Cabin camping near Point Marion, Pennsylvania offers options in the Laurel Highlands region, where elevations range from 1,500 to 2,800 feet with summer temperatures typically 5-10 degrees cooler than surrounding lowlands. The cabin accommodations vary from simple structures with outdoor facilities to modern lodging options with full amenities. Winter cabin rentals remain available at select locations when tent camping areas close for the season.
What to do
Kayaking the Youghiogheny River: Paddle the calm sections near Yough Lake Campground at Tub Run where "The swimming lake was perfect and they had canoes and kayak rentals on site" according to a camper who enjoyed the water access directly from the campground.
Hiking forest trails: Explore the network of trails at Coopers Rock State Forest where one visitor noted, "We stayed here 9/2018 at site #10 and can't wait to return... Site 10 was at the campground at the top of the hill, sparsely populated, and had beautiful views beyond the trees."
Fishing in local ponds: Cast a line at Chestnut Ridge Park where the natural features include "a sandy beach where kids are often found collecting newts and fishing" alongside "a nice green space for running around."
Winter outdoor activities: Several cabin locations maintain year-round access when other campgrounds close. The Blue Canoe RV Resort (formerly Uniontown KOA) maintains cabins through cold months, making it possible to enjoy winter activities in the region.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Benner's Meadow Run RV Campground, visitors appreciate the layout, with one reviewer mentioning, "Got a nice secluded spot to camp in the wooded area that had amazing mountain views and the star gazing platform."
Multiple water features: Swallow Falls State Park Campground offers "the largest falls in Maryland, Muddy Creek Falls, 53 feet. Several other falls on the Youghiogheny River" as highlighted by a frequent visitor who notes the park's beauty "year round. In the winter the snow and ice is beautiful, fall is lovely and summer is fun."
Modern bathroom facilities: Many cabins feature upgraded bathrooms, but for those staying in rustic options, campgrounds like Kentuck Campground at Ohiopyle State Park have "great bathhouses" as mentioned by visitors, though some note these facilities "badly need updating" with maintenance issues in older buildings.
Historical significance: Some cabin areas have notable past visitors, like Swallow Falls where "Henry Ford, Thomas Edison, Harvey Firestone, and John Burroughs camped on the site in 1918, and 1921" giving the area historical context beyond natural features.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many cabin areas are built on hillsides. At Tygart Lake State Park Campground, campers report that "almost all sites are on a hill. The pictures do not accurately show this." Pack leveling equipment if bringing an RV or camper.
Wildlife encounters: Raccoons and other wildlife are common visitors at night. Prepare for this by bringing secure food storage containers and never leaving food unattended.
Water level fluctuations: Lake levels can vary significantly by season. One camper at Yough Lake noted, "If the water levels had been higher this year, we would have enjoyed this more given the beach/swimming area and dock."
Cell service variability: Coverage differs greatly between locations. Some campgrounds advertise WiFi but reception quality varies, with Coopers Rock visitors reporting, "We had cell service with Consumer Cellular (AT&T Towers) and were able to work while we camped."
Tips for camping with families
Look for cabin clusters: Families traveling together should consider The Blue Canoe RV Resort where "There are many full hookups, great playground for the kids. New pool," making it suitable for multi-family gatherings.
Water activities for children: Several cabins are within walking distance to swimming areas. One visitor at Benner's Meadow Run noted it's a "Great place for kids! Family friendly atmosphere, cordial staff, well run campground. Lots of activities."
Pack extra lighting: Rustic cabins often have limited lighting options. Bring headlamps or battery-powered lanterns, especially if you'll be using bathroom facilities after dark. As one camper at Coopers Rock mentioned, "The bathrooms do not have lighting so bring a headlamp or flashlight."
Proximity to medical facilities: When traveling with children, note that medical services can be 30+ minutes away from most cabin locations. Identify the nearest urgent care or emergency room before your trip.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup limitations: At Kentuck Campground — Ohiopyle State Park, a camper noted, "There are very limited sites that you can have a pet with you," which affects RV owners traveling with animals who need specific site types.
Access road considerations: Some cabin areas have challenging approach roads. A visitor to Benner's Meadow Run observed, "The entry is strange as we had to block the gated entrance to get to the office to check in," while others mention narrow or steep access roads at several locations.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds with cabins offer on-site dump stations. A visitor at Coopers Rock State Forest mentioned, "Dump station on the way out," which is helpful information for RVers planning longer stays.
Winter accessibility: For cold-weather cabin camping, check road maintenance schedules. Several campgrounds maintain plowed access to their year-round cabins, even when camping loops are closed.
