Best Cabin Camping near Ohiopyle, PA

From white water kayaking and guided rafting trips, natural waterslides, to hiking and biking trails - this park has it all! This beautiful park has something to offer for everyone. The campground is nice with several camping options such as tent, camper, yurt and cabin rentals. They also have hot showers, electric options, and pet friendly areas. They have several seasonal events and festivals that are fun for the whole family. Must respect quiet hours here, rangers patrol frequently. For those who want to have a good time and be noisy and share some adult beverages Scarlett Knob campground May be a better option.

We camped at Kentuck Campground (site 192) two weekends before the typical summer camping season (2 weeks before Memorial Day), and I was honestly extremely disappointed in the campground, though part of that frustration is probably more appropriately aimed at the state park system as a whole, and their lack of communication.

Prior to reserving the two campsites (we have a pop-up, and we were camping with my parents, who use a tent), I had called the Kentuck campground park office to ensure the campground was actually open, as the reservation system was very confusing (for this park only - I’ve used the state reservation system more times that I can count). There were special notices at the bottom of the site’s page stating that certain campground facilities were closed, and a conflicting message on the reservation site’s page for the campground - which also mentioned a detour that was necessary for ‘big rig’ campers traveling to the campground. I called the office, spoke with a woman who assured me that the campground was open on the weekends (not during the week), but there was a paving project going on and only the largest bath house near the main entrance was open - cool, no problem, that was the closest one to our camp sites anyway. I booked the sites.

No one - not either website or the woman whom I spoke to - mentioned that the main road to the campground from Ohiopyle was also closed due to a separate paving project. This unanticipated road closure with the typically convoluted PA road system detour - coupled with the fact that everyone in the town of Ohiopyle was telling visitors to the area that the campground was fully closed - infuriated my father and husband so much that we almost turned around and drove back home. After finding a local park ranger and getting detailed directions for how to navigate the 30-minute detour (because… Pennsylvania.), we finally arrived at the campground, along with the other 3 cars that had also frustratingly swarmed around the poor park ranger in town for the same reason.

The campground itself was buggy, not well maintained, and covered in poison ivy. The bathhouses themselves (which were almost all open, unlike what I was told on the phone) were great. The roads were torn up due to the paving project, and the playground area did not look to be maintained. I understand that paving projects need to take place, and that it was the best time of year to do them (several weeks prior to Memorial Day when prime time begins) - I don't fault them for that.

Bottom line is that Ohiopyle is one of the premier outdoor destinations around the Pittsburgh area, and the state park (and additional forests and related state parks nearby) are fantastic in every way - and I expected a state park campground that matched the area. Kentuck is not it!

We booked this state park last minute to go away for memorial day weekend. We were not sure what to expect but were pleasantly Surprise. It's a beautiful park with hundreds of campsites and amazing lake and huge swimming beach area bike rentals boat rentals hiking trails and you can even see some very Old groupcamping cabins. They even have some very adorable cottages for rent.

We stayed in a Ranger Smith Cabin in the upper campground. I give this 3 stars because I'm a state park camper at heart: I prefer more room between sites,  more relaxation and nature when camping. But your kids will love it here: two pools, splashgrounds, fire truck rides, arcades, meeting Yogi and friends, nightly movies...the list goes on. Be prepared for an endless parade of golf carts during your stay. We were underwhelmed by the expensive cabin as it had dorm room furniture and uncomfortable beds. The walk-in tent sites were in a hilly area without pavilions, but reservable tent sites in the lower campground had pavilions and more level ground. This is a great base camp for exploring area attractions in the Laurel Highlands such as Idlewild,  Fort Necessity and the beautiful Ohiopyle State Park. If you go to Idlewild, then stop by Gino's pizza in Ligonier; order the sampler pizza (includes pierogi,  taco, white and margherita)--you won't be disappointed.

I stay in MD State Parks many nights a year, and I probably have the most nights spent in New Germany. It feels like another world. Towering ancient hemlocks, a lake, historic buildings, and miles of meticulously maintained trails. In the summer come to hike, fish, and swim in the lake. Winter offers snowshoeing and cross country skiing (rentals on site). There is even a huge round fireplace to warm yourself up in the lodge. Camp sites are small, and the road is tight, but they aren’t packed in close together. No hookups, but bathrooms are adequate and clean. If you are a cabin person the selection here is incredible. The historic cabins are the star of the show. Also, come for zero cell service (there is a pay phone!). Do not skip over this park for your next adventure.

