Cabin camping near Saxton, Pennsylvania provides access to the Raystown Lake region, an area with 8,300 acres of water surface and elevations ranging from 760 to 980 feet above sea level. The region experiences four distinct seasons with average summer temperatures between 75-85°F, making it ideal for water activities from May through September. Winter cabin options remain available at several campgrounds when temperatures drop to the 20-30°F range.
What to do
Hiking trails and mountain biking: Seven Points Campground provides direct access to the Allegrippis Trail system for mountain bikers. "The trails begin just above the upper camp loops and provide a full day of fast flowing singletrack," notes Travis S., who also mentions that "water available in the campground loop actually tasted good enough to use for hydration needs during our rides."
Lake activities beyond swimming: Lake Raystown Resort offers boat rentals for exploring the large lake. "There is a boat hire place located on the grounds that hires pontoon boats and jet skis in season," explains Britt B., who also notes "the lake is beautiful and sunsets from the campground are stunning."
Winter activities: When cabin camping during colder months, consider Blue Knob State Park, which sits on the second highest peak in Pennsylvania. Brian S. explains, "Come prepared for short rain showers, chilly air even in the summer, and great views." The park transforms in winter with "ski resort at the peak with a bar and golf course," according to Travis S.
What campers like
Multiple bathhouse options: At Seven Points Campground, Tim J. notes, "The restroom at Ridge has 4 shower stalls which were very clean with hot water at a great water pressure." This campground also features "a laundromat at only 25¢/load," making extended stays more convenient.
Natural shade coverage: Many campers appreciate the tree cover at Trough Creek State Park. A visitor reports, "All sites in shade. Boat rentals. Camp store. Boat launch. Gravel sites. Friendly staff." This makes hot summer days more comfortable for cabin campers without air conditioning.
Variety of camping experiences: Heritage Cove Resort offers multiple lodging options with "clean modern shower and toilets. All sites in shade," according to David C. The resort provides boat rentals and a boat launch for water access, though visitors should note the "tough cancellation policy."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Beyond the information in the existing description, campers should know service varies dramatically by location. Judy H. reports at Cowans Gap State Park Campground, "You are totally off the grid as far as cell, WiFi, and TV signal. Be prepared to be out of communication during your stay."
Firewood availability: While many campgrounds sell firewood, Blue Knob State Park does not. Jenna G. advises, "The park does not offer fire wood for purchase; bring extra." Similarly, Olivia L. suggests, "Bring everything you need, it's about 30 minutes to some supplies. Make sure you bring firewood."
Site leveling challenges: Many cabin and tent sites require careful preparation. At Shawnee State Park, one camper mentions, "There are a fair amount of awkwardly-placed sites that sit on a hill and are difficult to place a tent, equipment or gear." This can impact comfort and setup time for cabins without foundations.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Raystown Lake / Saxton KOA at Four Seasons offers family-friendly amenities beyond those mentioned in the existing description. "There's the pool, dog park, bounce pillow, playground," notes Paul B., who visited during a special event weekend with activities for kids.
Swimming options: Friendship Village Campground provides multiple swimming areas. Aaron S. mentions, "Nice campground, clean and plenty of activities for the kids," though he notes "road noise made it hard to hear when we were sitting around the fire" due to nearby highways.
Educational opportunities: Trough Creek State Park features interesting geological formations for kids to explore. Nick S. mentions, "it has a nice hike up above a creek with a huge rock that appears ready to fall over the cliff with a simple touch. very neat." These natural features provide learning opportunities without electronic distractions.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: At Friendship Village Campground, Christopher R. recommends specific areas based on your needs: "For tent campers I recommend staying in the area of sites 5-25 as there is a very nice bathhouse very close by. For big rig campers, you need to stay at the upper portion of the campground at sites 200-500."
Dump station facilities: Seven Points campground features an exceptional dump station setup. Tim J. explains, "On our way out, we visited the dump station again and got in one of the 4 lanes with no wait. The dump station had wide lanes and made the experience an easy and clean one."
Water hookup quality: Water quality varies significantly between campgrounds. One visitor to Trough Creek State Park had a negative experience, reporting "the 'water hookup' was BROWN," causing them to relocate to another campground entirely. RVers with tanks should consider filling at larger facilities before arrival.
