Cabin camping facilities around Portland, Pennsylvania offer convenient access to natural attractions along the Delaware River. The area sits within the ridge and valley region of the Appalachian Mountains, with elevations ranging from 290 feet at river level to over 1,600 feet at nearby mountain peaks. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, making cabins with heating systems particularly valuable from November through March.
What to Do
Hiking at Camp Taylor: Access trails directly from your cabin site. "There are miles of hiking trails and direct access to the Appalachian Tr. The Lakota Wolf Preserve is located on the camp and offers discounted tours for campers," notes Jean T., highlighting the unique wildlife viewing opportunities.
Lakefront activities: Mountain Vista Campground offers fishing and water recreation. "They have a pool, tennis, sauna, pond for fishing (catch & release)," explains Joyce B., who appreciated the variety of outdoor options available beyond just hiking.
Wolf watching experiences: Visit the sanctuary near your cabin accommodation. "There are moments by the fire you can hear them howl in the distance. It's one of our favorite places to camp," shares Julie F. about her experience at Camp Taylor, where cabins are positioned within hearing distance of the preserve.
What Campers Like
Secluded cabin settings: Jenny Jump State Forest offers true forest immersion. "This is the first time we decided to forgo tent camping and reserve a shelter at a state park. We had a much better experience than we were expecting! The 'shelter' is what we would describe as a 'cabin'; four walls, a roof, locking door, locking windows, large picture frame front window, four beds (two bunks), a wood burning stove, and a porch," explains Dwight D.
Family-friendly facilities: Great Divide Campground combines cabin comfort with recreation. "The camping selection of sites is excellent with Cabins, Glamping tents, primitive tent sites and of course RV sites. I choose to stay in one of the glamping tents and was pleasantly surprised at the space inside the tent even with a double bed and two other fold out couches to beds," shares Denise D.
Year-round cabin availability: Winter cabin options are limited but available. "We are lucky enough to have a lakefront site at Otter Lake for the Winter season, and feel like we have gone to heaven! The other campers are friendly and welcoming, the views are breathtaking, the walk around the lake is great, and the facilities are super clean," reports Melody about her winter cabin stay.
What You Should Know
Bathhouse access varies: Some cabins require short walks to facilities. "The bathroom/shower was only a few steps away which was convenient and clean. The only problem we encountered was that there wasn't a store close by for ice or other essentials, although the main office does sell firewood," notes Kelsey K. about Jenny Jump State Forest.
Site characteristics: Delaware Water Gap / Pocono Mountain KOA offers various cabin sizes. "The campground had many different types of sites. Some were big and socially distanced like the one we had. But some were extremely small and very close to the next camper. Some were in the woods and some were practically on the main road," warns Carol N.
Reservation timing: Book well ahead for peak season. "The spots are hit or miss in terms of comfort, some have large, flat, clear spaces for multiple tents, some you have to wedge a tent to avoid rocks," explains Seth K. about the variable site quality at Jenny Jump.
Tips for Camping with Families
Kid-friendly amenities: Otter Lake Camp Resort offers extensive facilities. "Beautiful Lake with fishing & boating, pools indoor and outdoor, great playgrounds, great biking even a trail around the lake, lots of activities planned, awesome store stocked well," recommends Nicole S., who found it ideal for children despite some strict rules.
Multi-generation accommodations: Some cabins accommodate extended families. "We camped during Memorial Day weekend and had a blast, even in the rain! The staff were fantastic and lots of activities to keep us busy. Sites were small so not a ton of privacy. Everything was clean and neat and we felt very comfortable," reports Jojo P. about Mountain Vista.
Activity scheduling: Plan for organized events. "My husband and I have made Camp Taylor our annual spot for the past 4-5 years and it just keeps getting better. Hiking to the Wolf Preserve, paddleboats, mini golf, swimming in the lake... There are so many things to do, and they keep all of the facilities updated and in great shape," shares Dan B., highlighting the consistent program quality.
Tips from RVers
Cabin alternatives: Cranberry Run Campground offers rustic options when RVs won't work. "The hike in spot is about 5 minutes from the parking spot. Very secluded, price isn't that bad and the staff is friendly," notes Addam C., pointing out options for those without large vehicles.
Site selection strategies: Book based on specific needs and season. "They have electricity-equipped cabins with separate sleeping areas while Mountain Vista Campground provides wooded cabin sites with water and electric hookups," states Nikola A., who appreciated having options beyond traditional RV sites.
Cell connectivity considerations: Signal varies greatly by location. "The cell service for most providers is practically non-existent. I understand this is not the park's fault and some would say that this is 'real' camping-- try telling that to the two millennials that were staying with us," warns Jim G. about Timothy Lake South, a consideration for those needing to stay connected.
