Camping cabins near Blairstown, New Jersey offer rustic to modern accommodations in the forested hills of northwestern New Jersey, where elevations range from 400 to 1,600 feet. The area experiences four distinct seasons, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months. Winter cabin camping is available at select locations, with temperatures frequently dropping below freezing from December through February.
What to do
Wolf watching at Camp Taylor Campground: Hike directly to the Lakota Wolf Preserve from your campsite for discounted tours. "The wolf preserve at the same location was just amazing - we learned so much and could hear the wolves howl from the campsite," notes one visitor to Camp Taylor Campground.
Fishing in multiple lakes: Cast your line in the lakes at Stokes State Forest where native species include bass and trout. "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," explains a camper at Stokes State Forest.
Hiking to scenic lookouts: Access trail systems directly from camping areas. "There is a trail head at one of the parking lots. During the day the parking lots filled up and there was some overflow parking for day-hikers across the road," reports one visitor to Jenny Jump State Forest.
Free boating options: Use complimentary watercraft included with your stay at select sites. "Kids had lots of fun on the free kayaks and pool. Staff was friendly and helpful," shares a camper from Great Divide Campground.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campsites offer natural seclusion between neighbors. "The sites are hit or miss in terms of comfort, some have large, flat, clear spaces for multiple tents, some you have to wedge a tent to avoid rocks," explains a visitor to Jenny Jump State Forest.
Lake views: Waterfront camping spots provide direct access to swimming and boating. "Beautiful forested campground with plenty of wildlife and birds. Easy access from Rt 80 and located close to the Lakota Wolf Preserve," notes a camper from Camp Taylor Campground.
Modern bathhouses: Most campgrounds maintain clean facilities with hot showers. "The bathroom/shower was only a few steps away which was convenient and clean," shares a visitor to Jenny Jump State Forest.
Organized activities: Scheduled events keep families entertained during weekend stays. "They had live music which was actually really good!!! A reggae band. We found plenty of trails to hike with our two dogs," reports a camper from Great Divide Campground.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Weekends fill quickly during summer months, often requiring bookings 2-3 months in advance. "We wanted to get out of the house, but stay clear of other campers during the pandemic. This campsite, CS52, was in the woods and we were able to get the illusion of privacy," notes a camper at Swartswood State Park Campground.
Cabin amenities vary: Some forest cabins feature wood stoves while others include electric heating. "The cabins are reasonably priced and well-appointed, if a bit rustic. The interior features are just what you'd expect for getting away for the weekend," reports a visitor to Stokes State Forest.
Cell service limitations: Reception is spotty in forested areas. "The cell service for most providers is practically non-existent. I understand this is not the park's fault and some would say that this is 'real' camping," explains a camper at Timothy Lake South.
Firewood restrictions: Many locations prohibit bringing outside firewood due to invasive species concerns. "$5 bundle for 7 pieces," notes a visitor regarding local wood prices.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Choose campgrounds with dedicated swimming areas for safer water access. "The swimming pond is pleasant and great to cool off in. The bathrooms/showers are clean and well maintained," shares a visitor to Camp Taylor Campground.
Playground access: Select sites near play areas for convenience with young children. "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," reports a camper at Delaware Water Gap/Pocono Mountain KOA.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Schedule wolf viewing tours during morning hours when animals are most active. "We live not to far away and wanted to stay close to home for our first trip with the camper," notes a visitor to Mountain Vista Campground.
Kid-friendly cabin options: Book camping cabins with multiple beds or sleeping areas for family comfort. "The 'shelter' is what we would describe as a 'cabin'; four walls, a roof, locking door, locking windows, large picture frame front window, four beds (two bunks), a wood burning stove, and a porch," shares a Jenny Jump State Forest visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Bring leveling blocks for many of the sloped campsites in the region. "Sites are nice and large, can hold multiple tents. They request the purchase of another site if you have more then two tents, but then you can put all tents on one site and cook and hang out in the other," notes a camper at Camp Taylor Campground.
Water pressure considerations: Test pressure before connecting at Timothy Lake South. "Best water pressure I have seen on the east coast, unregulated it's over 80 psi," warns a visitor to Timothy Lake South RV.
Limited pull-through sites: Reserve early for easier-access spots at most campgrounds. "We were in site A22 and loved it. It was their last weekend of the season-weekend before Halloween," shares a visitor to Mountain Vista Campground.
Electric service types: Verify amperage availability matches your RV needs as most locations offer 30-amp service only. "Some sites are more private than others but all have a wooded and private feel," explains a visitor describing site options.
