Camping cabins near Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania offer convenient access to both natural attractions and popular destinations like Hershey Park. Located in Lancaster County at approximately 400 feet above sea level, the area experiences moderate seasonal temperatures with summer highs typically reaching 85°F and winter lows dropping to 22°F. Fall camping season brings colorful foliage from late September through October when overnight temperatures can drop to the 40s, requiring cabin campers to pack appropriate layers.
What to do
Creek activities at Jonestown/Hershey KOA: This campground connects to Swatara Creek where guests can enjoy water recreation. "The Swatara creek runs right next to it so it is great for kayaking, tubing, etc," notes Bobby S. The campground is also "connected to the Swatara Rail trial which is great for biking," providing additional recreation options beyond water activities.
Dutch Wonderland access from Old Mill Stream Campground: Families can walk directly to this popular amusement park from their cabins. "Literally off the same parking lot as Dutch Wonderland. It's really small but very pleasant... Not too noisy being next to a theme park," reports Joshua W. The location allows families to easily return to their cabins for meals or breaks during park visits.
Explore Amish country from Thousand Trails Hershey: The surrounding Pennsylvania Dutch countryside offers unique cultural experiences within short driving distance. "In the event that you need to replenish any of your supplies, rest assured as in nearby Quakertown, there's a Giant & Aldi's grocery store as well as a local Target, Walmart, TJMaxx, Kohl's and Link Beverages," explains Stuart K., highlighting the practical amenities available despite the rural setting.
What campers like
Clean facilities at Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities. "Bathrooms are very clean and modern, but a decent walk from tent sites. The facilities are all lovely, staff in the camp store are kind and helpful," reports Melissa C. This KOA offers various accommodation types including "tent sites, water and electric sites, and full hookup sites."
Lake access at Gifford Pinchot State Park: The campground provides easy water recreation opportunities. "It has a small beach area within the campground loop that we camped in, but the main beach is on the other side of the large Pinchot Lake," shares Danielle V. The park offers diverse camping options including "tent sites, RV sites, group camping, yurts / camping cottages / cabins, and everything in between."
Halloween festivities at Thousand Trails Circle M: Seasonal themed weekends create memorable experiences for families. "They had Halloween every weekend of October and we spent Halloween weekend here. The kids loved it!!" shares Kasey M. The campground also features "an indoor pool and spa" along with arcade facilities that remain open during the fall season.
What you should know
Site selection at Pinch Pond Family Campground: Choose location carefully to maximize enjoyment. "IMHO the best campsite locations are actually the ones designated for primitive tents as they are all located in the rear of the property and therefore quieter and more removed from the rest of the somewhat crowded campground," advises Stuart K. However, be aware that "there's a shooting range near the property, so at all hours you will hear target practice going on, especially in the wee early hours."
Environmental factors at Old Mill Stream Campground: Weather and agricultural operations affect the camping experience. "The overwhelming impression of this campground was the smell of cow manure from the nearby dairy farm feedlot. The smell was not present the first day or so we were there and we enjoyed sitting outside in the afternoon, but when the wind shifted the horrid smell drove us inside," warns Nancy W. The riverside location also presents considerations: "There is a small, slow flowing river that runs along the front of the park which some people play in and float down in inner tubes."
Membership requirements at Thousand Trails properties: Access to certain campgrounds requires joining their system. "The biggest downside to this particular campground is its very close proximity to the PA Turnpike, which while convenient, might detract a bit from the peace & quiet you might be expecting," notes Stuart K. about the PA Dutch Country RV Resort. Additionally, "you'll need to secure a membership with Thousand Trails in order to access this, and indeed the other 250 or so other campgrounds."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options at Hersheypark Camping Resort: Multiple recreation areas keep children entertained. "Much to do at this park. Kids were always busy and had many activities to choose from as well as going to the amusement and water parks," shares Michael P. The resort provides shuttle service to Hershey attractions, eliminating transportation concerns.
Budget-friendly cabin alternatives at Gifford Pinchot State Park: State park cabins offer good value compared to private campgrounds. "We took our 3 yo camping for the first time here. He had so much fun. It was clean campground located in a State Park. Easy walk to the lake with a small beach," shares Julie Y. The park offers a less commercial experience: "I like that it wasn't a commercialized camping experience."
Swimming options at multiple campgrounds: Pools provide reliable water recreation regardless of weather or natural conditions. At Pinch Pond Family Campground, "you'll check-in, get directions and may return to purchase any of the sundries, treats, ice cream and souvenirs that this place has... or make your way back to the game room where you'll find arcade games," notes Stuart K. Most cabin-offering campgrounds maintain swimming pools as central amenities.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges at PA Dutch Country RV Resort: Prepare for uneven terrain with proper equipment. "The campground loses a star because the sites are pretty uneven. Not just the one we're on but others as well. The campground is pretty hilly and they don't seem to want to level out the sites," reports Sammii D. Plan accordingly: "We had to go out and get more blocks and we're still not very level front to back."
Weather-related site selection at Thousand Trails Hershey: Consider drainage when choosing locations. "We first had a 2 point site near the river, but when it rains the sites get flooded with runoff from the campground," shares Kasey M. about Circle M. For those without reservations, arrival timing matters: "For everyone complaining about driving around and not finding spots, if you get there early enough around 1 pm, you won't have a problem."
