Cabin options around Pompton Plains feature diverse layouts and access points along the New Jersey-New York border area. The region includes multiple state parks and private campgrounds within 30-45 minutes of Pompton Plains, with most offering seasonal availability from April through October. Winter cabin camping options are limited to a few year-round facilities with heating systems.
What to do
Lake activities: Access water recreation at Panther Lake Camping Resort where "the lake and pool were a big plus, especially for hot days. While I did not take advantage, you are allowed to rent boats and take them out on the lake," notes one camper who visited during summer months.
Hiking network: Explore multiple trail systems in Stokes State Forest where "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." Consider picking up trail maps at the park office or downloading the Avenza Maps app for navigation.
Elevation views: Visit scenic lookouts at High Point State Park where "you can drive to High Point monument that is 1803 feet above sea level and you get a spectacular panorama view. There are hiking trails and fresh water for kayaking."
What campers like
Off-grid feel with amenities: Enjoy privacy at Sebago Cabin Camp where "This place is only an hour away from NYC with so much to do and see. These cabins are VERY rustic, four walls, a cot, and a fridge. You still feel like you are 'roughing it' but with the convenience of a fridge. Absolutely zero phone service (for T-Mobile) which was AMAZING."
Multiple sleeping arrangements: Accommodate groups at Camp Glen Gray where "Many camp sites open to rent. Cabins - Leanto - Tent Sites." One visitor noted the "Cabins are always clean and stocked with firewood. Lots of hiking trails. Trading post is well stocked and volunteers are always friendly."
Weekend activities: Join community events at Great Divide Campground where "They had live music which was actually really good!!! A reggae band. We found plenty of trails to hike with our two dogs. Staff were very helpful and kind." Many facilities offer seasonal programming on weekends.
What you should know
Heating considerations: Pack extra firewood during colder months as heating depends on wood stoves in most rustic cabins. One visitor to Stokes noted they went through "two bundles of wood in one night, and could have used more in the morning."
Mattress type: Bring appropriate bedding as most cabins feature vinyl-covered mattresses. A camper at Swartswood State Park mentioned "The campsites are slightly separated from the lake (maybe 8 min walk to lake) but that also means you aren't bothered by day guests."
Limited phone service: Plan for connectivity gaps in several areas. At Sebago Cabin Camp, one visitor appreciated "Absolutely zero phone service" while another camper at Panther Lake observed "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! its like a black hole of signals there."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Schedule around events at Panther Lake Camping Resort where one visitor noted it has "lots of activities to keep kids busy which was nice" including lake access, swimming pools, and occasional scheduled programming.
Noise levels: Check site layout carefully when booking. Some campgrounds have sections with more privacy than others. At Swartswood, one visitor shared "The park was incredibly noisy at night and there is little to no privacy between campsites. Everything could be seen by your neighbors."
Wildlife awareness: Prepare for encounters as multiple reviewers noted wildlife sightings. At Swartswood, one camper had "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!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Verify terrain before booking at High Point State Park where one camper warned about "deceptive photography on reservation website" noting their site had "a 30-40 degree incline. The gravel driveway is on a 30-40 degree incline. The tent was too long for the 12'x10' platform."
Water connections: Plan hose length accordingly at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation where "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."
Dump station access: Check availability before arrival as not all campgrounds offer this amenity. Some visitors recommend Mahlon Dickerson's facilities where "Trash dumpster is an easy walk and the dump station has a flush hose point. Nice and easy little campground."
