Cabin accommodations near Port Murray, New Jersey typically operate seasonally between April and October, with peak reservations occurring from Memorial Day through Labor Day weekends. Located within the Skylands Region at approximately 900 feet elevation, these shelter options provide varying levels of amenities depending on their location and classification. Most facilities require advance booking through state reservation systems or private campground offices.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Sites at Jenny Jump State Forest offer direct connections to hiking networks with viewpoints overlooking the region. "The camp sites are nicely laid out to ensure privacy. This park is high up on a mountain and affords lovely views. Well kept and clean. My only complaint is that the noise from the highway was quite loud at night," notes Jocelyn G.
Wildlife observation: Camp Taylor Campground provides unique wolf watching opportunities through its on-site preserve. "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.
Water activities: The reservoir at Spruce Run Recreation Area supports multiple water-based activities during summer months. According to Mike D., "Decent overnight park. Lots of space. Great for sailing and fishing. Does get a little rowdy at night with some groups that party."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Wooded accommodations at Mountainview Campground provide natural barriers between camping areas. "This campground is perfect for a getaway if what you're looking for is no more than spending some time in nature. The property is well kept and campsites are a good distance from each other. Plenty of open field as well as wooded areas," reports Mario M.
Clean facilities: Bathroom buildings at Great Divide Campground maintain regular cleaning schedules, important for campers using cabin facilities without private bathrooms. "This is a beautiful campground with much to do around the grounds themselves. They had live music which was actually really good!!! Bathrooms clean and shower was warm and clean as well. They even have a heater to keep you comfortable in and out of the shower," Julie writes.
Cabin comfort: Shelters provide more substantial protection than tents during variable weather conditions. "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 has four walls, a roof, locking door, locking windows, large picture frame front window, four beds, a wood burning stove, and a porch," describes Dwight D. of his Jenny Jump State Forest experience.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Spring and fall overnight temperatures can drop into the 40s, requiring additional bedding beyond what cabins provide. "I've camped here on many occasions for over ten years... The sites are large, many have nice mix of sun and shade. You can launch your kayak easily from the shore," Ruette W. mentions about Spruce Run.
Booking requirements: Most facilities require advance reservations, especially for weekend dates. During peak season, cabins may need booking 6-12 months ahead.
Noise levels: Some locations experience ambient sounds from nearby highways. "The highway is a trucking highway so it is not a good spot if you are trying to get away to peace and quiet. But it is perfect for those who never camped before," advises Mel C. about Delaware River Family Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Schedule water activities for morning hours when winds are typically calmer. "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," recommends Jocelyn G. about Spruce Run facilities.
Site selection: Choose cabins located closer to bathroom facilities when camping with children. "This campground is very nice. It's clean and in a beautiful part of NJ. The sites were small so not a ton of privacy. Everything was clean and neat and we felt very comfortable," shares Jeryl O. about Triple Brook Camping Resort.
Wildlife education: Schedule afternoon activities around educational opportunities at animal preserves. "Camp Taylor Campground is located on the Delaware Water Gap Mtn. There are miles of hiking trails and direct access to the Appalachian Tr. The Lakota Wolf Preserve is located on the camp and offers discounted tours for campers," Jean T. explains.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many cabin sites also accommodate RVs but may require leveling blocks. "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," suggests Douglas P. about Spruce Run.
Power requirements: Check voltage availability at cabins with electric service. "We luckily have some solar so we can go for awhile without running the generator. We fill our fresh water tank for and bring drinking water," Ruette W. notes about managing power needs.
Access roads: Some cabin locations have challenging approach roads. "The drive to our site had some inclines and was relatively rocky and some vehicles would surely struggle," Christina H. cautions about Mountainview Campground terrain.
