Cabin rentals near Glenwood, New Jersey offer access to the region's diverse terrain of wooded highlands reaching elevations of 1,500-1,800 feet. The Kittatinny Mountain Range creates a distinct microclimate with cooler temperatures than surrounding areas, often 5-10 degrees lower during summer months. Seasonal considerations are important as most rental cabins close during winter, though a select few provide year-round accommodations.
What to do
Hiking network access: Several campgrounds connect directly to the Appalachian Trail system with accessible trailheads. At High Point State Park Campground, campers can reach hiking trails without driving. "I 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 Justin P.
Fishing at multiple lakes: Most cabin rental properties offer lake access within walking distance. Stokes State Forest cabins provide easy access to multiple fishing spots. "We stayed at the campsite at Lake Ocquittunk Area. Very comfortable site, quiet but still with plenty of amenities," reports E.M.V. "We didn't have direct views of the lake, but were within a minute walk to some quiet views."
Swimming options: Several parks maintain designated swimming areas with varying amenities. According to Vito M. at Ocquittunk, "Nice place to set up and car camp. Enjoyed some fishing and hiking within walking distance from the site." Many cabin rentals include swimming access during summer months.
What campers like
Cabin privacy levels: Cabin spacing varies significantly between locations, affecting noise levels and views. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, Greg S. reports, "It is so quiet here. Our site is easily the nicest - all the way in the back with only one neighbor." Campers seeking solitude should request end-of-row cabins.
Rustic architectural features: Many cabins maintain traditional construction elements that enhance the outdoor experience. "The sites have a fire ring with a cooking grate and a picnic table and were well spaced out from other sites. The views of the lake are nice, very peaceful," notes Catherine S. about Lake Ocquittunk.
Woodland wildlife viewing: The forest setting provides opportunities for animal observation from cabin porches. At Neversink River Resort, Amelia P. describes "A quiet natural campground for nature lovers," where cabin guests can watch for deer, wild turkeys, and other forest inhabitants from their doorsteps.
What you should know
Variable water access: Water availability differs significantly between cabins, affecting cooking and cleaning routines. "Water and electric hookups and a dump station. Convenient for hiking and exploring," notes Jeff W. about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Kitchen supply limitations: Bring essential cooking tools as cabinet contents vary widely. One camper at Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort mentions, "Large levelled spaces but a little muddy. Good for a quiet, relaxing weekend; not very close to attractions otherwise."
Heating system variations: Wood stove experience is necessary for cold-weather stays. W.L. at Stokes State Forest reports, "I went through two bundles of wood in one night, and could have used more in the morning... The second time I took six bundles of wood and used them all from Friday to Sunday morning."
Bathroom facilities: Many cabins have shared bathhouse access with varying conditions. Coffee&Camping T. notes at Pleasant Acres, "There are 2 showers for women and 2 for men. Both are old and not well maintained or in our experience clean, either."
Tips for camping with families
Animal interactions: Several campgrounds feature farm animals that entertain children. At Kymers Camping Resort, Eugene T. describes, "There's a pond stocked with 2-3 types of fresh water fish. They offer seasonal camping and a game room with a small general store."
Group site options: For family reunions, consider designated multi-cabin areas. Dana R. reports at Harmony Ridge Farm & Campgrounds, "The facilities were clean and neat, the campsites were spacious. The baseball field was perfect for our group activities as well."
Swimming facilities: Pools provide safer alternatives to lake swimming for younger children. "They have a pool which was probably the nicest thing about the site. It had plenty of umbrella seating area and a large mushroom shower thing," says Ethan K.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many cabin and RV sites require adjustment for comfortable setup. At Harmony Ridge, Tati R. advises, "Our campsite has water and electric hook ups. We chose a nice spot and made it our weekend home."
Water hookup distances: Connection lengths vary significantly between sites. "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," reports "antruze" about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Dump station locations: Plan ahead for waste disposal as facilities may be distant from cabins. "Trash is located off site in a pullout on the road you drive in on," notes Coffee&Camping T. about Pleasant Acres, highlighting the importance of checking these details when booking.