This place is awesome! Our site (15) was a spacious pull through with great view of the mountain through the fall foliage! Our friends were in the site next to us (17) which was also nice and there was a wide walking path between them. Family also stayed in one of the rental cabins (21). Sites are spaced far apart in the section we were in with lots of foliage for privacy. There is walking path behind the loop along the lake that goes to the beach area and camp store. Easy access to the bath house with several paths off the loop. I recommend the pull through sites for their size and privacy but most sites looked great. The cabin was cute. It had a queen bed, bunk beds, side table and front porch with a couple windows. Picnic tables are large and fire pits were placed perfectly for our site.

Booked a cabin for thanksgiving and it was almost entirely empty but for the other couple cabins. Snow on the ground and the Canton Falls hike was super busy. The outdoor sink has been removed (freeze prep I imagine) which was the only trouble we had. Our first cabin experience was otherwise excellent. So many stars were visible on clear nights. Weekend hunting could be heard every morning. If we needed a supply the camp store was open 8-4 with minor provisions but small towns were about 25 minutes away. Not super far from Deep Creek so we may try again in warmer weather.

We met with friends from Pittsburgh here, they visit often and consider this a hidden gem. We enjoyed the waterfront camping and snowshoeing. We got a site by the water and with good tree cover. They also have cabins but we were just in a tent (I don’t know if the cabins are open all year). Great place to camp for simple beauty.

We have NOT stayed in or photographed the cabins at Herrington Manor state park, but I wanted to provide some photos of the lake and a brief review of the park and facilities as we’ve been there several times.

This lake (the main attraction of the state park) is one of my husband’s favorite fishing spots, especially on the kayaks. Even if you’re not kayaking, it’s just a beautiful place to spend an afternoon. The few times that we’ve visited, we’ve caught a bunch of chain pickerel, panfish, and a few bass. A few summers ago, there was a bald eagle nest on the far side of the lake and you could see them circling and hunting every once in a while. There is a really great beach area for the kids (or adults!) to play at, and a general over-abundance of creatures in and around the lake. There are TONS of salamanders along the shore, literally clouds of tadpoles near the launch docks (if you time it during the right part of the year of course), and the ranger showed us where a couple of snakes were currently making their homes near the main building.

The main park building on the lake itself is great, with clean restrooms, a food concession and small store with HM souvenir items, boat rentals with safety vests, and a cozy little viewing room with seating, a view of the lake, and a huge fireplace in the middle. We’ve never visited HM in the winter, but I’m sure it’s awfully cozy when that thing is roaring.

We love this area, and if we ever end up staying in the cabins (which sound like a great deal), I’ll post another review - we love it so much we come back down every other year or so. It’s beautiful!

My family stayed in one of the cabins while friends were in their campers. The cabin was great, very clean and cozy. The campgrounds are very nice they have a pool as well as a community building and camp store. We had 8 kids and 8 adults who all had a blast playing on the playground, floating down the creek, swimming in the pool, riding bicycles etc. All in all we will definitely be returning

There are many tent sites at this location, as well as RV lodging.  There is a pond you can swim and or fish at.  There are both, modern and rustic cabins to rent.  The rustic cabin has a double bunk, stove and fireplace but no running water or shower or sink.  There is a shower house a short walk away.  the modern cabin is 3 bedrooms with microwave, shower, sink, relax room....there is also the Klaer Lodge built by park enthusiasts in the late 60's made of stone and can accomadate over 50 people.  All made of stone, as 20+ bunk beds upstairs -- huge facility.

There are XC trails, an old school house and even a stage for the weekend music series performances.  Dog friendly as long as on a leash and a little shop where you check in and get necessary supplies, wood bundles...etc..very fun place.

Tented a cabin for two nights to hide from bad weather. Cabin had electric service, a microwave, electric heater, refrigerator and lights. The campground had no other guests during our stay.

