Cabin options around Chatham, New Jersey extend beyond traditional camping sites into year-round accommodations across several wilderness areas. The region sits in the highlands of northern New Jersey, with elevations ranging from 500-1200 feet creating diverse terrain for cabin sites. Seasonal temperatures affect cabin availability, with winter temperatures averaging 20-35°F and summer highs reaching 75-85°F.
What to do
Hiking near cabins: Trails accessible from Stokes State Forest cabins connect to over 63 miles of marked pathways including 12 miles of the Appalachian Trail. "We stayed in one of the cabins... and took a few hikes up to the fire tower," notes a visitor, mentioning the convenient trailheads "within a short 10-15 minute drive."
Fishing opportunities: Several cabin sites provide direct lake access for anglers. At Spruce Run Recreation Area, cabin accommodations sit near the reservoir where "you can launch your kayak easily from the shore" according to reviews. The lake supports various fish species and permits both shoreline and boat fishing.
Winter activities: Unlike tent camping, cabins near Chatham remain available during colder months. "Rented a cabin in November (#009) and again in December (#008) of 2021," reports one winter visitor to Stokes State Forest, who valued the wood stoves that "definitely heat the room up nicely."
What campers like
Cabin privacy levels: Jenny Jump State Forest cabins provide seclusion with "shelter 2 is a minute walk from the restroom" while shelters 4 and 5 are further out. A reviewer describes the cabins as "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."
Space considerations: At Turkey Swamp Park, cabins sit on "sites that are all level, very generous in size, and reasonably spaced apart for privacy." This provides adequate room for outdoor activities while maintaining separation between accommodations.
Interior amenities: Basic cabin furnishings vary significantly between properties. One visitor to Stokes State Forest noted cabins are "reasonably priced and well-appointed, if a bit rustic" with features like "hot/cold water, electric stove with oven, refrigerator, toilet, bathroom sink, mirror, plenty of hooks to hang jackets and coats, storage cabinets in the kitchen area."
What you should know
Heating options: Winter cabin stays require planning for temperature management. In Stokes State Forest, a visitor reports: "I went through two bundles of wood in one night, and could have used more in the morning" and recommends "six bundles of wood... from Friday to Sunday morning."
Booking patterns: Many cabins require advance planning, particularly during peak seasons. The Great Divide Campground cabins maintain consistent occupancy levels where "we come here every Father's Day weekend" as one regular visitor notes.
Accessibility variations: Not all cabin sites offer equal access for visitors with mobility concerns. At Jenny Jump State Forest, "this shelter is wheelchair accessible. Some of the others are not," highlighting the importance of checking specific cabin features when booking.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Panther Lake Camping Resort cabins provide family-oriented recreation with "lake to fish and kayak on, lots of activities, great pool and awesome hot tub." A visitor notes it's "great for families with big campground, big lake, clean and enjoyable."
Noise considerations: Family cabins vary in noise exposure. At Great Divide Campground, "the campgrounds were very big and spread out and the campsites have their own space so you can enjoy quiet at night," beneficial for families with varying sleep schedules.
Wildlife awareness: Cabins provide better protection from wildlife than tents, but precautions remain necessary. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, a visitor mentions "there are a lot of bear warnings here so that gave us a bit of pause with our three little boys," indicating the importance of proper food storage.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Larger RVs face limitations at certain cabin-offering campgrounds. While Mahlon Dickerson Reservation notes sites are "paved nicely and well run," others mention these pads are "paved and mostly level" with "sites nicely wooded, very well spaced."
Hookup placement: Distance to utilities varies between sites. Turkey Swamp Park advises visitors to "bring a LONG water hose" due to hookup positioning, while the shower facilities stand centralized within the campground.
Access roads: Entry conditions affect larger vehicles. At Turkey Swamp Park, "all roads are dirt, which was a bit surprising" and while "well-maintained and in dry weather, not a problem," they may present challenges "if it was rainy."
