Cabin camping near Lincoln University, Pennsylvania places visitors in the heart of southeastern Pennsylvania's rural landscape. The region sits at elevations between 300-500 feet with cool autumn nights often dropping to 40°F even when daytime temperatures remain mild. Winter cabin rentals should include heating systems as December through February temperatures frequently fall below freezing, while summer cabin stays benefit from tree cover for natural cooling.
What to do
Water recreation: 15-minute drive from French Creek State Park Campground, where two lakes offer multiple activities. "There's a huge lake where you can rent canoes and kayaks. A huge pool that has a beautiful view overlooking the lake," notes one visitor. The park contains both Scotts Run Lake and Hopewell Lake for fishing, kayaking or relaxing.
Historic exploration: 8 miles from cabin sites to Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site. "Not too far from the campground is Hopewell National Furnace and St. Peter's Village with shops and restaurants and hiking trails as well," explains a French Creek State Park camper. The iron furnace operated from 1771-1883.
Amish countryside tours: Walking distance from many cabins. A visitor at Beacon Hill Camping mentions, "Within walking distance are Amish shops, and guided tours into the Amish countryside." Watch for horse-drawn equipment working nearby fields, especially during planting and harvest seasons.
What campers like
Spacious cabin sites: Spring Gulch Resort Campground offers premium cabin options. "The one we stayed in had a set of bunk beds, a queen bed, and a fold out couch. It also had a bathroom with shower/tub and everything you would need except linens," reports a camper.
Kid-friendly activities: Multiple cabin locations cater to families with children. One visitor at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park states, "We just got back from this campground after spending 5 nights there. The water park is super fun for adults and kids. The entire campground is clean and very well maintained."
Peaceful settings: Many cabin sites back up to natural features. "We had a nice site that backed up to a small creek. Very scenic and laid back campground," writes a Mill Bridge Village visitor. Creek-side cabins often cost $5-10 more per night but provide enhanced privacy and natural white noise.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Book cabin accommodations 4-6 months ahead for summer weekends. According to a Mill Bridge Village camper, "Office personnel were so very helpful. Office does close at 4 but that is due to staff shortages."
Site preferences: Request specific cabin locations when possible. A visitor at Lancaster-New Holland KOA advises, "We paid $135/night for Back-in Patio Site #25. A bit pricey considering the lack of elbow room, but it's a great site and everything is well-kept."
Seasonal considerations: Not all cabin facilities maintain year-round operations. "This is a great spot for visiting Pennsylvania Amish of Lancaster County and about a one-hour drive to Hersheypark," explains a Philadelphia-West Chester KOA camper.
Bathroom facilities: Cleanliness varies significantly between properties. "The bathhouse was clean and included two dish washing stations outside. The showers had good pressure and hot water. It was cleaned often throughout the weekend, however it is definitely in need of an update," notes one French Creek State Park visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Pack extra linens: Most cabin rentals do not include bedding. One camper at Old Mill Stream Campground explains, "Nice campground with a creek that runs along the backside of the campground! Even though the amusement park wasn't open yet, kids still had a good time!"
Consider proximity to attractions: Select cabins based on your primary activities. "The campground is in a good location to Lancaster and other quaint Amish towns like Bird-In-Hand, Paradise, and Intercourse. Just a little bit north of the campground is the beautiful town of Lititz which is definitely worth a visit," recommends an Old Mill Stream visitor.
Check age policies: Some facilities maintain age restrictions. A Beacon Hill camper notes, "Pet friendly. No children. No frills. Great place to explore Amish country from."
Evaluate seasonal activities: Summer offers different options than spring or fall. "We had stayed in this campground about 5 years ago and we loved it. We returned this year with my 12 and 14 year olds and a 12 year old friend. The kids were bored," cautions a Jellystone Park visitor about teen activities.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Most cabin sites feature established pads. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other," reports a French Creek State Park visitor.
Access considerations: Check road width when selecting locations. A Philadelphia-West Chester KOA visitor warns, "I did have major trouble backing in because the road is too narrow for a 45' motorhome to back in on a nearly 90-degree angle."
Connection quality: Wi-Fi and cellular service vary significantly across the region. "AT&T service is good. Wifi at our site was a bit weak," notes a Beacon Hill camper about connectivity options.
Site selection: Evaluate tree cover based on season and equipment needs. "We checked out the other loops for future use and found Loop A to have very spacious, less rocky sites, however, there was little shrubbery between each site, making them less private than the sites in Loop C," advises a French Creek State Park visitor.
