Cabin camping facilities near Patton, Pennsylvania operate within the wooded hills of central Pennsylvania where elevations range from 1,500 to 2,500 feet. The region experiences cold winters with regular snowfall and warm summers with afternoon thunderstorms common from June through August. Annual rainfall averages 42 inches, creating lush forests but occasional muddy conditions at non-paved camping areas.
What to do
Mountain biking at Seven Points: Access the Allegrippis Trails directly from Seven Points (PA) campground with over 30 miles of IMBA-standard singletrack. "The mtb trails begin just above the upper camp loops and provide a full day of fast flowing singletrack," according to camper Travis S. Bike rentals available at the marina May through September.
Wildlife viewing near Parker Dam: Drive 30 minutes north from Parker Dam State Park Campground to observe elk herds in Benezette. "Spent time driving to Benezette - about 30 minute trip - to see the Elk. Great experience seeing approximately 100 elk. Several very large bulls," reports Shirley M. Best viewing at dawn and dusk during September-October rutting season.
Watersports at Raystown Lake: Boat rentals including pontoon boats and jet skis available at Lake Raystown Resort from Memorial Day through Labor Day. "We rented a pontoon boat for one afternoon and explored the lake, which was awesome," notes Alyssa H. who stayed at Yellow Creek State Park. Rental fees start at $75 for half-day kayak rentals up to $400 for full-day pontoon boats.
What campers like
Cabin comfort in winter months: Canoe Creek State Park Campground cabins provide comfortable cold-weather options with modern amenities. "The cabin itself was overall very nice... The heat was quite efficient and kept us warm on some cold nights," notes Sarah C. Each cabin includes a full kitchen with large table and full-sized appliances.
Waterfront sites at Prince Gallitzin: The cabins at Crooked Run offer water access and privacy among wooded settings. "As a rule we always try to stay in parks if possible. Really like the layout here, and the k9s love it. We couldn't see the lake from the camper, but in the woods we could see the lake and the camper from the same spot," shares Steve A. from a May 2024 visit to Crooked Run Campground — Prince Gallitzin State Park.
Clean facilities: Shawnee State Park receives consistent praise for maintenance. "Bathroom and showers were clean, bright, and there is a dish washing sink outside. Showers were push button but pressure was great and the water was hot," reports Danielle S. who stayed at Shawnee State Park Campground during a May weekend.
What you should know
Cabin supply requirements: Most cabins require guests bring bedding, cookware and personal items. "These cabins are not equipped with any type of consumables, cookware or linens. You really need to bring everything if you're planning on actually using the bathroom or kitchen," explains Sarah C. about Canoe Creek State Park cabins.
Winter closures and seasonal access: Most cabin facilities close from late October through early April. Seven Points Campground operates early April to late October, while Yellow Creek State Park cabins are available mid-April through mid-October. Parker Dam State Park offers extended cabin access from "2nd Friday April to mid December."
Firewood availability: Shawnee State Park sells firewood on-site for $5 per bundle, though quantities may be limited. "Camp wood at the entrance is $5 and is tiny; our biggest piece was a foot long, 4 inches wide and 2 inches thick! It was okay to start a fire, but we went into the woods and picked up dead wood," reports Danielle S.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water features: Blue Knob State Park Campground offers family-friendly swimming options. "Clouds blowing east from the Midwest tend to break on the mountains here at Blue Knob, so short little bursts of rainfall are frequent," warns Brian S., suggesting families pack extra towels and rain gear even during summer visits.
Playground access: Playground facilities vary across parks with Seven Points offering multiple play areas. "Each loop has a playground and bathhouse," notes Rachel B. Ridge Camp at Seven Points places a playground near the entrance sites, providing convenient access for families with young children.
Beach facilities: Prince Gallitzin offers dedicated beach access for families with children. "Great place for kids! We love staying at crooked run campground. Has a beach on the lake. Affordable boat rentals. Bmx track for kids," shares Jackie W., highlighting multiple youth activities within a single location.
Tips from RVers
Site selection at Shawnee State Park: Choose campsites carefully based on terrain and size. "A Monday in mid-October had many open sites. Most of the non-electric sites were decidedly not level but many of the FHU and electric sites were fairly level," advises Lee D. Sites vary in length from 20 to 115 feet with gravel pads providing the most level options.
Accessibility challenges: The mountainous terrain creates navigation challenges at certain parks. "We pulled into Ridge Camp (RCAM on Recreation.gov) and drove a little bit down a hill to our site. One backup attempt into the site and (according to our LevelMatePRO app) it was perfectly level...that was definitely a first for us," shares Tim J. who stayed at Seven Points, noting this as an exception to the normally challenging terrain.