The campground is long and narrow bordering on Abrams Creek. We took daily walks to the end of the campground and enjoyed the scenic views.

The campsite has port-a-potties for each cabin and for groups of campsites. Water was clean and had no oder.

The only concern noted was the bath house. It was poorly lighted and made of what looked like left over materials.

The gentleman that checked us in was a wealth of knowledge. He told us all about the campground and told us they offer an outdoor shower. Their were two outdoor shower stalls which were shower curtains next to the shower house.

General: Large campground in four loops with a variety of sites ranging from tent-only, 30-amp electric, 50-amp electric, and 30/50-amp electric, along with eight camper cabins. 

Site Quality: All sites are gravel; most appeared level, but some did not. All sites are wooded but some have more separation than others. Our site backed up to the creek but surprisingly, there was not a lot of water flowing in the spring, 

Bath/Shower house: Basic and dated, but reasonably clean. Did not use the shower.

Activities/Amenities: Many include fishing, swimming, boating, bicycling, hiking, geocaching, and hunting. The lake is separate from the campground, but it is less than a mile away and a reasonable distance walk. There is also a playground, volleyball, shuffleboard, and a large picnic area at the end of one of the loops. Bike and boat rentals are available in the summer season; the season was set to open the day after we left so aside from hiking, we could not avail ourselves of any of the activities (and my husband had a foot injury so even hiking was out for us). There are also laundry facilities, but I did not check these out. 

We were surprised that just a few days before Memorial Day, only a handful of sites were occupied. We’ve been very impressed by the pristine conditions of many Pennsylvania state parks, but this one had a more rustic feel and had not been modernized. Fleeting cell at best on Verizon.

This is a pretty little campground that's actually above the town of Ohiopyle, PA and the beautiful Youghiogheny River. It's nestled among the rhododendrons and maples. There are a few walk-in campsites that give you some additional privacy. It's a nice hike down to town, where you can find whitewater outfitters and bike rentals. The rails-to-trails path goes about 10 miles upstream to Confluence, and you can either bike both ways, or you can bike up and rent a ducky or canoe to paddle back. You're also close to Fallingwater, the legendary Frank Lloyd Wright house, but you will need reservations.

It has it all.. primitive sites and cabins. Hiking, biking, rafting, kyaking and canoeing, fishing, etc.

I've rented cabins up here, biked, hiked, and swam! So exciting and such friendly people and great food everytime!

Ohiopyle is located in a beautiful area of Pennsylvania we've camped there a couple of times and have been able to get last minute tent sites. Lots of outdoor activities nearby.

Swallow Falls has a great loop trail where you see four waterfalls. You can walk to the loop from the campground. It ma be adds a third of a mile to the hike. 

We stayed in cabin 58, which has a short, easy path to the bathhouse and even shorter to the mud sink. This was very handy when traveling with two young kids. Prior to going, I wished I could have seen the inside of the cabins, particularly to know how big the mini fridge was. I couldn't find any pictures, so here they are.

It is a one-room cabin, was impressively clean, and the beds were very cozy. There are blackout curtains on the windows, so we slept late and it was glorious. There is one small window in the door that does not have a curtain. I taped aluminum foil up over it.

Each bed had a mattress pad on it when we arrived, as pictured. One minor note is that the bunk bed mattresses seem to be a bit too big for the bunk beds. This caused them to not lay perfectly flat and also made me feel uncomfortable having my roly-poly kids sleep on the top bunk, where there were only a couple inches between the mattress and the top of the railing.

I have Verizon and could make calls, but could not reliably send or receive text messages and there was no data access.

Great park. Great cabin. Great stay.

I was traveling alone and was looking for something about an hour away when I used my Dyrt app to locate a recommended campground. Benner’s popped up near Ohiopyle State Park. I spoke with Mary Lou on the phone to make my reservations and she informed me she would be leaving at 5pm. Well, my GPS said I wasn’t due to arrive until 5:10 and, of course, there were delays. When I got there, well after 5pm, Mary Lou was waiting for me! I apparently was the only tent camper but still, she made sure I had everything I needed for my one might stay, and set me up close to the bathhouse. They were older but clean and well maintained as was the whole campground. They had a variety of cabins, some open year-round. Since it was off season the pool was closed but that just made want to come back in the summer. There also was a putt-putt course and a star-gazing point/trail. Looks like there were also rustic campsites but I would call to be sure if that is your preference. This is mainly an RV Park but plenty of tent with electric and water sites. Plenty of wildlife!!!! As I already mentioned, it’s close to the state park as well as Falling Waters, a Casino, and a great coffee shop.

