Cabin camping near Beaver Springs, Pennsylvania offers options in the Ridge and Valley region, with elevations ranging from 550 to 1,200 feet providing varied camping environments. Most cabins are available from spring to late fall, with several properties closing during winter months due to freezing temperatures. Weather patterns can shift rapidly in this central Pennsylvania region.
What to do
River activities: Float down the Juniata River at Buttonwood Campground, where tubing provides a relaxing summer experience. "Tubing down the river is so fun and the highlight of a stay here," reports Heather G., who visited in 2020. The campground provides shuttle services for tubers.
Hiking trails: Access the Mid State Trail from Poe Valley State Park Campground for challenging terrain. "We didn't realize there would be no service so I didn't research hikes before we left. We did take the hunter's path, off the beach parking lot, to the mid state trail but it was straight up the mountain and quite difficult," notes Taylor V., suggesting advance planning for hikers.
Wildlife observation: Visit at dusk or dawn for best wildlife spotting at Raymond B. Winter State Park Campground where the dark skies also offer stargazing opportunities. "The night skies were beautiful (starry starry night w/little light pollution) and trails galore leading directly from the campground," writes Kassie F. The park's remote location creates ideal conditions for astronomy enthusiasts.
What campers like
Large cabin sites: Spacious accommodations at Williamsport South-Nittany Mountain KOA provide room for gathering. "We spent four nights here (May 13-17, 2022). This is a nice, well run, family oriented CG with reasonably level pull through and back-in gravel sites," notes John T., who found the amenities suitable for extended stays.
Nature immersion: Dense forest settings create secluded cabin environments. "We stayed at a Susquehanna river view site with full hookups for 2 nights. Site was level and shaded, but very close to neighbors," explains a camper at Ferryboat Campsites, highlighting the trade-off between privacy and proximity at some properties.
Water access: Lakefront cabin locations at Little Buffalo State Park Campground allow for easy water recreation. "We camped here over Columbus Day weekend. We wanted a quiet escape. We had one of the few full hook up sites. Very quiet and peaceful. Lots to do at the lake if you want or quiet enough to just kick back," shares Shirley M., appreciating the option to engage with activities or simply relax.
What you should know
Cabin availability: Reserve 3-6 months ahead for peak summer weekends as sites fill quickly, particularly for cabins with bathroom facilities. Fall availability opens up after Labor Day at most properties.
Noise considerations: Train traffic affects some riverside cabins. "We enjoyed our stay here — but mostly because we liked being right on the water. If it weren't for that this would not be the campground for us," reports a camper at Ferryboat Campsites, noting the ambient noise levels.
Cell service limitations: Prepare for communication gaps in mountain locations. "Great campground! They have a swimming area, concession stand, showers, bathrooms and changing area. You can camp, fish, boat, kayak, hike and swim! There isn't any cell service as you are way back in the mountain but it's so beautiful and relaxing you won't care!!" explains Rebecca G. about Poe Valley State Park Campground.
Wildlife encounters: Store food properly as small animals may enter cabins at night. Cabin maintenance varies widely between facilities, with some properties conducting more thorough pest prevention than others.
Tips for camping with families
Activity wristbands: Budget for additional costs at certain private campgrounds that charge extra for amenities. "Plan on spending $20 per person for an activity wristband that includes all the extras including mini golf and tubing shuttle," advises Bryan S. about activities at Buttonwood Campground.
Beach areas: Take advantage of lake swimming for children as an alternative to pool facilities. "The beach was nice, not crowded, soft sand, and warm water. It's a great lake to kayak or paddle board on," notes Taylor V. about the swimming areas at Poe Valley State Park Campground.
Animal interactions: Visit the petting zoos available at multiple family-oriented properties. "Lots to do if you want or it's just as great sitting around the fire relaxing or getting ice cream at the store. There is a petting zoo, jump pillow, and regularly scheduled activities," explains Traci F. about Williamsport South-Nittany Mountain KOA.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Bring leveling blocks for cabin sites at private campgrounds as terrain can be uneven. Gravel pads require different preparation than state park sites.
Bathroom access: Check facility locations in relation to cabin placement. "Bath houses were clean and private which was a nice plus," reports Jason H. about facilities at Buttonwood Campground, an important consideration for cabins without private bathrooms.
Water pressure variations: Test connections before setting up as some properties experience inconsistent water service. "Our water pressure wasn't great, however not sure if it's the campground or us as hubby found a possible issue with our hookup," shares Sharon L. about her experience at Lake Heron Retreat, noting maintenance concerns.
