Cabin rentals near Englewood, New Jersey range from rustic shelters to comfortable lodging options within an hour's drive. Most cabin facilities operate year-round and require advance reservations. The region sits along the Hudson River Valley with elevations ranging from 3 feet to over 1,800 feet at High Point State Park, creating diverse terrain for cabin stays. Winter cabin camping requires extra preparation as temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
What to do
Water activities at Lake Marcia: High Point State Park offers swimming opportunities during summer months. "We fit in a hike up to the Appalachian Trail from our campsite, swam at the pond (Lake Marcia), and got in a fishing session at Steeny Kill Lake," notes one visitor to High Point State Park Campground.
Hiking trails from campsites: Many cabin locations connect directly to trail systems. At The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center, campers appreciate the "beautiful lake" and can "do a hike around the lake" with easy trail access from the site.
Scenic viewpoints: High Point Monument offers panoramic views from New Jersey's highest elevation point. "You can drive to High Point monument that is 1803 feet above sea level and you get a spectacular panorama view," reports a reviewer, noting there are "hiking trails and fresh water for kayaking" nearby.
Historical exploration: Visit nearby attractions like Sleepy Hollow. As one Croton Point Park visitor mentions, "We came in October to celebrate Halloween in sleepy hollow! This is a great campsite and reasonably priced. Was close to bear mountains state park and the train station is right there!"
What campers like
Peaceful settings: Cabin accommodations offer tranquil environments away from city noise. A visitor to Stokes State Forest notes, "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."
Accessibility from NYC: Many cabin locations are convenient for weekend getaways. One camper at Sebago Cabin Camp appreciates that it's "Close enough to the city, far enough to enjoy the nature," though they advise to "expect crowds."
Outdoor cooking options: Most cabins offer both indoor and outdoor cooking facilities. A Stokes State Forest visitor describes cabin amenities: "The main room has a bunk bed and two twins, a table with benches, two Adirondack chairs, a wood stove set into a fireplace, hot/cold water, electric stove with oven, refrigerator, toilet, bathroom sink."
Lake views: Several cabin locations feature water proximity. A reviewer describes Croton Point Park as "a state park, very large nested on Peninsula on the Hudson River," providing scenic water views for many cabin sites.
What you should know
Varying amenity levels: Cabin facilities differ significantly between locations. According to a Sebago visitor, "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."
Reservation requirements: Most cabin facilities book quickly, especially during peak seasons. At Camp Glen Gray, "Many camp sites open to rent. Cabins - Leanto - Tent Sites. Check web site for pricing."
Winter heating concerns: Cabins with wood stoves require firewood management. A Stokes camper explains, "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. I went through two bundles of wood in one night."
Cell service limitations: Many cabin areas have limited connectivity. A Sebago visitor appreciated "Absolutely zero phone service (for T-Mobile) which was AMAZING."
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly activities: Several locations offer programming specifically for children. At Croton Point Park, a first-time camper reports, "I took my 5 year-old-son and wife, all of us first time campers. this place was great. The site was very nice, all the people friendly and area beautiful."
Platform tent sites: Some locations offer raised platforms for easier family tent setup. A visitor to Mahlon Dickerson Reservation notes, "At the campgrounds there is a platform where you can pitch your tent," making setup more comfortable for families.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many cabin areas offer chances to observe local animals. A Croton Point reviewer mentions, "Clean park with a place to swim but only within buoys and when a life guard is present. Only one or two bathrooms in the whole place so be prepared to go for a walk when you have to go. Scenery is also a little drab. On the bright side, there are lots of bunnies!"
Advance preparation: Cabin camping with families requires planning for supplies. A Sebago Cabin Camp visitor advises, "Ignore the hotplate and just cook on a fire or other outdoor set up. Don't expect to swim on site- go to Lake Welch near by!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Certain cabin areas also accommodate RVs with varying hookup options. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, a visitor notes, "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."
Leveling considerations: Some RV sites at cabin facilities require leveling. A High Point State Park camper mentions, "We have a trailer and the 'trailer' sites aren't level. Showers are at the day use area, from 10-5:30, no trailer dump."
Transportation access: Many cabin areas offer convenient access to New York City. A Mahlon Dickerson visitor appreciates that it's "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill. Peaceful. Close to train to N.Y. City."
