Cabin Camping near Mount Carmel, PA

Camping cabins near Mount Carmel, Pennsylvania offer shelter in the rugged ridge-and-valley terrain of central Pennsylvania's anthracite coal region. The area sits between three mountain ridges and experiences cold winters with occasional heavy snowfall, while summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F during peak camping season. Winter cabin camping requires advance preparation as several locations operate seasonally.

What to do

Waterfall hiking trails: At Ricketts Glen State Park Campground, visitors can access 22 named waterfalls along the Falls Trail system. "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. The trails are very well marked."

Boulder field exploration: The boulder fields at Hickory Run State Park Campground provide a unique geological attraction. "We took a drive on 2 afternoons on a stone road through the woods to see the Boulder Field. It was a beautiful drive. We were on the lookout for bear, but only saw 3 deer." The boulder field features large rocks in an unusual formation that children particularly enjoy exploring.

Amusement park access: Several cabin options provide easy transportation to Knoebels Amusement Park. "One of my favorite campgrounds for Knoebels theme park. The campground itself is very clean except around the actual lake because of the geese nothing you can do about that... Showers are great and the camp store has plenty of Staples. Big campsites so you don't feel crowded."

What campers like

Streamside sites: Many campers prefer creek and riverside cabin sites at Lake Glory Campground for the natural cooling effect and recreational opportunities. "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. We have never used the bus to head to the park - but it is one more nice thing they add to help make your stay relaxing."

Modern bath facilities: At several locations, newly renovated bathrooms enhance the cabin camping experience. "We stay at lake glory every year while visiting Knoebels. I do have to say I love the bath houses here. They are each their own individual rooms split into shower/changing room. I like the privacy and it made it much easier when my daughter was small."

Winter yurt options: For cold weather camping, insulated yurts at Tuscarora State Park Campground provide year-round comfort. "Yurts have 2 sets of bunk beds with one set having full size mattress on bottom. Yurts have heat and fans. Full size refrigerator, stove and microwave. No water but directly across from facilities with basin sinks outside for cleaning dishes, etc. Each yurt has a huge deck, 2 picnic tables and fire pit."

What you should know

Seasonal operation restrictions: Most cabin facilities have limited winter availability. "We planned a last minute trip here and had a really nice time. It's brand new as of 2021 and as such has lots of modern amenities! The hookups are excellently done and the fire rings all have adjustable grates — this was very handy!"

Variable water service: Water access differs between cabin styles and locations. At Jonestown/Hershey KOA, "Tent sites also have raised pads/beds for the tents to be set up and have options near the creek for both tents and RVs. I was impressed by how clean the bathrooms were kept in addition to the grounds."

Strict reservation windows: Most cabins require booking 6-12 months in advance for summer weekends. "Book early....these sites fill fast!"

Tips for camping with families

Activity planning: Many family cabins include access to specialized family programs. "We come here once a year to take our grandkids on an annual camping trip with us. Lots to do! Playgrounds, special events, crafts. Very nice sites and shower houses are very clean. Staff is excellent. Camp store is well stocked. Can't beat this place!!"

Cabin sleeping arrangements: Most standard cabins accommodate 6-8 people in bunk configurations. "We have camped in our pop up but we have also rented the cabins here too. Either way is a great way to stay the weekend and enjoy the park. Restrooms are clean. Nice large sink to wash dishes. Single cabins have three double beds with two up top in the loft and one down below."

Off-season temperature variations: Cabins can experience significant temperature fluctuations in spring and fall. "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."

Tips from RVers

Campsite selection: At Twin Grove RV Resort, experienced RVers recommend checking site dimensions carefully. "Upon arrival we realized that our camper was not going to fit on the site we reserved. The office was very easy to work with and we easily traded sites. It worked out great as we were able to get a full hookup without having to pay anything extra!"

Electrical capacity: During summer heat waves, electrical systems at some parks may run below optimal voltage. "Electric ran below 110 volts the entire weekend and the water had a brownish tint to it. It was a VERY hot weekend so I should mention that everyone had their air running."

Alternative housing options: Many RV parks offer cabins as an alternative when traveling with non-RV guests. "Our friends were able to camp right aside of us in their tent and use our RV site for cooking and campfire. We really enjoy it at this campground and are looking forward to going back again."