Cabins near Burnham, Pennsylvania sit in the heart of the Appalachian Mountain range, with elevations ranging from 700 to 2,000 feet throughout the region. Summer temperatures typically reach the mid-80s during daytime hours, while winter months often see temperatures drop below freezing with regular snowfall. Most campgrounds in the area operate from April through late October, with a few offering year-round cabin accommodations.
What to do
Fishing and boating activities: Waterside Campground and RV Park provides easy lake access with boat tie-ups available at certain sites. "Great setup location. Easy in and out, full utilities... Water is easy access, pool is heated. Rates are reasonable, store is basic. Come here every year, worth the trip," reports Michael L.
Mountain biking trails: The Allegrippis Trail system at Seven Points offers extensive single-track riding options. "This upper loop is also the quietest of the loops and although there were still plenty of boaters in the camp there were just as many bikers... From the entrance of the camp loop there is a trail head," notes Travis S. The campground also features a mountain bike skills park for riders to practice techniques.
Swimming beaches: Many campgrounds maintain dedicated swimming areas with additional amenities. "The beach was nice, not crowded, soft sand, and warm water. It's a great lake to kayak or paddle board on," explains Taylor V. about Poe Valley State Park. Swimming areas typically operate from Memorial Day through Labor Day with lifeguards present at larger facilities.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Buttonwood Campground offers varied camping experiences depending on which section you choose. "The campground is divided by a local road and has 2 different feels. The lower section is right by the river with several riverfront sites and many river view sites. The upper side has the playground and kids activities and feels more set out in the country," describes Bryan S.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathhouses. "The bathhouse (one in the loop) was clean with 3 showers," reports a visitor to Seven Points. Another camper at Poe Valley State Park Campground notes: "The bath house is extremely clean and they have warm showers which was nice." This attention to cleanliness extends to common areas and playgrounds.
On-site entertainment: Many campgrounds organize regular activities for guests. "The campground has many amenities and theme weekends for their customers. In addition to the pool and playground there is mini-golf, laser tag, giant bounce pillow, and go-carts to name a few (Fee). They also offer free transportation to the Port Royal Speedway on Saturday nights for the races," explains a Buttonwood Campground visitor.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most cabin rentals operate on a limited season. "Bellefonte-State College KOA impressed me. The grounds were well laid out and included RVs, campers, tents and us in Hammocks," explains Mike about Bellefonte-State College KOA, which operates from early April through early November.
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have limited connectivity. "No cell service but you won't even miss it," mentions Chelsie G. about Poe Valley State Park. This is common throughout the region due to the mountainous terrain, so download maps and information before arrival.
Site selection importance: Choose sites carefully based on specific needs. "Definitely look at pictures of your site before reserving. The distance between spots was good. Roads were a little narrow but manageable," advises Greg J. Many campgrounds offer virtual tours or detailed site maps online to help with selection.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Paradise Stream Family Campground offers multiple water-based recreation options. "We had an awesome long weekend here. This campground doesn't cut corners and the attention to details makes all the difference. My kids enjoyed the beautiful Mini golf course, splashing in the creek, the pool and the pedal carts," shares Melissa. Most campgrounds charge additional fees for equipment rentals.
Playground access: Consider proximity to play areas when booking with children. "Nice for a smaller campground. Only downfall is we have smaller children and we could not bike from the campground to the pool, it was too far and the hill to get back was too big for them to ride up," notes Paula R. about Little Buffalo State Park Campground.
Educational opportunities: Little Buffalo State Park Campground offers historical and nature programs. "We did have a nice bat spotting walk with a Ranger when we were there and there's an interesting historic mill you can tour," explains Christopher E. Most ranger-led programs run Friday and Saturday evenings during peak summer months.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Many campgrounds in the region have hilly terrain requiring leveling equipment. "The sites are a good size and there is plenty to do (swimming, fishing, hiking, escape room, and weekend activities for everyone)," shares Tracey about Paradise Stream Family Campground. Bring leveling blocks, especially for cabins situated on hillsides.
Water hookup variations: Water access differs between sites and campgrounds. "I'm not sure about other sites, but we did not have a water hookup, just a spigot we could fill from. The dump station worked fine and was clean," explains Greg J. Most cabin accommodations have nearby water spigots but not direct hookups.
Site accessibility: Seven Mountains Campground cabins offer parking "driveway-close" with convenient access to amenities. The cabins include "a wall-mounted tv, rustic wood dining set, storage room and hooks/hangers, good natural light, as well as sufficient artificial direct and ambient lighting," according to J K. Reserve early for the most accessible sites, especially during summer weekends.
