The History of
Babbling Brook Cottages

how it all began

In the early 1920s, a family immigrated to the US from Switzerland. They opened and operated a very successful embroidery business in Northern New Jersey. In 1924, the family began summer camping in George W. Childs State Park, in Dingmans Ferry. The wives and children would stay at the park and camp all summer. The husbands would come up each weekend to enjoy nature with the family and escape from work. In the 1930s camping was phased out in George W. Childs Park. Not wanting to leave the beautiful area, the family was able to purchase a few acres of property attached to the park. The 3+ acre property they purchased is the grounds that Babbling Brook Cottages is built on.

This aerial photo shows the property in 1940. The field in the top right of the photo was cleared and the wood used to build the cabins that are now Babbling Brook Cottages. You can see three small cabins built on the perimeter of the large open area. The future Snugglers Notch, The Stargazer and Bear Claw Cabin.

the timeline

1935 - A kitchen cabin is built with a cooking fireplace, tented porch, & storage area underneath.

Snugglers Notch.

1936 - A garage with a covered porch is built.

Bear Claw Cabin

1938 - A sleeping cabin is built.

The Stargazer

1939 - A larger garage and storage space is built.

Toasted Marshmallow

1942 - The small summer home is built.

Fireside Pines

1948 - A honeymoon cabin is built to celebrate the youngest sons marriage.

The Vintage View.

1949 - A permanent home is built on the property.

The Owners home.

For decades, this property and the surrounding area is enjoyed in all seasons with multiple generations making memories here. (Thank you to the original family for providing us with these timeless memories)

1970 - The property is sold. The cabins are utilized as summer rentals.

1987 -The property is sold again and begins operation as Babbling Brook Cottages. It has 5 cottages. Two are rented seasonally April through October. Three are rented year round. The property is put up for sale in 2003. It remains for sale for 17 years, while still in continuous operation.