Cabins near Clarington, Pennsylvania range from rustic to modern accommodations within the Allegheny National Forest region. Located in Jefferson County at around 1,600 feet elevation, the area experiences four distinct seasons with heavy snowfall common from November through March. Several campgrounds operate year-round, offering winter accommodation options for visitors exploring the region's 517,000 acres of forest land.
What to do
Hiking trails for all levels: Cook Forest State Park features well-marked trails through old-growth forests. "Beautiful colored folage. Woke up to find I was surrounded by a huge herd of deer. Outstanding!" notes John N. about Cook Forest State Park Campground & Cabins.
Kayaking the Clarion River: Launch directly from several cabin areas for peaceful paddling. "The Clarion is a crystal clear, shallow, rock bottom river perfect for a cool off, fishing or kayaking," reports Britt B. from Clear Creek State Park Campground.
Winter activities: Some Clarington cabin rentals remain open during snow season. The area receives 50+ inches of snow annually, creating opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. "Got to stay in a pet friendly area for 4 days. Very nice campers, bathrooms very clean," mentions one visitor at White's Haven Campground and Cabins.
Educational programs: Naturalist-led activities teach visitors about local ecology. "This is also a great place to go year-round for kids interested in learning about nature. There is a nature museum. Seek out Ranger Susanne—she is a really great teacher!" shares Laura C.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many cabin areas offer good separation between units. "The Campground was really nice, some spots gave you enough space to feel pretty secluded from other campers, which was nice for my partner and I," explains Courtney K.
Clean facilities: Bathhouses and common areas receive consistent maintenance. "The facilities are always clean, with large shower areas and always fully stocked with tissue," notes one visitor at Forest Ridge Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Stocked ponds and river access points enhance recreational options. "We loved our campsite right on the small pond that is stocked with Carp and Koi," says Sue B. from White's Haven Campground and Cabins. Several cabin areas provide direct water access for anglers.
Winter comfort: Heated cabins allow year-round visits. "The bathrooms are very clean (a bit of a walk from this cabin), and the pool is inviting. Being tall, the bunkbeds were a challenge, so maybe have the kids stay in this one," advises S.T.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Peak season cabin rentals require early booking, often 6-9 months in advance. "This is our 12th Memorial Weekend spent at this campground... In spite of a completely booked holiday weekend (you'd do best to book 8-9, yes, 8-9 months out for this particular weekend) the campground is spread out, secluded and quiet," explains Erin H.
Limited cell service: Many cabin locations have poor connectivity. "None of the major carriers have service here, but I needed to 'get away' for the night so it was perfect," reports Sara from Clear Creek State Park Campground.
Winter access challenges: Snow-covered roads may require 4WD vehicles during winter months. "We stayed in the pet friendly area for 4 days. Very nice campers, bathrooms very clean," notes one visitor.
Cabin configuration differences: Sleeping arrangements vary significantly between properties. "You'll find sites hugged by tall evergreens and level ground, something not easily found on the mountain," describes a camper at Rvino - Campers Paradise.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several locations offer dedicated children's programming. "The kids loved the arcade and the candy scavenger hunt. Gorgeous night skies," shares Tiffany V. about Kalyumet Campground.
Swimming options: Pools and beaches provide water recreation. "This campground is just far enough away from home that it feels worlds away while still being convenient for forgotten items," mentions Cynthia C.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Animal sightings enhance the cabin experience. "I did have two separate run in with bears but over all a great experience! Would definitely go back!" reports Caitlyn H. from Clear Creek State Park.
Playground access: Some cabin areas feature play equipment. "Great cabins and very clean! so many things for the kids to do and just float the river," remarks James V.
Tips from RVers
Hookup location challenges: Some sites have distant utility connections. "Our only complaint would be the site we were in (11) and others next to it were quite far from the water and cable hookups. I ended up having to run 60ft of water hose and 50ft of cable in order to get a connection," warns Ember M. about Kalyumet Campground.
Big rig accessibility: Several campgrounds accommodate larger RVs. "235 sites, many with electric. Most seem pretty level and big rig friendly. Good ATT & Verizon cell service," notes Gary P. about Red Bridge Recreation Area - Allegheny National Forest.
Winter RV considerations: Year-round sites require preparation for freezing temperatures. "We had a great weekend with our dogs. Nice facility, easy check in despite the Covid-19 restrictions. Laid back atmosphere," shares Heather M.
