Camping cabins near Troy, Pennsylvania provide access to the northern reaches of the Endless Mountains region where elevations range from 1,200 to 2,200 feet. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer temperatures typically ranging 65-80°F, while fall brings vibrant foliage displays as maples, oaks, and birches transform the landscape. Winter camping facilities maintain limited operations with specific cabins designated for cold-weather use.
What to do
Hiking the gorges and waterfalls: Ricketts Glen State Park features 22 named waterfalls accessible via a moderate 4-mile hike. "There are various trails for all skill levels, and pets are welcome!" notes a visitor. The Falls Trail includes extensive rock formations requiring proper footwear.
Swimming in designated areas: Hills Creek State Park maintains a beach area with concessions throughout summer months. "The swim area is one of the best around. Playgrounds are fun & the snack stand is a little expensive, but delicious!" reports a camper at Hills Creek State Park Campground.
Fishing without licenses: Several campgrounds permit fishing without Pennsylvania licenses on their private waters. "You can rent non-electric boats and they offer catch & release fishing without a PA license in the lake. My son caught 2 sunfish," explains a visitor to Pine Cradle Lake Family Campground.
Star gazing at high elevations: The rural setting offers exceptional night sky viewing with minimal light pollution. "The stars are incredible here! I usually come in the fall in October/early November. It's my favorite time to come because it's not extremely packed with campers and the leaves are beautiful," notes a visitor to Worlds End State Park.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Many campers appreciate the wooded tent areas that provide more privacy than RV sections. "The tent sites were right behind the athletic field where they did activities the weekend we were there. So much room for tents/hammocks. Trees galore," explains a Pine Cradle Lake visitor.
Nature programs and educational activities: Rangers often conduct free educational sessions on local flora and fauna. "The rangers offer educational programs that are free of charge! Near by attractions: PA Grand Canyon! Beautiful!" shares a camper at Hills Creek State Park Campground.
Disconnection from technology: The limited cell reception forces a digital detox. "No cell service, which is refreshing. The sound of the creek nearby is really soothing," reports a visitor at Worlds End State Park Campground. This remoteness creates a genuine wilderness experience despite modern cabin amenities.
Year-round access: Some state parks maintain winter operations with heated cabins. "We had the pleasure of renting a cabin at World's End State Park for the first time in February 2016. We were immediately in love with the babbling river that ran right beside our cabin," says another Worlds End visitor.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin facilities require advance planning, especially during peak seasons. "We own some property near this campground and have stayed here a few weekends as a home base while we clean up our property. The owners are just amazingly nice people, always very helpful!" notes a visitor to Pioneer Campground.
Water quality concerns: Some parks experience occasional water safety issues. "The water had been tested earlier in the season and unsafe levels of manganese were detected. All water spigots were shut off and covered but we were told it was safe to wash our dishes and brush our teeth," reports a Ricketts Glen State Park visitor.
Site selection strategies: Location within campgrounds significantly impacts the experience. "Sites 65 and 66 look like the best ones available, as they are up off the road a bit so they have a bit more privacy. The walk in sites (58-61) look nice too, but only if you are going with a group and book them all," advises a Worlds End State Park visitor.
Off-season considerations: Weather changes quickly in higher elevations. "If you come in the fall, make sure you bring a cold weather sleeping bag or heater because the temp does drop," warns a camper about autumn stays at Worlds End.
Tips for camping with families
Splash pad amenities: Several private campgrounds feature water recreation beyond swimming areas. "Nice, pull-through on gravel pad with full-hookups that can take large rigs. Lake is lovely for fishing/kayaks/canoes. Heated swimming pool and the splash pad for kiddies is spotless as well," reports a visitor to Pine Cradle Lake.
Playground accessibility: Some campgrounds strategically place play areas within sight of campsites. "We always get a site on the outside of the main circle by the tower slide. There's lots of shade and optimum view of both playgrounds to keep an eye on the kiddos," advises a visitor to Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park PA Wilds.
Halloween festivities: Several campgrounds host seasonal events with decorated sites. "We love decorating the sites and taking the kids trick or treating. They do a haunted woods that we felt the kids were too young for- maybe next time! They do hot chocolate and goodies in the store during the evening," shares a Pioneer Campground visitor.
Private bathroom facilities: Some shower houses offer full-room privacy beneficial for families with young children. "The restrooms were fantastic, the buildings held two complete rooms with a toilet sink and shower in each. It's the only shower camping this year my 4yr old wasn't afraid of because we had the whole room to ourselves," notes a visitor to Pine Cradle Lake.
Tips from RVers
Road access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult approach roads. "The entry road to the campground itself is a very steep, narrow road with a small curve at the top. It's well-maintained but keep an eye out for campers coming down," warns a visitor to Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park PA Wilds.
Site leveling requirements: Even designated RV areas may require additional equipment. "The sites are spaced a decent amount apart and are generous in size. Most of the sites are nicely wooded. Each site has a large picnic table and fire ring and we stayed in the area with electric hookups," reports a visitor to Ricketts Glen State Park Campground.
Hook-up variations: Services differ significantly between sites within the same campground. "All roads and parking pads are paved. Our first week, we were on site 54 (W/E 50A) and waterfront. Our second week, we stayed on site 44 (FHU 50A) right across from the seldom used playground," explains a visitor to Tompkins Campground.
