Glamping facilities close to Hackettstown, New Jersey offer diverse accommodation options within the northwestern highlands region where elevations range from 700 to 1,000 feet. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and cooler evenings around 60°F. Fall brings vibrant foliage displays from mid-September through October, creating ideal conditions for extended camping seasons.
What to do
Hiking at Stokes State Forest: Over 63 miles of marked trails wind through diverse terrain, including 12 miles of the Appalachian Trail. A visitor noted, "There are 21 marked trails that cover over 63 miles within the boundaries of Stokes State Forest. Twelve miles are part of the Appalachian Trail."
Kayaking at Round Valley State Park: The 2,350-acre reservoir provides excellent paddling opportunities. Access via water is often easier than hiking with gear. One camper shared, "We paddled in, the water is very clean and crystal clear," while another mentioned, "Whether hiking or kayaking to this CG, you will want to bring as little with you as possible—packing too much to come here just isn't worth the work."
Wildlife viewing at Camp Taylor Campground: The on-site wolf preserve offers educational tours and unique wildlife experiences. A visitor explained, "You can take a short hike up the mountain there to see the wolves in the sanctuary. There are moments by the fire you can hear them howl in the distance."
Fishing at Spruce Run Recreation Area: The reservoir supports various fish species and allows shoreline access. One camper noted, "You can launch your kayak easily from the shore," while another mentioned it's "Great for sailing and fishing."
What campers like
Privacy levels at campsites: Many locations offer secluded spots with natural separation. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, "The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large," while another camper noted, "Sites are nice and large, can hold multiple tents."
Waterfront views: Several campgrounds offer prime water-adjacent sites. At Spruce Run, "Many sites have a lovely water view of the reservoir," and another camper noted, "The sites on the water are just so nice."
Four-season options: Unlike the seasonal glamping mentioned in the existing description, some locations offer year-round access. Stokes State Forest is "Open most of year," and Mahlon Dickerson Reservation maintains year-round operations with appropriate facilities.
Natural sounds: Waterways create peaceful ambient noise at many sites. At Camp Taylor, campers enjoy sites "along the creek, perfect white noise to get a great night sleep," while others mention "hear[ing] the frogs chirping at night" at various water-adjacent sites.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Many campgrounds fill quickly, especially waterfront sites. For Swartswood State Park, weekends book months ahead while midweek availability remains more open.
Bear awareness: This region requires proper food storage practices. At Stokes State Forest, "This is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided." Camp Taylor provides "bear proof bin for garbage."
Alcohol policies: Rules vary significantly between locations. While Jenny Jump and several state parks prohibit alcohol, one camper at Mahlon Dickerson noted, "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."
Noise factors: Highway proximity affects some locations. At Spruce Run, "Late at night you can hear the drone of a major highway," and another camper mentioned, "You can hear 78, especially at night once the campground settles down."
Tips for camping with families
Choose family-focused amenities: Several campgrounds cater specifically to children. At Great Divide Campground, "They had live music which was actually really good!!! A reggae band" and another family noted "Kids had lots of fun on the free kayaks and pool."
Consider privacy levels: Different campground sections offer varying experiences. At Panther Lake Camping Resort, "We were able to get a secluded spot in the woods which was great! 2 teenage girls had a blast in the lake and riding their bikes around."
Pack for temperature swings: The region experiences significant day-to-night temperature changes. At Stokes State Forest, cabin campers reported, "The wood stove definitely heats the room up nicely. I went through two bundles of wood in one night, and could have used more in the morning."
Evaluate shower facilities: Quality varies dramatically between locations. At Panther Lake, one camper complained, "Probably the worst shower ever. The lights are timed. The water is a button. The space is small as hell."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Choose locations based on shade and accessibility needs. At Spruce Run, "If bringing your RV, the safest bet is to reserve a spot with no shade as the other spots often times have very low hanging tree limbs."
Water hookup logistics: Some sites require extra equipment. At Mahlon Dickerson, "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."
Dump station availability: Not all glamping sites near Hackettstown offer full services. One visitor to Mahlon Dickerson noted the "dump station has a flush hose point. Nice and easy little campground."
Electric options: Amperage varies between locations. While Jenny Jump offers electric hookups, Great Divide Campground provides "thirty-amp-hookups" while Mahlon Dickerson offers "fifty-amp-hookups" for higher power needs.
