Pennsylvania's northern tier offers elevated glamping close to Columbia Cross Roads with diverse cabin and yurt accommodations throughout the region. At 1,300-1,800 feet elevation, the area provides cooler summer temperatures than nearby valleys. Most parks maintain seasonal operations from April through October with limited winter availability, though some premium cabins remain open year-round.
What to do
Waterfall hikes: At Ricketts Glen State Park Campground, visitors can access 22 cascading waterfalls. "The biggest draw to this state park is the 22 waterfalls! We saw 18 of them on a four-mile moderate hike, but if you want to see the additional four, you could make it a seven-mile hike," explains one camper.
Gorge exploration: The dramatic stone formations at Watkins Glen State Park Campground feature 19 waterfalls flowing through narrow rock walls. "Watkins Glen was absolutely beautiful. The sites are quite wooded with plenty of space in between. The gorge trail is a MUST," notes a visitor.
Fishing access: Many glamping options offer direct water access. At Tompkins Campground, "Spots are level and paved. It is always clean. There is a beach for swimming, marina for boating and the sites are huge and grassy."
Historical exploration: Newtown Battlefield State Park provides historical context with marked trails. "Trails are well signed at intersections, and they are well worn, but mostly without blazes. Camp sites are tidy and well mowed."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Hills Creek State Park Campground receives consistent praise for its site dimensions. "Generously sized park with something for everyone. Clean, good facilities. Good walking, hiking, kayaking. Private sites can be found pretty easily," reports one camper.
Modern cabins: State parks throughout the region offer premium cabin accommodations. "We spent 5 nights at this campground at the end of June 2020. We were impressed with the 2 bedroom cabin. The kitchen had the usual plus a microwave, toaster and coffee pot. The furniture was comfortable for a cabin and the porch was delightful to sit on during a rainy morning."
Family-friendly amenities: Pine Cradle Lake Family Campground provides extensive recreational opportunities. "The heated pool and splash pad for kiddies is spotless as well. Nice, pull-through on gravel pad with full-hookups that can take large rigs. Lake is lovely for fishing/kayaks/canoes."
Private docks: Lakeside glamping provides direct water access. "The lakeside spots are gorgeous and the private dock is great when you have kids that love to fish. If you are looking for a place to disconnect for a few days this is it."
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Campgrounds in the area sometimes experience water issues. At Ferenbaugh Campground, "Make sure you use a water filter, there was a lot of sediment in the water when we were there."
Limited cell service: Many glamping locations have restricted connectivity. Pine Cradle Lake campers note: "There is very very little cell reception and only wifi if you pay for it. We had to put our phones and devices down and just relax."
Reservation requirements: Pioneer Campground and similar properties fill quickly, especially for premium accommodations. "We started with a trip in the summer because of their candy bar hunt and heated swimming pool. We try to get the same campsite each year because it is wooded and spacious."
Seasonal restrictions: Water activities typically run from Memorial Day through Labor Day. "One thing that we were kind of disappointed in, is that the campground pool doesn't open until the end of June."
Tips for camping with families
Opt for wooded sites: Tent campers often find better experiences in shaded areas. "I chose this campground because the photos of the pool/splash pad looked fun. It turns out the tent site we had was the most wooded and cozy site we have camped in all year. So much room for tents/hammocks. Trees galore."
Utilize private bathrooms: Some facilities offer individual bathroom units ideal for families with small children. "The restrooms were fantastic too, the buildings held two complete rooms with a toilet sink and shower in each. It's the only shower camping this year my 4yr old wasn't afraid of because we had the whole room to ourselves."
Consider themed weekends: Several campgrounds host special events throughout the season. At Jellystone Park PA Wilds, "Kids had a fantastic time at this campground. Two playgrounds, a pool, two jumping pillows, mini train, carousel, and activities. Good for bike riding although hilly."
Check for winter closures: Most glamping locations near Columbia Cross Roads operate seasonally. Hills Creek runs from "2nd Fri April to 3rd weekend October," while Watkins Glen operates from "May 13 to October 10."
Tips from RVers
Research site specifications: Site dimensions can vary significantly from online descriptions. "The site we booked online had bad measurements, so when we got there we found our trailer wouldn't fit. The camp map is close but not very accurate, so calling them to book if you have any questions is the way to go."
Arrive during daylight: Navigation within wooded campgrounds can be challenging after dark. "I would suggest getting there while it is still light out, there is plenty of room on the roads to get your rig around the campground, but there are lots of trees and it gets a little hard sometimes to see where the road is vs a site."
Pack leveling equipment: Even paved sites often require adjustment. "The sites themselves are well kept and have a big fire pit and picnic table. I would suggest bringing leveling blocks."
Monitor dump station timing: Weekend departures can create congestion. "I don't believe most sites have a sewer connection, and there is only one dump station, but the owner was going around pumping people out Sunday morning when the line to the dump station was long."
