Cabin camping near Andreas, Pennsylvania provides year-round options for outdoor enthusiasts in the Blue Mountain region. Located in Carbon County at approximately 850 feet elevation, this area experiences distinct seasonal changes with snowy winters and moderate summers. Terrain varies from mountainous wilderness to lakeside settings, with the Appalachian Trail accessible from several nearby camping locations.
What to do
Boulder field exploration: Visit the unique boulder field at Hickory Run State Park Campground, a National Natural Landmark covering 16 acres. "Boulders everywhere! Big ones, small ones, run (carefully) across them all! Beyond the Boulder field is a vast, scary, unknown," reports Mike M.
Appalachian Trail access: Hike sections of the famous trail directly from Blue Rocks Family Campground. "Great amenities, private and spaced out primitive sites. One mile off the Appalachian Trail," notes Catherine M. The trailheads begin right inside the campground.
Paddleboarding: Launch directly from waterfront campsites at Mauch Chunk Lake Park. "You can get sites right on the water that are nice size. If you go during the week, it's quite calm. You are in beautiful Jim Thorpe that has white water rafting in town, plus great restaurants and bars. I like that I can launch my paddle board from my sight and the water is so clean and clear," shares Lisa S.
What campers like
Wilderness hiking: Tuscarora State Park features 44 miles of trails ranging from easy to difficult. "We found the 2 trails we hiked - Hawk Falls and Shades of Death trails - where were rated 'more difficult' were not bad to hike at all. We hiked both with your 2 large dogs. Both of these trails had a creek and waterfalls," explains Shirley M.
Family activities: Jim Thorpe Camping Resort offers organized events for all ages. "Very family friendly and the staff are so nice. Very nice grounds and a lot to do for families," mentions Jared M. The campground includes a playground, pool, arcade, and office store.
Privacy options: Several campgrounds offer secluded sites away from crowds. "The tent sites are not very defined, level or rock free. Makes it fun searching for a good position within the site, kinda like roughing it in the actual wild... A major pro is access to the Switchback Trail from the campground. A wonderfully scenic trail," says Dave R. about Jim Thorpe Camping Resort.
What you should know
Bear safety protocols: The region has a significant bear population requiring careful food storage. "Be aware that this area has a high bear population and all campers are required to keep food items in their vehicles or trailers when not at the site," warns a Hickory Run visitor.
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have limited or no connectivity. "If you want to be disconnected, literally because there is no cell service, then this is the place for you," states Jen R. about Tuscarora State Park. Cell reception varies significantly by location and carrier.
Seasonal policies: Pocono Point campground offers diverse cabin options including teepees and glamping tents. "They have the trendy teepee rentals and glamping tents. They also have stationary RVs on site that you can stay in, those are about $120 per night," explains Jackie F. Most campgrounds charge additional fees for premium sites and amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose campgrounds with dedicated children's areas. "Blue rocks is the best family campground within 5 hours of philadelphia. Hands down. They have everything you need from primitive sites to cabins to rent," recommends Nick M. about Blue Rocks Family Campground.
Swimming options: Mauch Chunk Lake Park offers beach swimming during summer months. "The lake was beautiful. Very clean and picturesque and perfect for swimming. The campsites were adequate size. The campground is very close to lots of outdoor attractions and fun in the Jim Thorpe and Blue Mountain area," notes Danielle F.
Educational opportunities: Visit interactive displays at state parks. "The visitors center boasts the most modern updates and a truly lovely interactive museum displaying the history and current wildlife of the park," describes Shayna about Hickory Run State Park, making it ideal for family learning experiences.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Request level sites when making reservations. "We had a nice pull-through site and enjoyed our stay. Nice stream running through camp," shares Craig C. about Allentown KOA. Many reviewers note the importance of checking site dimensions before booking.
Hookup availability: Allentown KOA offers full hookup sites with varying amperage options. "I enjoyed my time there, tho it felt like a parking lot with everything close to each other. Didn't have privacy camping but they have things to offer," notes Tarek S. RV sites vary significantly in size and privacy between campgrounds.
Weather preparedness: Mountain terrain causes rapid weather changes, especially in spring and fall. "Easy drive from Philly area, courteous staff, very wooded and quiet at night. Has many sites right along the lake edge, some very large. Many sites have exposed tree roots and rocks, recommend extra padding for tenters," advises Amber M.
