Cabin camping options near Kenilworth, New Jersey sit within the Highland and Piedmont regions, generally at elevations between 400-1,100 feet. This area experiences four distinct seasons, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Several parks offer cabin accommodations that remain open year-round, though winter campers should prepare for potentially icy access roads.
What to do
Hiking trail variety: Stokes State Forest features 21 marked trails covering over 63 miles, including 12 miles of the Appalachian Trail. "There are 21 marked trails that cover over 63 miles within the boundaries of Stokes State Forest. Twelve miles are part of the Appalachian Trail," notes one visitor who recommends getting a hiking map at the park office.
Water recreation: At Spruce Run Recreation Area, cabin campers can enjoy fishing, paddling, and swimming in the reservoir. A reviewer mentions, "There is a lake with a boat dock and a small boardwalk. Kayaking/Canoeing, fishing, and swimming. In the summer, canoe, kayak, paddle boats, and row boats are available for rental."
Archery practice: Turkey Swamp Park offers an archery range for visitors wanting target practice during their cabin stay. "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," shares a camper who enjoyed the variety of activities.
Historical exploration: Allaire State Park features a historic village with buildings from the 1800s and a vintage train that operates seasonally. "Working village and antique train are available most of the year. There are also lots of festivals throughout the summer months," explains one visitor who appreciated the historical aspects alongside camping.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Turkey Swamp Park offers secluded glamping close to Kenilworth, New Jersey with well-separated cabins. "Sites are in the woods and widely spaced apart to give you privacy and the feeling of being out in the Forrest," notes one camper, adding that "you are allowed to have a tent on the site with an RV at no extra charge."
Affordable pricing: Campers appreciate the reasonable rates for glamping accommodations. A visitor to Jenny Jump State Forest mentioned, "The space was reasonably priced, but we did have to pay an extra $5/day for our dog. However, we didn't mind as it was so private we felt like we had the entire Park to ourselves."
Clean facilities: Many cabins and glamping sites maintain excellent standards. "The site was 34W, right next the reservoir. Nice location however the website said it was full shade. The picnic table was in shade. The spot for the RV was full sun," observed one recent visitor who appreciated the accurate listing information.
Year-round options: Some cabin facilities remain open through winter. "Rented a cabin in November (#009) and again in December (#008) of 2021. I favored Cabin 8, the kitchen and bathroom were separated from the main room," shares one camper who found the cabins "reasonably priced and well-appointed, if a bit rustic."
What you should know
Bear awareness: Multiple parks require proper food storage due to bear activity. At Round Valley State Park Campground, wilderness camping areas require extra vigilance. "Located just south of I78 and near the small hamlets of Clinton and Lebanon, what I love most about Round Valley SP is the fact that it has its very own eponymous fresh water reservoir," notes a visitor who also warns about proper food storage.
Seasonal operation: Most glamping facilities near Kenilworth operate April through October, though some offer limited winter availability. "Rented a cabin in November (#009) and again in December (#008) of 2021," reports one winter camper, noting "you need that wood stove to heat up the cabin."
Highway noise: Some parks experience traffic sounds, particularly at night. "My only complaint is that the noise from the highway was quite loud at night," mentions a Jenny Jump State Forest visitor, though they still rated their experience positively overall.
Tick prevention: Several parks report tick issues, especially in warmer months. "By the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2. That was so crazy because we were just sitting by our camper," warns one visitor to Turkey Swamp Park.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Panther Lake Camping Resort offers multiple family-focused facilities. "Fun camping place to books groups. Very kid and pet friendly, lake to fish and kayak on, lots of activities, great pool and awesome hot tub," notes one family who found it ideal for group gatherings.
Playground access: Several parks feature dedicated play areas for children. "There are age-appropriate playgrounds both in the campground and by the office," mentions a Turkey Swamp visitor who appreciated the facilities for different age groups.
Beginner-friendly camping: Some sites work well for first-time family campers. "I was looking forward to a Worthington State Park campgrounds visit but that day they were all packed and I was suggested to Jenny Jump State. I enjoyed the overnight camp out with my kids and they had a blast. Nice size primitive tent site we had and was nice for beginner camping."
Bug preparation: Families should bring appropriate insect repellent, particularly for ticks and mosquitoes. "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. It was perfect!" shares a lucky family who visited in a less buggy period.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Great Divide Campground offers glamping options with varied terrain. "Like many of the sites in this area, Great Divide had a large pool which was used by many of the campers. The campgrounds were very big and spread out and the campsites have their own space so you can enjoy quiet at night," reports an RVer who appreciated the space between sites.
Hookup length: Water connections at some parks require longer hoses than standard. "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 a visitor to Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Dump station access: Many glamping sites with cabin options also offer RV facilities. "Dump station has a flush hose point. Nice and easy little campground," shares an RVer who appreciated the well-maintained facilities.
Winter access: RVers seeking year-round glamping should check road conditions during colder months. "If bringing your RV, the safest bet is to reserve a spot with no shade as the other spots often times have very low hanging tree limbs," advises a camper who learned from experience.
