Cabin accommodations near Port Matilda, Pennsylvania offer options for all seasons across Moshannon State Forest and surrounding areas. Winter temperatures often drop below 20°F at higher elevations where many cabins are situated, with summer averages around 75-80°F. The region's limestone geology creates unique water features and trail systems that impact cabin selection and activities.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Black Moshannon State Park Campground, the distinctive dark-colored water provides a unique angling experience. "Nice campground, wooded sites and most were okay for tent camping however some required your tent to be set up a small distance from the fire ring. Clean showerhouses and bathrooms. Big Lake and a few miles of hiking and biking trails right from the campground. The Iron Ore mines from the past have left the creek water stained red which is why its called the Red Mo with the locals."
Water activities: Seven Points offers multiple water access points near their cabin areas. "We took a drive around through the other six campgrounds and decided Point was our favorite, but obviously crowded because it is right on the lake. Senoia camp was tied with Ridge, but only the lower portion. Once you go up the hill to sites above #231, it gets very steep and far away from the water."
Wildlife viewing: Cabins near Parker Dam provide easy access to elk viewing areas. "We loved it here! First time here. Very spacious site with full hook up. #76 Next to camp host who were terrific. Deer came up to campsite every morning. Came to do some elk viewing. About 30-40 min drive to Benezette. Already booked for next year!!"
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many cabin rentals around Port Matilda feature natural spacing. "Beautiful facility- typical Pa mountains, abundant green trees, water...nice Campground AND cabin rentals are really nicely situated. Water was thick with weeds & lilies but ok nonetheless. Great day trip spot."
Winter cabin heat: Parker Dam State Park Campground provides reliable heating options for cold weather cabin stays. "Small park with small camp area. Very nice beach area. Not a lot of trails. Real nice park that can get pretty busy on weekends. We arrived on a Thursday and, in advance, reserved one of the few remaining sites."
Diverse cabin options: Lake Raystown Resort offers varying levels of cabin amenities from rustic to luxury. "This campground offers tent sites, RV Sites, cabins and hotel accommodation. The campground is relatively flat and on the shore of Lake Raystown. The amenities are great and located centrally in each section of the park. Lots of trees which adds to the privacy of the sites."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Cabins throughout the area require advance planning. "Make a reservation way ahead of your date as this campground is very popular and sites book early. It has sites to accommodate any R.V. and lot of tent sites. The lake has lots to offer. Swimming, boating, fishing, wildlife watching and a big sky view for star gazing."
Seasonal availability: Most cabin rentals near Port Matilda operate on limited winter schedules. "The modern cabins at Canoe Creek have nice bathrooms with hot showers, a common area with a lot of furniture, a kitchen with large table and full sized appliances. The cabin we stayed in was pet friendly and had two rooms, one with a full size bed and a second one with 2 sets of bunk beds. The heat was quite efficient and kept us warm on some cold nights."
Access challenges: Some cabin areas have terrain considerations. "The spots are close, but we were here the day after July 4th and there were many open spots. We were spaced out well. The pool and splash pad were clean and nice. The Bathrooms were hotel quality and clean. They were combined with a shower. The water pressure was great and very hot."
Tips for camping with families
Family activities: Crooked Run Campground — Prince Gallitzin State Park offers organized programs for kids staying at cabins. "Great place for kids! We love staying at crooked run campground. Has a beach on the lake. Affordable boat rentals. Bmx track for kids."
Family-friendly layouts: Look for cabins with designated recreation areas. "We used the group tent sites for our Girl Scout weekend. It was a fun weekend. We participated in the Outdoors for Everyone event. The site was clean, decently level area for tents, accessible to potable water and bathrooms with showers. Rangers were wonderful to work with in setting up teaching opportunities for the girls."
Educational opportunities: Many cabin areas provide ranger programs. "The park also runs a ton of classes for different things like fly fishing, hiking, etc. This campground is so beautiful with plenty to do for everyone, tons of hiking along the whole park. Spaces are clean and spacious, bath house is very well kept."
Tips from RVers
Seasonal cabin rentals: Bellefonte-State College KOA offers cabins with more amenities than state park options. "The section in the front of the park is open with spotty trees; whereas, sites in the back of the park are tucked in the woods and are a lot more private. Roads in the back section are narrow and the sites are not very long and suitable for small campers."
Water supply considerations: Many cabins require guests to bring drinking water. "The water pressure was great and very hot. I took a picture of the accessible bathrooms. It was almost 90 degrees so we didn't participate in activities. We visited the store. There were toys, T-shirts, novelty ice cream, supplies, drinks, and a slush machine."
Winter access: Before booking winter cabin stays, check access road maintenance schedules. "This was my first time camping at a KOA as the nearby state park was full. This KOA impressed me. The grounds were well laid out and included RVs, campers, tents and us in Hammocks. We were in an area for tent camping though. The individual bathroom/showers were great & clean."
