Camping cabins near Ledgewood, New Jersey offer both rustic and modern accommodations throughout the Skylands Region. Located in Morris County at approximately 1,000 feet elevation, this area experiences milder summer temperatures than nearby urban centers, typically 5-10 degrees cooler during peak summer months. Winter cabin camping requires preparation for temperatures that regularly drop below freezing from December through February, with snowfall possible from late November through early April.
What to do
Hiking trails at Jenny Jump State Forest: The forest features multiple trails with varied difficulty levels connecting directly to cabins. "I really enjoyed this campground. Primitive, has bathrooms and water spigots. Good hammocking trees and wasn't crowded at all. Plenty of privacy from other sites. Close proximity to good hiking and kayaking at Delaware Water Gap but without the crowds of their sites," notes a visitor to Jenny Jump State Forest.
Wolf preserve tours: Camp Taylor offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities adjacent to the camping area. A camper describes, "There is a section of RV spots that are each cut out in the woods so very private. Once you have backed into the spot and leveled out it's a good time. 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." The Lakota Wolf Preserve located on the property provides discounted tours for overnight guests.
Lakeside activities: Panther Lake Camping Resort provides water recreation options for cabin guests. According to one review, "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. Only down side is that even though they say they have wifi, you can't hook up to it unless you are at the pavilion. And good luck getting cell service!"
What campers like
Secluded wooded sites: Many cabin locations offer privacy and natural surroundings. At Camp Taylor Campground, a visitor reports, "Campsites are nice and large, can hold multiple tents. They request the purchase of another site if you have more then two tents, but then you can put all tents on one site and cook and hang out in the other. We have a beautiful site along the creek, perfect white noise to get a great night sleep. Very woodsy so you definitely are in the woods."
Cabin variety: From basic shelters to more equipped accommodations. According to a camper 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 set into a fireplace, hot/cold water, electric stove with oven, refrigerator, toilet, bathroom sink."
Natural atmosphere: The region's forests provide an immersive outdoor experience. A visitor to Mahlon Dickerson Reservation commented, "Located in the Skylands of New Jersey, Mahlon Dickerson Campgound is a perfect place to spend a few nights or a couple of weeks. 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."
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Mountain elevations mean temperature fluctuations. One camper at Stokes State Forest advises, "I bought wood from a house across the street from the entrance to the cabins and it was damp, but in November, I wasn't complaining, it took awhile but I got a nice blaze going. You need that wood stove to heat up the cabin. I went through two bundles of wood in one night, and could have used more in the morning."
Booking timing: Reserve well in advance for peak season cabins. A visitor to Great Divide Campground notes, "You can bring a camper, tent, or use one of the cabins. Many sites have a lovely water view of the reservoir. Several playgrounds, boat launches, and life guarded swimming area." Cabins typically book 3-6 months in advance for summer weekends.
Variable amenities: Cabin facilities differ significantly between parks. "This was the first time we decided to forgo tent camping and reserve a shelter at a state park. We had a much better experience than we were expecting! The 'shelter' is what we would describe as a 'cabin'; four walls, a roof, locking door, locking windows, large picture frame front window, four beds(two bunks), a wood burning stove, and a porch," reports a visitor to Jenny Jump State Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Schedule structured recreation for different ages. At Panther Lake Camping Resort, "We went on 4th of July weekend so the place was packed. We were able to get a secluded spot in the woods which was great! 2 teenage girls had a blast in the lake and riding their bikes around. Pool was packed so didn't spend time there but the ceramic class was fun for the girls."
Playground access: Some cabin sites offer direct views of play areas. One family noted about Delaware Water Gap / Pocono Mountain KOA, "Easy check in and check out. Our camp site was great (52), backed onto a wooded area and a big playground was directly in front of us, which worked out perfectly since we have school age kids. Bathrooms were and staff seemed very friendly. Firewood and groceries could be delivered right to your site."
Bear safety: Teach children proper food storage rules. A visitor to High Point State Park advises, "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes." Most park offices provide educational materials about wildlife safety specifically designed for children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose cabin locations based on accessibility needs. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, an RVer suggests, "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. Trash dumpster is an easy walk and the dump station has a flush hose point. Nice and easy little campground."
Seasonal considerations: Plan for appropriate heating or cooling options. According to a review, "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. Bathrooms were standard, compost toilets. The showers were free and generally quite hot." Many parks offer extended cabin rental seasons compared to tent camping, but may have restricted water access during winter months.
Supply planning: Most cabin sites require specific equipment. One reviewer suggests, "We brought battery-powered lights since there is no electricity. There were coat hooks and a built-in shelf for our snacks, games, and other supplies. There was a picnic table and benches inside. We brought camping chairs for relaxing on the porch. We spent most of our time on the porch; cooking, chatting, and crafting while enjoying the sunshine and breeze."
