Cabins near Hardyston, New Jersey range from rustic shelters to fully-equipped accommodations across several state parks and private facilities. Located in the highlands region at elevations between 900-1,500 feet, the area experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. Winter cabin rentals require advance planning as many facilities close seasonally, though Stokes State Forest maintains limited winter cabin availability.
What to do
Hiking to scenic overlooks: At High Point State Park Campground, trails connect directly to the Appalachian Trail for day hikes. "I spent two nights camping with my niece and this campground was perfect. The site was maybe a 50-yard walk-in and we barely heard anyone around us and had a real wilderness feel. We fit in a hike up to the Appalachian Trail from our campsite," reports one visitor.
Fishing in stocked waters: The cabin areas at Panther Lake Camping Resort provide direct lake access where guests can fish for multiple species. According to a camper, "The lake and pool were a big plus, especially for hot days. While I did not take advantage, you are allowed to rent boats and take them out on the lake."
Winter activities: Winter cabin rentals at Stokes State Forest remain open when most area campgrounds close. Cabins equipped with wood stoves provide warmth during cold-weather camping. A visitor notes: "The wood stove definitely heats the room up nicely. I went through two bundles of wood in one night, and could have used more in the morning."
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Cabin areas at Great Divide Campground offer varying levels of seclusion. "We were able to get a secluded spot in the woods which was great! We have stayed here a few times before and always had a great time. The W loop is by far our favorite!" shares one frequent visitor.
Heated accommodations: Many cabins include heating options for fall and winter stays. One camper at Stokes State Forest explains: "The cabins are up on top of a mountain and quite beautiful and quiet. You need that wood stove to heat up the cabin. Turning on the oven is a help, but not a good solution."
Animal encounters: Several cabin rental facilities include farm animals or wildlife viewing opportunities. A camper at Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort shares: "The farm has goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground. Very cool. Important to not miss: the amazingly beautiful miniature horse that wonders around its huge pin located in the middle of the campground."
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Most cabin facilities near Hardyston operate on limited schedules. "We stayed in the cabins in November (#009) and again in December (#008) of 2021," notes a visitor describing winter options at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Bring your own linens: Cabins typically provide vinyl-covered mattresses but require guests to bring bedding. "The mattresses are vinyl covered, so you can wipe them down with your own sanitizing wipes," advises a Stokes Forest camper.
Firewood considerations: Local stores sell firewood, but cabin campers should arrive prepared. "You'll need to find some birch to get your fire going if, like me, you didn't buy wood on the way (plenty of signs for wood as you approach the park office) and the office was closed upon arrival," warns one visitor.
Wildlife awareness: Black bears frequent the region year-round. A camper at Mahlon Dickerson notes: "Very clean and quiet. Super easy to book. The area is beautiful. Three black bears strolled by the campsite next to ours in the early morning — gave us more of an energy boost after a sleepless night than our coffee!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Swartswood State Park Campground offers family-friendly cabin options near recreational facilities. "There is a playground, beach, pavilion, and picnic tables. The lake is beautiful! Great for swimming and fishing," reports a visitor.
Multiple accommodation options: Family groups can book both cabins and tent sites together. "We rented a camping site and a cabin for a two-night stay. We had a group of about 28 people," explains one family camper describing their multi-accommodation approach.
Water activities: Many cabin locations include swimming opportunities. "We took 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," shares a camper about their family activities at High Point State Park.
Kitchen facilities: Cabins with cooking amenities reduce packing requirements for families. "The small kitchen when camping with the family" was highlighted as an important feature by one Stokes Forest visitor.
Tips from RVers
Limited cabin availability: RVers converting to cabins during shoulder seasons should book early. "We got one of the last available campsites and it was okay, but not one I would have normally chosen," reports a camper at Swartswood.
Off-season benefits: Shoulder season rentals offer increased privacy. "The area was incredibly peaceful in December with many cabin reservations abandoned due to rain in the forecast," notes a winter visitor to Stokes Forest.
Location considerations: Some cabin areas have challenging terrain. "The gravel driveway is on a 30-40 degree incline. The tent was too long for the 12'x10' platform, so we had to set it up on the flattest part and hope not to roll down the hill in the night," warns a High Point State Park visitor about site selection.
Distance between amenities: Facilities may be spread out. "The office, playground, dog park, pool, laundry are located at the top of the hill. Camping spots are downhill, a good distance from the office and amenities," notes a visitor describing the layout at Pleasant Acres Farm.
