Cabin camping near Lake Hopatcong, New Jersey sits within the Skylands Region at elevations ranging from 900-1,800 feet. The area experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months from May through September. Water levels in Lake Hopatcong can fluctuate seasonally, affecting shoreline access at certain campgrounds.
What to do
Hiking to the fire tower: At High Point State Park Campground, the hiking trails provide access to the highest elevation in New Jersey. "We drove down the road and were able to get in a nice 5 mile hike up to the fire tower. Due to cooler temps there were really no bugs to complain about while camping," reports one visitor who appreciated the accessibility of trails directly from the campground.
Wolf preserve tours: Camp Taylor Campground offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities with the Lakota Wolf Preserve located on-site. "You can take a short hike up the mountain there to see the wolves in the sanctuary. There are moments by the fire you can hear them howl in the distance," shares a camper who found this feature particularly memorable.
Fishing in stocked waters: Multiple fishing spots exist around the Lake Hopatcong region, with some campgrounds maintaining their own stocked ponds. "There's a pond stocked with 2-3 types of fresh water fish," notes a visitor to Kymers Camping Resort, highlighting the convenient angling opportunities available to campers without leaving the campground.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Campers consistently mention site privacy as a valued feature at Great Divide Campground. "Camps are secluded from each other and most if not all have an elevated space to put tents or chairs. Each place comes with a lamp hang, a fire pit, and a picnic table," explains one reviewer who appreciated the thoughtful site layout.
Lake access for paddling: Several campgrounds provide boat access and rentals for water recreation. "The lake was beautiful in the morning with mist or steam," writes a visitor to High Point State Park, capturing the serene morning atmosphere that many campers seek.
Evening wolf howls: The unique soundscape at Camp Taylor provides an unexpected highlight. "There is a section of RV spots that are each cut out in the woods so very private. You can take a short hike up the mountain there to see the wolves in the sanctuary. There are moments by the fire you can hear them howl in the distance," reports a camper who valued this unusual experience.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Quality and availability of showers differs significantly between campgrounds. At Panther Lake Camping Resort, one camper noted, "Probably the worst shower ever. The lights are timed. The water is a button. The space is small as hell," highlighting the importance of checking facility details before booking.
Bear safety requirements: This region has active black bear populations requiring proper food storage. At Stokes State Forest, campers are reminded, "This is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes."
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds experience poor connectivity. One Panther Lake visitor mentioned, "Only issue is the internet is terrible u have to be near the wifi zones," while another noted, "good luck getting cell service! its like a black hole of signals there."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Jenny Jump State Forest offers activities suitable for various age groups. "My husband and I Tent camped in #34 with our dog. 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," reports a camper who found the setting ideal for a family outing.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer swimming opportunities with varying levels of development. "Nice small lake with boats to use. Nice small beach," notes a Great Divide Campground visitor, pointing out features that appeal to families with children.
Cabin alternatives: For families not ready for tent camping, cabins provide a transitional option. At Stokes State Forest, "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. The main room has a bunk bed and two twins, a table with benches, two Adirondack chairs, a wood stove."
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: Most cabin camping areas near Lake Hopatcong provide only basic hookups. "Electric and water hookups, no sewer but there's a dump station on the way out," explains a Camp Taylor visitor, providing essential information for planning longer stays.
Site leveling challenges: Terrain in this mountainous region often creates leveling difficulties. "Some of the 'trailer' sites aren't level," cautions a High Point State Park camper, advising RV owners to bring leveling equipment.
Water supply issues: Water connections can present unexpected challenges. "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," shares a Mahlon Dickerson Reservation guest who appreciated this practical solution.
