Cabin accommodations near Cumberland, Maryland offer camping options throughout the year in heavily forested terrain. The mountainous geography of western Maryland creates distinct microclimates where temperatures can drop 10-15 degrees cooler than nearby urban areas. Most rentals sit at elevations between 1,500-2,500 feet, creating cooler summer conditions and earlier frost dates than lower-elevation campgrounds.
What to do
Lakeside activities at Deep Creek Lake: The lake provides a hub for summer recreation from April through December. "The area was overcrowded but maintained well and clean," notes one camper at Deep Creek Lake State Park Campground. Visitors can participate in multiple water sports with rentals available seasonally.
Paddling on Cacapon River: Access points for canoes and kayaks allow for self-guided water adventures. "Can access the river from campground - need to bring own water fun- kayaks/canoes not available to rent very wooded all around," explains a visitor at Camp Cacapon, highlighting the need to bring your own equipment.
Hiking through Pennsylvania forests: Trail networks connect many cabin camping areas. A visitor to Shawnee State Park Campground notes, "The lake and the trails around it are beautiful. Great swimming and kayaking/small boating," showcasing how water and land activities often complement each other.
Winter sports options: Cross-country skiing becomes available at several parks once snow accumulates. "Apparently, the park is very popular amongst cross-country skiers in the winter, especially since they have full-service cabins and a warming hut by the lake," explains a New Germany State Park visitor, highlighting the year-round appeal.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many cabin locations offer significant space between units. At Middle Ridge Campground, visitors appreciate that "Middle Ridge Campground is a charming family owned campground without the major frills, but has full hookups, very wooded, and has a ton of walking paths to enjoy."
Wildlife encounters: Several campgrounds feature resident animals as attractions. "We have three children who absolutely loved petting and feeding Mules and Donkeys!" shares a Middle Ridge visitor, describing unique interactions beyond typical camping experiences.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses consistently receive positive mentions. A camper at Camp Cacapon reported, "Beautiful, peaceful, immaculate campground- which now offers hot outdoor (enclosed) shower and hot water in the bathrooms. Everything looks new at campground."
Swimming areas: Designated beach zones provide summer cooling options. "The small lake was perfect for swimming, and the hikes around the campground were beautiful," notes a reviewer at New Germany State Park, highlighting accessible water recreation without large crowds.
What you should know
Limited services in remote areas: Some cabin locations have minimal nearby shopping. "Note that there is very little to no cell phone reception in the park, so combined with the lack of hookups, this is definitely an unplugged, 'connect with nature' type of camping experience," explains a visitor to New Germany State Park Campground.
Seasonal operating schedules: Operating dates vary by location with some closed during winter months. "Apparently, the park is very popular amongst cross-country skiers in the winter, especially since they have full-service cabins and a warming hut by the lake," mentions a camper at New Germany State Park Campground.
Site selection matters: Some campgrounds have significant variation in site quality and features. At Laurel Hill State Park Campground, a visitor advises, "There are two main loops in this campground. One that is pet friendly and more of a pitch-your-tent-in-the-yard thing and another that is pet-free and wooded. We didn't realize and stayed in the first one."
Road access challenges: Some cabin areas require navigation of mountain roads. "We were hoping to do some hiking in the morning but got rained out. However the trails looked nice and we hope to be back soon," notes a visitor to Laurel Hill, indicating weather can impact access.
Tips for camping with families
Animal attractions: Children respond well to campgrounds with resident wildlife. At Middle Ridge Campground, a visitor shared, "Seeing the equine daily was a huge plus; they were super sweet and funny. The owners were so helpful and friendly."
Beach access: Swimming areas provide entertainment for multiple age groups. A camper at Rocky Gap State Park Campground writes, "We love that the campground has their own beach so it's not over crowded with the public. Near the beach there is a nice playground near shade for parents to watch."
Activity planning: Structure days around specific recreation options. "The bike trail around Lake Habeeb is enjoyable. Great way to see all sides of the park. Across the lake from the campground is a casino and resort," reports a Rocky Gap visitor, highlighting multi-generational appeal.
Cabin selection: Look for units with appropriate sleeping arrangements. One family notes, "We stayed in cabin 170 in Fir loop and the site was incredibly spacious, heavily shaded, close to the bath house, path to the beach, and well distanced from other sites."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some cabin and RV areas require significant leveling equipment. A visitor to Shawnee State Park Campground explains, "I heeded the advice of other reviewers warning that many sites were not level and did not reserve ahead of time. A Monday in mid-October had many open sites."
Loop selection: Different camping areas offer varied experiences within the same park. "The RV sites and tent sites are separated by a drive down the road. The RV side has all the cool stuff; store, pavilion, basketball courts, playground, etc," explains a Little Orleans Campground visitor.
Seasonal closures: Water systems often shut down during freezing weather. "The water hookups weren't working at the time, but we were able to connect in Cherry Loop and fill our tank," reports a camper at Kentuck Campground, highlighting the need for flexibility.
Hook-up placement: Power and water connections may require extension cords or hoses. A Laurel Hill State Park visitor notes, "The electrical hookups are not played out well like an expensive RV park with the shared power post on the entrance side of the camper. You may want to have an extension for your power cable."
