Cabin camping near Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey offers access to the forests of the Ramapo Mountains, with elevations reaching 1,000 feet in nearby areas. Most cabins in this region are concentrated in state parks within 30-45 minutes driving distance, situated among hardwood forests that display vibrant fall colors from mid-October through early November. Winter cabin options remain available at several parks when most tent camping areas close.
What to do
Hiking to scenic viewpoints: At High Point State Park Campground, trails lead to the highest elevation in New Jersey. "You can drive to High Point monument that is 1803 feet above sea level and you get a spectacular panorama view. There are hiking trails and fresh water for kayaking," explains one visitor. The park features 21 marked trails covering 63 miles.
Water activities on forest lakes: Multiple parks offer lake swimming from Memorial Day through Labor Day. At Sebago Cabin Camp, "Sebago has a huge lake and great beach area. It was perfect for lounging and swimming in during a hot summer day." For additional swimming options, "Near lake Welch- which is phenomenal for easy nearly- beach like camping...Don't expect to swim on site- go to Lake Welch near by!"
Winter exploration: Cabins in Stokes State Forest remain open year-round with woodstoves for heating. "I bought wood from a house across the street from the entrance to the cabins...You need that wood stove to heat up the cabin. Turning on the oven is a help, but not a good solution. The wood stove definitely heats the room up nicely."
What campers like
Proximity to New York City: Many cabin campers appreciate the quick escape from urban areas. At Croton Point Park, "This must be one of the most breathtaking camp grounds (family friendly) right on the Hudson. Tent sites are very private with some dirt roads to exit out but thats what make it unique experience!" The park sits just "30-40 minute drive from Western Queens."
Basic but adequate interiors: Cabin furnishings focus on functionality rather than luxury. At Stokes State Forest, cabins include "a bunk bed and two twins, a table with benches, two Adirondack chairs, a wood stove set into a fireplace...hot/cold water, electric stove with oven, refrigerator, toilet, bathroom sink, mirror, plenty of hooks to hang jackets and coats, storage cabinets in the kitchen area."
Group gathering spaces: Camp Glen Gray specializes in larger group accommodations. "Cabins are always clean and stocked with firewood. Lots of hiking trails. Trading post is well stocked and volunteers are always friendly and able to answer any questions."
What you should know
Bear safety protocols: Proper food storage is mandatory at all parks in the region. At The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center, "They do have bear boxes available as this is bear country." Visitors should store all food items securely when not in use.
Bathroom facilities vary significantly: Some cabins have private bathrooms while others rely on shared facilities. "Bathrooms and super nice and clean. Campfires are restricted to certain areas and you have to share." At some parks, "If you wanted to shower, you would have to head to the group campsite not too far but you need to drive."
Vehicle restrictions: Several parks limit vehicle access to cabins. "The parking for your car is 1/4 mile away but they allow you to unload and give you a wagon to take stuff to your site." Camp Glen Gray has similar policies: "No vehicles allowed to drive through camp. Camp also provides trucking of gear weather permitting."
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: When booking with children, consider cabins near play areas. At Round Pond Recreation Area, "We were very impressed with the playground on site! Unfortunately, due to our early start in the camping season the weather did not allow us to enjoy fishing or the beach or water hook ups."
Weekend activities: Several parks offer organized programming for families. "Sebago has a ton of activities like outdoor movies and communal bonfires on weekends. I was told by ranger Joe they also do Karaoke nights too."
Noise considerations: Some camping areas have noise challenges. At Croton Point Park, "The site was very loud (dance music) until after 11pm. Quiet time at 10pm. Great site for a party, try to stay away from this end of the site or choose a site away from other bookings if you'd like quite."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: 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 High Point, "the 'trailer' sites aren't level."
Water connection assistance: Water hookups may require special equipment. "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."
Off-season considerations: RV campers should note seasonal limitations. "Due to our early start in the camping season the weather did not allow us to enjoy fishing or the beach or water hook ups, however all areas looked well maintained." Most RV sites with hookups close from November through March.
