Cabin camping near Jersey Mills, Pennsylvania offers access to some of Pennsylvania's most remote natural areas. The region sits within the Pennsylvania Wilds, which covers over 2 million acres of forest and contains the largest block of public land between New York and Chicago. Elevations range from 700 to 2,300 feet, creating diverse microclimates that support varied plant and animal species throughout the seasons.
What to do
Hiking trails: Little Pine State Park Campground features multiple hiking opportunities, including the Mid-State Trail. "The Mid State hiking trail comes right through the Campground and there are numerous other trails within the park," notes James P. Trails range from easy lakeside walks to more challenging forest routes.
Stargazing: Lyman Run State Park Campground provides excellent dark sky viewing conditions. "It's nestled within the gold level dark sky area. This means on a clear night and with a waning or new moon, one could see the arm of the Milky Way with millions of stars," explains Bill G. The park is located approximately 8 miles from Cherry Springs Dark Sky Park.
Fishing: Multiple creeks and lakes in the region support diverse fishing opportunities. "We really enjoyed our time here and it's about halfway in between the PA Grand Canyon and Williamsport. We ended doing both during the LLWS," shares Zach P. about staying at Little Pine State Park. Many cabin sites provide direct access to fishing areas.
What campers like
Natural isolation: Ole Bull State Park Campground provides a secluded forest experience. "Ole Bull is always one of our go to campgrounds! The sites are spread out so your comfortable and your neighbors are always nice and willing to talk or lend a hand," states Alexandra P. The park's remote location limits cell service, creating a true digital detox.
Creek access: Many campers value waterfront cabin sites. At Pettecote Junction Campground, "Our site was literally on the river, we even saw an eagle," reports Vanessa S. The location between Pine Creek and the rail trail allows for combined water and land recreation.
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness ranks high in camper satisfaction. "The bathrooms were very clean. There are no shelfs in the showers (except for a bar of soap) but they had hooks to hang your clothes," notes Erik E. about Russell P. Letterman Campground facilities. Most cabin camping areas maintain high standards of cleanliness.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Winter cabin options exist but are limited. "Ole Bull is in Potter County in the PA Wilds. The campsites are flat, some in full shade and others out in the open," explains Kristen D. Winter access may require four-wheel drive vehicles due to snow and ice conditions.
Wildlife awareness: Bears and other wildlife are common in this region. "A site near ours and very close to the playground had a rattler under their camper. A little too close for comfort," reports Amber C. from Little Pine State Park. Most cabins include secure storage for food and trash to prevent wildlife encounters.
Connectivity limits: Cell service ranges from spotty to nonexistent. At Twin Streams Campground, "the WiFi was a bit spotty, offering only two bars in certain areas, it encouraged us to disconnect and fully immerse ourselves in nature," according to Paulina B. Some campgrounds offer limited WiFi near office areas.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple camping areas feature playground equipment for children. At Happy Acres Resort, "Playground was huge with multiple playsets suitable for all ages. Bathrooms/showers we're clean and well kept. There was a basketball court, shuffleboard and carpet pool that you could borrow equipment for," explains Penny C.
Cabin selection: Family cabin options range from rustic to fully equipped. "Our son and his family rented a wolf den cabin and it was very clean as well," notes Penny C. about Happy Acres Resort. Family cabins typically include multiple sleeping areas and expanded outdoor space for activities.
Water activities: Swimming and boating options provide family entertainment. "There is a lake for swimming, kayaking and fishing. Minutes away from Big Pine Creek and additional swimming, boating and fishing opportunity," shares James P. about Little Pine State Park facilities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV sites with cabins vary significantly in size and layout. "We ended up getting a corner site right on the edge of a hill looking down on the main office and playground. It was perfect," reports Penny C. about Happy Acres Resort. Requesting specific sites when booking improves the camping experience.
Hookup variations: Water and electric availability differs between locations. "Electric only but water fill up is in convenient locations. Dump station is provided," explains James P. about Little Pine State Park. Many campgrounds offer a combination of primitive and full-service cabins with varying hookup options.
Rental alternatives: For RVers who occasionally need additional space for guests, cabin rentals provide flexibility. "Unlike many campgrounds that cater primarily to campers/RVs, they have nice spots in wooded areas for tenters. Some even have water and electric hookups," notes Christopher E. about Happy Acres Resort's diverse accommodation options.
