Cabin camping options near Montgomery, Pennsylvania vary from rustic accommodations to deluxe units with modern conveniences. Located in the northeastern part of the state, this region features low-lying forests along the Susquehanna River valley where elevation ranges from 450-800 feet. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing from November through March, making heated cabin accommodations popular during colder months.
What to do
Waterfall hiking trips: Ricketts Glen State Park Campground offers excellent access to 22 waterfalls within hiking distance. "The biggest draw to this state park (which no one in Pennsylvania I spoke with seemed to know about) 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," notes one visitor.
Swimming in Lake Jean: During summer months, Ricketts Glen provides a sandy beach area for swimming. "The beach was a little more than a half mile walk from our site," explains a camper, making it easily accessible from the cabin areas.
Fishing ponds: Williamsport South-Nittany Mountain KOA includes fishing ponds for guests. "Fishing pond and great store and ice cream shop," reports one camper who enjoyed this amenity during their stay.
Animal interactions: Family-friendly activities at Williamsport South-Nittany KOA include a small animal area. "There are many activities available: swimming pool, recreation hall, fishing pond, biking, hiking/walking, mini golf, jumping pillow, playground, basketball, shuffleboard and more," describes a visitor who appreciated the range of options.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Raymond B. Winter State Park Campground offers more secluded cabin options. "Pretty nice campground, camp sites all over and very secluded and private. 10/10," writes one camper about the level of seclusion available.
Night sky viewing: The minimal light pollution in some areas creates opportunities for stargazing. "The night skies were beautiful (starry starry night w/little light pollution) and trails galore leading directly from the campground," notes a visitor to Raymond B. Winter State Park.
River access: Riverside Campground & Riverside Roadhouse provides cabin sites with water access. "Sites are right next to river where we set up lawn chairs in river and let the kids play," reports one visitor who enjoyed the waterfront location.
On-site entertainment: Some cabins offer nearby evening activities. "There is a restaurant in the campground too," writes a Riverside camper, while another mentions, "The bands were great both nights. We all took the kayaks out on the Susquehanna River that runs behind the property for a sunny paddle."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Many cabin locations have limited connectivity. "No cell service, which is refreshing. The sound of the creek nearby is really soothing," writes a visitor to Worlds End State Park Campground, noting the communication restrictions.
Bathroom facilities: Bathroom availability varies by cabin type. "It feels like you're in another world, or at least separated from the daily hassles and vexations of society, with a wall of a mountain between you and them," explains a Worlds End visitor describing the remote nature of the accommodations.
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds experience seasonal water issues. "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," reports a Ricketts Glen camper.
Seasonal operating schedules: Many cabins close during winter months. "We had the pleasure of renting a cabin at World's End State Park for the first time in February 2016 after being convinced by friends to check it out," indicates one visitor, highlighting the year-round availability of some cabins.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Pioneer Campground organizes seasonal events for families with children. "We started with a trip in the summer because of their candy bar hunt and heated swimming pool. We try to get the same campsite each year because it is wooded and spacious," writes a regular visitor.
Halloween weekends: Multiple campgrounds offer special fall programming. "They do a haunted woods that we felt the kids were too young for- maybe next time! They do hot chocolate and goodies in the store during the evening and there are tons of photo ops!" explains a Pioneer camper.
Playground options: Evaluate playground availability when choosing a cabin location. "They have a pool, nice playground with neat zipline for kids. Animals to see and feed. Hayride or firetruck ride in evening. Movie at night. Crafts to do with kids too," describes a visitor to Yogi At Shangri-La On the Creek.
Site selection for privacy: Choose sites away from main roads for quieter family time. "We unfortunately got stuck in infamous Northeast PA weather but we made the best of it. There were thunderstorms and campsite was a little flooded but we were still able to camp," notes a Riverside camper describing weather considerations.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many cabin areas have uneven terrain. "Our full hookup site was large with table and fire ring, and required some leveling," explains a Ricketts Glen visitor describing their site conditions.
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations can be significant. "If you come in the fall, make sure you bring a cold weather sleeping bag or heater because the temp does drop," advises a Worlds End camper.
Seasonal road conditions: Winter access to some cabin areas requires preparation. "We were given a pull through site with water close to the bath house, which was very clean and had nice warm showers," notes a Williamsport South-Nittany Mountain KOA visitor describing the amenities available.
Advance reservations: Popular cabin locations fill quickly during peak seasons. "Book early as they sell out fast!" advises a Knoebels camper about securing accommodations in advance.