Cabin camping options near Carbondale, Pennsylvania span several counties within the Pocono Mountains at elevations ranging from 1,600 to 2,300 feet. The region experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter lows regularly reaching 20°F. Most campgrounds operate from April through October, though several offer winter cabin rentals with heating systems for year-round getaways.
What to do
Lakefront activities: At Keen Lake Resort Campground, water recreation dominates summer activities. "We had SUPs and kayaks to take on the lake and our sites were right next to the boat launch. Each day we would paddle over to the swimming area on the lake. It was awesome," shares one visitor who enjoyed the pristine water.
Trail exploration: The 5-mile lake loop at Tobyhanna State Park Campground provides marked paths suitable for most ability levels. A visitor notes, "You can swim in the lake in the summer or do a 5-mile hike around the lake along well-marked walk paths. The hike should last 1.5 to 2 hours for the average person. Spray some insect repellent before you start."
Winter sports: While most focus on summer activities, cabins at Honesdale-Poconos KOA remain open year-round, and nearby Lackawanna State Park offers winter recreation. According to a visitor, "We would love to come back in the winter when they have an ice rink with a warming house."
What campers like
Cabin variety: Secluded Acres Campground offers diverse cabin options from basic to luxurious. "The size of the spaces would depend on where you are. We saw primitive sites that are ginormous. Also saw RV sites that were very close to each other. Our tent site is perfect," explains one camper describing the layout.
Wildlife viewing: Promised Land State Park at Pickerel Point provides opportunities for wildlife observation. "Beavers! Far away but exciting nonetheless," mentions one visitor, while others frequently spot deer near the cabins during early morning or evening hours.
Clean facilities: Lackawanna State Park Campground maintains particularly well-kept facilities according to reviews. "The bathrooms were clean with nice hot showers," notes one camper, while another states, "Their bath houses were clean. The rec room was cool."
What you should know
Terrain preparation: Pack appropriate sleeping equipment as sites can be rocky or uneven. One camper at Promised Land noted, "Chunky bluestone gravel on the sites, so bring a sleeping pad!"
Bathroom facilities: Different cabin types feature varying bathroom access. At Honesdale-Poconos KOA, facilities receive regular attention. "The bathrooms and showers, every time we went in, were spotless," reports a visitor. However, be prepared for coin-operated showers at some campgrounds.
Weather considerations: The Poconos region can experience rapid weather changes even in summer. "We had a great time despite cold wet weather. Our site was probably one of the worst in the place but we were able to scope out others that we would prefer for our next visit," shares a Keen Lake camper who dealt with unexpected conditions.
Cellphone coverage: Service varies significantly between parks. A visitor to Promised Land State Park reported, "The only negative is that I had almost no cell reception with Verizon."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Clayton Park RV Escape offers numerous family-oriented features. "Excellent family quiet area. Pool boats, hike, relax," summarizes one visitor who appreciated the diverse options for children.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer structured learning programs. "There is an environmental education center with programs, there is fishing and boating, and an amazing network of hiking and horse riding trails," notes a Lackawanna State Park visitor.
Beach access considerations: At Keen Lake, location matters for families with children. "If you don't want to drive during your stay, camp on the side with the beach and pool," advises one camper, adding "This is a great place to bring an RV. Great for families. It would be a great place to camp with extended family."
Pet policies: Campgrounds have varying pet rules for cabin stays. Cherry Ridge Campsites and Lodging welcomes pets at cabin sites. "Remote, not the place for one night. People friendly and helpful. We were in a back into site. Pets welcome," a visitor reports.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Review site details carefully when booking cabins near RV areas. "Get a site on the lake. You won't have a ton of privacy but you'll have space for your stuff," recommends a Keen Lake visitor who found waterfront locations preferable despite proximity to neighbors.
Seasonal considerations: Ponderosa Pines Campground offers a quieter alternative for those seeking less crowded experiences. "Well kept and peaceful. They have some entertainment, but nothing rowdy. Very nice people that are working hard on bringing it back to its former splendor," notes a visitor who appreciated the more relaxed atmosphere.
