Cabin camping near Milroy, Pennsylvania offers unique opportunities for visitors to explore the central Pennsylvania mountains without pitching tents. Nestled at approximately 750 feet elevation, the area experiences distinct seasonal changes with warm summers averaging 85°F and winters often below freezing. Most cabin facilities remain open from April through October, though some provide year-round shelter options.
What to do
Lake activities at Poe Valley: The 25-acre lake at Poe Valley State Park Campground provides swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities within walking distance of cabin accommodations. "Lovely area with many shaded spots... The beach was nice, not crowded, soft sand, and warm water. It's a great lake to kayak or paddle board on," notes Taylor V.
Wildlife viewing: Bald eagles nest near cabin sites at Little Buffalo State Park Campground, located about 45 miles from Milroy. "Wildlife is everywhere and there is even an eagle nest in the park and you can see the pair and often their young," shares Dawn N. The park combines cabin accommodations with wildlife observation opportunities.
Cave exploration: The Woodward Cave Campground offers cabin stays with on-site cave tours, creating a unique lodging-activity combination. "This campground is off the beaten path which we like. Best part was it had its own cave!" writes Jen R. The location sits about 30 minutes from Penn's Cave, which offers boat tours through water-filled caverns.
What campers like
Riverside relaxation: Buttonwood Campground cabins provide riverside accommodations with tubing opportunities. "Large grassy sites right on the Juniata River. Tubing, canoeing, swimming. Nice pool. GORGEOUS landscaping," states Darcy S. The campground divides into two sections with riverfront cabins in the lower area.
Digital disconnection: Many cabin campers appreciate the lack of cell service at more remote locations. "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!!" explains Rebecca G. about Poe Valley. This creates a true retreat atmosphere without technological distractions.
Dark skies for stargazing: Cabin campers at Raymond B. Winter State Park Campground enjoy exceptional night sky viewing due to minimal light pollution. "The night skies were beautiful (starry starry night w/little light pollution) and trails galore leading directly from the campground," reports Kassie F. The park's remote location creates ideal conditions for astronomy enthusiasts.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most cabin facilities require advance booking, especially for summer weekends. "Make a reservation way ahead of your date as this campground is very popular and sites book early," advises Denise D. about Black Moshannon State Park Campground. Weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day typically fill months in advance.
Temperature fluctuations: Mountain elevations cause significant temperature drops after sunset, even during summer months. "We stayed in the mountains and it rained and got chilly, but the cabin stayed warm and dry," mentions a visitor to Seven Mountains Campground. Pack appropriate layers regardless of season.
Limited shopping options: Bellefonte-State College KOA offers a store with basic provisions, but selection varies by location. "There were toys, T-shirts, novelty ice cream, supplies, drinks, and a slush machine," notes Joan. More remote cabin locations require bringing all supplies from larger towns before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Pool facilities: "The pool area is nice, safe and clean. There is a large area that is only 1 foot deep, great for little ones! There is also a splash pad!" reports Paula R. about Little Buffalo State Park Campground. Most pool facilities charge separate entrance fees, even for overnight cabin guests.
Activity planning: Many campgrounds offer scheduled programming for children. "Plenty of things to do for the kids. Ours really enjoyed the bounce pillow, laser tag and peddle cars the most," shares Bryan S. about Waterside Campground and RV Park, which provides year-round cabin rentals.
Safety considerations: Road crossings between cabin areas and recreation facilities require attention. "I recommend you drive across because the road is a high speed limit and might not be safe to cross," advises Amanda H. about facility layout at Little Buffalo. Review campground maps before arrival to understand distances between cabins and amenities.
Tips from RVers
Campground layout understanding: "The campground is divided by a local road and has 2 different feels. The lower section is right by the river with several riverfront sites and many river view sites. The upper side has the playground and kids activities," explains Bryan S. about Buttonwood Campground. Review site maps when booking to select cabins closest to desired amenities.
Full hookup alternatives: Many RVers recommend cabins when full hookup sites are unavailable. "We stayed in their rustic cabin. The cabin was nice and clean. Bathrooms were really clean and had really nice showers," mentions a visitor to Waterside Campground, formerly known as Locust Campground.
Winter accessibility: Year-round cabins provide alternatives when RV water systems would freeze. "The 'lodges' at Bellefonte-State College KOA have heating systems capable of operating during winter conditions," notes a winter visitor. This extends camping seasons beyond traditional RV travel periods.
