Camping cabins near Swengel, Pennsylvania are surrounded by the Appalachian forests of Union County, at approximately 1,300 feet elevation. The area experiences warm summers with temperatures reaching 85°F and cold winters that drop below 25°F. Most cabin facilities operate from April through October, with a limited number maintaining winter operations despite seasonal snowfall that averages 40 inches annually.
What to do
Swimming and beach activities: Raymond B. Winter State Park Campground offers a lake with a sandy beach area. "The lake is small, more like a pond, but super cold and clean water, as it is fed by two mountains streams. The beach is amazing. Tons and tons of clean sand, no rocks, and lots of space to play and swim," notes one visitor.
Fishing in stocked waters: Poe Valley State Park Campground has a lake popular for fishing. "Great campground! Lots of fishing, swimming and you can rent kayaks or paddle boats. Beach had a concession stand and camping was very shaded and secluded!" according to a camper.
Stargazing opportunities: The rural setting provides excellent night viewing conditions. "The night skies were beautiful (starry starry night w/little light pollution) and trails galore leading directly from the campground. Bathrooms were clean as well- an added bonus!" shared one Raymond B. Winter camper.
Hiking trail access: Multiple trails connect directly to campgrounds. "The trails here feel like the pacific northwest. Gorgeous. The campground is small and quiet," remarks a visitor about the trails at Raymond B. Winter State Park.
What campers like
Creek-front locations: Many campers appreciate waterfront sites. At Riverside Campground, "Nice spots right next to river where we set up lawn chairs in river and let the kids play. Sites are smaller and it was dusty but we will definitely go back."
Clean, modern facilities: Most cabin-equipped campgrounds maintain well-kept bathhouses. At Williamsport South-Nittany Mountain KOA, "The bath house was very clean and had nice warm showers. The playground was fantastic and looked to be new, and there was a jumping pillow and a pool."
On-site entertainment: Many campgrounds schedule regular activities. "We have stayed at Little Mexico several times and we love it. The new owners are hard working and making constant updates and improving the campground. It keeps getting better and better," reports a repeat visitor.
Pet-friendly options: Several cabin providers accommodate pets. One camper at Williamsport South-Nittany Mountain KOA noted, "Dog park is great, too!"
What you should know
Seasonal variations: Most cabin operations run April through October with reduced winter availability. At Holiday Pines Campground, "Small quiet and clean. Helpful owner," with year-round operations.
Electronic connectivity: Cell service varies significantly by location. "There isn't any cell service as you are way back in the mountain but it's so beautiful and relaxing you won't care!!" mentions a Poe Valley visitor.
Reservation requirements: Most cabin facilities require advance booking, especially on weekends. At Raymond B. Winter, "DCNR patrols it like a hawk though...so beware any visiting cars to your spot must be moved or pay $5."
Alcohol restrictions: State park cabins prohibit alcohol consumption. "It is a state park so no alcohol if that's your thing," notes one camper about Raymond B. Winter State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Little Mexico Campground offers family-centered amenities. "My husband and our three sons usually camp here at least two times a summer. We always get a site by the creek and have a great time. They have a nice general store, pool, and family friendly activities."
Swimming options: Multiple locations provide water recreation. At Williamsport South-Nittany Mountain KOA, "There is a well stocked camp store where we were able to get some fresh eggs and delicious ice cream by the scoop."
Animal attractions: Some campgrounds feature unique draws for children. "One of our favorite places to camp! My daughter loves the pools, gem mining, and slushies. The farm animals are adorable," shares a visitor about Williamsport South.
Beach access: Several parks maintain swimming beaches with amenities. "A great place to camp and spend time with family and friends, you can enjoy lots of trails and explore the woods," reports a Raymond B. Winter visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: Splash Magic RV Resort offers riverside options but with limitations. "Sites were SUPER tight. We were packed in like sardines. We had a site right on the river which was absolutely beautiful. Navigating to the site itself definitely tests your skills when you have a total rig length of 52'."
Seasonal site concentrations: Many campgrounds have long-term residents. At Hidden Valley Camping Resort, "Most of the campground was seasonal sites. People ran golf carts all day and evening long. Not just a little bit… a whole lot!"
Hookup variations: Electric services vary between locations. At Splash Magic, one RVer noted, "Electric ran below 110 volts the entire weekend and the water had a brownish tint to it. It was a VERY hot weekend so I should mention that everyone had their air running."
