Camping cabins near Boswell, Pennsylvania sit at elevations around 2,000 feet in the Laurel Highlands. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months from May through September. Winter conditions can be severe with temperatures frequently dropping below freezing, making seasonal availability important for visitors planning cabin rentals.
What to do
Hiking through Forbes State Forest: Near Kooser State Park Campground, visitors can access extensive trail networks. "We enjoyed the waterfront camping and snowshoeing. We got a site by the water and with good tree cover," notes Harry H., highlighting year-round activities.
Fishing on stocked ponds: Pioneer Lakes RV Park maintains several fishing areas throughout the property. "We stayed here to go to the flight 93 memorial so we didn't do much at the campground except fish caught a few nice bass," shares Rich E., indicating the quality fishing opportunities.
Creek exploration for kids: Many sites feature access to shallow waterways perfect for warm weather play. "Close by is Ligonier, Idlewild, and St. Vincent (where the Pittsburgh Steelers training camp takes place)," mentions Mathew H. about Mirror Lake RV Camping, noting nearby attractions beyond the immediate campground.
Biking on local trails: Multiple campgrounds connect to regional biking routes. "The trail around the lake was perfect for running or walking," reports Brandy Q. from Hickory Hollow, describing the accessible paths suitable for multiple activities.
What campers like
Clean, accessible bathhouses: Hickory Hollow Campground earns consistent praise for facility maintenance. "The bathhouse was clean and easy to access. A small but convenient off-leash dog area was also a wonderful amenity," says Brandy Q., highlighting additional pet-friendly features.
Creek-side sites: Several campgrounds offer premium spots alongside moving water. "Site 26 is our favorite. It has a huge back yard and easy access to the creek," recommends Mathew H. about Mirror Lake RV Camping, pointing to specific site information.
Lake views and activities: Mirror Lake RV Camping & Fishing provides scenic water access. "We were lucky enough to get a full-hookup site right on the lake. Quiet, peaceful, everything you want on a spring trip," shares Tara R., describing the atmosphere.
Secluded wooded sites: Many campgrounds offer more private options away from main camping areas. "I was the only tenter at the time of my stay; had the whole place to myself. The sites are spread far apart and wooded," reports Anne B. about Hickory Hollow's tent camping area.
What you should know
Seasonal restrictions: Most cabin facilities close between late October and mid-April. "The campground is close to the road so you will experience some road noise," mentions Britt B. about Kooser State Park, adding important contextual information.
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds feature uneven terrain requiring preparation. "Our site was essentially a grassy plain, no tree cover which was a bit disappointing," notes Kaley R. about Shawnee State Park, providing candid feedback.
Varying amenities between cabins: Shawnee State Park Campground offers multiple accommodation styles. "Site Quality: Varies by type and location within the park. I heeded the advice of other reviewers warning that many sites were not level and did not reserve ahead of time," explains Lee D., emphasizing the importance of research.
Reservation requirements: For peak seasons, book well in advance, particularly for cabins. "The cabins are beautiful and nearly always booked," Brian S. notes about Kooser's accommodations, indicating their popularity despite proximity to roadways.
Tips for camping with families
Pool facilities: Quemahoning Family Recreation Area offers swimming options beyond natural water bodies. "Easy walk to beach area and boat launch. Very clean," reports Paul B., highlighting accessibility features.
Camp store convenience: Most locations maintain on-site supplies for forgotten essentials. "They have a small store, very quiet, good view of the water in most areas of the campground," shares Frank G. about Quemahoning's amenities.
Playground conditions: Check recent reviews for playground status as maintenance varies. "The playground area is unsafe. The wood on the playsets are falling apart and splintering," warns Brandy B. about Pioneer Lakes, providing crucial safety information.
Rental activities: Many locations offer equipment rentals during summer months. "We went canoeing on the lake. And had fun just hiking around a bit," shares Kate D. about Laurel Hill, describing available recreation options.
Tips from RVers
Utility hookups: Laurel Hill State Park Campground provides various connection options. "The electrical hookups are not played out well like an expensive RV park with the shared power post on the entrance side of the camper. You may want to have an extension for your power cable," advises Erik E., offering practical preparation advice.
Site selection recommendations: Research specific site numbers before booking. "Looking around the rest of the campground, the loop up near the cabins was a typical RV area with sites lined up with little privacy in between," notes Laura, describing layout variations.
Dump station access: Most parks maintain sanitary facilities though locations vary. "Easy access to the dump station as you exit. It's not directly on the lake but there is a ton of parking and easy access points," shares Brittany V. about Shawnee, providing logistical information.
Pull-through availability: Some parks offer easier access sites for larger rigs. "Site number 12 is a pull thru that was very easy to level with a great area for my 2 year old granddaughter to enjoy," recommends Paul B. about a specific site at Kooser, combining RV and family considerations.
