Cabin camping near Turtlepoint, Pennsylvania offers options in the Allegheny Plateau region, with elevations around 1,700-2,300 feet. The area experiences four distinct seasons, with winter temperatures dropping well below freezing and summer highs averaging in the upper 70s. Most cabin sites in this region are situated within Pennsylvania's 517,000-acre Allegheny National Forest or nearby state parks.
What to do
Kayaking at Allegheny Reservoir: Located near Riverhurst Park Campground, the reservoir provides direct water access. "There's entrance spots to kayak/play in the river. Other than a few mosquito bites, we left with a peaceful, wonderful time and memories. Including seeing an eagle fly over the river!" notes JoJo S.
Stargazing at Cherry Springs: About 8 miles from Lyman Run State Park Campground, Cherry Springs is a certified Dark Sky area. "Lyman Run holds a special place for me. It's nestled within the gold level dark sky area. This means on a clear night and with a waning or new moon, one could see the arm of the Milky Way with millions of stars," explains Bill G.
Winter recreation opportunities: Cabins in the region remain open year-round at several parks. "We've been backpacking into the campground for years and it's always a beautiful adventure. There's plenty of streams to filter water from, a lush fern forest, and the best part, of course, is the lake!" shares Lindsay S. about Allegheny River Campground.
What campers like
Clean bathroom facilities: Many cabins don't have private bathrooms, but campgrounds maintain clean facilities. At Austin Campground, "the restrooms were emaculately clean any time we visited them," according to Linda S., while another visitor notes it has "very clean bathroom."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region offers chances to see diverse wildlife from your cabin. "We camped over Columbus weekend and got to see gorgeous fall leaves, brilliant night skies, and lots of elk right around the campground plus a bear that took a walk through the campground one evening," reports Kate A. at Austin Campground.
Spacious sites: Cabins often have adequate outdoor space. At Red Bridge Recreation Area, "the sites are private, flat, surrounded by trees, and have plenty of space. The ground is quite rocky though, so bring plenty of heavy duty tent steaks," advises Sheila P.
What you should know
Cabin amenities vary significantly: Some offer basic shelter while others include more comforts. "The cabins are awesome all year round. The park has a lot to do in the summer but a group can still have a blast in the winter," explains Alex B. about staying at Quaker Area — Allegany State Park.
Cell service limitations: Many cabin areas have limited or no connectivity. Red Bridge Recreation Area visitor Sheila P. notes "reception is great (we have Verizon)" at that location, but this varies by campground, with several having no service.
Advance reservations essential: Cabin availability becomes extremely limited, especially during summer and fall foliage seasons. "Perfect location for us. Quiet spacious sites. Very pleasant owner allowed us to stay even though they were technically closed for the season," mentions Kristina D. at Allegheny River Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: When booking cabin accommodations with children, select campgrounds with recreation areas. "There's lots of amenities like volleyball, basketball, playground, swings, all in a safe area away from roads," reports JoJo S. about Riverhurst Park Campground.
Educational opportunities: Many parks offer nature programs. "The park runs daily activities you can go to and learn about different things in nature," shares Kelly B. about Red House Area — Allegany State Park.
Kid-friendly cabin layouts: Some cabins accommodate families better than others. "We've been coming to this campground since I was a kid, and love the fact that you can have the amenities of home away from home. There is so much to do there including catching crayfish, fishing, going to the amplitheater, hiking, and so much more," explains Ashley V. about Red House Area.
Tips from RVers
Power options for cabin campers: Many sites offer electrical hookups for those wanting to bring additional appliances to cabins. At High Pines RV Park, "our site only had 30a power. Most seem to be that way. Looks like some updates are on the way," notes Nick O.
Off-season availability: Cabin rental can be easier during shoulder seasons. "Very nice owners were able to get us in even though we didn't have a reservation," reports Ryan P. about staying at High Pines RV Park.
Water access considerations: Not all cabin sites have water hookups. At Lyman Run State Park, visitors should note that bathroom facilities are well-maintained with "nice, new system for 'composting'... No odor at all. And nice and clean," according to Peggy S.
