Author
Katherine Englishman
Photographer
Photo courtesy Glamping Hub
New Jersey’s reputation may very well precede it thanks to things like mob mythology and mega malls that create some seriously mega traffic jams (it’s all true). And there's the famous yet sometimes infamous Jersey Shore and Atlantic City with its casinos and boardwalk. (New York City is around here too.) Say what you will about the Garden State, but I’m here to remind you that it was given that superlative for a very good reason, and as with any destination, there’s more to a place than meets the eye. Including, we might add, a small handful of worthy glamping experiences aka luxury camping.
As a born and bred New Jerseyan—some might call me a Jersey Girl, and no I did not pump my own gas for far too many years—I know for sure that this small state is good at packing a lot into a relatively tiny area, be it people, highways, but also outdoor recreation. From top to bottom, New Jersey has pockets and even large swaths of natural beauty that run the gamut from the forests and wetlands of the New Jersey Pinelands National Reserve to the estuaries and beaches that run all the way down to Wildwood and Cape May. There are lakes and rivers for kayaking, country roads for biking, loads of hiking trails, surfing beaches, and humble mountains capable of delivering panoramic views.
New Jersey’s selection of glampsites might not be as big and impressive as other states like California or Texas, but there are still ways to enjoy a night under the stars while sleeping on a good, king bed—even if they are in an established campground. Whether you’re looking for pine forests or beachfront abodes, these are the best places to go glamping in New Jersey.
The Best New Jersey Glamping Spots
Heaven's Landing - Vernon Township, NJ
Vibe: Get Way, Way Out There
In one of the lushest corners of the Garden State, this well-maintained Tentrr Signature Site sits adjacent to the Appalachian Trail in Wawayanda State Park. Three of the area’s most scenic hiking destinations are just a stone’s throw away: Pochuck Boardwalk, Stairway to Heaven, Pinwheel Vista. Outside, the adventures are virtually endless, and the safari canvas tent, raised on an elevated platform, offers all the amenities you need for a cozy camping experience, including a queen-size bed, Adirondack chairs, picnic table, and fire pit. (Just bring your own linens.)
Price: $198/night
Panther Lake Camping Resort - Andover, NJ
Vibe: Lakeside Lodge
If a small log cabin with lake views is calling your name, Panther Lake Camping Resort has an answer. There are four different styles of cabin rentals to choose from (Deluxe, Elite, Lakeview, and Premiere Cabins), and each can sleep up to six guests between bunk beds, futons/sofa beds, and a full-size bed, depending on which one you choose. They're all outfitted with creature comforts like heat and air conditioning, a sizable kitchenette, and a private outdoor area for cooking that includes a picnic table, charcoal grill, and fire ring. The property also has a swimming pool, tennis courts, mini golf, a general store, and more.
Price: Starts at $180/night
Sun Retreats - Barnegat, Long Beach Island, NJ
Vibe: Shore Points
Going “DTS” (Down the Shore) in the summer is a right of passage for every self-respecting New Jerseyan willing to brave the bumper-to-bumper traffic on the Garden State Parkway. Take one of the final exits to get to Long Beach Island, a picturesque barrier island that’s home to Sun Retreats RV Resort and Campground. Here, you can book a stay at a one room seaside yurt that sleeps up to four, or go for a tiny cabin in the woods if that’s more your style. Bunk beds and fire pits give campers the full experience, but microwaves, mini fridges, and property-wide wifi access add some glamping approachability.
Price: $51/night
Glamping Getaway — Southampton Township, NJ
Vibe: Totally Unplugged
Escape to your own off-grid oasis at this no-frills Tentrr site located on a working cranberry farm in Southern New Jersey. This secluded parcel of wooded land provides you with a peaceful and private spot to spend your time reconnecting to nature. Go out and explore the local state parks or the nearby Delaware River and return to a relaxing glampsite complete with Adirondack chairs, an outdoor dining area, and screened-in glamping tent. And if you want some urban culture, Philadelphia isn't far.
Price: $173/night
Wading Pines Campground — Chatsworth, NJ
Vibe: Rustic Recreation
Come to Wading Pines Campground for the fully-equipped glamping cabins, but stay for the abundance of water activities and guided paddling trips. True to its name, these cabins are surrounded by a thicket of pines, with many of them located right on the lake. A sandy beach is just steps from your front door, or take a jaunt down the scenic Wading River through New Jersey’s Wharton State Forest. There's volleyball, shuffleboard, a recreational room, and a general store right on the property.
Price: $125/night
Hippy Hut — East Windsor, NJ
Vibe: The Goods Are in the Woods
This eclectic hut is no-frills and over-the-top in the best way. The decor is road signs and tie-dye, and highlights include an outdoor heated shower and a hand-built cedar wooden barrel sauna plus a cold plunge tub that are available (and encouraged) for guests to enjoy during their stay. There's a central fire pit to hang around at night, and a flock of free range chickens provide breakfast in the form of fresh eggs come morning.
Price: $171/night
Glamping Tent — Pittstown, NJ
Vibe: Peace and Quiet
Get away to a peaceful teepee-style bell tent perched on an elevated platform in a field of wildflowers located on this family-owned property of over 49 years. A network of nearby trails and winding waterways will keep you busy all day before retreating to a bohemian-styled glampsite set up with a full-size bed. The site boasts a quaint outdoor dining area, fire pit, and surprisingly pristine outhouse.
Price: $190/night
Published 08-08-2022
