New Jersey's western region provides some of the state's most elevation-rich camping terrain, with sites often perched between 800-1,200 feet above sea level. This geography creates camping experiences with variable temperatures—often 5-10 degrees cooler than Glen Ridge proper. Most glamping close to Glen Ridge, New Jersey operates from April through November, with some premium sites maintaining limited availability during winter months.
What to do
Hiking trails for all levels: At Round Valley State Park Campground, access trails directly from wilderness camping areas. "Beautiful and quaint..a nice place to get away and enjoy some nature," notes one visitor. The park's reservoir offers unusual depth at 180 feet, allowing for specialized fishing experiences.
Water sports with rentals: The serene lakes at Turkey Swamp Park feature affordable boat rentals with multiple options. "Plenty to do over a 2 night stay. Archery, boating, fishing, and hiking. Boat rental rates are acceptable and there are four different styles to choose from," explains a recent camper.
Night sky viewing: Sites at higher elevations away from urban light pollution offer stargazing opportunities. One camper planned telescope viewing at High Point State Park but noted: "The weather was overcast so we weren't able to use our telescope at night."
Camping astronomy: Several state parks host seasonal astronomy programs during summer months. Jenny Jump State Forest's location on an elevated ridge makes it particularly suitable for night sky observation. "This park is high up on a mountain and affords lovely views," reports one visitor.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: At Jenny Jump State Forest, campsites are designed for seclusion. "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," shares one reviewer who appreciated the isolation.
Clean facilities: Great Divide Campground maintains well-kept bathrooms and shower facilities. "Bathrooms clean And shower was warm and clean as well. They even have a heater to keep you comfortable in and out of the shower," notes a satisfied camper.
Platform camping: Several parks offer elevated tent platforms that keep camping gear off wet ground. At High Point State Park, "Each campsite has a firepit/ring, picnic table, and lantern hook," though one visitor cautions about site selection: "The gravel driveway is on a 30-40 degree incline."
Seasonal activities: Parks adjust programming throughout the year. Turkey Swamp Park offers archery during warmer months and converts to winter recreation when conditions permit. One regular visitor notes, "We go every year. It has everything the outdoorsman could ask for. Bring your bow and shoot at the hay barrels. Ice skate on the lake in the winter."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most glamping accommodations near Glen Ridge require bookings 2-6 months in advance for premium weekends. "Advance reservations are essential during peak summer months," according to park officials.
Site accessibility varies: Stokes State Forest offers multiple campground sections with different characteristics. "Stokes State Forest has four campgrounds. The Steam Mill Camping Area is tucked out the of the way and is the most primitive. It is the smallest of the campgrounds with 27 sites only suitable for tents or small trailers/campervans."
Wildlife considerations: The region has specific wildlife management protocols. "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 Stokes State Forest camper.
Seasonal insect patterns: Ticks are particularly prevalent in late spring and early summer. One Turkey Swamp visitor reported: "By the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2. That was so crazy because we were just sitting by our camper."
Tips for camping with families
Spacious group sites: Panther Lake Camping Resort offers dedicated areas for larger family gatherings. "Fun camping place to books groups. Very kid and pet friendly, lake to fish and kayak on, lots of activities, great pool and awesome hot tub," shares one family camper.
Playgrounds and activities: Multiple facilities provide structured play areas. "Turkey Swamp is a great spot, a lot of different things to do. Fishing, Tent Camp, Van Camping, Open Field, BBQ, Kayaking, Canoeing," according to a visitor who appreciated the variety.
Budget planning: Many parks charge additional fees for pets, extra vehicles, or day visitors. One Jenny Jump camper mentioned: "The space was reasonably priced, but we did have to pay an extra $5/day for our dog."
Shelter rentals: For families not ready for tent camping, several parks offer rustic shelters. A Jenny Jump visitor described: "The 'shelter' is what we would describe as a 'cabin'; four walls, a roof, locking door, locking windows, large picture frame front window, four beds(two bunks), a wood burning stove, and a porch."
Tips from RVers
Water connections: At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, RVers note helpful accommodations for water hookups. "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."
Electric options: Many campgrounds provide limited 30-amp service rather than 50-amp connections. "This county park has large, wooded campsites with electric and water. It's beautiful and quiet, and close to beautiful hiking trails, lakes, and other outdoor recreation opportunities."
Level site selection: Finding level parking can be challenging in some mountainous campgrounds. At Great Divide, "Most sites are level. Some areas are a little steeper then I would like to set up on, but that's me."
Dump station access: Sanitary facilities vary significantly between parks. One Mahlon Dickerson visitor appreciated that "Trash dumpster is an easy walk and the dump station has a flush hose point. Nice and easy little campground."
