Cabin camping near Allison Park, Pennsylvania provides convenient access to surrounding wilderness areas with elevations ranging from 900-1,500 feet. Most cabins in the region are situated on forested hillsides with deciduous tree cover, creating seasonal differences in privacy and shade. Winter cabin stays typically require additional preparation as temperatures can drop below 20°F, while summer cabin bookings should be made 3-6 months in advance.
What to do
Hiking opportunities: Mountain Top Campground serves as a strategic basecamp for exploring nearby trails. "You are on top of a mountain with great views. The spots are well spaced out and it is family owned. The family is always out making improvements, talking with the campers, and putting on events," notes Corey L., highlighting the campground's central location for day trips.
Creek exploration: Breakneck Campground offers creek-side cabin options for water enthusiasts. "From our campsite we walked along the creek into McConnells Mill State Park and joined the covered bridge trail. Approx. 30min walk along the creek down into McConnells Mill State Park," explains one camper who enjoyed the direct water access from their site.
Winter activities: Even in colder months, cabins provide shelter for outdoor adventures. One visitor at Raccoon Creek State Park shared: "Got out for a couple hours hiking in the snow. It was great. Just what we needed to stretch the legs and enjoy some family time. We did the Palomino Loop. It also was quite interesting getting to the trail. Some nice snow covered back roads."
What campers like
Mountaintop views: Mountain Top Campground delivers on its name with panoramic vistas. "You come up a winding road and emerge atop the mountain. It's cute. Wide open grass land with sites around the perimeter. Half a dozen of them (premium) are at the edge and have a nice view to the hills beyond," shares Jennifer H. about the cabin and camping areas.
Lake proximity: Keystone State Park Campground cabins provide water access. "My wife has been going to keystone all her life, I've only gone since she and I started dating. I've been all over the world hiking and camping, but keystone is nostalgic for her. And it's a great place for our one year old to cut his teeth in the great outdoors," writes matthias S., noting the "gentle trails and a smooth lake."
Privacy options: Many campers appreciate secluded cabin sites. At Breakneck Campground, one visitor noted: "We recently stayed at this campsite with our 3 very young kids and dog. What amazing views from this location! It actually does really sit at the mountain top and gives you pretty good views of the valleys and surrounding areas from any of the rim campsites."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Not all cabin facilities operate year-round. Bear Run Campground maintains a specific schedule. "Apr 15 to Oct 30" is their official season, requiring advance planning for shoulder season visits when cabins might have limited availability or modified amenities.
Terrain challenges: Bear Run Campground presents navigation difficulties for some. "Nice campground but too hilly for kids to ride bikes. Very close to Lake Arthur for fishing and kayaking," points out Pam O., highlighting a practical consideration for families considering cabin stays with children.
Bathroom access: Cabin bathroom facilities vary significantly between locations. At Tomlinson Run State Park, one visitor detailed: "In womens the shower on the left never got warm, other two were fine. There are 4 flush toilets." Some cabins require walks to communal facilities, with distances varying considerably between sites.
Tips for camping with families
Cabin alternatives: Consider yurts or glamping options for families new to outdoor stays. Keystone State Park offers these accommodations along with traditional cabins. "The lake is great for fishing with plenty of hiking trails. There's plenty to do in surrounding areas from Ft Ligonier to the shops in the town. Great place to spend the weekend," shares Luke K.
Site selection strategy: Choose cabin locations based on needs. At Tomlinson Run State Park Campground, a visitor recommends: "Electric Site 37 - pad is pretty level, plenty for our small camper and truck, on a slight hill to get to fire ring but lots of space to spread out. You could tent but not really a flat spot."
Weekend activities: Some locations offer scheduled family events. According to one Bear Run visitor: "Every weekend there are activities, there is a heated pool and Friday night Bingo. A great place with even better people! The restrooms are clean and the general store carries most thing you would need."
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Indian Brave Campground offers assistance for first-time cabin or RV visitors. "Upon calling to book a site, we mentioned this was our first trip, they made the utmost effort to accommodate us with all of our needs. They escorted us to our campsite (which was larger than most) and made sure we had plenty of help getting backed in and set up," reports jon H.
Grey water solutions: Mountain Top Campground has creative solutions for extended stays. "Since they sit atop the mountain, the grey water hookup is a long hose that has an adapter which hooks up to your black and grey tank outlet and it runs down the hillside of the mountain into the grassy area," explains a visitor, noting this makes cabin and RV stays more convenient.
Winter parking considerations: Accessing cabins during winter requires preparation. At Raccoon Creek, park roads receive varying levels of maintenance. Multiple campers note the snow-covered access roads can be challenging but add to the winter camping experience for properly equipped vehicles.
