State Parks Offer Cabin Fever Discount

The Bureau of State Parks is offering visitors a chance to enjoy winter rest and relaxation by booking rustic and modern cabins at 23 state parks at discounted rates with the annual "Cabin Fever" lodging promotion.

 

"Whether it's ice fishing, skating or snowmobiling, there is no better way to experience and enjoy winter than in the heart of Pennsylvania's woodlands," Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Michael DiBerardinis said. "With 'Cabin Fever' discounts, visitors can stay one night at participating state park cabins in January and February and get one night's lodging free."

 

The discount allows state park customers to purchase one night's lodging at a cabin -- when arriving between Sunday and Wednesday -- and receive the second consecutive weekday night free. If arriving on a Thursday and staying through Sunday, customers receive Sunday night free.

 

The "Cabin Fever" discount, last offered in 2007, only applies to cabin reservations of visitors arriving Sunday through Thursday during January and February 2009.

 

Two types of state park cabin experiences are available. Rustic cabins feature a refrigerator, fireplace, kitchen stove and either a woodstove or gas heat, but do not have indoor plumbing. Modern cabins offer carpeting, electric heat, bedrooms, a bathroom and kitchen.

 

"Winter is a beautiful and serene season in our parks and forests. And, with a wealth of recreational and educational programming being offered, there are plenty of opportunities for learning and adventure," Secretary DiBerardinis said.

 

"Our state parks and forestlands have it all -- cold-weather hiking, late-season hunting and ATV riding," he said. "With a winter playground of state land alone totaling more than 2.4 million acres, Pennsylvania is recognized as a national leader in winter tourism and recreation. The 'Cabin Fever' lodging discount makes these activities very affordable."

 

Pennsylvania's snowmobiling season opened December 14 in state forests and parks. Condition updates are available at the toll-free, snowmobile hot line -- 1-877-SNOMBLE (1-877-766-6253).

For the cross-country skiing enthusiast, more than 330 miles of marked cross-country ski trails are offered on state forestland. Nearly 400 miles of groomed and un-groomed cross-country ski trails are available in 73 state parks.

 

Downhill skiing is offered at Blue Knob State Park, Bedford County; Denton Hill State Park, Potter County; and Camelback (Big Pocono State Park), Monroe County. Skiing is not offered this season at Laurel Mountain, Westmoreland County.