Camping areas near Glenwood, New Jersey sit within the Skylands region at elevations between 1,200-1,800 feet, creating cooler summer temperatures than surrounding lowlands. The hilly terrain features ridgelines with exposed bedrock dating to the Precambrian era, forming part of the ancient Appalachian range. Most campsites require advance reservations during peak season from Memorial Day through Labor Day when weekend occupancy often reaches 90%.
What to do
Lake activities and swimming: Access points at Wawayanda State Park offer swimming beaches with designated areas during summer months. Justin P. notes, "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."
Appalachian Trail segments: Multiple access points connect to this famous long-distance trail. Richard M. from Stokes State Forest shares, "I was section hiking the NJ section of the AT which passes through Wawayanda State Park. I stopped at the shelter for a break. It is small compared to other shelters, listed capacity is 6, but offers the normal facilities."
Mountain biking on established trails: Several loops accommodate different skill levels. John C. remarks, "Beautiful hiking trails around the area with a cool, shaded stream that runs close by the sites and is fun to walk along (does have paths)."
What campers like
Secluded tent platforms: Elevated wooden structures keep tents dry during wet weather. Damia F. from High Point State Park Campground explains, "Camps are secluded from each other and most if not all have an elevated space to put tents or chairs. Each place comes with a lamp hang, a fire pit, and a picnic table."
Year-round cabin options: Heated structures remain open when tent camping closes. W L. from Stokes State Forest describes, "The cabins are reasonably priced and well-appointed, if a bit rustic. The interior features are just what you'd expect for getting away for the weekend. The main room has a bunk bed and two twins, a table with benches, two Adirondack chairs, a wood stove set into a fireplace."
Waterfront camping sites: Lake views and access from select locations. Kara L. shares about Ocquittunk: "We stayed at site #T007 is was a short walk from the car to the site, but so worth it for many reasons. The site itself is huge and we were able to position our tent facing the lake, it was beautiful!"
What you should know
Wildlife considerations: Bears frequent the area requiring proper food storage. Josh S. observes, "Due to cooler temps there were really no bugs to complain about while camping."
Site terrain varies significantly: Many spots feature uneven ground. Dwight D. warns, "The photos did not convey the actual steepness of this site!! 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."
Limited cell service: Coverage gaps exist throughout the region. M P. from Wawayanda State Park Campground notes, "No phone service at campsite, but could get phone service by the kayak hut or the main entrance."
Dog friendly campgrounds near Glenwood: Pet policies vary between parks. Christina L. from Mahlon Dickerson Reservation says, "Very clean and the area is beautiful. They have these 12x12 platforms to put your tent on. This was pretty cool especially since some of the sites are all gravel with surrounding dirt."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Multiple dog-welcoming campgrounds have dedicated children's areas. Maggie K. notes about Kittatinny Campground: "My college friends go here each year to meet up and we have so much fun. The group sites are great and perfect for our 30-50 people. Definitely go for the rafting/tubing package, it was the best part of the trip!"
Petting farm experiences: Seasonal animal interactions at select locations. Scott N. shares, "Great location. Great scenery. Full hook ups. Animal petting and good fishing."
Group sites for larger gatherings: Dedicated areas accommodate extended families. Christian adds, "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'."
Winter programming: Select parks offer cold-weather activities. Grant M. explains, "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."
Tips from RVers
Late arrival procedures: Options for after-hours check-in vary by campground. Janelle G. from Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort notes, "Lots of seasonals and lots of cabins, many RV sites I think all with full hookups. A bit pricey. And also no garbage anywhere near the RV sites!"
Water hookup distances: Hose length requirements can exceed 75 feet at some parks. The reviewer "antruze" explains, "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."
Winter camping limitations: Reduced services during off-season. Dave B. shares, "Friendly, aim to please staff. This is a point to point camp on the freeway. Easy on and off on I 84. Great place to pull in for the night if you are traveling. Safe, clean, and right on the Delaware River."
Pet-friendly RV sites: Most campgrounds welcome dogs with restrictions. Jeff W. explains, "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."
Legend
