Northern New Jersey's glamping options extend beyond basic tent sites, with upscale accommodations available at elevations ranging from 400 to 1,800 feet across the region. Visitors seeking glamping in Ramsey, New Jersey and surrounding areas can access sites within a 30-minute drive. Most luxury camping locations operate from April through October, with limited winter availability at select properties.
What to do
Appalachian Trail access: Several glamping locations near Ramsey provide direct trail access for day hikes. At High Point State Park, campers can explore sections of the AT without extensive travel. One visitor noted, "I stopped at this shelter while hiking the AT in High Point SP. It was raining the entire day and the shelter provided a dry place to take a break. The shelter has the usual facilities, privy, water source (must be filtered), bear box, etc."
Wildlife viewing: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation combines upscale camping with natural habitat observation. According to a camper, "Located in the Skylands of New Jersey, Mahlon Dickerson Campgound is a perfect place to spend a few nights or a couple of weeks. The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large." Another reviewer mentioned encountering wildlife: "There are a lot of bear warnings here so that gave us a bit of pause with our three little boys."
Fishing and paddling: Panther Lake Camping Resort offers glamping sites with lake access for fishing and boating. A visitor shared, "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." The resort maintains rental equipment for guests who don't bring their own gear.
What campers like
Heated structures: Camp Glen Gray provides comfort-focused accommodations with heating solutions. As one visitor explained, "Cabins are always clean and stocked with firewood. Lots of hiking trails. Trading post is well stocked and volunteers are always friendly and able to answer any questions." These heated options extend the glamping season beyond summer months.
Privacy levels: Great Divide Campground offers varying levels of seclusion for glamping sites. A reviewer mentioned, "The sites are very large and I suggest site 7. It is on a hill so have a hand truck or a few people to carry stuff. Trust me it is worth it and I think it's the best tent site they have." Another noted, "Sites had room to move and it was quiet and peaceful."
Bathroom facilities: Many prefer glamping locations with full bathroom amenities. 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." One reviewer appreciated upgraded facilities: "Bathrooms and shower were all single stall and very clean, only a 5 min walk from our site."
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Most luxury camping options operate on restricted schedules. High Point State Park Campground has a defined operating window: "April 1 to October 31." Winter visitors have fewer options and should verify availability before planning trips.
Reservation requirements: Most glamping sites require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. At Stokes State Forest, visitors note the reservation process is straightforward: "Super easy to book. Easy to find on a gps and even if you lose service there are signs marking the reservation campground!"
Wildlife precautions: Black bears are present throughout the region. A reviewer at Panther Lake Camping Resort cautioned, "We had a skunk that visited our campsite multiple times in one night. Was not afraid of humans." Proper food storage containers are essential when glamping in Ramsey, New Jersey and surrounding woodland areas.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Great Divide Campground offers structured children's programs. A visitor noted, "Kids had lots of fun on the free kayaks and pool. Staff was friendly and helpful. Campgrounds have lots of hills so be prepared to hike up and down." Another mentioned, "They had scheduled activities for kids."
Noise considerations: Some glamping sites enforce quiet hours while others permit late activities. One reviewer at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation appreciated the atmosphere: "Very clean and quiet. Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that."
Proximity to amenities: Family glamping often requires access to supplies. A visitor to Mahlon Dickerson Reservation noted, "It's beautiful and quiet, and close to beautiful hiking trails, lakes, and other outdoor recreation opportunities. And yet it's only about a 15 minute drive to a large mall with movies, shopping, and restaurants."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: RV glamping options vary in privacy levels. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, "There are a lot of bear warnings here so that gave us a bit of pause with our three little boys. The sites are spaced well and have a nice bonus of large fire rings set back in the woods a bit from the pad that you park on."
Utility access: Water and electric hookup locations can present challenges. A camper at Mahlon Dickerson noted, "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."
Navigational challenges: Some glamping areas have restricted vehicle access or challenging terrain. At Stokes State Forest, "No vehicles allowed to drive through camp. Trading Post for treats and other items. Many camp sites open to rent. Cabins - Leanto - Tent Sites."
