Rustic cabin rentals near Lawrenceville, Pennsylvania provide overnight options within the rolling hills of Tioga County. The region sits at elevations between 1,000-2,000 feet, creating moderate temperature swings between day and night even in summer months. Most cabin facilities operate seasonally from April through October, with limited winter availability at select locations.
What to do
Hiking the gorge trails: Colton Point State Park Campground offers access to Turkey Path Trail, which follows a stream with multiple waterfalls. "Unlike Leonard Harrison, Colton Point on the western rim of the Pine Creek Gorge isn't a tourist hub. The campsites are private and you get to hike in (varying amounts of distance). The trails aren't built up with steps," notes one camper who recommends bringing a reliable map.
Lake activities: Hills Creek State Park Campground maintains a swimming area with snack bar serving ice cream. "Lake available for swimming complete with snack bar, including ice cream!!! The rangers offer educational programs that are free of charge!" The park also offers nature tours covering local flora and fauna identification.
Winter visits: Cabin rentals provide year-round access to seasonal activities. At Watkins Glen State Park Campground, "The gorges speak for themselves, lots to do in the nature here. Each campsite is pretty big and sadey, but can get noisy." While summer brings crowds, off-season visits offer more solitude on the trails.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many cabins receive positive reviews for maintenance standards. A visitor to Camp Bell Campground noted, "The owners are very nice and helpful. It is mostly occupied by regulars but the rental sites are close to the very clean bathrooms and showers. The swimming pool is a nice bonus!"
Educational programs: Hills Creek State Park offers ranger-led nature programs. "The rangers offer educational programs that are free of charge! Near by attractions: PA Grand Canyon! Beautiful!!!! Go for the day and take hike! Plan on many steps though!!!"
Privacy levels: Site spacing varies significantly between locations. At Colton Point, "I love that you can pick your own tucked away spot within the camp area but yet still close enough to other people." This contrasts with more developed campgrounds where sites may be closer together.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most cabin facilities close during winter months. Newtown Battlefield State Park Campground operates from "May 20 to October 16" while other parks have similar seasonal constraints.
Water quality concerns: At some locations, water requires filtration. One camper at Ferenbaugh Campground reported: "I actually bought a dual stage water filter and change it every two weeks" due to water quality issues.
Wildlife awareness: Black bears inhabit the region, requiring proper food storage. At Hills Creek, campers are advised: "Warning, there are black bears and other wild life at Hills Creek, take care to lock up your coolers!!! We heard some fighting raccoons at night!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several cabin locations offer child-friendly facilities. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park PA Wilds features "two playgrounds, a pool, two jumping pillows, mini train, carousel, and activities. Good for bike riding although hilly." Another visitor mentioned, "We always get a site on the outside of the main circle by the tower slide. There's lots of shade and optimum view of both playgrounds to keep an eye on the kiddos."
Swimming options: Multiple cabin locations offer swimming facilities. At Camp Bell Campground, "kids enjoyed the the big playground and mini arcade. Has a large pool for swimming and fun activities."
Site selection strategy: For families with children, consider location carefully. At Jellystone Park, "The entry road to the campground itself is a very steep, narrow road with a small curve at the top. It's well-maintained but keep an eye out for campers coming down. There's space for getting by but it's tight."
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Cabin amenities differ significantly between locations. At Watkins Glen/Corning KOA, "The full hookups were good, there was a concrete pad and nice fire ring in our site." Other locations may offer more basic accommodations.
Site terrain: Many cabin areas feature hilly terrain. At Jellystone Park, one camper noted the campground is "Good for bike riding although hilly. The site we booked online had bad measurements, so when we got there we found our trailer wouldn't fit. The camp map is close but not very accurate, so calling them to book if you have any questions is the way to go."
GPS directions: When driving to cabins, standard GPS may provide incorrect guidance. For Jellystone Park, "Standard GPS directions for this campground are wrong, (coming from 15N they have you turn right at the end of the ramp, you need to turn left) So plot your route before you go."
