Camping opportunities near Wharton, New Jersey extend beyond the upscale glamping accommodations mentioned in the existing description. The region sits within the Highlands physiographic province at elevations ranging from 700-1,200 feet, creating diverse microclimates that impact camping conditions throughout the seasons. Fall temperatures can drop below freezing at night, even when days remain mild, making proper cold-weather gear essential for autumn glamping in Wharton, New Jersey and surrounding areas.
What to do
Hike to scenic viewpoints: At Jenny Jump State Forest, trails lead to impressive lookout points with minimal crowds. "My first time camping in a shelter at a state park. We had a much better experience than we were expecting! The 'shelter' is what we would describe as a 'cabin'; four walls, a roof, locking door, locking windows," notes one visitor who enjoyed the hiking access.
Wolf watching tours: Camp Taylor Campground offers a unique wildlife experience with the adjacent Lakota Wolf Preserve. "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," explains one camper.
Kayak pristine reservoirs: Explore the clear waters at Spruce Run Recreation Area where waterfront sites provide direct reservoir access. "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. It's kind of worth it," advises a frequent visitor.
What campers like
Tent platforms: Round Valley State Park Campground offers elevated camping spots that keep tents dry. "Well maintained campsites. Fire pit had a medal grate to cook on. Beautiful area. we paddled in, the water is very clean and crystal clear," notes a paddler who accessed the remote sites.
Private wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the secluded atmosphere at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation. "Very quiet here. Our site is easily the nicest - all the way in the back with only one neighbor. It is so quiet here. No amenities or extras here, just really pleasant camping in the woods," explains one camper who enjoyed the natural setting.
Multiple swimming options: Swartswood State Park Campground provides lake access for cooling off during summer camping trips. "I got one of the last available campsites and it was okay, but not one I would have normally chosen. This campsite was in the open grass area and not very private," explains a camper who nonetheless enjoyed the park's swimming opportunities.
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Black bears are active in this region, particularly at Stokes State Forest. "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 one camper who stayed in the Steam Mill Camping Area.
Limited water access: Many campgrounds have distant water sources. "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 reviewer about tent camping options.
Reservation windows: Peak season books quickly, especially for weekend sites. "We came on a Friday night. Everyone was up pretty late, but was not crazy loud. The rest of the weekend it seemed like everyone's simmered down. The campground was full of mostly families," explains one visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Great Divide Campground offers dedicated child-friendly spaces. "Great family run campground. Owners are a blast. Most sites are level. Some areas are a little steeper then I would like to set up on, but that's me. Nice small lake with boats to use. Nice small beach. Lots of weekend activities," notes a family camper.
Kid-friendly trails: Several parks feature shorter hiking loops suitable for young hikers. "We've been here multiple times. It's so peaceful up there and the scenery is lovely. The last time we were there we were at site 28 which was nice and secluded but the smell from the pit toilets wafted over after a while," reports a repeat visitor to the area.
Swimming beaches: Many families select sites near designated swimming areas. "A bit of a 'low frills' campground, but with lots of good hiking trails, fishing spots, and a great beach area for swimming with the kids," shares a parent about their experience.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: When luxury glamping in Wharton, New Jersey area isn't available, many RVers recommend checking specific site details. "The campgrounds were just okay. 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," advises an experienced RVer.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups or convenient dump stations. "Very clean and quiet. 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," explains a visitor.
Site leveling challenges: Prepare leveling blocks for uneven terrain. "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. Pool was packed so didn't spend time there but the ceramic class was fun for the girls," shares a camper who navigated site selection with family needs in mind.
