Cabin camping near Cream Ridge, New Jersey provides access to the sandy pine forests of the Pine Barrens region, with elevations rarely exceeding 200 feet above sea level. Most cabins sit on sandy soil characteristic of the region, creating drainage challenges during heavy rainfall. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with high humidity, while fall evenings can drop below 40°F.
What to do
Archery practice: Turkey Swamp Park offers designated archery ranges where visitors can practice their skills with hay bale targets. "We go every year. It has everything the outdoorsman could ask for. Bring your bow and shoot at the hay barrels," notes Patrick M.
Winter recreation: Turkey Swamp Park transforms in winter months with ice skating on the lake and snow-covered trails. "Ice skate on the lake in the winter or just enjoy a gorgeous walk in the woods," shares a regular visitor.
Safari viewing: Cabins at Timberland Lake Campground provide unique wildlife viewing opportunities due to proximity to Six Flags Safari. "There is a road that goes between the campground and the Safari you can drive, walk, or bicycle down and see the animals! This campground has a pretty lake, a bridge and is very woodsy," reports Jessica D.
Historic exploration: The restored village at Allaire State Park offers historical buildings and demonstrations within walking distance of cabin areas. "Working village and antique train are available most of the year. There are also lots of festivals throughout the summer months," mentions Beau B.
What campers like
Large private sites: Butterfly Camping Resort provides cabin sites with natural buffers for privacy. "The sites were cozy and each lined with natural shrubbery and in some cases fencing. They're well maintained and raked between campers," reports Tina D.
Lakefront access: Some cabins at Timberland Lake Campground offer direct water access. "Stayed here from June 24th-27th on site 38. It was a really nice size, and the kids could fish right off the dock on the back," notes Aaron E.
Secluded pine forest setting: Brendan Byrne State Forest cabins sit deep within protected woodlands. "It's far away from traffic noise. You can't hear any cars or any other noise from civilization at all. It's at least 10 miles away from anything more than a single house in the woods," describes Benjamin K.
Shaded camp areas: Most cabin areas provide good tree coverage even during peak summer heat. "Very Decent Camp in the Pine Barrens, Lots of potable water hydrants around the campground so not far of a walk to fill any water needs you may have," notes Dan M. about Brendan Byrne State Forest.
What you should know
Limited heat options: Cabin heating varies significantly by location and season. "I got up at 6 to take a run there was Nancy right outside my door. We cut the trip short but it is a nice campground minus the creepy people," warns Patrick S. about experiences at Allaire State Park.
Rustic bathroom facilities: Some cabin areas have limited bathroom amenities. "The bathhouse near our site had no hot water, but they were working on it, so I'm sure it won't be for long," notes Kent W. about facilities at Indian Rock RV Resort.
Tick awareness: Wooded cabin areas require tick prevention. "By the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2. I could not enjoy myself after having 3 biting me at one time," cautions Laura Y. about Turkey Swamp Park.
Noise considerations: Some cabins experience noise from nearby highways or attractions. "Noisy with highway traffic. Well maintained though. Ticks galore," reports Justin S. about Allaire State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Turkey Swamp Park offers multiple kid-friendly activities within walking distance of cabin areas. "Plenty to do over a 2 night stay. Archery, boating, fishing, and hiking. Boat rental rates are acceptable and there are four different styles to choose from," explains Dan W.
Seasonal activities: Timberland Lake Campground organizes special events during fall season. "We LOVE camping here in the fall!! They do their own haunted walk through that is just awesome! Everyone decorates. They have a dj every Saturday! Plenty of activities for the kids," shares Jessica D.
Bug management: Parents should pack extra insect repellent for cabin stays. "We went camping with our 2- and 3-year-old kids. We were worried about bugs, but we didn't even use mosquito repellent and didn't get a single bite! The campground was super clean too," reports Jaewook P. about their Turkey Swamp Park experience.
Playground access: Multiple cabin locations offer playground facilities for children. "Centralized playground for the kids with bathrooms and showers next door. Staff was awesome! Attentive and outgoing," notes Dan W.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Butterfly Camping Resort offers both cabin and RV sites with varying privacy levels. "The campground was very well taken care of. The sites had good tree coverage and we didn't feel like we were right on top of the next site," reports Caitlin F.
Road conditions: Some cabin access roads require careful navigation. "I am a little concerned about moving to the site they want me to move to in the Spring the corners around the campground seem tight with trees," notes Preston G. about Butterfly Camping Resort.
Site amenities: RV-friendly cabins typically include necessary hookups. "Site came with fire pit, large picnic bench, and lamp stand. Plenty of parking space. Good tree coverage," explains Graham D. about Turkey Swamp Park sites.
Water connection preparedness: Certain cabin locations require special equipment. "Nice, remote, private. Some sites unlevel. Bring a LONG water hose. Nice lake. Showers and washers and dryers," advises Shawn from Turkey Swamp Park.
