Cabin camping near West New York, New Jersey primarily spans northern New Jersey and southern New York state, with sites nestled in the forested highlands and along the Hudson River. Winter cabin rentals operate from November through March at locations like Stokes State Forest, where temperatures typically drop to 20-30°F and require preparation for potentially snowy conditions. Seasonal availability varies significantly, with many cabin facilities closing entirely during winter months.
What to do
Water activities on Panther Lake: Visitors can enjoy kayaking, fishing, and swimming at Panther Lake Camping Resort, which features both a swimming pool and natural lake. "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.
Hiking to scenic overlooks: Trails in Stokes State Forest lead to panoramic viewpoints like Sunset Mountain Scenic Overlook. "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," reports a visitor who recommends picking up a hiking map at the park office.
Urban exploring on Staten Island: For a unique cabin camping experience close to the city, Staten Island Gateway National Recreation Area offers unusual historical features. "There is abandoned buildings here and you can do urban exploring. There are rangers taking you on a trek and exploring the abandoned building," explains one camper who appreciates the proximity to city views.
What campers like
Wooded privacy: Turkey Swamp Park receives high marks for its secluded cabin sites. "Sites are in the woods and widely spaced apart to give you privacy and the feeling of being out in the Forrest. There are tent and RV sites and you are allowed to have a tent on the site with an RV at no extra charge," explains one visitor.
Wilderness proximity with city convenience: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation balances natural setting with access to urban amenities. "This county park has large, wooded campsites with electric and water. It's beautiful and quiet, and close to beautiful hiking trails, lakes, and other outdoor recreation opportunities. And yet it's only about a 15 minute drive to a large mall," notes a frequent visitor.
Community activities: Many cabin facilities offer structured recreation options throughout the week. At Panther Lake, "There is an arcade room (fun for kids but kind of an odd thing to have at a campsite in my opinion) and a covered sitting area also next to the welcome center." Another visitor mentioned enjoying "the ceramic class was fun for the girls."
What you should know
Booking systems vary significantly: Reservation processes differ between facilities. At Croton Point Park, "The reservation process is a bit wonky. You need to call (no online reservations) and then wait for an e-mail, but the e-mail does not tell you your assigned site; you have to wait until you check in to find out your site."
Wildlife precautions: Bears are common near many cabin sites. At Stokes State Forest, proper food storage is essential as "bear lockers are not provided." One visitor at Turkey Swamp reported: "By the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2. That was so crazy because we were just sitting by our camper."
Seasonal variability: Many facilities operate with limited winter schedules. At Croton Point Park, "There is a lodge and cabins close to the end of the point, but they appeared to be part of a group camp experience. They all appeared to be closed for the season." Panther Lake Camping Resort has numerous "seasonal campers with LOTS of cottages. Went early in the season so many had not been maintained in months."
Tips for camping with families
Cabin options for different group sizes: Stokes State Forest offers varied cabin layouts. "Rented a cabin in November (#009) and again in December (#008) of 2021. I favored Cabin 8, the kitchen and bathroom were separated from the main room. The cabins are reasonably priced and well-appointed, if a bit rustic."
Playground access: Turkey Swamp Park provides family-friendly amenities including "playgrounds and picnic areas" with "nice, remote, private" sites. Another visitor noted that Turkey Swamp has "age-appropriate playgrounds both in the campground and by the office."
Family meal planning: Several cabin locations offer meal services or kitchens. At AMC Harriman Outdoor Center, one visitor highlights: "One highlight was having meals cooked by the stellar chef. The lake is very peaceful, and home to beavers we watched from the dining hall patio."
Tips from RVers
Pad conditions vary seasonally: Surface types differ across locations. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, "The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large. Water and electric hookups and a dump station." However, at Panther Lake, one RVer cautions that certain areas "had water and electric but it would be hard to get in/out of if it had rained a lot as it was all on soft grass."
Water hookup distances: Plan for connection challenges at some sites. A Mahlon Dickerson visitor advises: "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."
Privacy considerations: RV sites offer varying degrees of seclusion. At Panther Lake, "We stayed in the center lawn and it was lined with seasonal campers. We felt like we were staying in the middle of a neighborhood. Most seasonal spots looked like it would be terrible to stay next to because they had fences and sheds set up."
