Camping cabins near Pompton Lakes, New Jersey sit within the transitional landscape between the Ramapo Mountains and the New Jersey Highlands. This area experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer temperatures typically ranging from 65-85°F and winter months dropping to 20-30°F. Winter cabin campers should note that several locations require bringing additional heating options, as many cabins lack central heating systems.
What to do
Hiking at Stokes State Forest: Located about 45 miles northwest of Pompton Lakes, Stokes offers extensive trail systems for all skill levels. "There are 21 marked trails that cover over 63 miles within the boundaries of Stokes State Forest. Twelve miles are part of the Appalachian Trail," notes a visitor who suggests getting a hiking map at the park office or downloading the Avenza Maps app.
Fishing and boating: Several campgrounds offer lake access for fishing and non-motorized boating. At Great Divide Campground, visitors appreciate the "nice small lake with boats to use" and mention the "free kayaks" available to campers. One reviewer noted it's "beautiful and quiet, and close to beautiful hiking trails, lakes, and other outdoor recreation opportunities."
Winter camping options: Unlike many seasonal sites, Mahlon Dickerson Reservation remains accessible in colder months. A visitor noted that "it's beautiful and quiet, and yet it's only about a 15 minute drive to a large mall with movies, shopping, and restaurants," making it practical for year-round adventures.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Many campers praise the privacy offered at certain locations. At High Point State Park Campground, one visitor mentioned they "barely heard anyone around us and had a real wilderness feel" despite being only an hour from Manhattan. Another noted that "The site was very secluded. The lake was beautiful in the morning with mist or steam."
Lake swimming: Several parks offer swimming beaches during summer months. At Sebago Cabin Camp, a camper reported "Sebago has a huge lake and great beach area. It was perfect for lounging and swimming in during a hot summer day." Another advised "Don't expect to swim on site - go to Lake Welch near by!"
Group accommodations: Many campgrounds cater specifically to larger groups. According to one visitor at High Point State Park, "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, and one of those flat charcoal 'grills'."
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: This region has active black bear populations. Proper food storage is essential at most campgrounds. At The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center, a camper noted "They do have bear boxes available as this is bear country." Another visitor mentioned that Stokes State Forest "has some neat features: it's flexible - just like the name suggests - and foldable."
Cabin heating limitations: Many cabins lack central heating. A Sebago Cabin Camp visitor described the accommodations as "VERY rustic, four walls, a cot, and a fridge. You still feel like you are 'roughing it' but with the convenience of a fridge." Another advised to "Ignore the hotplate and just cook on a fire out other outdoor set up."
Cell service issues: Several campgrounds have limited connectivity. At Sebago Cabin Camp, a visitor appreciated having "Absolutely zero phone service (for T-Mobile) which was AMAZING." Similarly, at Great Divide Campground, a reviewer mentioned "the internet is terrible u have to be near the wifi zones."
Tips for camping with families
Playground and pool access: At Panther Lake Camping Resort, reviewers note the family-friendly environment with "nice playground, basketball court and great amenities" plus a "great pool and awesome hot tub." Another visitor called it "Great for families" with "plenty of space between sites."
Youth activities: Several campgrounds offer structured activities for children. A Camp Glen Gray visitor reported that "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."
Educational programs: Some campgrounds provide interpretive events. At Sebago Cabin Camp, a visitor mentioned "Sebago has a ton of activities like outdoor movies and communal bonfires on weekends. I was told by ranger Joe they also do Karaoke nights too."
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: Many cabin sites in the region have limited access for larger vehicles. At Great Divide Campground, a visitor noted "the W loop is by far our favorite" for camping, while another mentioned "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill" at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Winter RV limitations: Several campgrounds restrict RV access during winter months. According to one Mahlon Dickerson visitor, "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."
Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds have restricted services during off-seasons. A visitor to Panther Lake mentioned "Majority of sites are seasonal campers with LOTS of cottages" and advised that early season visits might find that "many had not been maintained in months."
