Camping cabins near Mountain Top, Pennsylvania offer rustic to modern lodging options set within the Pocono Mountains, where elevations range from 1,300 to 2,300 feet. Winter temperatures can drop below 10°F while summer averages 78°F, making cabin rentals practical year-round. Many cabins require reservations 6-11 months in advance for peak seasons.
What to do
Boulder field exploration: Hickory Run State Park features a unique 16-acre boulder field. "Boulders everywhere! Big ones, small ones, run (carefully) across them all! Beyond the Boulder field is a vast, scary, unknown," notes Mike M. about the unusual geological formation at Hickory Run State Park Campground.
Waterfall hikes: The Falls Trail at Ricketts Glen showcases 22 distinct waterfalls. "The biggest draw to this state park 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," explains Lee D. about Ricketts Glen State Park Campground.
Winter activities: Some cabins remain open during colder months when crowds thin out. "This state park is just beautiful with a nice lake and beautiful trails," shares Vika Z. about Ricketts Glen during non-peak times when cabin availability improves.
What campers like
Lake access: Many cabins offer proximity to water recreation. "We were in site 20. Easy to back in. Didn't need leveling blocks as our site was nice and level," mentions Angela about her experience at Jim Thorpe Camping Resort, which provides cabin access near Mauch Chunk Lake.
Modern campground stores: Some cabin areas include well-stocked supply shops. "The camp store had good hours and is stocked to high heaven; you could come here with just the clothes on your back and buy everything you need for a very comfortable stay," writes Bridget D. about Hickory Run's convenience factor.
Wildlife viewing: Many cabin sites offer animal watching opportunities. "We saw deer daily. There are 3 resident geese who wander around near the creek and lakes," reports Becca U. about her stay at Moyers Grove Campground, where wildlife frequently visits cabin areas.
What you should know
Bathroom access varies: Some cabins lack private facilities. "The bathhouse was okay. I truly appreciate that during this pandemic time they asked all campers with facilities to use their own showers to more safely accommodate tent campers," explains Sharon B. at Whispering Pines Camping Estates.
Connectivity limitations: Cell service can be unrestricted to nonexistent. "Site was pretty nice, but there is very little privacy as the sites are so close to each other. Also no service (Verizon)," reports T K. about Ricketts Glen cabin areas.
Seasonal water restrictions: Water availability can change unexpectedly. "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," notes Lee D. about temporary conditions at Ricketts Glen that affected cabin users.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Some cabins sit near play areas. "There is a playground, pool, arcade, and office store," mentions Melissa K. about Jim Thorpe Camping Resort, making it suitable for families with children needing entertainment.
Educational exhibits: Nature centers supplement cabin stays with learning opportunities. "The visitors center boasts the most modern updates and a truly lovely interactive museum displaying the history and current wildlife of the park," explains Shayna about Tobyhanna State Park Campground, which offers year-round educational resources.
Safety considerations: Wildlife awareness matters when cabin camping with children. "We were warned to be cautious about leaving food out as there have been some bear sightings," Jennifer D. recalls about Hickory Run, where proper food storage practices are essential.
Tips from RVers
Utility considerations: Cabin renters should verify hookup options. "There are sites right on the lake. The bathrooms aren't the greatest but overall it's a beautiful place," Stephan H. mentions about Tobyhanna State Park Campground, where cabins have different electricity availability.
Site leveling: Some cabin locations require adjustment work. "The only reason I didn't give this 5 stars is because our site wasn't level and it took hours to get it right," explains Angie G. about Jim Thorpe Camping Resort, noting preparation time needed for some cabin sites.
Year-round access: Winter cabin reservations offer different experiences. "This campground can get packed and loud on busy nights. During the week it is very quiet," Jessica W. advises about the seasonal variations at Jim Thorpe Camping Resort, suggesting weekday bookings for quieter cabin experiences.
