Cabin Camping near Harrisburg, PA

Cabins near Harrisburg, Pennsylvania are nestled within the ridge and valley landscape of the Appalachian Mountains, where elevations range from 350 to 1,200 feet across the region. Summer cabin camping temperatures typically hover around 85°F during July and August, with evening temperatures often dropping 15-20 degrees. Harrisburg's central location places most cabin rentals within a 30-minute drive of both historical sites and natural recreation areas.

What to do

Fishing opportunities: Fuller Lake at Pine Grove Furnace State Park Campground provides bass and bluegill fishing from shore. "We caught a handful of bass and an absurd amount of bluegill from shore," notes one visitor who fished both day-use areas at the park.

Disc golf courses: At Gifford Pinchot State Park, two 18-hole disc golf courses offer different terrain challenges. "The course in the Conewago area is relatively flat, whereas the Quaker Race course is built into the side of the hill leading into the QR day use area, so it is a lot more wooded and hillier," explains a camper who played both courses.

Rail trail biking: The Swatara Rail Trail connects directly to Jonestown/Hershey KOA for easy access biking. "Campground is connected to the Swatara Rail trial which is great for biking. The Swatara creek runs right next to it so it is great for kayaking, tubing, etc," shares a visitor who enjoyed multiple outdoor activities during their stay.

What campers like

Well-maintained shower facilities: Little Buffalo State Park Campground offers modern, clean facilities. "Bath houses were very clean. Staff was pleasant," reports a camper who stayed over Columbus Day weekend, appreciating the peaceful atmosphere at this smaller state park.

Family-friendly swimming areas: Camp Hebron features a clean swimming pool among its amenities. "Good water pressure, reliable electric. Cheap firewood available. Nice pool and lots of hiking trails," notes a camper who found this private campground ideal for family outings.

Privacy between sites: At Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA, campers appreciate the wooded setting. "I was pleasantly surprised by the amount of trees and separation between many sites. If you're looking for trees and privacy, stick to the sites at the bottom of the hill," explains a reviewer who found this KOA offered more privacy than expected.

What you should know

Shooting range noise: Pinch Pond Family Campground is located near a shooting range. "The only thing that is negative is that there is a shooting range right next door. It is pretty consistent from lunch to dinner," warns a camper, noting this could affect those planning to relax at their site during the day.

Seasonal water restrictions: During winter months at cabin locations, water access may be limited or turned off completely to prevent pipe freezing. Check with individual campgrounds about specific amenities available during your planned visit dates.

Train noise impacts: Several campgrounds near rail lines experience regular train noise. "Sites were a bit close where we were but they had other sites that were more spread out. Unfortunately we weren't able to do much with the pandemic in full effect," commented a visitor to Hersheypark Camping Resort, noting the varied site configurations.

Tips for camping with families

Nature programs: Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground offers ranger-led programs for children. "We took our 3 yo camping for the first time here. He had so much fun. It was clean campground located in a State Park. Easy walk to the lake with a small beach," shares a parent who appreciated the beginner-friendly environment.

Kid-friendly water features: Little Buffalo State Park's pool includes special areas for young swimmers. "They offer a large area that is only 1 foot deep, great for little ones! There is also a splash pad! There are 2 slides for fun," explains a visitor who enjoyed the family-focused pool design.

Playground access: Deer Run Campgrounds in Gardners provides multiple recreation options for children. "We had a wonderful family time. Concerts, games, pool, hikes etc. Can't wait to go again!" shares a reviewer who found plenty of activities to keep children engaged.

Tips from RVers

Site leveling considerations: When selecting RV cabins or sites at Thousand Trails Hershey, check site grades. "The sites are gravel and most are not level. They are not well maintained as the site next to us has weeds a foot high," notes one RVer who experienced challenges with the campground layout.

Electric hookup options: At Jonestown/Hershey KOA, RV sites include various hookup configurations. "Nice, forested campground. Friendly staff, clean bathhouses. Sites well maintained but ours wasn't level," reports a camper who stayed at this convenient location near both Lancaster and Hershey attractions.

Water fill stations: Pine Grove Furnace State Park requires RVers to fill freshwater tanks upon arrival. "If traveling in an RV you will need to fill your fresh water tank as each site does not have water hook up," advises a camper who noted this important preparation detail for RV camping at this historic state park.