Stokes State Forest offers rustic log cabin accommodations across several campgrounds. While the cabins don't have air conditioning, they typically include modern amenities like electricity and running water. Located near Branchville, cabins feature exterior picnic spaces and fire rings, making them popular year-round retreats for visitors exploring the Delaware Water Gap region. Winter cabin stays require additional preparation with firewood, as many visitors note the wood stove is essential during colder months.
What to do
Hiking trails nearby: Multiple campgrounds in the area provide access to extensive trail networks, including the Appalachian Trail. At High Point State Park Campground, "I spent two nights camping with my niece and this campground was perfect. 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."
Kayaking on lakes: Several parks in the region offer paddling opportunities on small lakes. At Lake Ocquittunk, visitors enjoy water activities right from their sites. "Nice place to set up and car camp. Enjoyed some fishing and hiking within walking distance from the site," mentions one camper about their experience.
Wildlife observation: The forests around Layton provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. At Stokes State Forest, campers should be prepared for the natural inhabitants. One visitor at Steam Mill Camping Area noted: "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers are consistently mentioned in positive reviews. At Swartswood State Park Campground, one camper reported, "Clean bathrooms with flush toilets and showers, masks required for the pandemic still," showing the park's attention to facility maintenance.
Lake views: Many cabins and campsites in the Layton area offer scenic water views. At Pickerel Point Campground, "We had site 100 and amazing views of the water from our camper. The trails were beautiful, recommend little falls trail. The bathrooms were clean with nice hot showers."
Spacious sites: Campers appreciate the generous site sizes throughout the region. At Great Divide Campground, "The campgrounds were very big and spread out and the campsites have their own space so you can enjoy quiet at night. Each site had a water spout and electric plug in."
What you should know
Tent platforms: Some sites in the region feature wooden platforms for tents. At High Point State Park, a camper explained, "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."
Winter preparation: Cabins in Stokes State Forest and surrounding areas require proper planning for cold weather stays. Many cabins feature wood stoves rather than central heating, making firewood essential.
Water access varies: Check your specific cabin or site location relative to water sources. At Kymers Camping Resort, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: The region offers numerous family-friendly activities across multiple parks. At Harmony Ridge Farm & Campgrounds, "We loved our time there. The facilities were clean and neat, the campsites were spacious. The baseball field was perfect for our group activities as well."
Pool access: For summer stays with children, look for campgrounds with swimming facilities. A visitor at Kymers Camping Resort mentioned, "The sound of laughter and play sitting around the huge, clean pool was refreshing."
Book early for groups: When planning family reunions or large gatherings, reserve well in advance. High Point State Park offers group camping options that get booked quickly: "The group campsites are big enough for the amount of people you can have, have picnic benches, a fire ring, a composting outhouse toilet just for the site."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many campgrounds in the Layton region have uneven terrain. A visitor at High Point noted, "We have a trailer and the 'trailer' sites aren't level. Showers are at the day use area, from 10-5:30, no trailer dump."
Hookup variations: RV sites throughout the area offer different levels of service. At Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort, "Large levelled spaces but a little muddy. Good for a quiet, relaxing weekend; not very close to attractions otherwise."
Road conditions: Some access roads to cabins and campgrounds in the Layton area can be challenging. At Pickerel Point Campground, a camper warned, "Watch the local roads for potholes."
