Tent campsites near Glen Gardner, New Jersey range from primitive wilderness sites to established campgrounds with modest amenities. Located in Hunterdon County at approximately 500 feet elevation, this area experiences typical Mid-Atlantic seasonal patterns with humid summers reaching 85-90°F and winters dropping to freezing. Most sites require advance reservations, particularly during peak summer months when temperatures and humidity levels rise considerably.
What to do
Paddle the reservoir: Round Valley State Park Campground offers kayaking and canoeing opportunities on its 2,350-acre reservoir. "Really nice spot to camp very peaceful and quit. Gorgeous sunset, beautiful views," notes one visitor at Round Valley. The reservoir is 180 feet deep at its center, providing excellent trout fishing conditions.
Explore Appalachian Trail sections: Kirkrige Shelter / Kittatinny Mountain provides direct access to the Appalachian Trail. "This spot is right next to a beautiful view on the side of Kittany Mountain and just off the Appalachian trail," reports one hiker. The shelter area offers four camping spots with fire rings, three in wooded areas and one near the mountain viewpoint.
Experience historical sites: Washington Crossing State Park combines camping with Revolutionary War history. "Visit the park's historic reenactments, especially the Christmas Day Crossing event as it's easily the most memorable history lesson you'll ever get outdoors," suggests one camper. The park spans both Pennsylvania and New Jersey sides of the Delaware River.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Jenny Jump State Forest provides good separation between campsites. "My husband and I tent camped in #34 with our dog. The space was reasonably priced, but we did have to pay an extra $5/day for our dog. However, we didn't mind as it was so private we felt like we had the entire Park to ourselves," explains one camper.
Wilderness camping challenges: Round Valley State Park Campground offers true primitive experiences. "This is a great campground that is super private and quiet - great for getting out to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. It's a pretty strenuous hike, but you'll be rewarded for the effort!" notes one visitor. Campers particularly value the isolation that comes with difficult access.
Seasonal variety: Kittatinny Valley State Park Campground provides year-round wildlife viewing. "Four spots across the public park. You'll see deer and rabbits it's really spacious and beautiful. Site A is the best for seclusion and a spot closer to the lake (also amazing sunsets)," reports one camper. The park's open fields and forested areas support diverse habitats.
What you should know
Water sources vary by site: While some campgrounds advertise drinking water, reliability differs significantly. "There's a pump for potable water and vault/pit toilets. Trails are well-kept. Definitely a great place to start with getting into backpacking and enjoying nature," notes a Round Valley camper. Many experienced campers bring filtration systems.
Reservation requirements: Most tent sites near Glen Gardner require advance booking, especially during summer months. "Reservations are required for this site," explains a visitor at Alosa Boat In Campsites. For group camping areas, bookings may need to be made months in advance.
Facilities maintenance issues: Bathroom facilities at primitive sites often receive minimal maintenance. "While there are backwoods-style bathroom pits, these are very ill-managed and you'll come across the 'stank' well before actually even arriving here, so we just didn't use them," reports one Round Valley visitor. Plan accordingly with personal sanitation supplies.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with nearby amenities: Jenny Jump offers family-friendly facilities. "The bathroom/shower was only a few steps away which was convenient and clean. The only problem we encountered was that there wasn't a store close by for ice or other essentials, although the main office does sell firewood," explains a family camper.
Consider accessible options: Camp Mohican Outdoor Center provides amenities suitable for families. "The Group Campsite was really big. It had 5-6 platforms, privys, big fire ring, a grill, a beatbox, a large pavilion w/picnic tables and a real full sized bathroom only 100 yards away," notes one visitor. The visitor center with Wi-Fi is just 0.3 miles from camp.
Pack for variable weather: The region experiences significant temperature fluctuations between day and night, even in summer. "It went down to 40 degrees that night so we had to make due with extra layers and bundle up but we made it through the night," reports a camper at Camp Starry Night at Gulyan Farms. Always bring additional warm layers, even for summer camping.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most tent campsites near Glen Gardner have minimal or no RV facilities. "This campground is a nice little hideaway not too far from the beaten path. You can hear some of the highway sounds from the campsites (especially the jake brake)," notes a visitor at Jenny Jump State Forest. RVers should research site dimensions and access roads before booking.
Alternative overnight parking: For RV campers unable to access primitive sites, consider using designated overflow parking. "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," explains a Round Valley camper. Always confirm parking regulations with park staff.
Prepare for rustic conditions: Even at sites that permit RVs, expect minimal amenities. "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 a visitor at Jenny Jump State Forest. Most RV-accessible sites lack hookups, requiring self-containment.
