Cabin camping near Summit, New Jersey offers opportunities for outdoor recreation throughout the year. Sites are located within the highlands region at elevations between 700-1500 feet, providing cooler summer temperatures than surrounding urban areas. Winter cabin stays typically require additional preparation, with nighttime temperatures regularly dropping below freezing from November through March.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: At Jenny Jump State Forest, trails lead directly from cabin areas to scenic viewpoints. "The campgrounds and bathrooms were clean and well kept. Great place to get away for the weekend with the family. It's also close to other local hikes like Mt. Tammany," notes one visitor.
Fishing opportunities: Spruce Run Recreation Area provides waterfront sites near fishing spots. A camper mentioned, "Many sites have a lovely water view of the reservoir. Several playgrounds, boat launches, and life guarded swimming area." Fish species include bass, catfish, and trout depending on the season.
Seasonal water activities: During summer months, several locations offer boat rentals. At Turkey Swamp Park, "Boat rental rates are acceptable and there are four different styles to choose from. Archery, boating, fishing, and hiking" are available according to a reviewer.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers secluded camping experiences. "The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large. Water and electric hookups and a dump station," reports a camper. Sites feature mature tree coverage creating natural barriers between neighbors.
Fire management systems: Most cabins come with fire rings and access to firewood. "Site came with fire pit, large picnic bench, and lamp stand. Plenty of parking space. Good tree coverage," mentioned a Turkey Swamp Park visitor. Firewood is typically available for purchase at park offices or nearby vendors, though prices and availability vary seasonally.
Year-round accessibility: Several locations operate throughout winter. At Stokes State Forest, cabins feature heating options. "The cabins are reasonably priced and well-appointed, if a bit rustic," notes a camper. Winter reservations often require minimum stays of two nights with specific check-in procedures.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary: Depending on the location, bathroom access differs significantly. At Great Divide Campground, "Bathrooms were standard, compost toilets. The showers were free and generally quite hot." Many cabin sites require walking to centralized facilities rather than having in-cabin plumbing.
Wildlife considerations: Bears are active throughout the region. A visitor to Panther Lake noted, "We had a great time. Only issue was a skunk that visited our campsite multiple times in one night. Was not afraid of humans." Proper food storage is essential at all locations.
Seasonal closures: Operating dates vary widely. A camper at Spruce Run Recreation Area noted, "You can bring a camper, tent, or use one of the cabins. Many sites have a lovely water view of the reservoir." Most state park cabins close from December through March, while private campgrounds have extended seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: For families with children, Panther Lake Camping Resort offers dedicated play areas. "Great for kids and families. The lake and pool were a big plus, especially for hot days. The welcome center has a store where you can buy essentials you may have forgotten and then some," reports a visitor.
Safety considerations: Many locations feature uneven terrain requiring supervision. "Each campsite gets their own space with decent privacy. The grounds were fairly large and each campsite gets their own space," noted one Panther Lake reviewer, though they cautioned about water safety near shorelines.
Evening temperatures: Even summer nights can be cool at higher elevations. A camper at Mahlon Dickerson mentioned, "Located in the Skylands of New Jersey, Mahlon Dickerson Campgound is a perfect place to spend a few nights or a couple of weeks." Temperature drops of 15-20 degrees after sunset are common, requiring appropriate clothing and bedding.
Tips from RVers
Site preparation: RV sites with cabins nearby often have specific leveling needs. "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill. Peaceful," reports a Mahlon Dickerson visitor, though water hookup distances can vary significantly by site.
Winter access: Many campgrounds restrict RV access during winter months while maintaining cabin rentals. Sites with year-round operation typically provide plowed access roads but limited water hookups from November through March due to freezing concerns.
Limited cell service: Several locations have connectivity challenges. "It's like a black hole of signals there," reports a Panther Lake camper, recommending downloading maps and information before arrival. Most office locations close by 4-5pm, limiting after-hours assistance options.
