Cabins near Garnet Valley, Pennsylvania range from rustic to well-appointed options spread throughout the surrounding countryside. Located in Delaware County with elevations between 200-400 feet, the area experiences distinct seasons with humid summers and cold winters. Fall offers prime camping weather with average temperatures between 50-70°F, while spring brings muddy conditions at many campgrounds due to seasonal rainfall patterns.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: 30 minutes from cabins at French Creek State Park Campground, visitors can fish in two lakes stocked with northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, and muskellunge. "There are two lakes in French Creek, Hopewell and Scott's Run and each contain many species of fish. We spent Saturday afternoon fishing but not catching anything at Scott's Run. It's a beautiful location and it was still a fun way to spend the day with the kids," reports one visitor.
Lighthouse hiking: Explore the Turkey Point Lighthouse trail at Elk Neck State Park Campground, about 40 minutes from Garnet Valley cabin rentals. "The lighthouse and the view are definitely worth it. Definitely drive to, and then hike to the light house (open most weekends)," notes a camper. The trail offers scenic views of Chesapeake Bay and is suitable for all skill levels.
Canoe rentals: Paddle along the Brandywine River at Philadelphia-West Chester KOA, where cabin guests can rent canoes directly from the campground. "This was the first KOA we visited and I can't begin to say enough wonderful things about the whole campground. Nearby are great places to go hiking as well as a canoe and rafting outfit. We choose to do both on this trip and weren't disappointed with either," shares a reviewer.
What campers like
Clean, spacious sites: Cabin visitors appreciate the well-maintained grounds at many locations. At Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA, a camper notes, "This campground was so well maintained. There was so much to do there a pool, lake, horseshoes, cornhole, playground, big pillow and even more. The place is so clean including the bathrooms."
Seasonal activities: From April to October, many campgrounds offer programming. "They offer so many activities during the day and text you so you don't forget. I would love to come back if I was looking for a place close to home," explains a visitor to Old Cedar Campground, located about 35 minutes from Garnet Valley cabin rentals.
Tranquil settings: Despite proximity to urban areas, cabin sites often provide peaceful environments. "Quiet during the week - numerous seasonal campers," writes a visitor about Old Cedar Campground. Another camper at Parvin State Park Campground adds, "Woodsy, nice lake and nature trails," highlighting the natural setting.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Book cabin stays early, particularly for weekend visits from May through September. "We only stayed one night and most of the activities were closed due to it being November. Will definitely try this campground again when it's a bit warmer," advises a camper at Philadelphia-West Chester KOA.
Water quality varies by location: Some campgrounds have issues with water quality or availability. At Parvin State Park, a camper reports, "The water has a very high iron content. I couldn't even use it for tooth brushing. Most of the showers were out of order. The toilets were clean but had the orange staining from the iron in the water."
Site specifics matter for larger groups: Research carefully when booking cabins for families. "The only bad part was that it was kind of hard to find a level and rock-free spot large enough for our tent, but we managed," shares a visitor to French Creek State Park, noting the terrain challenges that can affect setup.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly amenities: Select cabins with playgrounds nearby. At Four Seasons Family Campground, a visitor reports, "The staff is friendly. Facilities are clean. Very quiet and peaceful at night with lots of activities for the kids during the day." The camp features a playground and arcade suitable for various age groups.
Swimming options: During summer months, cabins near lakes or with pools provide cooling options. "The pool was nice and clean," notes a camper at Old Cedar Campground, while another visitor to Four Seasons mentions "Beautiful pool, very nice playground and arcade. The fishing was good everytime we've went."
Weather considerations: Spring camping requires extra preparation due to muddy conditions at many sites. "Our site was gravel with a small concrete patio and decently sized. All hookups worked as required so no complaints there," explains a camper at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park - Elmer, adding, "It poured and hailed for 1 hr and it still made a swamp."
Tips from RVers
Site selection guidance: When renting cabins near RV sites, consider noise factors from generators. At Elk Neck State Park Campground, a tent camper observed, "RV sites mixed in with tents so the sound of generators was pretty constant, but it was a scorching weekend, so might not be so bad in cooler days."
Access challenges: Some cabin locations have difficult approach roads. "Very narrow roads to sites, so not big rig friendly there but most sites are quite large. No gravel or pads on sites, just bare ground," reports a visitor to Parvin State Park Campground, information relevant even for cabin renters navigating the same roads.
Off-season advantages: Winter cabin rentals offer solitude and often lower rates. "Stayed over for one night in early December. Showers and bathrooms were great! The honor system of payment at the office makes it really easy to come in late and leave early," shares a camper at French Creek State Park.
