Military families seeking glamping near Tomkins Cove, New York can access exclusive camping options at West Point FMWR Round Pond Outdoor Recreation Area, located approximately 20 miles from Tomkins Cove. This area features clean facilities and spacious campsites reserved for active military and veterans. The region contains a mix of state forests, national recreation areas, and private campgrounds with premium accommodations at elevations ranging from 500-1,800 feet. Most glamping options require advance reservations, particularly during summer months when availability becomes limited.
What to do
Hiking on varied terrain: At Mountain Lakes Park, visitors can access several trails directly from the campground. The terrain includes multiple lakes and woodland paths with minimal elevation changes, making it suitable for beginners. "There are many hikes which can be trekked straight from the campgrounds which is always a huge plus," notes one visitor to Mountain Lakes Park.
Water activities on multiple lakes: Stokes State Forest offers fishing, kayaking and paddleboarding opportunities across several small lakes. Rentals are available at the main office for those who don't bring their own equipment. "We stayed at site 11 on Lake Ocquittunk. Site was located on a small hill next to the lake with the road directly in front and water about 50 yards away," reports a camper at Stokes State Forest.
Historical exploration: Military history enthusiasts can visit the High Point Monument, accessible from the campground at High Point State Park. At 1,803 feet above sea level, it marks New Jersey's highest elevation point. "You can drive to High Point monument that is 1803 feet above sea level and you get a spectacular panorama view," mentions a visitor to the park.
What campers like
Private, secluded sites: Moon Valley Campground offers a more intimate glamping experience with only 5 total sites spread across a hillside property. "This was a great campsite nestled in the foothills of Northern NJ on the NY border. Small, clean with great views and great location for hiking," reports a camper at Moon Valley Campground.
Military-only accommodations: Round Pond Recreation Area provides exclusive access for active and retired military personnel, creating a respectful community atmosphere. "We've been coming here for at least 13 years. We love that it's a place specifically for Vets and active Military. Everyone is amazingly respectful of each other," shares a regular visitor to West Point FMWR Round Pond Outdoor Recreation Area.
Well-maintained facilities: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation features clean bathrooms, spacious sites, and reliable utilities. "Very clean and quiet. Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that," notes one RVer who stayed at the campground.
What you should know
Military restrictions: Several campgrounds in the area are reserved exclusively for military personnel. "Unfortunately for me, Round Pond is camping reserved for active and retired military personnel only. There are several signs everywhere making it clear that it is only for military," explains a visitor who was unable to camp there.
Seasonal bathhouse access: High Point State Park's shower facilities have limited operational hours. "Showers are at the day use area, from 10-5:30," mentions a camper at High Point State Park Campground.
Weekend noise levels: Kittatinny Campground can be noisy, particularly on weekends and during peak season. "Busy campground no quiet time loud music till 3 in the morning. Very clean, workers very friendly and helpful but after dark no one around," reports a camper who visited.
Tips for camping with families
Children's activities: Jellystone Park Gardiner offers structured activities throughout the day for children of various ages. "Nice pool that is shallow so you can relax and let the little ones go in the water park section alone or they have a 3 ft pool also. My older kids preferred a deeper pool but they still had a great time there they have lasertag which they enjoy," shares a parent who visited Jellystone Park Gardiner.
Educational opportunities: Camp Glen Gray provides nature-focused programming in a rustic setting. "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," notes a family that regularly visits the camp.
Cell service considerations: Some campgrounds have limited or no cell reception, which can impact planning. "Just a note to other campers with T-Moblie, we did not have any service on the campsite, however just a hop in the car or a quick walk down the mountain for 5G service near the entrance off the main road," advises a military family who camped at Round Pond.
Tips from RVers
Site selection guidance: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers spacious RV sites with reliable hookups. "The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large. Water and electric hookups and a dump station," explains a repeat visitor to Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Hookup specifications: RV campers should note varying electrical services across campgrounds. Some locations offer only 30-amp service while others provide 50-amp connections. Stokes State Forest has limited options for larger RVs with minimal hookups available.
Access roads: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads with tight turns and steep grades. Moon Valley and Mountain Lakes both have narrower approach roads that may be difficult for larger rigs to navigate.
