Cabin accommodations near Washington, New Jersey range from rustic shelters to furnished units with modern conveniences. Located in the Musconetcong Valley of northern New Jersey, elevation ranges from 400 to 1,400 feet across different camping areas. Winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing, while summer highs typically reach the mid-80s, making cabin camping a popular three-season option.
What to do
Wolf watching: Visit the Lakota Wolf Preserve at Camp Taylor Campground. Tours run twice daily on weekends. "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," shares Julie F.
Kayaking and boating: Access the Delaware River from cabin sites. According to Robert J. from Mountainview Campground: "We've tent camped here three or four times. It's a quiet wooded campground. Easy to get to, and friendly family ownership. Close to the River Towns in NJ."
Astronomy viewing: Stargaze from designated areas. Scott A. notes about Mountainview Campground: "Stayed at one of the primitive sites. Very clean and quite. Bath stalls and showers are basic but clean. Great spot for stargazing. Owners are very nice."
What campers like
Wooded seclusion: Forested cabin sites at Camp Taylor Campground provide natural privacy. "There is a section of RV spots that are each cut out in the woods so very private. The section of spots toward the back by the pond are usually packed and lots of activity and early morning active children," notes Julie F.
Water access: Reservoirs and lakes for recreation. Ruette W. from Spruce Run Recreation Area shares: "I have camped here on many occasions for Over ten years. I love the water views, The sites are large, many have nice mix of sun and shade. You can launch your kayak easily from the shore."
Shelter accommodations: Basic cabins with essential amenities. Dwight D. describes the shelters at Jenny Jump State Forest: "The 'shelter' is what we would describe as a 'cabin'; four walls, a roof, locking door, locking windows, large picture frame front window, four beds(two bunks), a wood burning stove, and a porch. Even compared to our glamping this was luxury!!"
What you should know
Bathroom conditions vary significantly: Some cabins have nearby facilities, while others require longer walks. Dwight D. notes about Jenny Jump State Forest: "Shelter 2 is a minute walk from the restroom with sink/shower and water. Shelters 7 & 8 are even closer while 4 & 5 are the furthest, may an extra 5 minutes walk?"
Seasonal operation limitations: Most cabin facilities close during winter months. The Delaware River Family Campground operates from April 1 to October 31, similar to other state parks in the region.
Highway noise affects some locations: Proximity to main roads impacts certain cabins. Seth K. from Jenny Jump State Forest reports: "This campground is a nice little hideaway not too far from the beaten path. You can hear some of the highway sounds from the campsites (especially the jake brake)."
Reservation requirements: Booking windows vary by campground. Laurie S. notes about Delaware River Family Campground: "Proximaty to the Delaware makes this campground amazing. Bring your own kayaks to make it even more special. We had tons of privacy and a view of the Delaware river right from my hammock."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife watching opportunities: Several locations offer nature encounters. According to Denise D. from Camp Taylor Campground: "Easy access from Rt 80 and located close to the Lakota Wolf Preserve. With tours leaving them campground twice a day on both Saturday and Sundays for the wolf preserve, I was glad there was camping so close."
Swimming options: Ponds and lakes provide cooling off spots. Kathy G. notes: "The swimming pond is pleasant and great to cool off in. The bathrooms/showers are clean and well maintained. The small mini-golf course is a fun distraction for a bit."
Playground facilities: Multiple play areas for children. Jocelyn G. from Spruce Run Recreation Area mentions: "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."
Pet policies: Restrictions vary by location. Katie S. notes about Camp Taylor: "We stayed here because it was the only dog friendly campground in the area. We would have loved to see the wolf preserve at the camp, but dogs weren't allowed in that part of the camp so we missed it."
Tips from RVers
Cabin alternatives: RV sites with full hookups at Ringing Rocks Family Campground provide more amenities than primitive cabins. According to Kathie M.: "Great place to just relax. I have spent many weeks here, nice setup and spacious sites. The rocks really do ring when hit with another rock."
Terrain considerations: Hilly areas present challenges. Ruette W. from Spruce Run notes: "I have camped here on many occasions for Over ten years, beginning when I only had a tent. Then with a camper van, and now an RV. I love the water views, The sites are large, many have nice mix of sun and shade."
Utility hookup limitations: Full services aren't available at all cabin and RV sites. "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," explains Ruette W.
Cabin vs. RV sites: Consider location trade-offs. "There are some RV sites with water & electric which are not on the water, but in the parking lot. I would consider getting one on the water to enjoy the water and one in the parking lot to hook up the RV. It's kind of worth it," advises Ruette W.
