Black Moshannon State Park Campground offers cabin accommodations on a 250-acre lake about 25 miles from Lemont. The area sits at approximately 2,000 feet elevation with cool summer temperatures and extended winter seasons. Most cabin camping near Lemont centers around state parks with woodland settings, though private campgrounds provide additional options with varying amenities and reservation policies.
What to do
Lake activities: At Black Moshannon State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy the distinctive dark-colored water that results from past iron ore mining. "Great camping area stop a mountain...nice unique lake that is incredibly dark in color. Lilly pads abound with great flowers," notes one camper. The lake supports fishing, boating, and wildlife observation throughout the warm season.
Trail access: Seven Mountains Campground provides direct access to hiking networks. Many trails connect directly to camping areas for day hikes. "The park also runs a ton of classes for different things like fly fishing, hiking, etc," according to a visitor who appreciated the educational programming available near the trails.
Winter recreation: Some cabins remain open during cold months when most tent camping areas close. Winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing at select locations. The Bald Eagle area maintains trails accessible from cabin areas during winter months when roads remain plowed.
What campers like
Private sites: Campers frequently mention site privacy as a significant factor in choosing cabin locations. At Seven Points, reviewers note that "the sites are situated nicely, your neighbors are not 'right there'" making the experience more peaceful even during busy weekends.
Clean facilities: Russell P Letterman Campground receives consistent praise for maintenance standards. "Clean grounds and bath houses," mentions one visitor who appreciated the well-kept shower facilities that complement basic cabin amenities. Shower buildings typically include 3-4 shower stalls with hot water.
Lake views: Waterfront cabins command the highest demand but provide direct access to water activities. "The sites are secluded, private, quiet and woodsy" at select waterfront locations. Bald Eagle and Black Moshannon offer water-view cabins that provide convenient lake access without leaving your accommodation area.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Football weekends at Penn State create exceptional demand for all accommodations within 30 miles of Lemont. "Make a reservation way ahead of your date as this campground is very popular and sites book early," advises one visitor to Bald Eagle State Park.
Cell service limitations: Several parks have limited connectivity. Poe Valley campers note "there isn't any cell service as you are way back in the mountain but it's so beautiful and relaxing you won't care!" Pack printed directions as GPS may not function reliably in mountainous terrain.
Cabin variations: Standards vary significantly between parks and even within the same facility. State park cabins typically fall into modern or rustic categories, while private campgrounds like Seven Mountains offer more standardized amenities. Rustic options may lack running water or electricity.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Poe Valley State Park Campground offers family-friendly beach areas with shallow entry points. "They have a swimming area, concession stand, showers, bathrooms and changing area. You can camp, fish, boat, kayak, hike and swim!" making it suitable for families with diverse interests.
Playground access: Check cabin proximity to play areas when booking with children. Some campgrounds cluster family-friendly amenities, while others spread them throughout. "Nice campground with quiet 250 acre lake for kayaking. Good birding" - indicating activities suitable for different age groups.
Educational opportunities: Ranger programs provide structured learning for children during peak season. Most state parks offer scheduled nature walks, craft sessions, and wildlife presentations primarily on weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: When transitioning from an RV to a cabin, experienced campers recommend checking cabin parking areas. At Bellefonte-State College KOA, visitors note that "our site was the only one available for that weekend and it was a premium with a large paved patio with a nice outdoor patio set with table and chairs, a swing, and a sunken fire pit."
Kitchen supplies: Unlike most RVs, rustic cabins may lack kitchen facilities. "My family and I stayed here one night during a motorcycle trip. We rented 1 of the cabins they have on the property and it was great all of us fit comfortably we were able to have a campfire out front and sit at a picnic table," indicating the need to plan for outdoor cooking at basic cabins.
Winter options: Few cabin locations offer winter accommodations with full utilities. Select locations at Black Moshannon and Bald Eagle maintain year-round cabins for cold weather use, though expect to bring additional heating supplies and winter bedding.
