Stokes State Forest in New Jersey provides multiple cabin options for campers visiting the Garrison, New York area. The forest features four distinct campgrounds with varied accommodations including platform tent sites, RV spaces, and seasonal cabins with small kitchens. Winter visitors can use the wood stoves or fireplaces in the cabins to stay warm, with temperatures often requiring multiple bundles of firewood each night. The lakeside sites offer direct water access while more secluded options back up to babbling brooks.
What to do
Hiking trails with elevation gain: Access 63+ miles of marked trails directly from the campgrounds, including 12 miles of the Appalachian Trail. "We hiked the Tillman Ravine trail (tip: make the trail a loop and visit both the ravine and the nearby old cemetery)," notes one Stokes State Forest visitor. Other hikers recommend the trail to the fire tower for expansive views.
Equestrian adventures: Horse campgrounds near Garrison, New York provide access to extensive trail networks suitable for riders of all levels. Riders staying at Stokes can find water sources from streams throughout the property, though proper filtration is required. The trails interconnect, allowing for rides of varying distances through diverse terrain.
Waterfront recreation: Rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards at the main office to explore the lakes. "Clear streams and lake. Stunning overall. Lake Ocquittunk campground had showers, flush toilets and was popular with families," writes a camper at Ocquittunk. Fishing is permitted in designated areas with proper licensing.
What campers like
Lake views from select sites: Certain tent sites offer direct waterfront positioning. "We stayed at site #T007... it was a short walk from the car to the site, but so worth it for many reasons. The site itself is huge and we were able to position our tent facing the lake, it was beautiful!" reports an Ocquittunk visitor.
Winter cabin amenities: Cold-weather campers appreciate the heating options. "The cabins are reasonably priced and well-appointed, if a bit rustic... The main room has 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," explains a winter visitor to Liberty Harbor RV Park.
Natural soundtrack: Many sites feature ambient water sounds. "Some sites located around the opposite side of the ring back up to a babbling brook. The rushing water will soothe you to sleep," notes a camper. Others mention enjoying the sounds of frogs chirping from the lake at night.
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: All campgrounds enforce strict food storage policies. "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided," warns a visitor. Some sites include bear-proof garbage bins, but personal food items need proper securing.
Varying amenities between campgrounds: Each camping area offers different facilities. "The Steam Mill Camping Area is tucked out the of the way and is the most primitive. It is the smallest of the campgrounds with 27 sites only suitable for tents or small trailers/campervans," explains a reviewer. Other campgrounds feature full bathroom facilities with showers.
Rocky terrain at some sites: Be prepared for uneven ground when selecting sites. "Most of the campsites were very rocky, but you can find some that have a little bit of grass," notes a camper at Ocquittunk. Sites with tent platforms provide a more level sleeping surface.
Tips for camping with families
Cabin options for easier family camping: Families appreciate the convenience of cabin accommodations. "We stay in the cabins. It's great to have the small kitchen when camping with the family. A must see campground," shares one family visitor to Stokes State Forest.
Lakeside activities for children: Several campgrounds offer direct lake access with swimming areas. "The campground at Lake Ocquittunk features tent platforms and some sites positioned directly along the lakeshore," making it ideal for families who want easy water access throughout their stay.
Wildlife educational opportunities: Teach children about local fauna while emphasizing safety. "The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes," notes a camper, making this an opportunity for nature education combined with practical safety lessons about proper tick checks and snake awareness.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for privacy: Choose your site location carefully for maximum spacing. "If you are looking for more secluded campsites try to get 13 or 14 as they seem to stick back more. Sites 8-11 are adjacent to the road and in peak times probably have a fair amount of foot and vehicle traffic," advises an RV camper at Liberty Harbor RV Park.
Amenities for longer stays: RVers planning extended visits should note the available facilities. "The bathhouse was above average and heated. The laundry was helpful and was acceptable," reports a visitor. Sites typically include water and electric hookups, with a dump station available for longer-term stays.
Size limitations at primitive sites: Larger rigs should check site specifications before booking. "The Steam Mill Camping Area is... the smallest of the campgrounds with 27 sites only suitable for tents or small trailers/campervans," cautions a reviewer, while other campgrounds can accommodate larger recreational vehicles.
