Cabin camping near Shermans Dale, Pennsylvania sits within the Ridge and Valley section of the Appalachian Mountains, with elevations ranging from 400 to 1,200 feet above sea level. The area's moderate climate allows for camping from April through October, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during the day. Most cabins in this region are positioned on sites that range from fully wooded to partially shaded, offering varying degrees of privacy.
What to do
Hiking from your cabin door: Pine Grove Furnace State Park Campground offers access to multiple trail systems including the Appalachian Trail. "This park is the halfway point on the AT, and we got to meet quite a few hikers and hear some cool stories about their travels on the trail," notes one visitor who appreciated the connections to the long-distance path.
Swimming in natural settings: Several parks offer swimming opportunities within walking distance of cabin accommodations. At Little Buffalo State Park Campground, "They offer a large area that is only 1 foot deep, great for little ones! There is also a splash pad! There are 2 slides for fun!" according to a reviewer who visited with children.
Historical exploration: The region's iron-making heritage is accessible through preserved structures and interpretive centers. At Pine Grove Furnace State Park Campground, you can "visit the Furnace and the AT Museum, make sure you hear the story about the first through hikers," as one camper suggested.
Fishing in stocked waters: Multiple lakes and streams offer fishing opportunities close to cabins. "The lake is awesome to relax on, fishing, boating... never fails to be a great time!!" writes a visitor to Little Buffalo State Park, where cabins are situated near fishing spots.
What campers like
Privacy between cabins: Site layout varies significantly between parks. At Buttonwood Campground, "We found the sites to be spacious, well maintained (gravel pads) and very level. Our site was along the river, which provided us with a great view," according to a reviewer who appreciated the site orientation.
Clean facilities: Cabin campers frequently mention bathroom cleanliness as a top priority. A visitor to Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground noted, "I like that it wasn't a commercialized camping experience," highlighting the natural setting while still having access to clean restrooms.
Peaceful surroundings: Many cabins offer quiet settings despite being accessible to activities. A Paradise Stream Family Campground visitor remarked, "Beautiful views! What a beautiful campground. So many things to do here! Very family oriented," noting the balance between access and solitude.
Cabin amenities: Cabin features range from basic to comprehensive. One visitor to Mountain Creek Camp Ground commented, "We stayed in the upper tent area. It's a walk to the pool and arcade area. As an adult I was fine with it," suggesting the location relative to amenities matters when selecting accommodations.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Cabin rentals require advance planning, especially during peak seasons. According to a Deer Run Campgrounds reviewer, "We camped right up against the lazy River, the campground was pretty open because it was a weekday. Spots are kind of close, no trees or anything to separate spots."
Noise considerations: Some cabin locations experience periodic noise from nearby transportation. At Hersheypark Camping Resort, "Nice camp ground but super loud bc of the trains. Bath houses are nice and clean. I would suggest making sure you aren't close to the tracks bc the trains run all night long!"
Seasonal operation: Most cabin facilities operate on limited schedules. Paradise Stream Family Campground runs from "April 10 to October 27," according to their operating calendar, making it unavailable during winter months.
Bring your own: Cabin campers need to bring specific items. "We were on site 108 which is an electric site along the shore and close to the beach, and it was perfect for our needs," explains a Gifford Pinchot visitor who came prepared with their own bedding and cooking supplies.
Tips for camping with families
Cabin location strategy: Choose cabins based on proximity to bathrooms and play areas. At Paradise Stream Family Campground, "We had an awesome long weekend here. This campground doesn't cut corners and the attention to details makes all the difference. So many great site options depending on your needs / preferences."
Activity access: Consider mobility issues when selecting cabin locations. At Mountain Creek Camp Ground, one family noted, "We have a 5 year old though and she got tired. Lesson learned: rent a golf cart ahead of time."
Bathroom proximity: Cabins with nearby restrooms reduce nighttime stress for families. "The kids had a blast, tubing in the creek, swimming pool and an excellent camp store. Sites in some areas are tight, real tight," observed a Mountain Creek Camp Ground visitor, suggesting careful site selection.
Multi-generation accommodations: Some parks offer cabins that accommodate various family sizes. "We took our 3 yo camping for the first time here. He had so much fun. It was clean campground located in a State Park. Easy walk to the lake with a small beach," explained a Gifford Pinchot State Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
Parking challenges: Some cabin areas have limited vehicle access. A visitor to Dogwood Acres Campground explained, "Very nice family oriented campground nestled against the base of the mountains. I wish there was a better view of the beautiful mountain."
Site dimensions: Cabin sites vary in size and layout. "Flat all gravel sites. Clean pool. Pavilion was a nice meeting place. Big pond was pretty. Friendly staff," observed a Dogwood Acres visitor, highlighting the level sites that accommodate vehicles.
Extension options: Some cabin areas allow for additional outdoor living space. "Nice sized spots, wooded, paved roads beautiful lake. Not a garbage can to be found park wide! Dumpster at either end that's it," noted a Gifford Pinchot State Park camper about the site layout.
Hookup locations: Cabin areas often have different utility arrangements than RV sections. A Buttonwood Campground visitor noted, "The campground is divided by a local road and has 2 different feels. The lower section is right by the river with several riverfront sites and many river view sites."
