Cabin camping near Lewisberry, Pennsylvania offers rustic to modern overnight options within the Appalachian foothills region. The area sits at approximately 600 feet elevation with typical summer highs reaching 85°F, while spring and fall temperatures range from 40-70°F. Weather patterns can change quickly in the valleys near Pinchot Lake, with afternoon thunderstorms common during summer months.
What to do
Hiking trails with lake views: At Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground, multiple trail options surround the 340-acre lake. "I took an early morning hike on the 8.5 mile Lakeside Trail that goes around the lake and it was really awesome to see the lake from all different angles," shares one camper who explored the complete circuit.
Disc golf courses: Two separate 18-hole courses provide different play experiences. "Both areas have their own 18 hole disc golf course, but I will say: BEWARE of poison ivy!! We played the first 10 holes around the Conewago day use area and I was shocked at how much poison ivy we had to dodge," warns one visitor who recommends sturdy footwear.
Farm animal interactions: Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm offers daily animal feedings as part of their cabin experience. "Got a kick out of the children playing with the kids (baby goats) pigs, goats, chickens, horses and even lamas. Plenty to see and learn," reports a visitor who particularly enjoyed the morning feeding routines.
Nature trails through cornfields: Several campgrounds maintain walking paths through agricultural landscapes. "It was an easy hike as suggested on the map to circle around and through the cornfield, you get a great view of the farms nearby and the river," notes one camper describing the trail system at Gettysburg Farm.
Swimming options: Public pools and designated swimming areas provide cool relief during hot months. "The pool was nice, especially camping with younger kids," reports one family, while another mentions, "The LARGE beach area in the QR day use area is one of the nicest I've ever seen at a PA state park."
What campers like
Cabin variety and placement: Codorus State Park Campground offers diverse cabin locations. "There is a wide variety of sites so finding one that you like should not be difficult, there are some in wide-open park-like settings, and some that are treed," explains one visitor who appreciates the options for different preferences.
Clean facilities: Bathhouses receive consistent positive mentions. "Bathrooms were nice. The loop C bathrooms had 3 toilet stalls and 2 shower stalls," notes one camper, while another points out, "Bathhouses are nice and clean. I would suggest making sure you aren't close to the tracks bc the trains run all night long!"
Winter accessibility: Some cabins remain open during colder months. "We took a chance in September 2020 and decided to make plans to camp for two nights so we could get some hiking in nearby at the Pine Grove Furnace State Park," mentions a visitor who found cabin options available outside peak season.
Fishing access: Multiple lakes stock fish for recreational anglers. "The lake is nice and they stock it with trout," reports a camper at Cedar Lake Family Campground, where cabin guests can fish from shore without additional hiking.
Family-friendly amenities: "We have camped here several times and love the waterfront sites and the yurts," says one returning visitor to Gifford Pinchot, highlighting how cabin alternatives provide family-friendly comfort with outdoor access.
What you should know
Seasonal availability varies: Not all cabins remain open year-round. "We arrived about an hour early. We were told to wait in overflow. The overflow lot is a grassy area with dips and holes," reports one early-arrival guest at Thousand Trails Hershey.
Reservation windows: During summer, cabins book 6-11 months ahead. "We came amidst COVID-19, so the many activities and events this location usually holds are down, BUT there is still fun to be had here!" notes a visitor who planned well ahead despite restrictions.
Supply requirements: Cabins typically include beds but require guests bring linens. "The sites are level, shaded and quite large. Almost every site in this section was similarly large and wooded, with an impressive amount of space between sites," describes a camper who packed additional comfort items.
Noise considerations: Train tracks near some campgrounds create sound issues. "Nice camp ground but super loud bc of the trains. Bath houses are nice and clean. I would suggest making sure you aren't close to the tracks bc the trains run all night long!" warns a visitor at Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA.
Site variations: Cabin locations and surroundings differ significantly. "We had site 114. It has water access and is right next to a small man made beach and playground," notes one camper who secured a premium location.
Tips for camping with families
Playground locations: Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA features multiple play areas. "We took our 3 yo camping for the first time here. He had so much fun. It was clean campground located in a State Park. Easy walk to the lake with a small beach," reports a parent who appreciated the family-oriented facilities.
Wildlife viewing spots: Specific trails offer better animal sighting opportunities. "This park has a lot to offer, especially in the two main day use areas: the Conewago day use area on the south side of the lake and the Quaker Race day use area on the north side of the lake," explains a visitor who explored both areas.
Educational opportunities: Historical sites connect with nature experiences. "You can also visit the Furnace and the AT Museum, make sure you hear the store about the first through hikers!!!" advises a camper at Pine Grove Furnace State Park Campground.
Rainy day alternatives: Indoor options exist for inclement weather. "The facilities all seemed clean and well-maintained from what we could see," notes a visitor who appreciated having backup activities when outdoor plans changed.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Arrive early for optimal locations. "The first thing to know is that Thousand Trails sites are a first come, first serve. Meaning you have to arrive early in order to get the best spots," advises an experienced camper.
Leveling requirements: Not all sites accommodate larger units easily. "Roads are narrow, but the sites are large and and level. The lake is nice and they stock it with trout," shares a visitor who successfully navigated a challenging access road.
Hookup variations: Electric and water availability differs between sites. "We chose a non-sewage site, the loop is quiet and large and they have the honey wagon 3x a week (free sewage dump service)," notes a camper who selected a more private location despite fewer amenities.
Pull-through availability: Limited options for larger rigs. "We chose a pull through site for our 30 ft TT since we are newbies (our 4th trip). There is ample space between you and your rv neighbor and no real obstructions to park," explains a visitor to Thousand Trails.
