Cabin camping near Johnstown, Pennsylvania provides easy access to the Laurel Highlands region, with elevations reaching over 2,500 feet at higher points like Blue Knob Mountain. The area's mixed hardwood forests create a cooler microclimate, often 5-10 degrees below surrounding lowlands during summer months. Most cabin facilities operate from mid-April through mid-October, though select locations offer winter availability.
What to do
Waterfront activities: At Quemahoning Family Recreation Area, visitors can enjoy the lakeside setting. "Easy walk to beach area and boat launch. Very clean," notes Paul B. The recreation area supports swimming, fishing, biking and hiking according to Timothy M., who adds the lake has "good private tent sites in the woods."
Mountain biking: The trails at Blue Knob State Park Campground offer challenging terrain for cyclists. "Bike trails come directly through the park making it simple to go for a ride but the trails are not for the weak. Lots of climbing or descending and fairly rocky," explains Travis S. These trails connect to the peak, which is the second highest in Pennsylvania.
Creek exploration: Many cabins sit near small waterways perfect for kids. At Mirror Lake RV Camping & Fishing, Mathew H. reports, "A lot of their sites are along a small creek which the kids play in and can float down. Site 26 is our favorite. It has a huge back yard and easy access to the creek."
What campers like
Cabin variety: The Kentuck Campground at Ohiopyle State Park offers multiple accommodation options. "300+ site campground with a mix of FHU, 30 and 50-amp electric, and non-electric tent sites, yurts, and cabins. Select loops allow pets but not all do," explains Lee D. This diversity allows for different comfort levels and group sizes.
Peaceful surroundings: Many visitors appreciate the quiet atmosphere at Kooser State Park Campground. "We enjoyed the waterfront camping and snowshoeing. We got a site by the water and with good tree cover," writes Harry H., who considers this park "a hidden gem." The park offers cabin options alongside traditional tent sites.
Winter access: Some cabin locations remain accessible during colder months. "We went in the winter and we could not get over the beauty of this place covered in snow," reports one camper. Cabins with proper heating provide comfortable shelter when temperatures drop, allowing visitors to enjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and winter wildlife viewing without the summer crowds.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Securing cabin rentals requires advance planning. "We've stayed at Shawnee for 2 nights Memorial Day weekend just after Covid19 restrictions had been partially lifted," explains Danielle S. at Shawnee State Park Campground. The most popular cabins book months in advance, especially for summer weekends.
Site selection challenges: Not all cabin and campsite locations are created equal. "We have a 35' TT and there was no way it was going to fit in the site we originally booked. Luckily it was opening weekend and the rangers and super accommodating!" shares Brittany V. about her Shawnee State Park experience.
Limited services: Many cabin areas have minimal nearby shopping. "Plan your meals well, before arriving. There are a couple of restaurants in Ohiopyle, but they are not open late. There are no grocery stores real close," advises Robert C. about Kentuck Campground. Most visitors bring all necessary supplies with them.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Crooked Run Campground at Prince Gallitzin State Park offers kid-friendly amenities. "Great place for kids! We love staying at crooked run campground. Has a beach on the lake. Affordable boat rentals. Bmx track for kids," shares Jackie W. These facilities help keep children entertained throughout your stay.
Cabin comfort levels: Family cabins vary widely in amenities. "The cabin was great, very clean and cozy. The campgrounds are very nice they have a pool as well as a community building and camp store," reports Austin B. about Mirror Lake RV Camping & Fishing. Families with young children may prefer cabins with indoor plumbing and electricity.
Weather preparation: The mountain climate can change quickly. "Clouds blowing east from the Midwest tend to break on the mountains here at Blue Knob, so short little bursts of rainfall are frequent, and they don't always show up on weather apps," warns Brian S. Families should pack extra clothing layers and rain gear even during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many campgrounds in the region present challenges for RVs. "Most of the non-electric sites were decidedly not level but many of the FHU and electric sites were fairly level, and we did not have a problem finding one," reports Lee D. about Shawnee State Park. Sites with gravel pads tend to be more level than primitive options.
Hookup locations: At Laurel Hill State Park Campground, "The electrical hookups are not played out well like an expensive RV park with the shared power post on the entrance side of the camper. You may want to have an extension for your power cable," advises Erik E. Longer power cords and water hoses help accommodate these layout challenges.
Seasonal access: Many cabins and RV sites close during winter. "The park has great amenities just a short walk from all sites. All sites have fire rings, with grills, however note they are double walled so do not expel a lot of heat outward," explains Britt B. about Kooser State Park. This design feature affects winter camping comfort.
