Cabin camping near Wantage, New Jersey provides access to the Kittatinny Mountain range with elevations reaching over 1,800 feet. Winter temperatures can drop below 20°F while summer days typically range between 70-85°F with higher humidity. Seasonal weather patterns significantly impact trail conditions and facility availability across the various state forests and private campgrounds in this northwestern corner of New Jersey.
What to do
Hiking the Appalachian Trail: Access points to the AT are within a short drive from Stokes State Forest. "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. Pick up a hiking map at the park office or download the Avenza Maps app," notes one camper who enjoyed Stokes State Forest.
Fishing in stocked waters: Several campgrounds offer fishing opportunities in clean, maintained lakes. One visitor at Ocquittunk mentioned, "Nice place to set up and car camp. Enjoyed some fishing and hiking within walking distance from the site." Fishing licenses are required for anyone 16 or older.
Water activities: Swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding are available at several locations during summer months. "We took one afternoon to visit the High Point Monument, which was lovely. The lake was beautiful in the morning with mist or steam," shared a camper about their fall visit to High Point State Park Campground.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Sites at many campgrounds provide ample space and privacy. A visitor at Lake Ocquittunk noted, "The bathrooms are clean and nicely placed. The sites had a fire ring with a cooking grate and a picnic table and were well spaced out from other sites. The views of the lake are nice, very peaceful."
Unique accommodations: For those seeking distinctive lodging beyond standard cabins, Moon Valley Campground offers unusual options. "This was a great campsite nestled in the foothills of Northern NJ on the NY border. Small, clean with great views and great location for hiking, cruising etc. Bring your tent or use the existing glamping tents. Headed back for a fall weekend in the 'dome' which has incredible views," writes one reviewer.
Wildlife viewing: Bear sightings and diverse wildlife are common in this region. A camper at Swartswood State Park Campground shared, "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!" Bear-proof food storage is essential throughout the area.
What you should know
Seasonal differences: Most campgrounds operate from April through October, with varying amenity availability. "High Point State Park Campground" is open April 1 to October 31, while a visitor to Mahlon Dickerson Reservation noted their winter cabin experience: "Turning on the oven is a help, but not a good solution. The wood stove definitely heats the room up nicely. I went through two bundles of wood in one night, and could have used more in the morning."
Reservation requirements: Holiday weekends book months in advance. Reservations for summer weekends should be made 2-3 months ahead, especially for cabins. Many sites require minimum 2-night stays during peak season.
Cell service limitations: Coverage is spotty throughout the region. One camper at Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort recommended, "Make sure you have directions downloaded offline as GPS may cut out in mountainous areas."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds have designated play areas for children. A visitor to Harmony Ridge Farm & Campgrounds mentioned, "Kids love the hockey ring. The pool and pond offer nice access to water."
Educational opportunities: Wildlife and nature programs are available seasonally at state parks. "The park ranger person came through and gave the kids cool posters, and just made it a very fun place for all the kids," noted a visitor to Kittatinny Campground.
Safety considerations: Bear country requires proper food storage and education. Ticks are prevalent from April through October—bring appropriate repellent and conduct regular tick checks.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring leveling blocks. "Our site 30 is overgrown with weeds as were most of the sites although it had been mowed," observed one RVer at Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort.
Water hookup considerations: Some sites require extended hoses. As noted by a visitor to Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, "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."
Access challenges: Some area roads have tight turns or steep grades. A camper at Kittatinny Campground warned, "When you leave you have to drive the wrong way in the campground because of the low hanging trees the correct direction."
