Cabin camping opportunities abound in the Sussex County highlands near Jefferson, New Jersey, where elevations range from 900-1,300 feet above sea level. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures typically 5-10 degrees cooler than nearby urban areas. Winter cabin availability varies by location, with select private campgrounds maintaining year-round operations while state parks typically close cabins from November through March.
What to do
Fishing at multiple lakes: At Swartswood State Park Campground, campers can enjoy fishing in New Jersey's first state park. "Great for swimming and fishing. There are picnic spots right on the lake if you want to spend the afternoon at the lake," notes one visitor.
Hiking to scenic viewpoints: The Appalachian Trail passes through High Point State Park Campground, offering access to spectacular vistas. "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," shares a camper.
Farm animal interactions: Several campgrounds provide opportunities for children to interact with farm animals. At Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort, "There were some organized activities which was nice, not as much as a Jellystone Park. Playground, hayride, animals to feed (goats, chickens, donkey and pony)."
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the privacy offered at Jenny Jump State Forest. "This campground is a nice little hideaway not too far from the beaten path... 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," explains one visitor.
Cabin variety and price points: Cabins range from basic to fully equipped. "The sites could be very close depending upon where u go. We had r6 and we had neighbor on one side. If the other spot was occupied then it might be a little too close for us. But there are some other sites that def are separate," notes a visitor to Great Divide Campground.
Organized weekend activities: Many private campgrounds offer structured entertainment. "We come here every Father's Day weekend. Love this place. Great staff, plenty of activities and all around good time," says a regular visitor to Great Divide Campground.
What you should know
Campground noise levels: Some campgrounds can get noisy, especially on weekends and holidays. A camper at Panther Lake Camping Resort noted, "We stayed in the center lawn and it was lined with seasonal campers. We felt like we were staying in the middle of a neighborhood. Lots of activities to keep kids busy which was nice but this place is a party place for sure."
Site topography challenges: Many campgrounds in this mountainous region feature uneven terrain. "The photos did not convey the actual steepness of this site! 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 visitor to High Point State Park.
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have poor cell reception. One visitor to Panther Lake Camping Resort stated, "Love the place! People were nice. Bathrooms were clean. Only issue is the internet is terrible u have to be near the wifi zones."
Tips for camping with families
Best swimming options: Several campgrounds offer swimming facilities. "Big campground, lots of sites, nice pool, big community hot tub, boating is great, good fishing, nice playground, basketball court and great amenities," says a reviewer about Panther Lake Camping Resort.
Child-friendly trails: Select hiking routes appropriate for children. At Stokes State Forest, "We took one afternoon to visit the High Point Monument, which was lovely. The lake was beautiful in the morning with mist or steam."
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather can change rapidly. "We went in November when there was a light rain that turned into a thunderstorm with hail and sleet! It was certainly an adventure," shared a visitor to Stokes State Forest.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Choose sites carefully at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation. "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 an RVer.
Dump station access: Check for dump stations before booking. "Trash dumpster is an easy walk and the dump station has a flush hose point. Nice and easy little campground," according to a visitor at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Leveling challenges: Many sites require significant leveling. "The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large. Water and electric hookups and a dump station. Convenient for hiking and exploring," shares an RV camper at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
