Cabin camping near Washington Woods, Pennsylvania places visitors in the western edge of Pennsylvania Dutch Country where the rolling hills meet farmland at elevations ranging from 400-700 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with humid summers averaging 85°F and winters that can drop below freezing. Campgrounds in this area typically arrange cabin rentals in clusters or along waterfront areas, creating distinct lodging zones within larger facilities.
What to do
Fishing at local ponds: Tucquan Park Family Campground offers a well-stocked fishing pond with some paddle boat options. "They have a nice little pond you can fish. The people who run it are super helpful and the store is well stocked with anything you need," notes Dan A. The pond doesn't require a fishing license since it's private property.
Visit Amish communities: Mill Bridge Village & Camp Resort places you in the heart of Lancaster County's Amish country. "It is right in Amish country. They have a pool, store and other amenities," shares Ilene M. The campground makes an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions in Bird-in-Hand and surrounding communities.
River tubing adventures: Many campers enjoy water activities at Thousand Trails Circle M, where the river creates natural recreation opportunities. "The campground sits in the center of a horseshoe curve of the river, bring tubes and kayaks! We didn't know but went and bought a tube and spent the day on the river!" explains Karla R. The river current varies seasonally, so check conditions before planning water activities.
What campers like
Diverse cabin options: Cabins at Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA offer practical amenities for varying comfort needs. "The site was very nice! We were in a back in site #4. The patio was concrete stone, very pretty. Nice chairs, fire pit, and picnic table," reports Cat R. Sites feature landscaped surroundings that provide separation between units.
Indoor amenities for weather backup: Circle M provides indoor facilities when outdoor activities aren't possible. "Laundry is coin or app operated. Putt putt is still open and fun, so is playground. Arcade was open. There is an indoor pool and spa," says Kasey M. These options prove valuable during rain or for evening entertainment.
Family-oriented environments: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Quarryville creates dedicated spaces for family recreation. "We had stayed in this campground about 5 years ago and we loved it. We returned this year with my 12 and 14 year olds and a 12 year old friend," notes Gina R. The campground continues to update its facilities, recently replacing tent sites with additional cabin rentals.
What you should know
Railroad proximity: Some campgrounds have nearby train tracks that affect noise levels. At Hersheypark Camping Resort, "Nice campground 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!" warns Kit.
Agricultural aromas: Rural locations mean farm smells can affect your experience. One camper noted at Old Mill Stream Campground, "The overwhelming impression of this campground was the smell of cow manure from the nearby dairy farm feedlot. The smell was not present the first day or so we were there and we enjoyed sitting outside in the afternoon, but when the wind shifted the horrid smell drove us inside."
Shooting range noise: Pinch Pond Family Campground & RV Park has a shooting range nearby that creates periodic noise. "This campground has nice large sites, shade and sunny, full hookups, clean pool, playground, super clean laundry room and bathrooms. The only thing that is negative is that there is a shooting range right next door. It is pretty consistent from lunch to dinner," explains Tara N.
Tips for camping with families
Water park access: Family amenities vary widely between locations. At Jellystone Park Quarryville, "The water park is super fun for adults and kids. The entire campground is clean and very well maintained," shares Ashley S. Water features typically operate between Memorial Day and Labor Day, weather permitting.
Playground proximity: When booking cabin sites, check distance to play areas. At Tucquan Park, "Our 3 young kids enjoyed the playground the most — there were lots of fun things for the kids on the playground. There was also a nice pond — it looked pretty full of fish, but we had forgotten our fishing gear," reports melissa.
Special seasonal events: Holiday and seasonal themes enhance stays for younger campers. "I have taken my kids to the Quarryville location on multiple occasion for their Halloween events. Absolutely amazing! We can't wait to go back!" says Jennifer A. Many campgrounds offer themed weekends that include decorating contests, trick-or-treating, and costume parades.
Tips from RVers
Premium sites for privacy: At Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground, site selection affects your cabin experience. "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," shares Julie Y. Waterfront sites cost more but provide direct lake access.
Site leveling preparation: Many campgrounds have mixed terrain. "The sites are gravel and most are not level. They are not well maintained as the site next to us has weeds a foot high," notes James G. about his experience at Hershey RV and Camping Resort. Bring leveling blocks even when staying in cabins, as porches and outdoor areas may not be even.
Early arrival benefits: Thousand Trails properties like Circle M operate on first-come systems for site selection. "The first thing to know is that Thousand Trails sites are first come, first serve. Meaning you have to arrive early in order to get the best spots. They don't reserve sites for you," explains one camper. Arriving before 1pm significantly improves site options, especially for premium or waterfront locations.
