Cabin camping near Kane, Pennsylvania offers several options within the 517,000-acre Allegheny National Forest region. The area sits at approximately 2,000 feet elevation with forest terrain dominated by hardwoods and hemlocks. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing between November and March, while summer daytime temperatures typically range from 75-85°F.
What to do
Hiking trails access: East Branch Campground offers proximity to trails with varying difficulty levels. "Beautiful lake/area, but must drive from campground to water's edge," notes one visitor at East Branch Campground.
Waterfront activities: The Allegheny Reservoir provides fishing and boating opportunities at several campgrounds. At Red Bridge Recreation Area, "You can drive to a number of nice hiking and mountain biking trails. The reservoir is murky and had oil film from all the motor boats. Not good swimming," according to one camper.
Historic sites: The Kinzua Skywalk Bridge is approximately 30 minutes from many area campgrounds. "The Kinzua Skywalk Bridge is a free attraction - an old train bridge that was partially destroyed by a tornado in the early 2000's. The bridge is handicap/stroller accessible, pets are allowed," explains a visitor to Red Bridge Recreation Area.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The spacing between cabins and camping areas varies significantly across properties. At Chapman State Park, "Sites were decently sized and some backed up to very beautiful evergreen forest. There are several hiking trails that depart right from the campground," reports a recent visitor.
Seasonal quiet: Off-peak times offer more solitude for those seeking peaceful cabin stays. "We drove down from Western NY and were able to choose from 1 of 2 campsites. We lucked out and ended up with a beautiful site in view of the reservoir. Red Bridge was clean and quiet," notes one camper.
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms and shower facilities. A visitor to Kiasutha Recreation Area stated, "Clean, quiet and fairly quiet. This side of the reservoir is louder and busier than the other side, but still enjoyable."
What you should know
Reservation timing: During summer months, cabin availability becomes extremely limited throughout the region. "We moved here after a night on the other side of the reservoir. Site 6 and 7 were the best waterfront. Showers were clean and well kept. Camp hosts were the best we have come across," according to a Red Bridge Recreation Area visitor.
Bear awareness: Several campgrounds are in bear territory, requiring proper food storage. A camper at Dewdrop Recreation Area shared, "I had never thought twice about encountering bears, I even naively left granola bars in my hiking pack in my tent at night. AND I now will not do that, luckily no bears came for a nighttime snack, but a mom and two cubs ran directly through our camp while having breakfast one morning."
Variable water access: Water proximity differs significantly between sites, even within the same campground. "This is a beautiful campground. You have to go through the national park website to make reservations. The sites are very spacious and mostly divided with brush. The campground is rather hilly overall," explains a Red Bridge Recreation Area visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer designated swimming areas during summer months. At Whispering Winds Campground, "The pool was clean and the kids loved swimming in it. I was thankful for laundry room to wash everything before our next stop," notes a recent visitor.
Playground facilities: Some properties provide playground equipment for younger visitors. At Kiasutha Recreation Area, one camper mentioned, "Fun little playground nearby too! Also to note, we did not make reservations, but were able to drive through and pick open site we liked the most!"
Fishing access: Fishing spots are available at most reservoir-adjacent campgrounds. "This campground is well maintained, with excellent restroom/shower facilities. Miles of hiking trails accessible right from the campground. The lake was off limits due to the dam reconstruction, but is a big draw when open," shares a visitor to Chapman State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: Many area campgrounds feature uneven terrain that may require leveling equipment. A camper at Kinzua East KOA mentioned, "This KOA is above average for KOA campgrounds. My biggest complaint is the sites are very close and offer little privacy."
Campground layout: Some properties separate RVs, tent campers, and cabins into different areas. "We had a site in the full hookup back in section, they are very nice spacious sites. The park is close to the Allegheny Reservoir and the Kinzua Bridge," notes a High Pines RV Park visitor.
Seasonal considerations: Some cabin rental properties operate only during specific months. "The folks at the office were very friendly and helpful," states a visitor to Kinzua East KOA, which operates from April 15 to November 28.
