Cabin rentals near Long Valley, New Jersey provide access to the western New Jersey highlands, an area characterized by rolling hills and deciduous forests at elevations ranging from 500 to 1,100 feet. Most rental cabins are situated within state parks and private campgrounds that remain open from early April through October, with weekend temperatures typically ranging from 50-85°F during the main camping season. Water access varies significantly between properties, with some cabins located within walking distance of lakes or rivers.
What to do
Kayaking and boating: Spruce Run Recreation Area offers water-based activities with rentable equipment. "There were a decent amount of people on Friday, but significantly more on Saturday. Our site was on the water and it was really nice. A duck visited us every morning," notes Jules T. The reservoir provides opportunities for sailing and fishing as well.
Wolf preserve visits: Unique to the region, Camp Taylor Campground offers direct access to the Lakota Wolf Preserve with special programs for overnight guests. "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," explains Julie F.
Astronomy and stargazing: Several cabins offer excellent night sky viewing due to the relatively dark skies. At Mountainview Campground, one camper noted it as a "Great spot for stargazing. Owners are very nice."
Hiking access: Most cabin properties connect to trail networks. "You have to walk to get to the sites which can be troublesome for those with mobility issues, but they are well worth it once you're there," reports a visitor to the region. Many trails lead to scenic overlooks of water features or valleys.
What campers like
Cabin privacy levels: At Jenny Jump State Forest, cabin-style shelters offer surprising seclusion. "Starting there, sites get more separated and a wee bit secluded. There are only 4 dog friendly sites, which we need. They are 42-45," notes one visitor who appreciated the layout.
Winter stove heating: Many rustic cabins feature wood-burning stoves that provide adequate heating during cooler spring and fall nights. "Shelter 2 is a minute walk from the restroom with sink/shower and water. Shelters 7 & 8 are even closer while 4 & 5 are the furthest, may an extra 5 minutes walk?" describes a Jenny Jump visitor detailing the cabin amenities.
Wildlife viewing: Cabins often provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. At Camp Taylor Campground, "Saw wild turkeys and deer in the morning. The wolf preserve at the same location was just amazing - we learned so much and could hear the wolves howl from the campsite," shares Dina S.
Water access: Several cabin properties feature water views. At Spruce Run Recreation Area, "You can launch your kayak easily from the shore. The sites are large, many have nice mix of sun and shade," according to a repeat visitor.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities: Quality varies widely between properties. At Great Divide Campground, "The bathrooms are clean, the pool is small but clean and the store has anything you can imagine." However, at other locations, facilities may be more basic.
Electrical outlets: Most cabin rentals lack electrical outlets. One frequent cabin camper advises, "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."
Seasonal availability: Cabin rental seasons typically run from April 1 to October 31 at state parks, though some private campgrounds extend slightly longer. "Panther Lake Camping Resort operates from April through November," notes a camper familiar with seasonal patterns.
Bear activity: The region has black bear populations, requiring proper food storage. "Three black bears strolled by the campsite next to ours in the early morning — gave us more of an energy boost after a sleepless night than our coffee!" reported a camper at Swartswood State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: For cabins near Long Valley with children's amenities, Panther Lake Camping Resort stands out. "Big campground, lots of sites, nice pool, big community hot tub, boating is great, good fishing, nice playground, basketball court and great amenities," notes Richard V.
Noise considerations: Some cabin areas can be louder than others, especially on weekends. "Park employees and park police drive around through the day. Some big groups of campers got a little rowdy at night," reports a Spruce Run visitor, highlighting the importance of site selection for families seeking quiet.
Water safety: Cabin properties with swimming areas require supervision as most lack lifeguards during off-peak times. A visitor noted, "We went out of season so there were no lifeguards, or anything open at the pavilion."
Cabin spacing: When booking with multiple families, consider adjacent cabins. "It's great for large groups that book a few sites next to each other. There were 3 groups during our stay," explains a regular cabin camper.
Tips from RVers
Parking limitations: Some cabins restrict vehicle access. "You have to drop your supplies off and drive it back to the parking lot which was slightly annoying," notes a Great Divide camper about their policies.
Water hookup distances: For cabins with utility access, hose length can be an issue. "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," explains a visitor to Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Tree clearance: For RVers using sites near cabins, overhead clearance matters. "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 Douglas P.
