Cabin camping options span across southern Pennsylvania, with several state parks and private campgrounds within 20-30 miles of Emigsville. This area of Pennsylvania receives moderate rainfall throughout the year, averaging 42 inches annually, making waterproof gear essential for campers. The rolling hills of York County provide a mix of wooded and open terrain with elevations ranging from 350 to 1,100 feet.
What to do
Fishing in stocked waters: Gifford Pinchot State Park offers excellent fishing opportunities with multiple species available. "We caught a handful of bass and an absurd amount of bluegill from shore," notes a visitor to Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground. The park stocks the lake regularly and requires fishing licenses, which rangers check frequently.
Disc golf courses: Several campgrounds feature 18-hole disc golf courses for visitors seeking outdoor recreation. At Codorus State Park, the courses are well-maintained but require careful navigation. "There is a pool located at the park, there is no extra cost to use the pool if you are at the campground," adds a Codorus State Park Campground visitor who enjoyed both the disc golf and swimming facilities.
Farm animal interactions: Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm provides unique opportunities for children to interact with livestock. "If you love farm animals, that is the spot to be. Got a kick out of the children playing with the kids (baby goats) pigs, goats, chickens, horses and even lamas. Plenty to see and learn," reports a camper at Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm.
What campers like
Clean bathroom facilities: Many campgrounds in the region maintain exceptionally clean facilities. "The bath house was clean. Nice place to go to if you just want to rest around the camp fire," notes a visitor to Codorus State Park. Modern restrooms with reliable hot water are consistently mentioned as positive features.
Wooded privacy at select sites: Cedar Lake Family Campground offers secluded sites with substantial tree coverage. One camper describes the grounds as "very clean" with "tent sites near the lake" that are "HUGE." The campground balances open and wooded areas for different preferences.
Proximity to attractions: Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA provides convenient access to regional destinations. "Nice campground with a lot of RV and tent spots. Spotless bathrooms. Nice pool and playgrounds. Not a lot of traffic. Quiet. Friendly. Price is fair and not nearly as expensive as many other KOAs but the quality is just as good!" reports a satisfied visitor.
What you should know
Train noise at Hershey locations: Railway lines run near several Hershey-area campgrounds, creating potential noise issues. "Nice camp ground but super loud bc of the trains. Bath houses are nice and clean. I would suggest making sure you aren't close to the tracks bc the trains run all night long!" warns a Hersheypark Camping Resort visitor.
Shooting range proximity: Some campgrounds have firing ranges nearby that can impact the peaceful atmosphere. "The only thing that is negative is that there is a shooting range right next door. It is pretty consistent from lunch to dinner. If your out and about, it won't be an issue," notes a Pinch Pond visitor.
Seasonal crowding: Summer weekends fill quickly at most cabin locations. "It gets very full on the weekends here," reports a camper at Thousand Trails Circle M. Advance reservations are essential during peak season, with many sites booking months ahead.
Tips for camping with families
Animal-focused activities: Farm settings provide educational opportunities for children. "We came amidst COVID-19, so the many activities and events this location usually holds are down, BUT there is still fun to be had here! We've enjoyed mini-golf, feeding the animals, 'hiking' through the cornfield, fishing, and campfires," explains a Thousand Trails Circle M visitor.
Lake beaches and playgrounds: Some state parks offer designated swimming areas with amenities for children. "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," reports a Gifford Pinchot visitor.
Pool and recreation facilities: Many private campgrounds offer swimming pools and organized activities. "We have camped here several times and love the waterfront sites and the yurts," notes a Gifford Pinchot camper, highlighting the combination of natural features and amenities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Arrive early at first-come, first-served campgrounds to secure level, spacious sites. "The first thing to know is that Thousand Trails sites are a first come, first serve. Meaning you have to arrive early in order to get the best spots. They don't reserve sites for you," advises a Thousand Trails visitor.
Concrete pad availability: Some campgrounds offer premium sites with concrete pads that simplify leveling. "We got pretty lucky and were assigned one of the concrete pads that was pretty level. It is absolutely beautiful out. The grounds are well-kept," explains a visitor to Thousand Trails Circle M.
Campground transit services: Select locations offer shuttle services to nearby attractions. "Stone surface. Not to bad for leveling. Our site was spacious," reports a Hersheypark Camping Resort visitor who appreciated both the site quality and transportation convenience.
