Cabin camping near Felton, Pennsylvania offers rustic retreats within reach of both Lancaster County's rolling farmland and the Susquehanna River's scenic waterways. The region sits at approximately 400 feet above sea level with moderate seasonal variation, making spring through fall the most comfortable camping periods. Winter cabin stays are available at some locations, with temperatures often dropping below freezing from December through February.
What to do
Hike local trails: At Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground, the 8.5-mile Lakeside Trail provides views from multiple angles around Pinchot Lake. "I took an early morning hike on the Lakeside Trail that goes around the lake and it was really awesome to see the lake from all different angles," notes one visitor. The park also features the Quaker Race Trail which connects to other recreational areas.
Fish freshwater spots: Multiple fishing options exist within a short drive of most cabins. "Yellow Breeches is well known among flyfisherman (bring your waders)," reports one camper who stayed near the area. Local ponds at Tucquan Park Family Campground offer more accessible fishing. According to a visitor, "They also have a nice little pond you can fish."
Experience Amish country: Cabin stays place you within short drives of authentic Amish experiences. "The campground is in a good location to Lancaster and other quaint Amish towns like Bird-In-Hand, Paradise, and Intercourse," explains one reviewer. Some local campgrounds even have Amish vendors visit directly. "An Amish buggy comes through with some great baked goods," notes a visitor at Old Mill Stream Campground.
What campers like
Seasonal activities: Codorus State Park Campground receives praise for its year-round options. "You can bring your own boat (gas allowed) or rent one from their marina. There is no swimming allowed in the lake but there is a pool located at the park, there is no extra cost to use the pool if you are at the campground," shares a camper. The park transforms seasonally, with summer recreation giving way to fall hiking opportunities.
Private wooded sites: Many visitors appreciate secluded cabin options. "The primitive sites are back in the woods which kept us nice and cool on hot July nights. The location also kept us fairly bug free," reports a camper at Tucquan Park. Similarly, at Merry Meadows Recreation Farm, "Wooded sites, open sites, tent sites. All great!" according to a repeat visitor.
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness stands out in reviews. "The bath house was clean. Not a lot to do at the park. The lake is beautiful and the trail around the lake is nice," mentions a Codorus visitor. Another camper at Merry Meadows noted, "The bathrooms were clean and tidy, the usable sites all looked nice."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Peak season demands advance planning. "Advance reservations are a must — this place books up fast!" advises a Merry Meadows camper. Most cabin facilities have limited availability compared to tent or RV sites.
Payment policies: Some campgrounds maintain traditional payment systems. "One of the complaints was they work on cash. Yeah, I know it's not popular because most of us live in a plastic dominated world. I read it in advance and I just made sure we had some with us," explains a visitor about Merry Meadows.
Weather considerations: The region experiences varied weather patterns affecting comfort levels. At Thousand Trails Circle M, one camper reported, "We chose the lower, Riverside sites and were glad we did! The campground sits in the center of a horseshoe curve of the river... Bug spray is a must and lower sites are muddy."
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Parents appreciate playgrounds near cabin sites. At Gifford Pinchot, "There is a nice beach area within the campground loop that we camped in, but the main beach is on the other side of the large Pinchot Lake," explains a family camper who adds, "It's a great spot for a day hike with the family."
Entertainment options: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Quarryville specializes in child-focused activities. "Super clean, beautiful campground. So many activities to entertain kids, we couldn't fit it all in!" shares one family. Another visitor mentions, "Our first year we did a birthday package where they brought a cake to the camp with Booboo for my daughter."
Budget considerations: Family activities can add extra costs. "The activities — such as putt-putt, jump zone and the playground ended up being kinda boring for them without others to share it with," notes a Merry Meadows visitor, suggesting visiting during busier periods for maximum value.
Tips for RVers
Site selection strategy: Hersheypark Camping Resort offers convenience but requires careful site selection. "The lower drive threw spots are packed together. Our 32' with slides just fit the sight and we had zero room for the truck. They have other spots up on the hill but would have been more of a challenge with our rig," advises one RVer.
Noise considerations: Train traffic affects some campgrounds. "Basic RV park. $95 night is way too much, you pay for location," shares a Hersheypark camper, adding, "Trains are all night."
Accessibility issues: Some areas present challenges for larger rigs. At Circle M, "As with all thousand trails, this campground is first come best site. While the top part of the campground seemed more communal, we chose the lower, Riverside sites and were glad we did!" A specific warning about Gifford Pinchot notes, "the Quaker Race course is built into the side of the hill... so it is a lot more wooded and hillier."
