Cabin camping around Ohiopyle sits within the Laurel Highlands region at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,000 feet, creating distinct seasonal conditions for visitors. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during the day with cooler evenings, while spring and fall bring more variable conditions with overnight temperatures that can drop below freezing. Most cabins in state forests require advance reservations through the Pennsylvania DCNR reservation system.
What to do
Stargazing opportunities: At Benner's Meadow Run RV Campground, a dedicated observation platform offers excellent night sky viewing. "They have a star-gazing platform/trail," mentions Ricki F., though another visitor noted "The star gazing platform leaves a lot to be desired and is in need of repair."
Creek exploration: Several campgrounds feature creek access where children can wade and explore. At Tub Run Rec Area, "Site #5 is where We stayed and it was perfect for the small children to play in the creek behind us there was the perfect pathway down to the creek," reports Nora M.
Mountain biking: The Great Allegheny Passage trail runs directly through several campgrounds. "Awesome campground right on the Great Allegheny Passage trail. We loved being able to access the GAP trail right from the campground," writes one reviewer about Ohiopyle State Park.
Fishing spots: Laurel Hill State Park provides fishing opportunities away from crowded areas. "The lake provides a great place to fish and the walking trail has some less used fishing spots if you are willing to walk," notes Erik E., adding "We enjoyed the easy walking lake trail with the kids because it was wide and flat."
Rock climbing: For those seeking more adventure, Coopers Rock State Forest offers accessible climbing routes. "I have been going her for years and I always love to climb this area. The pitches arent too high (50ft) but great just to get out there an enjoy life!" shares Nick P.
What campers like
Natural water features: Swallow Falls State Park offers multiple waterfall viewing opportunities within walking distance of campsites. "The campground had paths everywhere and were well kept. I didn't feel like I was walking in the dirt or through someone's campsite to get to the bathroom or the playground for the kids," explains Mike B., adding "We went to see the falls and they were within walking distance from our campsite."
Level tent pads: Several campgrounds have invested in site improvements that tent campers particularly appreciate. At Swallow Falls, one camper noted, "the tent sites were completely level with no need to worry about rolling down a hill in my sleep, I slept great."
Multi-generational gatherings: Tub Run Rec Area's layout works well for extended family camping. "A number of families were joining across generations and campsites, which was nice," reports Laurel K., who found the atmosphere conducive to family gatherings despite noting that "Creekside sites felt smaller and more crowded than lakeside sites."
Campground activities: Hickory Hollow Campground offers diverse amenities within the property. "The trail around the lake was perfect for running or walking. A small but convenient off-leash dog area was also a wonderful amenity," shares Brandy Q., who appreciated the combination of natural and developed features.
What you should know
Campsite selection matters: Many campgrounds have significant variation between sites. At Laurel Hill State Park, "All sites are gravel; most appeared level, but some did not. All sites are wooded but some have more separation than others," according to Lee D.
Water levels fluctuate: Lake and river conditions vary dramatically by season. At Tub Run, a camper reported, "Unfortunately the lake was dried up- which the folx at the reservations site warned us about - so the campground was pretty meh without that."
Road closures: Some parks experience seasonal road work that can significantly impact access. For example, at Ohiopyle State Park, a visitor experienced "the main road to the campground from Ohiopyle was also closed due to a separate paving project" which created a "30-minute detour."
Limited grocery options: Several campgrounds are isolated from food stores. At Hickory Hollow, a reviewer advised, "Not a lot of restaurants or stores nearby, so keep that in mind if you'll be there awhile."
Seasonal differences: Facilities and amenities can change dramatically by season. "They have a new bath house which is personal bathroom style and very nice," reported a Benner's Meadow Run visitor, while another noted, "There is a group campsite and the use of a pavilion too."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park offers multiple water-based options for children. "Mill run by far the best yogi bear/campground we have been to. Second time we have been & they have upgraded the water slides 4 huge slides plus big splash pad with little slide for smaller kids," shares Erik W.
Low-cost boat rentals: Laurel Hill State Park provides affordable kayak options. "Kayak rental of $15 for an hour was the cheapest we have seen and allowed us to explore more of the lake," notes Erik E.
Private bath facilities: Some cabin camping locations offer modern, individual bathrooms. At Benner's Meadow Run RV Campground, "They have a new bath house which is personal bathroom style and very nice," reports a visitor.
Family programming: Scheduled activities keep children engaged at certain campgrounds. A visitor to Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park appreciated the "tractor rides, fire truck rides and a train ride alongside the free activities for the kids there is allways something fun to do."
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play equipment for younger visitors. At Tub Run, one visitor specifically mentioned "The swimming area is lovely as is the playground. This is one place that we would definitely go back to visit."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the mountainous terrain require leveling equipment. At Kooser State Park Campground, a camper noted "My only complaint is that many of the sites are not level at all and take some serious work to get your rig level."
Electric hookup positioning: Standard hookup locations may require extensions. "The electrical hookups are not played out well like an expensive RV park with the shared power post on the entrance side of the camper. You may want to have an extension for your power cable," advises Erik E. about Laurel Hill State Park.
Pull-through availability: Some campgrounds offer easier access sites for larger rigs. "Site number 12 is a pull thru that was very easy to level with a great are for my 2 year old granddaughter to enjoy," shares Paul B. about his experience at Kooser State Park.
Off-season camping options: Several campgrounds remain open outside peak season. At Coopers Rock State Forest, a visitor mentioned, "We went in late October and we arrived fairly late in the day and to our surprise someone was in the store when we got there."
Wi-Fi considerations: Connectivity varies widely between locations. At Hickory Hollow Campground, one visitor specifically praised "Wi-Fi that works," noting this was an important factor in their decision to make it "our go-to for quick camping getaways throughout the year."
