Camping cabins near Mahanoy City, Pennsylvania provide affordable lodging options across various terrain types within the anthracite coal region. Located in Schuylkill County at approximately 1,240 feet above sea level, this area experiences seasonal temperature fluctuations with warm summer days reaching the 80s and cool nights dropping into the 50s. Woodland cabin sites typically require advance booking 6-12 months ahead during peak season from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
What to do
Explore boulder fields: At Hickory Run State Park Campground, visitors can experience the unusual 16-acre boulder field formed during the last ice age. "The Boulder Fields are one of the coolest places I've ever visited, partially because they were so unexpected. Don't twist an ankle, but you can play hide and seek to an extent as there are small depressions in the fields," notes one camper.
Enjoy water activities: Several campgrounds offer lake access for recreation. At Mauch Chunk Lake Park, guests can enjoy swimming and paddling. "Our first time tent camping was here and it set a great tone. We set up the tent, kayaked on the lake, cooked up some dinner, watched a strawberry super moon rise over the lake," shares one visitor who followed up with rafting on the Lehigh River just 10 minutes away.
Hike waterfall trails: Multiple trail options exist for waterfall viewing, particularly at Ricketts Glen State Park, about 45 minutes from Mahanoy City. "The biggest draw to this state park is the 22 waterfalls! We saw 18 of them on a four-mile moderate hike, but if you want to see the additional four, you could make it a seven-mile hike. The trails are very well marked," reports one hiker.
What campers like
Disconnecting completely: Some campgrounds offer a true escape from technology. At Tuscarora State Park Campground, one camper appreciates this feature: "If you want to be disconnected, literally because there is no cell service, then this is the place for you. Campsites are not even any where near each other. It's like you have the whole forest to yourself!"
Theme park access: Proximity to Knoebels Amusement Park makes Lake Glory Campground popular with families. "We stay at lake glory every year while visiting Knoebels. It's so much quieter than Knoebels campground and so much more room. We love the creek side sites! Kids can wade in the water to cool off while parents are chatting and cooking just few feet away," explains a regular visitor.
Updated facilities: Many campers appreciate modernized bathrooms and shower facilities. At Blue Rocks Family Campground, visitors note the well-maintained grounds: "Lovely camp site with access to a lot of amenities, all the while keeping a 'primative' feel. Pool, playground, camp store, bike and golf cart rentals."
What you should know
Bear precautions: Multiple campgrounds report bear activity requiring food storage precautions. One Tuscarora State Forest camper warns: "There are bear in the region so be weary with your food. No noise pollution. No light pollution. No large towns anywhere near here all towns with very minimal population."
Reservation timing: Peak season requires significant advance planning. At Ricketts Glen, sites fill quickly, especially lakeside options. "The campground was about ¾ full and there was often a wait in the bathroom. Showers looked reasonable but I did not use them," notes one visitor describing the facilities.
Water conditions: Some campgrounds occasionally experience water quality issues. At Ricketts Glen, one camper reported: "The water had been tested earlier in the season and unsafe levels of manganese were detected. All water spigots were shut off and covered but we were told it was safe to wash our dishes and brush our teeth."
Tips for camping with families
Choose secluded sites: For family camping near Mahanoy City, look for campgrounds with space between sites. "We lucked out in Bermuda Triangle as there was a little more space and we were further away from some of the noise. The sites are clean and well maintained," shares a Knoebels Campground visitor.
Pack for temperature variations: Weather can change significantly throughout the day and night. "We went in late august and although it was pool weather during the day time the temperatures dropped somewhat dramatically into the evening hours so bring clothes for both 70-80 degree weather and 40-50 degree weather overnight," advises a Knoebels camper.
Consider lake-view sites: Waterfront camping offers both recreation and views. At Jim Thorpe Camping Resort, you can request sites with better positioning: "You can get sites right on the water that are nice size. If you go during the week, it's quite calm. You are in beautiful Jim Thorpe that has white water rafting in town, plus great restaurants and bars."
Tips from RVers
Check site levelness: Many campgrounds in the mountainous terrain require leveling equipment. At Jim Thorpe Camping Resort, one RVer noted: "The only reason I didn't give this 5 stars is because our site wasn't level and it took hours to get it right. After that... we had the best time!!"
Call ahead for early arrivals: Some campgrounds offer flexible check-in times. At Lakewood Park Campground, one RVer shared: "I contacted the campground by email after 11pm to inquire about availability to arrive a day early. I sent an email rather than a phone call as I had no expectation of a response until at least the next day. They replied within minutes."
Book mid-week for quieter stays: Several RVers recommend weekday camping for more peaceful experiences. "If you go during the week, it's quite calm," advises one Mauch Chunk Lake Park visitor, noting significant differences in noise levels and bathroom wait times between weekday and weekend stays.
