Many cabins near Summit Hill, Pennsylvania sit at elevations between 1,200-1,600 feet in the foothills of the Pocono Mountains. The region features mixed hardwood forests surrounding numerous lakes and streams that flow into the Lehigh River watershed. Winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing from December through February, requiring campers to verify seasonal availability and heating options in cabin facilities.
What to do
Hike the boulder field: Hickory Run State Park Campground features a unique 16.5-acre boulder field formed during the last ice age. "Boulders everywhere! Big ones, small ones, run (carefully) across them all! Beyond the Boulder field is a vast, scary, unknown," notes visitor Mike M. The field is accessible via a maintained trail from the campground area.
Explore creek fishing spots: Mauch Chunk Lake Park offers fishing opportunities along shoreline areas near cabin sites. "Nice beach area and lake to kayak!" reports Annette M. The park maintains a well-stocked lake with multiple species including bass and panfish.
Visit nearby Jim Thorpe town: Jim Thorpe Camping Resort provides convenient access to historic Jim Thorpe's downtown area, just 5 minutes from camp. "The location was so great because it's just right above Jim Thorpe!" explains Rachel L. The town features historic architecture, specialty shops, and seasonal festivals throughout summer and fall.
Access Appalachian Trail sections: Blue Rocks Family Campground connects directly to hiking trails including the Appalachian Trail. "Lovely camp site with access to a lot of amenities, all the while keeping a 'primative' feel. Super easy access to Appalachian trail. Trail heads begin inside the campsite," shares Amy C. Cabin guests can access day hikes or longer sections directly from camp property.
What campers like
Creekside cabin locations: Pocono Point offers waterfront cabin options with stream access. "My favorite spots are the tent-only sites along the creek. They are peaceful and separate from the RV area," notes Asher K. Creekside cabins typically cost $20-30 more per night than standard cabins but provide direct water access.
Well-stocked camp stores: Lakewood Park Campground maintains supplies for cabin campers who forgot essentials. "The store was stock with a decent amount of stuff but was on the small side," mentions Scott H. Most camp stores in the region open daily from 9am-5pm with extended hours on summer weekends.
Clean modern facilities: Many visitors praise bathroom quality at area campgrounds. "The bathrooms were very clean and stocked with stuff you might need," reports Kelly J. from Allentown KOA. Newer facilities typically feature hot showers with adjustable temperature controls rather than timed push-button systems.
Off-season quiet: Tuscarora State Park Campground offers year-round cabin availability with fewer crowds during spring and fall. "I absolutely love camping here! If you want to be disconnected, literally because there is no cell service, then this is the place for you," shares Jen R. Fall foliage typically peaks in mid-October, creating popular weekends that require advance booking.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin facilities require advance booking, particularly during summer and fall weekends. Reservations open 11 months in advance for state park cabins and 6-12 months ahead for private campgrounds.
Site privacy varies significantly: Some cabins offer secluded settings while others place units close together. "Sites are not very private or secluded. I could personally use a bit more privacy, not enough to be a deal breaker," notes Dave R. at Jim Thorpe Camping Resort.
Pet policies differ between facilities: Tuscarora State Park Campground allows pets at designated cabin sites. "Dogs are welcome, as long as you clean up after them," explains Joycel Y. Most facilities charge a pet fee between $10-25 per stay and limit pets to specific cabin units.
Varying kitchen provisions: Cabin amenities range from bare-bones to fully equipped. "Yurts have heat and fans. Full size refrigerator, stove and microwave. No water but directly across from facilities with basin sinks outside for cleaning dishes," details Mandy F. from Tuscarora State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Boulder exploration for kids: "Our children loved to climb all over the rocks, that is where they spent most of the time. Primitive but fun!" shares Terri S. about Blue Rocks Family Campground. The natural rock formations provide hours of supervised play opportunities.
Playground options: "Very family friendly and the staff are so nice. Very nice grounds and a lot to do for families," notes Jared M. about Jim Thorpe Camping Resort. Most campgrounds feature at least basic playground equipment suitable for children 5-12 years old.
Swimming facilities: "The pool was very nice and refreshing. I liked how the kid area wrapped around and connected to the deeper end," describes Jen R. from Robin Hill Campground. Swimming areas typically operate from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with some extending seasons during warm weather.
Family-oriented activities: Several campgrounds schedule regular family programming. "Great campground with lots of amenities. The staff was friendly, the store had essentials and more, and there was great hiking right from the grounds," explains Maggie H. Weekly activity schedules often include crafts, games, and outdoor movie nights during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Limited cell service: Many forest cabin areas have spotty reception. "No cell service at all unless you drive up to the top of the mountain," warns Zoltan P. about Tuscarora State Forest areas. Visitors should download maps and important information before arrival.
Bring extra leveling gear: "The only reason I didn't give this 5 stars is because our site wasn't level and it took hours to get it right," mentions Angie G. about Jim Thorpe Camping Resort. This applies equally to RVs and cabin setups where outdoor equipment needs level ground.
Reserve waterview sites early: "It had a nice pull-through site and enjoyed our stay. Nice stream running through camp," notes Craig C. about Allentown KOA. Waterfront and premium cabin sites typically book 3-6 months in advance for summer weekends.
