Glamping options near Franklin Lakes extend throughout Sussex and Warren Counties, with elevations ranging from 400 to 1,800 feet above sea level. Most sites sit within the Appalachian highlands region, characterized by deciduous forests and moderate temperatures ranging from 30-85°F seasonally. Overnight temperatures can drop significantly even in summer, with evening temperatures often 15-20 degrees cooler than daytime highs.
What to do
Hiking accessibility: Stokes State Forest offers 21 marked trails covering over 63 miles, including 12 miles of the Appalachian Trail. "You can drive or hike to Sunset Mountain Scenic Overlook for a view of High Point Monument," explains a visitor who explored multiple trails during their stay.
Water activities: Sawmill Lake at High Point State Park Campground provides fishing and swimming opportunities from spring through fall. "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," notes a camper who visited with family.
Petting farm: Kids can interact with farm animals at Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort where goats, chickens, a donkey and pony are available for feeding. "The farm has goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground. Very cool," shares a camper who appreciated this unique feature for families.
What campers like
Private camping areas: Camp Glen Gray offers secluded sites with well-maintained cabins. "Cabins are always clean and stocked with firewood. Lots of hiking trails," mentions a family who made this their favorite camping spot. Firewood availability eliminates the need to bring your own.
Panoramic viewpoints: Moon Valley Campground features unique dome structures with exceptional visibility. A reviewer notes it's "nestled in the foothills of Northern NJ on the NY border. Small, clean with great views and great location for hiking, cruising etc." The campground sits approximately 1,000 feet above sea level.
Lake access: Multiple campers praise the easy access to water at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation. "We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful," shares a long-term visitor. Another camper adds, "There are some nice trails around the campground as well, but we only stopped for a night so didn't venture too far."
What you should know
Bear presence: This region has active black bear populations requiring proper food storage. "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes," warns a visitor to Stokes State Forest.
Site terrain considerations: Many campsites throughout the region feature platforms or uneven ground. At High Point State Park, "The gravel driveway is on a 30-40 degree incline. The tent was too long for the 12'x10' platform, so we had to set it up on the flattest part and hope not to roll down the hill in the night."
Reservation policies: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation enforces specific rules not always communicated during booking. "Campground rules do not list anything about alcohol on the website or the emailed rules given after reservation, however there is an alcohol prohibited sign as you enter," reports one camper who was surprised by restrictions.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Great Divide Campground offers structured programming for children throughout the season. "Nice small lake with boats to use. Nice small beach. Lots of weekend activities," explains a visitor who appreciated the family-friendly atmosphere.
Site selection for privacy: Families seeking quieter experiences should request specific sites. At High Point State Park, "The group campsites are big enough for the amount of people you can have, have picnic benches, a fire ring, a composting outhouse toilet just for the site, and one of those flat charcoal 'grills'."
Distance between amenities: At several glamping spots close to Franklin Lakes, New Jersey, facilities are spread out. At Pleasant Acres, "The office, playground, dog park, pool, laundry are located at the top of the hill. Camping spots are downhill, a good distance from the office and amenities," making planning necessary when camping with small children.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Panther Lake Camping Resort offers full hookup sites with water and electric connections. "We were able to get a secluded spot in the woods which was great!" reports an RV camper, noting that not all sites offer the same level of privacy.
Site leveling challenges: Many RV sites in the region require leveling equipment. One visitor to Mahlon Dickerson noted, "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill," while another mentioned "The campsites are paved and mostly level."
Seasonal limitations: Most glamping facilities near Franklin Lakes operate seasonally with limited winter availability. Panther Lake operates from "Apr 1 to Nov 1" according to their information, while many others close completely during winter months or offer reduced services.
