Cabin camping near Newmanstown, Pennsylvania is located in a region with elevations ranging between 400-800 feet above sea level in eastern Pennsylvania's limestone valley region. Winter temperatures typically drop to the 20s-30s°F, making year-round cabin options particularly valuable for campers seeking shelter during colder months. Most campgrounds in the area feature wooded settings with mixed deciduous forest providing seasonal shade.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At French Creek State Park Campground, anglers can access two lakes with diverse fish species. "There are several warm water fish in the lakes including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish. Ice fishing is also allowed at both lakes and the ice thickness is monitored," notes one visitor.
Water activities: Several local campgrounds offer water recreation beyond swimming. "We spent Saturday afternoon fishing but not catching anything at Scott's Run. It's a beautiful location and it was still a fun way to spend the day with the kids away from the site," reports a camper who visited French Creek.
Trail access: Some campgrounds connect directly to popular hiking paths. At Jonestown/Hershey KOA, "you can access the Appalachian trail from campground" and "the Swatara creek runs right next to it so it is great for kayaking, tubing, etc," according to visitors.
Miniature golf: Family-friendly recreation is available at multiple campgrounds. Appalachian Camping Resort offers "free mini golf. You can borrow golf clubs but you do have to buy balls," according to one reviewer who appreciated the inclusive activity option.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Pinch Pond Family Campground, "the sites are not on top of one another. There is a lot of shade and the campground is laid out well," according to a visitor. Another camper noted that French Creek has "lots of foliage between sites keeps them pretty private."
Convenient location: Many appreciate the central positioning for day trips. "A great central location to TONS of antique shops," writes a visitor to Dutch Cousin Campground. Another camper notes it offers "easy access" to the region.
Clean facilities: Washroom cleanliness is frequently mentioned in positive reviews. At Jonestown/Hershey KOA, visitors appreciate "clean bathrooms" and note they were "impressed by how clean the bathrooms were kept in addition to the grounds."
Pet accommodations: For those traveling with animals, Shady Oak Campground offers pet-friendly cabins. Dutch Cousin Campground allows pets in standard cabins for an additional $25 fee, according to their policies.
What you should know
Site elevation varies: Many campgrounds in the region have uneven terrain. At Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country, "we had to go out and get more blocks and we're still not very level front to back. We also had to come in on an angle to make the slope less drastic."
Reservations recommended: During peak season, especially for cabin rentals, advance booking is essential. "We were lucky to find a spot that had empty sites on both sides (but people just on top of our site)," notes one visitor about high-season occupancy.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds are affected by nearby highways or other activities. At Pinch Pond, "there's a shooting range near the property, so at all hours you will hear target practice going on, especially in the wee early hours," cautions a reviewer.
Varied cabin amenities: Cabin facilities range significantly between properties. "Depending on your rig size you're only available certain sites. They won't give you a 50 amp site unless your 50 amp or 40', they save them for larger campers," notes one camper about site selection policies.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: When selecting a cabin location, consider proximity to play areas. Hickory Run Family Camping Resort has "lots to do in the park. Sites are best in the 140-160 loop," according to a visitor who appreciated the recreational options.
Seasonal programming: Many campgrounds offer structured activities during peak months. "There were scheduled activities for kids and adults. The majority of seasonal sites were clean and well maintained," notes a visitor about the organized recreation options.
Bathroom proximity: For families with young children, bathroom location matters. "Thankfully, a short walk to the bathroom facilities for us tent campers," mentions one reviewer who selected their site strategically.
Fishing for kids: Several parks offer beginner-friendly fishing opportunities. "My kids went fishing and every cast they caught a fish, some were small... but hey the kids had fun," reports a happy parent who camped in the area.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Full-service cabin and RV sites differ between parks. "The sites are a decent size and was in a good location - near the ponds, pool, office, and bathhouse - but was still quiet!" notes an RVer about their experience.
Leveling challenges: Be prepared with leveling equipment at certain campgrounds. Some visitors mention needing "to come in on an angle to make the slope less drastic" when setting up their rigs on hillside locations.
Early arrival advantages: For the best cabin or RV site selection, timing matters. "The first thing to know is that Thousand Trails sites are a first come, first serve. Meaning you have to arrive early in order to get the best spots," advises one experienced camper.
Bathroom access: Even with private cabin facilities, communal washrooms matter. "The bathrooms were very nice and clean with large showers. Nice area to wash dishes," notes a camper who appreciated these conveniences despite having their own accommodations.
