Cabin lodging options near Sterling Forest provide rustic accommodations with varying levels of amenities across several recreation areas. Sterling Forest sits in the New York-New Jersey Highlands region at elevations averaging 900 feet, creating a cooler microclimate than nearby urban areas. Winter cabin rentals typically require advance booking 9-12 months ahead, especially for summer weekends when temperatures average 75-85°F.
What to do
Hiking connections: High Point State Park Campground features direct access to the Appalachian Trail. A camper noted, "I spent two nights camping with my niece and this campground was perfect. We fit in a hike up to the Appalachian Trail from our campsite, swam at the pond (Lake Marcia), and got in a fishing session at Steeny Kill Lake."
Swimming spots: Croton Point Park offers beach access along the Hudson River. A visitor described, "Short 5 minute drive to nearby supermarket to pick up food or firewood. I would highly recommend it. Oh...and did i say, gorgeous scenery along the river and a private beach which is opened from Wednesday to the weekend with life guards on duty!"
Adventure activities: Cabins at Kittatinny Campground provide a base for river activities. One camper shared, "My college friends go here each year to meet up and we have so much fun. The group sites are great and perfect for our 30-50 people. Definitely go for the rafting/tubing package, it was the best part of the trip!"
What campers like
Well-maintained cabins: Camp Glen Gray receives praise for cabin upkeep. A reviewer stated, "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."
Meal options: Many campers appreciate the dining services at camp facilities. A visitor to AMC Harriman noted, "I camped on one of the platforms, which was very nice and did not feel crowded even with other people on neighboring platforms. One highlight was having meals cooked by the stellar chef."
Lake recreation: Visitors to cabin sites value water access. A camper at Moon Valley Campground shared, "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."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Weather patterns affect cabin availability. A visitor to Mahlon Dickerson Reservation mentioned, "Very clean forest! The campground is clean, paved nicely and well run. Our site is easily the nicest- all the way in the back with only one neighbor. There are a lot of bear warnings here so that gave us a bit of pause with our three little boys."
Reservation timing: Booking cabins requires planning. For High Point State Park, "Hours are 8-4. Park officials come through the campsites pretty regularly, a few times a day which is nice. Areas are clean and well maintained."
Wildlife preparedness: Multiple cabins near Sterling Forest require proper food storage. A Stokes State Park visitor noted, "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes."
Tips for camping with families
Platform camping: Elevated platforms provide better sleeping conditions. At Stokes State Park, "Campsite was very spacious and had a platform where we were able to fit two tents. There was plenty of space on the site for more tents. Site came with bear proof bin for garbage and fire ring."
Cabin selection: Families should research cabin layout before booking. One camper stated about Pleasant Acres Farm, "Large levelled spaces but a little muddy. Good for a quiet, relaxing weekend; not very close to attractions otherwise. My daughter loved the horses and goats."
Kid-friendly activities: Many cabin locations offer special programming. A visitor to Pleasant Acres explained, "This north western NJ campground has fantastic scenic views and plenty of planned activities to keep you occupied."
Tips from RVers
Access challenges: Some cabins are in areas with limited RV access. About Camp Glen Gray, a visitor mentioned, "Great Camp! One rustic place with many hiking trails to choose from. Camp also provides trucking of gear weather permitting. No vehicles allowed to drive through camp."
Utility hookups: Many cabins offer basic electrical service. At Mahlon Dickerson, "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill. Peaceful. Close to train to N.Y. City."
Site selection: When booking cabin sites with RV access, location matters. A Mahlon Dickerson visitor suggested, "Located in the Skylands of New Jersey, Mahlon Dickerson Campgound is a perfect place to spend a few nights or a couple of weeks. The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large."
