Cabin camping options near Mount Gretna, Pennsylvania sit within the northeastern foothills of South Mountain at elevations ranging from 700-900 feet. This area experiences distinct seasons with winter temperatures often dropping below freezing, while summer months typically reach the mid-80s. Morning fog commonly settles in the lower valleys during spring and fall camping seasons, creating temperature variations between ridges and valley campsites.
What to do
Outdoor recreation at Gifford Pinchot State Park: The 339-site campground offers more than just camping with numerous recreational options. "I took an early morning hike on the 8.5 mile Lakeside Trail that goes around the lake and it was really awesome to see the lake from all different angles," shares one Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground visitor. The park features two 18-hole disc golf courses and multiple fishing access points.
Visit Pennsylvania Dutch Country: Cabin rentals provide convenient access to authentic Amish experiences. "Not much for amenities, but I loved the surrounding dutch/Amish towns! It was pretty cool to seemingly step back in time," notes a camper who stayed at Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country. Many cabins are located within 20-30 minutes of traditional farming communities.
Renaissance Faire weekends: Cabins near the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire often fill quickly during event weekends. A visitor at Pinch Pond Family Campground & RV Park mentions, "Stayed here 3x each time in October as they are very close to the PA Renaissance Fair. Easy to get to and beautiful setting, gorgeous trees and feels very woodsy." Reservations should be made 4-6 months in advance for these popular weekends.
What campers like
Proximity to Hershey attractions: Cabins near Mount Gretna provide easy access to Hershey attractions with some offering transport. "They have a shuttle to hershey park and things to do nearby," explains a camper from Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA. Many cabin sites are within a 15-25 minute drive of major attractions.
Clean facilities: Many campers specifically mention cleanliness as a highlight. One reviewer at Jonestown/Hershey KOA stated, "The batthrooms are nice and are designated shelters in case of severe weather." Well-maintained facilities include regularly serviced shower houses and common areas.
Family-focused activities: Cabin campgrounds often provide structured recreation for children. "They had Halloween ever at every weekend of October and we spent Halloween weekend here. The kids loved it!!" shares an enthusiastic visitor to Circle M. Scheduled activities typically run from Memorial Day through Labor Day with weekend programs during spring and fall.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Location within campgrounds can significantly impact your experience. According to one visitor at Hersheypark Camping Resort, "The main part of the grounds the sites are tight and packed in like sardines. The Lazy River section in far away from the noise of the super close train tracks." Reviewing site maps before booking helps identify potential noise or privacy issues.
Environmental considerations: Some campgrounds have specific environmental factors to consider. "Next, and I really wished someone had let us know this before we agreed to stay, but there's a shooting range near the property, so at all hours you will hear target practice going on," warns a reviewer at Pinch Pond Family Campground.
Reservation policies vary: Each cabin provider has different booking requirements and cancellation terms. "As with all thousand trails, this campground is first come, first serve," notes a camper at Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country. Most cabins require 2-night minimum stays with 7-14 day advance reservations during peak seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: When booking with children, consider cabin location relative to play areas. "We were in a back in site #4. The patio was concrete stone, very pretty. Nice chairs, fire pit, and picnic table," mentions a visitor from Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA. Cabins near playgrounds offer convenience but may experience more noise during daytime hours.
Swimming options: Pool access varies significantly between properties. A visitor from Old Mill Stream Campground notes, "Nice campground with a creek that runs along the backside of the campground! Even though the amusement park wasn't open yet, kids still had a good time!" Natural water features may have seasonal restrictions or depth limitations.
Budget considerations: Cabin prices fluctuate based on amenities and season. A Jonestown/Hershey KOA visitor shares, "$40 for a nonelectric, no water site is not great but alright. The fire pits don't have grills at these sites though so be aware." Family cabin rentals typically range from $75-150 per night depending on size and amenities.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some cabin campgrounds that also accommodate RVs have terrain issues. One RVer at Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country notes, "Unlevel is an understatement we were in E row and every camper there had front end 4 foot off the ground." Bringing extra leveling blocks is recommended even when staying in cabins if you plan to park an RV.
Utility connections: Full-hookup sites vary in quality and placement. "The site on either side was the same rusty. Water was rusty in our row came out brown at first then was tan after running through our filter for the entire stay," reports a camper. Filtered water bottles are recommended even in cabins using the campground water system.
Space considerations: Cabin sites often have limited parking. "Sites are very close together. Fire rings are very close to campers," mentions a visitor to Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country. Most cabin sites accommodate one vehicle, with overflow parking available at the main office area.
