At 1,803 feet above sea level, the highest point in New Jersey provides a striking backdrop for glamping close to Wallpack Center, New Jersey. The Delaware Water Gap region offers diverse camping options across numerous state parks and private campgrounds, with seasonal operations typically running April through October. Winter camping is limited to specific cabins and yurts with appropriate heating systems.
What to do
Hiking to High Point Monument: From High Point State Park Campground, hikers can access trails leading to the highest elevation in New Jersey. "You can drive to High Point monument that is 1803 feet above sea level and you get a spectacular panorama view. There are hiking trails and fresh water for kayaking," notes one visitor.
Wolf preserve tours: Unique wildlife viewing opportunities exist at Camp Taylor Campground, where wolves howl in the distance. "There is a section of RV spots that are each cut out in the woods so very private. 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."
Water activities: Multiple lakes support fishing, swimming and boating. "The lake was beautiful in the morning with mist or steam. We took one afternoon to visit the High Point Monument, which was lovely," shares a Shotwell camper. Most campgrounds rent kayaks and paddleboats during peak season.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Shotwell offers secluded camping spots away from main roads. "Campsites nice and private. Only one other camper on the other loop. Rustic. Perfect for me. Spacious campsites," reports one reviewer who appreciated the solitude.
Tent platforms: Many sites feature raised wooden platforms that elevate tents off potentially wet ground. "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," notes a Stokes State Forest visitor.
Bear-proof storage: Wildlife safety measures are in place throughout the region. "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes," warns a reviewer, emphasizing the importance of proper food storage.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds operate from April through October, with limited winter options. "Swartswood State Park is a very large complex that is extremely well maintained with nice facilities. The campsites are slightly separated from the lake (maybe 8 min walk to lake) but that also means you aren't bothered by day guests," explains a visitor to Swartswood State Park Campground.
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have poor connectivity. "Cell service is awful for AT&T and our T-Mobile gateway. Had to move to a new site to get away from the trees to get starlink connectivity," shares a Timothy Lake visitor.
Bathroom locations: Facilities vary significantly between campgrounds. "Bathrooms are spaced out. No running water except for pump founded outside of the bathrooms. Toilets are pump flushed. Showers are only located INSIDE High Point State Park, not throughout the campsites," explains a camper.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Panther Lake Camping Resort offers numerous recreational options. "Fun camping place to books groups. Very kid and pet friendly, lake to fish and kayak on, lots of activities, great pool and awesome hot tub," shares a family camper, though they note connectivity limitations.
Playground access: Consider site location relative to play areas. "Our camp site was great (52), backed onto a wooded area and a big playground was directly in front of us, which worked out perfectly since we have school age kids," recommends a Delaware Water Gap KOA visitor.
Noise considerations: Research quiet areas if traveling with small children. "Sites are very close together. A dead spruce tree on our site had been spray painted green to make it appear alive," notes a KOA visitor about site density that could affect sleep quality.
Tips from RVers
Site selection at Great Divide: Great Divide Campground offers varying site types and privacy levels. "The sites could be very close depending upon where u go. We had r6 and we had neighbor on one side. If the other spot was occupied then it might be a little too close for us. But there are some other sites that def are separate," advises an RV camper.
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain throughout the region. "Roads are a bit rocky but the site itself is quiet," warns a Shotwell visitor, while another notes: "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, but we have a trailer and the 'trailer' sites aren't level."
Water pressure variation: Check specifications before arrival. "Best water pressure I have seen on the east coast, unregulated it's over 80 psi," cautions a Timothy Lake visitor, suggesting RVers should bring pressure regulators.