The cabins were exactly what we needed. Cheap, easy to reserve, and ability to have a nice fire outside. Great park with beautiful falls!

Thisis s very nice park with primitive, powered and cabin sites available. The falls are available via a short trail from the camping area. Camping here also gets you accessto the Herington Manor area also.

Nice little park& campground. Very Clean, cozy and quiet, except for the road noise. Right off Route 31, minutes from I-76 makes it a very convenient place to stop along your travels. Bathrooms are clean, grounds very well kept. The park area is lovely, but the lake is currently very low. Trout stocked but I wouldn’t count on fishing here right now. Short walking trail along a creek. Very lovely cabins and cabin areas and tent sites. RV sites are small but adequate and most are pull though. Honestly some of the best attention and details we’ve seen at a state park. We would stay again.  We stayed at site 12E and site 1E.  Be aware that site 1E is not very level on pull through gravel surface.

First, I must say, we did not anticipate camping, hiking or rafting in Pennsylvania. The plan was to camp and hike throughout West Virginia, but when we visited Pathfinder outdoor retailer in Morgantown, WV the staff encouraged us to check out Ohiopyle, while we were so close.

Traveling to Ohiopyle, PA from Coopers Rock State Forest, WV…the drive was enjoyable and took less than an hour. Our plan was to visit and drive back and resume camping at CRSF. Upon arrival, we were so stunned and enamored by the beauty of the area…we quickly secured a campsite in Kentuck…then drove back to CRSF and tore down camp.

Kentuck Campground is a very nice campground, the sites are plentiful, and though there are many…there is enough foliage that separate campsites that it feels somewhat private. (That is, until discourteous fellow car campers selfishly disregard quiet hours…but hey, that can…and often does…happen anywhere). One gripe at several campgrounds we visited on this monthly foray…it all seemed to be self-governing…no rangers or enforcement…possibly due to limited funding…I found it stressful. That's the only negative…everything else was…in a word a…blast!

Ohiopyle is a trendy, hip little town…like Boulder East. Running smack dab through the center of town is the Youghiogheny River…Yough for short. A picturesque waterfall, numerous outdoor retailers, bicycle & raft rentals, peaceful trails and a sweet, cutting edge visitor/nature center.

You could easily spend a week here and not exhaust all there is to see and do. The town is tiny, so you cannot miss the plethora of outfitters down every street. Of the numerous cool outfitters, we chose Wilderness Voyageurs across the river, over the tracks and to the right. Time and finances limited us to a "family friendly" float self-guided raft down the Middle Yough…laced with minimal Class 1 and 2 rapids, which I would classify as riffles. The float took three hours, was relaxing, serene and full of solitude.

The Ferncliff Trail loops around the inside of the Yough as it does a near 360 in town. Gentle terrain along the falls and then through moss covered forest.

Just outside town as you climb the hill, to the left is Sliding Rock. Get there early to get a parking spot…and then look forward to having some serious liquid fun. A natural water slide extends around 100 feet as it winds through the rock. Wear sturdy shorts and shirt…I'd also recommend solid footwear…its fun but it is still rock.

As you journey further up the mountain toward Kentuck campground, Cucumber Falls is on the right. Again, get there early for one of the few parking spaces to walk down to the falls. In early August, the falls were not flowing heavy so it wasn't as spectacular as it would be after rains or in the spring. If you are looking to take photos, you will contend with people wading under the falls later in the day.

The local outfitters are a wealth of information for places to go.

From the campground trails head mostly straight down the mountain to the river or to the Great Allegheny Passage mult-use trail…that also runs through Ohiopyle. So give yourself time to climb them, as there are many switchbacks…pretty much straight up…but doable.

Bottom line…Pathfinder staff tips were spot on and we had a memorable time. I gave four stars for Kentuck Campground. I give 5 stars plus…for Ohiopyle!