Cabins near Saylorsburg, Pennsylvania are nestled within the western edge of the Pocono Mountains at elevations ranging between 600-1200 feet. The region experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F, while winter temperatures often drop below freezing. Most cabin areas in this region sit on wooded lots with mixed hardwood forests of oak, maple, and birch trees.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: At Hickory Run State Park Campground, trails range from easy to difficult with several leading to scenic waterfalls. "We hiked both with your 2 large dogs. Both of these trails had a creek and waterfalls," reports one visitor who explored the Hawk Falls and Shades of Death trails.
Wolf preserve tours: Campers staying in cabins can take guided tours of the Lakota Wolf Preserve. "The wolf preserve at the same location was just amazing - we learned so much and could hear the wolves howl from the campsite," notes a visitor at Camp Taylor Campground.
Boulder Field exploration: The famous Boulder Field at Hickory Run provides a unique geological experience. "The Boulder Fields are one of the coolest places I've ever visited, partially because they were so unexpected. Don't twist an ankle, but you can play hide and seek to an extent as there are small depressions in the fields," shares one camper.
Swimming in natural settings: Several cabin accommodations provide access to swimming areas. "The swimming pond is pleasant and great to cool off in," reports a camper about Camp Taylor, while others mention the spring-fed pool at Camp Charles as "Always cold...even thou 100 in sun all-day."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Cabin campers appreciate well-spaced accommodations. At Mountain Vista Campground, "The sites are large and many are somewhat private in terms of visual barriers," notes a camper who stayed in the wooded sections.
Camp stores with essentials: Many cabin locations maintain well-stocked stores. "The camp store had good hours and is stocked to high heaven; you could come here with just the clothes on your back and buy everything you need for a very comfortable stay," explains a visitor who appreciated the convenience.
Clean facilities: Cleanliness ranks high on camper priorities. "The bathrooms/showers are clean and well maintained," shares a Camp Taylor visitor, while another notes, "Bathrooms were neat & clean, and there was a covered verandah with string lights, chairs & picnic tables outside the bathroom area."
Weekend activities: Organized events enhance the cabin camping experience. "Our favorite family campground! We've tried to camp at least one weekend a month from spring through fall and try different places, but we always come back to Mountain Vista! The staff is friendly and helpful and they have a ton of great activities from kids carnival, craft beer tastings, farmers market, bingo...the list goes on!"
What you should know
Bear precautions required: The region has an active bear population. "We were warned at check in that there have been a lot of bears in the area but never really thought that we would see one. As soon as we got to our site one came right up as we were setting up our tent. Do not leave any food out be sure to lock up everything in car," cautions a visitor to Tobyhanna State Park Campground.
Varying site sizes: Cabin areas have inconsistent spacing between units. "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," explains a camper from Delaware Water Gap KOA.
Seasonal operation differences: Most cabins in the area operate on seasonal schedules. "We went here September 13,14, and 15th. It was nice, we had electric and water at our site," notes a camper at Camp Charles, while many other facilities close entirely during winter months.
Firewood restrictions: Local regulations affect firewood availability. "You have to buy their wood you can't bring any in, they are trying to keep the lantern flies away. $5 bundle for 7 pieces," explains a camper regarding local pest control measures.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water features: Delaware Water Gap / Pocono Mountain KOA offers specialized areas for children. "The pool was closed for the season when we were there, but the kids were able to enjoy an awesome playground and bounce pad. The roads were also great for them to ride on and get exercise. They REALLY enjoyed the art classes & the gem mining."
Playground proximity: Strategic site selection can enhance family stays. "Our camp site was great (52), backed onto a wooded area and a big playground was directly in front of us, which worked out perfectly since we have school age kids," shares a Delaware Water Gap KOA visitor.
Evening entertainment: Some cabins offer organized nighttime activities. "We did the gas saver program for the second time this June and invited lots of friends and family up and everyone had a blast! Lots of great memories made!" mentions a Mountain Vista camper about their entertainment options.
Wildlife education opportunities: Introduce children to local nature. "Follow the bear rules!" reminds a Hickory Run camper, while another notes that cabin areas often have "wild turkeys and deer in the morning."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Camp Charles Campgrounds and other cabin areas require preparation for uneven terrain. "My site was just un-level enough that I didn't quite have enough blocks to get my trailer level," notes a visitor recommending extra leveling equipment.
Hookup configurations: Some cabin and RV sites have unusual utility layouts. "Our hookups are on the driver's side but the way they have their water, electric and sewer, we had to pull in forward in order to hookup," explains a Silver Valley visitor.
Seasonal camper dynamics: Many campgrounds have permanent residents alongside cabin rentals. "The campground has mostly seasonal sites. There are only a few transient sites. The owners are wonderful and provided many suggestions for things to do," shares a Camp Charles visitor who stayed for a week.
Road access considerations: Access roads to some cabin areas require careful navigation. "The driveway is a little hairy- steep with crushed stone on top of pavement. Which led to some tire slippage on the way up with our setup," warns a Cranberry Run visitor.
