Cabin options exist throughout the Laurel Highlands region near Rockwood, Pennsylvania, where elevations reach nearly 3,000 feet in surrounding mountains. The area experiences relatively mild summers with average highs around 85°F, creating favorable conditions for rustic cabin stays from spring through fall. Winter cabin rentals remain available at select locations, though some close seasonally from late October through mid-April.
What to do
Water activities at Yough Lake: Tub Run Recreation Area provides lake access with a beach area for swimming. According to Aaron G., "Very clean and well maintained campground. Wonderful lake access and swimming area," making it an ideal spot for cooling off during summer months.
White water rafting at Ohiopyle: Located about 25 minutes from Rockwood, Ohiopyle State Park offers world-class rafting opportunities. Visitor Dave V. describes the experience: "Our plan was to visit and drive back and resume camping at CRSF. Upon arrival, we were so stunned and enamored by the beauty of the area...we quickly secured a campsite in Kentuck." Many outfitters offer guided trips on the Youghiogheny River with varying difficulty levels.
Hiking and nature trails: The region features extensive trail networks through forests and mountains. According to Brian S., "There's only one hiking trail within Kooser State Park's 250 acres. But it's a decent trail with sharp elevation gain." Many cabin locations connect to nearby trail systems for day hikes of varying difficulty.
What campers like
Proximity to attractions: Cabin rentals serve as convenient baselines for regional exploration. Robert C. notes about Ohiopyle, "I feel fortunate to live only about 2 hours from this beautiful place, with the Montour biking/hiking trail running right through it. There is rafting, kayaking, fishing, trails and more, all nearby."
Spacious sites: Hickory Hollow Campground offers well-spaced cabin and camping areas. Brandy Q. writes, "Hickory Hollow's campsites were nicely spaced out, perched on a hillside, but with nice flat pads. The lake and farm country provided a welcoming and relaxing setting." This extra space creates privacy not found at more crowded facilities.
Family-friendly amenities: Cabins near water features rank highly with families. At Rocky Gap State Park, Katie H. reports, "We love that the campground has their own beach so it's not over crowded with the public. Near the beach there is a nice playground near shade for parents to watch." The dedicated facilities create safer environments for families with young children.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin facilities fill quickly during peak seasons. Cabins at Laurel Hill State Park often book months in advance, particularly for summer weekends and fall foliage season. Lee D. reports, "We were surprised that just a few days before Memorial Day, only a handful of sites were occupied."
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies significantly by location. Jen V. notes about New Germany State Park: "There is very little to no cell phone reception in the park, so combined with the lack of hookups, this is definitely an unplugged, 'connect with nature' type of camping experience."
Site selection matters: Not all cabin sites offer equal amenities or settings. Nora M. cautions about Ohiopyle, "There are very limited sites that you can have a pet with you. So a nice place but if those two things are important to you just be aware." Research specific cabin locations before booking to ensure they meet your needs.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for children: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Mill Run offers extensive water recreation. Visitor Erik W. shares: "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 & the original 2 big water slides in woods."
Kid-friendly programming: Many parks schedule family activities during peak season. Tina L. describes Jellystone as having "picnic basket wagon rides, yogi bear fire truck rides, and snowless snow tubing! We stayed for 4 days and 3 nights! I encouraged everyone from PA to book a few nights there with their kids/grandkids!"
Pack extra supplies: Cabin amenities vary widely. While most provide beds with mattresses, you'll typically need to bring your own bedding, cooking equipment, and food supplies. Small convenience stores at larger parks offer limited basics, but proper planning avoids lengthy trips to distant grocery stores.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many mountain cabin and RV areas feature uneven terrain. Kevin E. notes about Kooser State Park: "My only complaint is that many of the sites are not level at all and take some serious work to get your rig level. The campground is close to many places in the Laurel Highlands which makes it convenient."
Electrical concerns: Cabins with electric hookups vary in capacity. Olivia L. shares about New Germany: "We stayed in one of 4 full hookup sites. My complaints...WAY too close to the neighbors and VERY little shade." Power limitations may restrict simultaneous use of heating/cooling and other appliances.
Access road considerations: Mountain roads can challenge larger vehicles. Access to Tub Run Recreation Area can be difficult, as Laurel K. describes: "Tub Run Road is a rough (but pretty) ride to the campground. Once you hit the property, everything is well-maintained." Plan arrival during daylight hours for safer navigation.
