Cumberland, Ohio sits in the Appalachian foothills with rolling terrain between 900-1,100 feet elevation. The region features a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons, making cabin camping possible year-round despite cold winters. Many cabins in the area require visitors to navigate gravel access roads that can become challenging after heavy rainfall.
What to do
Fishing at multiple lakes: Salt Fork State Park's 2,952-acre lake provides year-round fishing opportunities. "The lake is pretty beautiful. The trails are well marked and the horse trails go on for miles and miles so if you have horses this is a great place to trail ride," notes Annie V. about Salt Fork State Park Campground.
Hiking varied terrain: Trails range from easy to moderate difficulty, with many connecting cabin areas to shorelines. "This park is very well groomed and most of the trails within the park had been cleared of vegetation so there was no fighting through the weeds. There are a number of good hikes within the park," shares Ralph P.
Historical exploration: Visit nearby historical structures accessible from cabin locations. "Trails that lead along shore line to old stone house built in early days of Ohio. Caves to be explored that are easy to access," explains JH T. about the historic features at Blue Rock State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning and dusk offer prime wildlife spotting from cabin porches or nearby trails. "Just driving in saw turkeys and 'turkets' and two 6 point bucks. You can hike, swim, boat, bike and horseback ride," reports Shelly S.
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Many cabin locations feature regularly cleaned bathroom facilities. "The showers and bathrooms were very clean with documented inspections each day," notes Scott O. about Seneca Lake Park Campground.
Boat access from cabins: Several locations feature docking options near cabin sites. "Great campground! Level sites with full hookups. 50amp. Plenty of space between spots. Views of the lake and ability to launch and dock your boat within walking distance of sites," reports Scott O.
Variety of cabin options: Accommodations range from primitive to modern with varying amenities. "The campground could use some updates. There are some really beautiful sites, but there are only a few with electric. The addition of concrete pads and electric would improve the campground considerably," shares Larissa C. about Burr Oak State Park Campground.
Four-season accessibility: Cabins near Cumberland operate year-round with varying amenities. "We stayed here for two months (November and December). It is conveniently located near I-70. Only a few sites are open through the off-season months," explains Darla about the winter options at National Road Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal availability fluctuations: Summer months require advance planning while off-season offers more flexibility. "We were there Columbus weekend and it was hopping but everyone quieted by 10," reports Ralph P.
Varied terrain for cabin sites: Many locations feature uneven ground that affects cabin placement. "Pull-thru site #18 was very unleveled from front-to-back; hitch was on ground and rear stabilizers were fully extended with blocks underneath," notes Napunani about National Road Campground.
Water quality considerations: Swimming areas at lakes near cabins may have occasional water quality issues. "The beach area had multiple notices about high bacteria content and warnings for swimming at your own risk (which we can understand this happens sometimes)," shares Nicole F.
Limited cellular service: Remote cabin locations may have minimal connectivity. "Fairly remote, cell service is dicey but if that is what you are going for, you will be pleased," explains Leon H.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access from cabins: Some locations offer designated swimming areas within walking distance. "Beach with concessions within walking distance of sites as well. Top rated campground," notes Scott O.
Family-oriented activities: Several cabin locations feature planned events for children. "Saturday evening the campground provided a movie for kids. It was a very family friendly campground we are likely to return to," shares Mike B.
Playgrounds near cabins: Many locations have play equipment near cabin clusters. "Small 5ft deep pool, very nice playground. Kids and I spent many quarters playing pool in the game room, which also has a 90's Sega arcade game," describes Jenny G. about Wolfie's Campground.
Pet-friendly options: Most cabin locations allow pets with specific restrictions. "We chose rivers edge for our annual father son getaway and we were not disappointed. The tent sites are right next to the water and there is a beach and dock nearby also," reports Ken P.
Tips from RVers
Access road considerations: Some cabin areas have narrow entry roads that affect larger vehicles. "The only challenge is you don't want to meet a rig going out while you're coming in. We are a 38 foot class A and met a 36' 5th wheel on the curve at the entrance. We literally passed with less than an inch between us," cautions Steve E.
Seasonal maintenance schedules: Road maintenance varies by location and season affecting cabin access. "The park is well cared for but is showing its age. I noticed online that Ohio had set aside $88M for upgrades in 2016. It looks like they have not started yet," observes Brian M.
Site selection for privacy: Cabin and site placement varies significantly between locations. "If you're expecting any amount of privacy, think again. The lake is pretty beautiful," advises Annie V.
Utility hookups vary widely: Check specific cabin amenities before booking. "Sites with trees for tree tents is minimal. Drinking fountains are dispersed fairly frequently throughout campground, but RV hookups with water were limited during my stay," explains Staci R.
