Cabin camping near Manchester, New Jersey offers rustic accommodations surrounded by the dense forests of northwestern New Jersey, where elevations range from 400 to 1,600 feet above sea level. The region experiences distinct seasons with cold winters dropping to single digits and warm summers reaching the 80s. Cabins in state parks and private campgrounds typically remain available from April through October, with select locations operating year-round.
What to do
Hike to scenic vistas: Jenny Jump State Forest provides access to multiple trails with lookout points. "This place was great, they allow dogs and had hiking trails with beautiful views you could enjoy right from your campground. It's also close to other local hikes like Mt. Tammany," notes Fransheska A. about Jenny Jump State Forest.
Night sky observation: Several parks offer stargazing opportunities away from city lights. "Great spot for stargazing. Owners are very nice," reports Scott A. at Mountainview Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Camp Taylor Campground offers access to a wolf preserve on site. "You can take a short hike up the mountain there to see the wolves in the sanctuary. There are moments by the fire you can hear them howl in the distance," explains Julie F.
Water activities: Many cabin locations provide access to lakes for recreation. "Big campground, lots of sites, nice pool, big community hot tub, boating is great, good fishing, nice playground, basketball court and great amenities," says Richard V. about Panther Lake.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Many cabins sit in secluded settings. "There is a section of RV spots that are each cut out in the woods so very private. The section of spots toward the back by the pond are usually packed and lots of activity," notes Julie F. about Camp Taylor Campground.
Four-season accommodations: Some cabins offer heating options for cold-weather stays. "I favored Cabin 8, the kitchen and bathroom were separated from the main room," writes W L. about Stokes State Forest, adding "The wood stove definitely heats the room up nicely. I went through two bundles of wood in one night."
Lake views: Waterfront cabins provide peaceful settings. "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. The showers were free and generally quite hot," explains Seth K. about Jenny Jump State Forest.
Nearby attractions: Many cabin sites offer easy access to regional features. "Close to all the Pocono/Stroudsburg attractions - we shopped and toured the Frazetta museum. Will definitely stay there again," shares Dina S.
What you should know
Bear awareness: Black bears inhabit the region. "We enjoyed the overnight camp out with my kids and they had a blast. Nice size primitive tent site we had and was nice for beginner camping," says Scott O. about Jenny Jump State Forest.
Variable campsite quality: Sites differ significantly in amenities and privacy. "Mid week (July 4th) 2024... My campsite was 34W, right next the reservoir. Nice location however the website said it was full shade. The picnic table was in shade. The spot for the RV was full sun," reports Frank J. about Spruce Run Recreation Area.
Reservation requirements: Most cabins require advance booking. "We took it to Mountain View this weekend, with a little trepidation on how we were going to get the trailer backed into the space. Not to worry, they gave us a nice drive through space," shares Robert J.
Noise considerations: Sound carries in some camping areas. "This campground is a nice little hideaway not too far from the beaten path. You can hear some of the highway sounds from the campsites (especially the jake brake)," reports Seth K.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Many parks include beaches or pools for children. "We went on 4th of July weekend so the place was packed. We were able to get a secluded spot in the woods which was great! 2 teenage girls had a blast in the lake and riding their bikes around," shares Jojo P. about Panther Lake Camping Resort.
Group camping arrangements: Some areas accommodate multiple family setups. "Campsites 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," explains Karralee B.
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with recreational facilities. "This campground is perfect for a getaway if what you're looking for is no more than spending some time in nature. The property is well kept and campsites are a good distance from each other," notes Mario M. about Mountainview Campground.
Wildlife encounters: Nature provides educational opportunities. "We had a great time. Only issue was a skunk that visited our campsite multiple times in one night. Was not afraid of humans," reports Colleen C. about Panther Lake.
Tips from RVers
Hook-up availability: Water and electric access varies by location. "Very clean and quiet. Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that. Our site (15) said 75' however the 50' hose reel made it to our RV connection," notes antruze about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Site leveling challenges: Some cabins and RV sites require adjustment. "The campground is clean, paved nicely and well run. Our site is easily the nicest- all the way in the back with only one neighbor," says Greg S. about Mahlon Dickerson.
Seasonal considerations: Many RV-friendly cabin areas close during winter. "The campsites were just okay. If bringing your RV, the safest bet is to reserve a spot with no shade as the other spots often times have very low hanging tree limbs," advises Douglas P.
Campground layout: Understanding the arrangement helps with site selection. "Electric and water hookups, no sewer but there's a dump station on the way out. Wooded and delightfully devoid of golf carts," explains Dina S. about Camp Taylor Campground.
