
