Glamping options in Mine Hill, New Jersey are set within the rugged Highlands region of northwest New Jersey, characterized by dense forests, rocky ridges, and elevations averaging 500-1,200 feet above sea level. Winter temperatures can drop to the low 20s while summer brings comfortable 70-85°F days, making seasonal preparation essential for overnight stays. Most local camping facilities remain open from early April through late October, with extended seasons for heated accommodations.
What to do
Hiking on the Appalachian Trail: High Point State Park Campground provides direct access to the Appalachian Trail with multiple connecting paths. "I took 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," reports one visitor.
Wolf watching tours: Camp Taylor Campground offers discounted tours of the Lakota Wolf Preserve for campers. "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," shares one camper who found this to be a unique experience.
Primitive camping experience: For those seeking a more isolated experience, Round Valley Recreation Area offers boat-in campsites with remarkable water access. "The water is crystal clear, the area is clean. There's bathrooms and pumps but we just filtered the water from the reservoir instead which tasted a million times better than the well water," notes a visitor.
What campers like
Secluded tent platforms: Jenny Jump State Forest features elevated wooden platforms that campers appreciate for comfort. "The campgrounds and bathrooms were clean and well kept. Great place to get away for the weekend with the family! They allow dogs and had hiking trails with beautiful views you could enjoy right from your campground," one reviewer mentioned.
Lake access for water activities: Swartswood State Park provides multiple water recreation options close to campsites. "One of my favorite camping locations to go with my family. Swimmers can come to the main beach area without camping. In the camp area there is no beach area but there is a boat launch and places you can get your feet wet," explains a regular visitor.
Group camping areas: Great Divide Campground offers excellent group accommodations that families appreciate. "This was our second visit to the campground and the first weekend they opened to RVs after Covid. No amenities were open but we had a great time fishing in the lake. Spots are spacious and campers were spread out throughout the large campground," notes a repeat guest.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary significantly: While some parks maintain modern facilities, others are more basic. At Stokes State Forest, "The campground has a pit toilet and a well. Each large campsite has a picnic table, fire pit, and lantern hook. Some sites also have a tent platform. Many sites are a bit rocky."
Bear safety requirements: Many campgrounds in the region require proper food storage. As one camper at Stokes State Forest noted, "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes."
Alcohol policies: Rules vary by location. At Panther Lake Camping Resort, alcohol is permitted in designated areas, while state parks typically prohibit alcohol. Some campgrounds like Mahlon Dickerson have signage that may not match online policies: "FYI.... 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."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Panther Lake Camping Resort provides excellent swimming opportunities. "We went on 4th of July weekend so the place was packed. 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."
Kid-friendly activities: Schedule your visit during organized events. "Panther lake was a pretty good campground with lots of spots to camp at. The lake and pool were a big plus, especially for hot days. While I did not take advantage, you are allowed to rent boats and take them out on the lake," shares a visitor.
Site selection for privacy: Look for wooded sites away from main roads. "If you want more secluded campsites try to get 13 or 14 as they seem to stick back more. Sites 8-11 are adjacent to the road and in peak times probably have a fair about of foot and vehicle traffic," advises a Stokes State Forest camper.
Tips from RVers
Water hookup logistics: Spruce Run Recreation Area offers water and electric sites, but with some trade-offs. "I love the water views. The sites are large, many have nice mix of sun and shade. You can launch your kayak easily from the shore. There are some RV sites with water & electric which are not on the water, but in the parking lot. I would consider getting one on the water to enjoy the water and one in the parking lot to hook up the RV."
Tree clearance challenges: At state parks, overhead branches can be problematic. "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," warns a Spruce Run visitor.
Leveling considerations: High Point State Park presents terrain challenges. "We have a trailer and the 'trailer' sites aren't level. Showers are at the day use area, from 10-5:30, no trailer dump," notes a visitor who encountered these limitations.
