Cabin camping options dot the wooded regions surrounding Bristol, Pennsylvania, with sites situated in both the New Jersey Pine Barrens and Pennsylvania state forests. Most cabin accommodations sit between 200-300 feet elevation, providing mild temperatures for three-season camping with average summer highs of 85°F and winter lows rarely dropping below 20°F. Winter cabin availability varies significantly by location, with several properties closing entirely from November through March.
What to do
Hiking extensive trail networks: French Creek State Park offers numerous trails for all skill levels, with one camper noting, "There are a lot of trails and a wawa down the street if you forgot anything for your trip." The park features both short loops and longer interconnected paths for day hikes.
Paddle the lakes: Turkey Swamp Park provides multiple water recreation options for cabin guests. According to a visitor, "Boat rental rates are acceptable and there are four different styles to choose from. Archery, boating, fishing, and hiking. Plenty to do over a 2 night stay."
Experience wildlife viewing: Brendan Byrne State Forest cabin guests can access exceptional wildlife watching opportunities in the Pine Barrens. A regular visitor explained, "It's far away from traffic noise. You can't hear any cars or any other noise from civilization at all. It's at least 10 miles away from anything more than a single house in the woods."
Visit nearby historic sites: Wharton State Forest cabins provide convenient access to cultural attractions. As one camper shared, "Down at the Atsion office a mile away they can sell you firewood as well. Picalilli Inn isn't far, they have great wings. Batsto is a 15 minute drive."
What campers like
Secluded cabin locations: Turkey Swamp Park earns praise for its remote cabin settings. One camper observed, "Sites are in the woods and widely spaced apart to give you privacy and the feeling of being out in the Forrest."
Modern amenities in rustic settings: Cabins at Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA combine comfort with natural surroundings. A camper described, "We stayed for a week in one of the glamping tents. The staff was very friendly and the tents were more glamorous than we had tried before, but definitely had a good combination of woodsy and comfort."
Family-friendly activities: Many visitors appreciate organized events at cabin sites. A Butterfly Camping Resort guest reported, "Both nights we were there, there were events being put on (a tractor ride, kickball, and a pool movie night). There was also a dog park which was very nice!"
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses rank high with cabin campers. A visitor to French Creek noted, "Bathrooms were very nice and clean with large showers. Nice area to wash dishes. Very nice playground area and clean."
What you should know
Variable bathroom quality: Cabin bathroom facilities differ significantly between locations. At Brendan Byrne State Forest, "Showers and bathrooms here were in really good condition, well cleaned and stocked, and was pleasant to use!" However, another camper noted, "The closest water spigot wasn't working. Not a big problem as there are plenty of others."
Site conditions vary by season: Be prepared for changing ground conditions. A Timberland Lake visitor observed, "There are many pot holes that need gravel. Overall will not rule this campground out in the future but will look for other campgrounds first."
Reservation requirements: Most cabin properties require advance booking. At Butterfly Camping Resort, "The gated campground was clean and well-maintained. When I called for a last-minute reservation, they seemed glad to have us."
Proximity to urban amenities: Many cabin sites balance seclusion with convenience to services. A camper at Brendan Byrne State Forest appreciated that "There is a good amount of trails and a wawa down the street if you forgot anything for your trip."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Timberland Lake Campground features excellent facilities for children. One family noted, "Pool was open for a couple days following the lifting of restrictions for COVID. Overall, a nice campground that is close to Six Flags. We will be going back."
Swimming options: Several cabin locations offer swimming facilities. A Turkey Swamp visitor shared, "There is a lake with a boat dock and a small boardwalk. Kayaking/Canoeing, fishing, and swimming. In the summer, canoe, kayak, paddle boats, and row boats are available for rental."
Activity planning: Organized events enhance family stays. At Butterfly Camping, "There's a pond to fish, trails to walk/bike, basketball, sand volleyball, the list goes on and on. Large playground and lots of activities for the kids."
Cabin size considerations: Some cabins accommodate families better than others. A visitor to Tohickon Valley County Park explained, "Site came with fire pit, large picnic bench, and lamp stand. Plenty of parking space. Good tree coverage."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Campers with trailers appreciate level sites at several locations. At French Creek, "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other."
Full hookup availability: Several cabin locations also accommodate RVs with full services. Indian Rock Campground offers comprehensive hookups, with one visitor noting, "We had a big pull through site. We had full hookup access with no issues as well."
Winter camping considerations: For off-season cabin use, water availability can be limited. At French Creek, a visitor warned that "water facilities may be winterized during cold months" but most cabins maintain electrical service year-round.
