Cabin camping near Newark, Delaware offers rustic to modern lodging options set among wooded areas within 30 miles of the city. Most cabin facilities remain open year-round, with winter accommodations featuring heating systems for comfort during colder months. Some cabins require a minimum stay of two nights, particularly on weekends and during holiday periods.
What to do
Hike to Turkey Point Lighthouse: At Elk Neck State Park, visitors can take a scenic trail to the historic lighthouse. "The Turkey Point Lighthouse is nearby... There are views of the Elk River from many sites. Stayed in the North East loop and there are mini cabins available as well," notes Laure D.
Fishing opportunities: Many cabin locations provide access to stocked fishing areas. At Elk Neck State Park, "There's a ton of camping, including a loop with full hook ups... There's a camp store, boat ramp, swimming, fishing and lots of great hiking," says David G.
Winter activities: Unlike many campgrounds, some cabin sites operate year-round. "Finished the season at this state park in MD with full hook up and the water was still on in November. Bathhouses were open with hot water," reports a visitor to Elk Neck State Park.
Disconnect from technology: For families seeking a digital detox, cabin camping offers perfect opportunities. At Susquehanna State Park, "No cell signal in the campground so the family is forced to disconnect. I absolutely love it!" says Megan S.
What campers like
Waterfront views: Many cabin sites offer scenic views of local waterways. "We enjoyed hiking the Beaver Marsh Trail. From our campsite we had to drive to a trail head but there were a few sights that had direct access," notes a reviewer at Elk Neck State Park.
Wildlife encounters: The natural setting provides opportunities to see local fauna. At French Creek State Park, "We saw bald eagles and great blue heron," reports Kate J.
Evening entertainment: Some cabin sites offer organized activities. At Philadelphia-West Chester KOA, "The camp store is well stocked with essentials and there is a pizza place close by that delivers. The kids alway have a good time there," shares Jim N.
Riverfront locations: Cabins situated near rivers provide additional recreation options. "This campground is right on a creek with availability to use canoes," notes Ray L. about Philadelphia-West Chester KOA.
What you should know
Booking recommendations: Advance reservations are essential, especially for weekend cabin rentals. "We paid $135/night for Back-in Patio Site #25. A bit pricey considering the lack of elbow room, but it's a great site and everything is well-kept," reports a visitor to Philadelphia-West Chester KOA.
Water availability: Not all cabin sites include water hookups. At Woodlands Camping Resort, "Campground is a little outdated and where the overnight people are is separated from the seasonal people the closest bathhouse is a 10 min walk from where we were," cautions Michael W.
Tent pad conditions: For those combining cabin stays with tent camping, note the varied conditions. "It was kind of hard to find a level and rock-free spot large enough for our tent, but we managed!" shares a camper at French Creek State Park.
Seasonal water quality: Water systems may vary by season. "Sadly most of the park, including the beach, was closed for major renovation while we were there and it was 99 degrees out. Very buggy," notes Adam and Suzanne B. about their experience at Elk Neck State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: When booking a cabin with children, consider proximity to play areas. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, "Fun fun and more fun loads of activities for the kids! Breakfast with Yogi! The pool was really nice that is where we were most of the time," shares Terri S.
Swimming options: Pools and water features are important amenities for families during summer months. "The water park is super fun for adults and kids. The entire campground is clean and very well maintained," notes Ashley S. about Jellystone Park.
Bathroom considerations: When camping with young children, bathroom access matters. "The bathrooms were immaculate; by far the cleanest I have ever seen in a campground. Must have been recently renovated," shares a visitor to Susquehanna State Park.
Age-appropriate activities: Some facilities have height or age restrictions. "The pool and splash park were great but you needed to be at least 42 inches to go on the slide or bounce house," notes a reviewer at a local family campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many cabin areas also accommodate RVs with varying site conditions. At Lancaster-New Holland KOA, "We stayed in site #106 which was level, covered in clean gravel, had a paver patio with table and chairs, and a nice fire ring with more chairs."
Hookup availability: Check which utilities are included with cabin rentals or RV sites. "We have a 35 ft class A with a tow and selected an executive 1st row which gave us unobstructed views of the Amish farmland and lots of room," shares Doreen C. about Lancaster-New Holland KOA.
Privacy levels: Site spacing varies considerably between locations. "Sites were level, spacious, spaced apart, with packed gravel surface. Back in and pull through sites available," notes a visitor to Elk Neck State Park.
Access for large vehicles: For those towing trailers or driving large RVs, approach angles matter. "The road on the FHU loop is narrow and hilly. Our site was uphill and at a difficult angle. Plenty of bigger TTs and 5th wheels were camping," reports a visitor about cabin and RV camping areas.
