Cabins near Butler, New Jersey provide convenient access to northwestern New Jersey's highlands region, with elevations ranging from 400 to 1,800 feet. The Kittatinny Mountain Range creates a natural boundary along the Delaware River where campers find both forested and lakeside accommodations. Winter cabin stays often experience temperatures dropping into the 20s°F, requiring adequate heating preparation.
What to do
Lakeside activities at Panther Lake: The 45-acre lake at Panther Lake Camping Resort offers fishing, kayaking, and swimming options. "Boating is great, good fishing, nice playground, basketball court and great amenities," reports Richard V. who visited the resort.
Mountain hiking trails: Access multiple trail systems directly from cabin areas. At Great Divide Campground, "We hiked the golf cart trails which are beautiful and go throughout the woods," notes a camper who enjoyed the natural surroundings despite not using amenities during their stay.
Appalachian Trail access: Several cabin locations connect to this iconic trail system. "Twelve miles are part of the Appalachian Trail. Pick up a hiking map at the park office or download the Avenza Maps app," advises a ranger at Stokes State Forest, where hikers can connect to major trail networks.
What campers like
Secluded forest settings: Many cabins sit in wooded areas away from busy campground sections. "Our campsite was very spacious and had a platform where we were able to fit two tents. There was plenty of space on the site for more tents," explains a visitor at Stokes State Forest who appreciated the room and comfort.
Clean facilities with modern amenities: Sebago Cabin Camp provides basic but well-maintained cabins. "These cabins are VERY rustic, four walls, a cot, and a fridge. You still feel like you are 'roughing it' but with the convenience of a fridge," explains Sara P. who appreciated the balance of wilderness with basic comforts.
Winter wood stove heating: Cold weather cabin rentals typically include heating options. "You need that wood stove to heat up the cabin. Turning on the oven is a help, but not a good solution. The wood stove definitely heats the room up nicely," notes a winter visitor who stayed through December at Stokes State Forest.
What you should know
Cabin types vary significantly: Camp Glen Gray offers a range of rustic structures. "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," reports Christopher M. who found the experience excellent for families.
Bear awareness required: Food storage protocols must be followed in cabin areas. "This is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided," cautions a ranger review about Stokes State Forest, noting that the area also has ticks and rattlesnakes to be mindful of.
Advance reservations essential: Peak season bookings fill months ahead, especially for holiday weekends. "We wanted to get out of the house, but stay clear of other campers during the pandemic. This campsite was in the woods and we were able to get the illusion of privacy," explains a camper who made a last-minute September reservation at Swartswood State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers family-suitable cabin sites with accessible lake areas. "We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful," shares Paulene-Amanda M., noting this trail is manageable for families.
Pack extra lighting options: Cabin interiors typically have minimal lighting. "Each place comes with a lamp hang, a fire pit, and a picnic table," reports a camper at High Point State Park, highlighting the need to bring supplemental lighting for evening activities.
Book family-sized units: Larger cabins accommodate multiple children comfortably. "The sites are spaced well and have a nice bonus of large fire rings set back in the woods a bit from the pad that you park on," notes Greg S. about Mahlon Dickerson, who visited with three young boys.
Tips from RVers
Limited full-hookup availability: High Point State Park Campground has fewer RV-suitable cabins than tent-only options. "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," reports Grant M. who visited primarily for the high point.
Variable dump station access: Not all cabin areas include RV services. "Easy to dump and fill. Peaceful. Close to train to N.Y. City," shares Nancymike K. about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, noting the convenient facilities for those traveling with RVs.
Consider site terrain: Many cabin areas have hilly access roads. "Areas are clean and well maintained. Lots of hills so bikes are hard to use," advises Jojo P. about Great Divide Campground, highlighting the importance of planning for the topography.
