Camping cabins near Upper Montclair, New Jersey are concentrated within Sussex County's forested highlands, where elevations reach up to 1,800 feet at High Point State Park. Winter cabin temperatures can drop below freezing from December through February, with summer highs averaging in the mid-80s. Most camping areas near Upper Montclair sit along protected watershed land, creating strict regulations around fires and waste disposal.
What to do
Hiking to overlooks: At Stokes State Forest, access 21 marked trails covering over 63 miles within the forest boundaries. "There are trail heads near the campsites and longer trails, including access to the Appalachian Trail within a short 10-15 minute drive," notes a visitor who stayed at Lake Ocquittunk Area.
Lakeside activities: Panther Lake Camping Resort maintains a small lake with boat rentals. "Nice pool, big community hot tub, boating is great, good fishing, nice playground, basketball court and great amenities," writes a camper who frequents the resort. The lake supports both fishing and non-motorized boating.
Winter outdoor activities: During colder months, some cabins remain open for winter use. A December visitor at Stokes State Forest reported, "The area was incredibly peaceful in December with many cabin reservations abandoned due to rain in the forecast. It did rain, but was still a great trip."
What campers like
Privacy levels: At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, campsites offer seclusion despite the modest size. "The campground is small but also secluded. We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful," reports one regular visitor who camps there with family and pets.
Cabin amenities: Sebago Cabin Camp in Harriman State Park provides basic but functional cabins. "These cabins are 'rustic' - but there's what you need: cots, electricity, a fridge. Ignore the hotplate and just cook on a fire out other outdoor set up," advises one camper who visited recently.
Group camping options: Several campgrounds accommodate large family gatherings. "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 a visitor to Panther Lake Camping Resort.
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Many cabins don't include bear-proof storage. At Camp Glen Gray, visitors should prepare for wildlife encounters. "No vehicles allowed to drive through camp. Trading Post for treats and other items," explains a camper, noting the camp's focus on minimal impact.
Winter heating needs: Cabins with wood stoves require significant firewood. Stokes State Forest cabins demand substantial wood supplies during cold weather. A winter visitor reported, "I took six bundles of wood and used them all from Friday to Sunday morning, and 7 would've have been better."
Reservation windows: Most cabin reservations open 6-12 months in advance. Peak season at popular locations like Great Divide and Panther Lake fills quickly, especially for holiday weekends and summer dates from June through August.
Cell service limitations: Many forest cabins have no reception. Panther Lake campers report: "Only issue is the internet is terrible u have to be near the wifi zones," with another adding it's "like a black hole of signals there."
Tips for camping with families
Platform tents: Great Divide Campground offers an alternative to standard cabins. "Sites are spacious and campers were spread out throughout the large campground. Staff are very friendly and we had a great weekend!" writes a family who visited with children. The campground maintains a small lake with kayaks available.
Activity schedules: Many cabin locations run structured programs for children. "They had live music which was actually really good!!! A reggae band," reports one family at Great Divide. Another mentions that Sebago Cabin Camp has "outdoor movies and communal bonfires on weekends."
Terrain considerations: Campgrounds built on hills pose mobility challenges. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, one visitor advised, "Site 7 is on a hill so have a hand truck or a few people to carry stuff. Trust me it is worth it and I think it's the best tent site they have."
Trading post access: Several forest cabin locations maintain small stores. Camp Glen Gray visitors note, "Cabins are always clean and stocked with firewood. Lots of hiking trails. Trading post is well stocked and volunteers are always friendly and able to answer any questions."
Traveler
