Glamping options near Montville, New Jersey often provide wooded settings with elevation ranging from 600-1200 feet above sea level in the northern highlands region. The area experiences four distinct seasons, with summer temperatures typically reaching 75-85°F and winter temperatures dropping to 20-30°F. Several campgrounds offer platforms for tents and RVs, making setup easier on the region's uneven terrain.
What to do
Hike to scenic overlooks: At High Point State Park Campground, visitors can climb to the monument that marks New Jersey's highest elevation. "We took one afternoon to visit the High Point Monument, which was lovely," shares one camper. The park offers multiple trail options within a 15-minute drive of the campground.
Paddle on pristine lakes: Round Valley State Park Campground features a 2,350-acre reservoir that's perfect for kayaking and canoeing. "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. Free kayak rentals are available at some locations during summer months.
Explore Appalachian Trail sections: Many local campgrounds provide direct access to trail sections. "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," explains a camper. Trail maps are available at park offices or through the Avenza Maps app.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Stokes State Forest earns praise for its well-designed camping areas. "The Steam Mill Camping Area is tucked out the of the way and is the most primitive. Each large campsite has a picnic table, fire pit, and lantern hook. Some sites also have a tent platform," notes one visitor who appreciated the secluded setting.
Rustic cabins with modern touches: Jenny Jump State Forest offers shelter options beyond traditional glamping tents. "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," explains a satisfied guest.
Fishing opportunities: Many campers appreciate the stocked lakes. "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," shares a visitor to High Point State Park. Fishing licenses are required and can be purchased online or at local sporting goods stores.
What you should know
Bear country precautions: This region requires proper food storage. "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided," warns a camper at Stokes State Forest. Most campgrounds recommend hanging food or using bear canisters.
Varied terrain challenges: Campsites often feature uneven ground. At Camp Glen Gray, a visitor notes: "Great Camp! One rustic place with many hiking trails to choose from. Camp also provides trucking of gear weather permitting. No vehicles allowed to drive through camp." Call ahead to check site conditions, especially after rain.
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds close during winter months. "Located just south of I78 and near the small hamlets of Clinton and Lebanon, what I love most about Round Valley SP is the fact that it has its very own eponymous fresh water reservoir," explains a camper, though they note facilities are typically open April through October.
Tips for camping with families
Look for sites with playgrounds: Some Montville area glamping destinations include child-friendly amenities. "Great family run campground. Owners are a blast. Most sites are level. Nice small lake with boats to use. Nice small beach. Lots of weekend activities," shares a visitor to Great Divide Campground.
Consider cabin options for cooler months: Families appreciate shelters during unpredictable weather. "Sussex county is beautiful. Stokes is such a peaceful campground! We stay in the cabins. It's great to have the small kitchen when camping with the family," notes one visitor. Most cabins require reservations 3-6 months in advance.
Reserve water-adjacent sites early: Lakeside glamping spots fill quickly. "Sites had room to move and it was quiet and peaceful. Kids had lots of fun on the free kayaks and pool. Staff was friendly and helpful," reports a family who stayed at Great Divide Campground. For summer weekends, book at least 2-3 months ahead.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions carefully: RV sites vary significantly between campgrounds. "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill. Peaceful. Close to train to N.Y. City," notes an RVer about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation. Most sites accommodate vehicles under 35 feet, but always confirm before booking.
Plan for limited hookups: Many glamping sites near Montville offer only partial hookups. "The sites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large. Water and electric hookups and a dump station," shares an RV camper at Mahlon Dickerson. Some campgrounds provide communal water spigots rather than individual connections.
Navigate steep terrain cautiously: The region's topography can challenge larger vehicles. "Lots of hills so bikes are hard to use. We hiked the golf cart trails which are beautiful and go throughout the woods," cautions a camper at Great Divide. Some glamping areas restrict vehicle access entirely, providing gear transportation services instead.
