Camping cabins near Bendersville, Pennsylvania sit within the South Mountain region, which has an average elevation of 1,300 feet. The area experiences temperature ranges that can be 5-10°F cooler than surrounding lowlands, creating ideal camping conditions through fall. Winter cabin camping is available at select locations, though water systems are typically winterized from mid-December through March.
What to do
Hike the Appalachian Trail access points: Caledonia State Park Campground offers direct access to the famous trail. "The greatest feature of this park is that there is access to the AT! And there are plenty of hiking trails," notes Amanda H. The park's location makes it ideal for day hikers wanting to experience sections of this historic trail.
Fish in Lake Marburg: Codorus State Park Campground provides excellent fishing opportunities on its 1,275-acre lake. "You can bring your own boat (gas allowed) or rent one from their marina. There is no swimming allowed in the lake but there is a pool located at the park, there is no extra cost to use the pool if you are at the campground," explains Catherine H. The lake is stocked with various fish species including bass and panfish.
Explore Gettysburg National Military Park: Artillery Ridge Campground offers unique historic access. "Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded. Literally right outside the entrance of the campgrounds is where the battlefield starts," shares MJ B. Many visitors combine cabin stays with guided battlefield tours.
Tube in Mountain Creek: Mountain Creek Camp Ground features a natural creek perfect for summer recreation. "The kids had a blast, tubing in the creek, swimming pool and an excellent camp store," reports Jim C. The shallow creek is ideal for children to splash and cool off during hot summer days.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Pine Grove Furnace State Park receives praise for its natural setting. "The campsites are spacious! If you are on a site around the perimeter you can turn your chair and your back to the campground and look out into the forest," notes Amanda H. The dense forest provides a sense of seclusion even when the park is busy.
Shaded camping areas: Gettysburg Campground offers sites with mature tree coverage. "We were in tent sites which felt bigger than most and were right by river. Not far to go anywhere walking," mentions Kelly J. The shade is particularly valued during summer months when temperatures can reach the 90s.
Lake and water access: Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground features waterfront cabin sites. "We had site 114. It has water access and is right next to a small man made beach and playground," shares Toshi. The lakeside cabins provide convenient water access for fishing and paddling.
Clean facilities: Gettysburg Battlefield KOA maintains high standards for their cabins and amenities. "The cabin was clean and well maintained and the cabins are at the top of the hill but that made for a beautiful view and we felt like we were away from everyone else," notes Traci F. Their elevated cabin area provides a more secluded experience than the main campground.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: State park cabins book quickly, especially during peak seasons. Most require minimum 2-night stays, with 7-night minimums during summer at popular parks. Reservations open 11 months in advance for Pennsylvania state parks.
Cabin amenities vary widely: Caledonia State Park offers both rustic and modern cabin options. Rustic cabins typically have electricity but no running water, while deluxe cabins include bathrooms and kitchenettes. "Sites didn't have much privacy and bathrooms were small and outdated, although adequate. Showers were found at only 1 or 2 of the facilities," reports Stephanie S.
Seasonal availability: Many cabin rental facilities close or reduce offerings in winter. "We stayed at Pine Grove Furnace State Park for a little camping break on a drive to Virginia for a family vacation. What a great spot! We got the last available campsite for the night we stayed - I booked ahead of time by calling the campground office and they were very nice and helpful," explains Carly E.
Pet policies differ: Gettysburg welcomes pets in designated cabins. "We have been members at the Gettysburg battlefield resort campground for over 10 years. They have tons to do as the family," says Danielle W. Most facilities charge additional pet fees ranging from $10-25 per night and require vaccination records.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated play areas: Mountain Creek Camp Ground features multiple recreational facilities. "Family friendly campground, lots of weekend activities, great pool, well stocked campstore, playground. Kids can play in creek with tubes or hunt critters," recommends Barb C. These amenities keep children engaged throughout your stay.
Consider proximity to bathrooms: When booking cabins with children, location matters. "The tent sites have numerous walnut trees, so there's a bit of a hazard there when walking around trying to dodge the falling nuts," warns Dave G. about Gettysburg Campground. Sites closer to restrooms make nighttime trips easier for families.
Choose campgrounds with organized activities: Gettysburg Battlefield KOA hosts regular family events. "They have plenty of activities for the kids from swimming, mini golf, and a scavenger hunt! They also had live music one night! They just opened up a new pavilion and the camp store was very well stocked!" shares Ray L. These structured activities provide entertainment regardless of weather.
Check swimming options: Codorus State Park offers a swimming pool separate from the lake. "Very nice state park. The bath house was clean. Not a lot to do at the park. The lake is beautiful and the trail around the lake is nice," notes Dawn T. Knowing swimming options helps plan daily activities, especially with children.
Tips from RVers
Prepare for rustic conditions: Even in cabins, amenities may be limited. "Cell service is pretty much nonexistent in the campground, so keep this in mind if you can't be out of touch (we had Verizon)," mentions Carly E. about Pine Grove Furnace State Park. Download maps and information before arrival since connectivity is unreliable.
Bring your own necessities: Most cabin rentals require guests to bring bedding, cooking supplies, and personal items. Firewood is typically available for purchase from campground hosts or nearby stores, though prices range from $5-10 per bundle.
Check site dimensions carefully: Artillery Ridge Campground offers various cabin and RV sites. "Nice pull through site for our 21ft popup. Site was pretty level. Pool, mini golf and live music were great," shares Brett D. Confirming exact dimensions prevents arrival surprises, especially for those combining cabin stays with RV camping.
Consider site leveling needs: Some campgrounds require preparation. "Make sure to bring your leveling blocks, some sites do have a slope to them of 3-4"," advises Gregory L. about Gettysburg Battlefield Resort. Even cabin sites may have uneven approaches or outdoor areas that benefit from leveling equipment.
