Cabin camping near Palmyra, Pennsylvania offers access to both forested retreats and Amish countryside settings. Located in central Pennsylvania's Lebanon Valley, the area sits at approximately 450 feet of elevation with summer temperatures averaging 85°F during peak camping season. Most cabin sites require advance reservations 2-3 months ahead during summer when local attractions draw the largest crowds.
What to do
River activities at Jonestown/Hershey KOA: Several creekside cabin sites provide direct access to the Swatara Creek. "The Swatara creek runs right next to it so it is great for kayaking, tubing, etc. Highly recommend," notes one camper at Jonestown/Hershey KOA. They also mention the campground "is connected to the Swatara Rail trial which is great for biking."
Explore Amish Country: Cabins at Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country put you in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch countryside. "This campground will put your mind at ease and let you uncover the lost culture of this unique community. I remember going to the market and learning about culture that I was not necessarily familiar with before," shares a reviewer who appreciated the cultural immersion from their cabin stay.
Amusement park access: Many cabins provide convenient access to Hershey Park. "They host events for the whole family. Near state parks and wonderful lakes and spots to fish. Right off the interstate but you feel like you are miles away from civilization," explains a camper at Jonestown/Hershey KOA, highlighting the balance between attractions and nature.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Twin Grove RV Resort maintains exceptionally high cleanliness standards. A camper at Twin Grove RV Resort reported, "Spotless. Plenty of room for whatever size tent or RV you have. Always lots of activities. Nice arcade and mini golf in an area set off to the side with a ferris wheel, merry go round, and other small kiddie rides."
Waterfront cabin options: Several parks offer cabins with water views or access. At Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground, a visitor noted, "We had site 108 which is an electric site along the shore and close to the beach, and it was perfect for our needs. It has a small beach area within the campground loop that we camped in."
Entertainment amenities: Many cabin sites include family-friendly recreation options. "Nice campground with a lot of RV and tent spots. Spotless bathrooms. Nice pool and playgrounds. Not a lot of traffic. Quiet. Friendly. Price is fair and not nearly as expensive as many other KOAs but the quality is just as good!" shares a reviewer from Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA.
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: Cabin proximity differs greatly between locations. At Pinch Pond Family Campground, "Our campsite was very spacious and the ENTIRE campground was extremely clean and tidy. The office and grounds keeping staff were super friendly and helpful."
Noise considerations: Some locations have unexpected noise sources. "The only thing that is negative is that there is a shooting range right next door. It is pretty consistent from lunch to dinner. If you're out and about, it won't be an issue," warns a Pinch Pond camper about potential disruptions during daytime hours.
Terrain challenges: Many campgrounds feature sloping terrain that affects cabin and RV sites. A visitor to Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country observed, "The campground is pretty hilly and they don't seem to want to level out the sites. We had to go out and get more blocks and we're still not very level front to back."
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-focused amenities: Family-friendly cabins often include nearby activities. A Thousand Trails Circle M visitor shared, "Lots of events to keep the kids busy. We happened to be there on the weekend a magician came, my kids loved it. They have an indoor and outdoor pool. Nice playground."
Book early for holiday weekends: Holiday periods fill up 4-6 months in advance at most cabin locations. "We spent a long weekend at Pinch Pond. Our campsite was very spacious... The office and grounds keeping staff were super friendly and helpful. They have Hershey's ice cream in the office and my kids enjoyed getting a treat," notes a family who planned ahead.
Consider cabin-to-bathroom proximity: Some cabin areas have distant bathhouses. According to Twin Grove visitors, "Clean and friendly. We were long term stay. Calvin was great and the yearly campers were fun and enjoyable," suggesting established camper communities can enhance family stays.
Tips from RVers
Accessibility varies by site location: Many parks organize cabins and RV sites in sections. At Hershey Road Campground, "Beautiful campground. Very recently renovated. Very spacious and quiet. Great little store stocked with everything you need. Very close to Hersheypark."
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven sites at some locations. "The site on either side was the same rusty. Unlevel is an understatement we were in E row and every camper there had front end 4 foot off the ground," reports a camper at Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country, highlighting the importance of bringing adequate leveling equipment.
Seasonal cabin selection: Different cabin areas offer varied experiences by season. "We have camped here several times and love the waterfront sites and the yurts," shares a Gifford Pinchot camper, suggesting that waterfront cabin options provide the best experience in warmer months when water activities are available.
