Camping cabins near McClure, Pennsylvania provide accessible lodging options in the central Pennsylvania region, which features rolling Appalachian foothills with elevations between 600-1,800 feet. Weather conditions vary significantly by season, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter temperatures often dropping below freezing. Most cabin sites remain open from April through October, though several offer winter accommodations with heating systems.
What to do
Lake activities: swimming and boating: At Raymond B. Winter State Park Campground, visitors enjoy a small lake with swimming facilities. "The lake is small, more like a pond, but super cold and clean water, as it is fed by two mountains streams. The beach is amazing. Tons and tons of clean sand, no rocks, and lots of space to play and swim," notes Greg S.
River tubing and water sports: Buttonwood Campground provides tubing on the Juniata River. "Tubing down the river is so fun and the highlight of a stay here," according to Heather G. The campground offers a shuttle service for tubers and provides additional water activities.
Hiking and trail exploration: Cabin campers can access numerous hiking trails directly from their accommodations. "Beautiful hiking trails and bike trails," mentions Jolene J. about Raymond B. Winter State Park. Trail difficulties range from easy family walks to more challenging mountain terrain routes.
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Many campers appreciate the quiet environment at cabin locations. At Poe Valley State Park Campground, Taylor V. notes, "Lovely area with many shaded spots. Electric hookup but no sewer or water hookups. The bath house is extremely clean and they have warm showers which was nice."
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness ranks highly in visitor reviews. "Bath houses were clean and private which was a nice plus," writes Jason H. about Buttonwood Campground. Most parks maintain regular cleaning schedules for all shared facilities.
Family-oriented activities: Campgrounds feature various amenities for children. "The campground has two distinct levels with open spaces with few trees above and well shaded spots with large trees for shade located down along Juniata River. Great place for fishing, tubing or just getting wet. Campground has many activities for kids," shares Gary C.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Several cabin locations have poor or no cellular connectivity. Rebecca G. notes about Poe Valley State Park, "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!!"
Reservations essential: Most camping cabins require advance booking, particularly during summer months. Many sites fill up weeks or months ahead, especially on holiday weekends.
Variable shower facilities: Shower accommodations differ between locations. At Raymond B. Winter, "There are showers in the campground too," according to Jolene J., while other locations may have pay showers or limited facilities. Some cabins like those at Lake Heron require quarters for showers at "25 cent a minute."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access considerations: While several campgrounds offer swimming pools, these often require additional fees. Paula R. from Little Buffalo State Park Campground notes, "Nice for a smaller campground. Only downfall is we have smaller children and we could not bike from the campground to the pool, it was too far and the hill to get back was too big for them to ride up. Pool was great once you got there."
Activity wristband systems: Some locations use wristband systems for amenity access. At Buttonwood Campground, Bryan S. explains: "Plan on spending $20 per person for an activity wristband that includes all the extras including mini golf and tubing shuttle."
Campstore supplies: Many locations maintain stores with basic provisions. "The concession stand is so cool. They have great food, lots of treats, and beach supplies and toys too, all reasonably priced," shares Greg S. about Raymond B. Winter State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing variations: Campsite proximity differs widely between locations. At Ferryboat Campsites, Robin notes, "Site was level and shaded, but very close to neighbors. Most sites were occupied by permanent or seasonal residents."
Leveling requirements: Some cabin and RV sites require adjustment for comfort. At Lake Heron Retreat, Camille W. reports, "Leveling was fine. Verizon service was fine."
Firewood availability and cost: Campground firewood prices vary significantly. At Ferryboat Campsites, Melissa observes, "Wood at the camp store is incredibly expensive — they don't sell to nightly campers by anything more than the small bundle ($8)." Consider bringing approved firewood or purchasing from local vendors for longer stays.
