Embark on a journey through the heart of the Keystone State, where the great outdoors beckons with open arms. Here, nestled among rolling hills, serene lakes, and lush woodlands, you’ll discover some of the top-rated campgrounds in Pennsylvania.
This state is a treasure trove for campers, offering a blend of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you’re pitching a tent under the stars, parking your RV amidst the pines, or cozying up in a rustic cabin, Pennsylvania’s campgrounds are destinations in themselves, promising memorable escapes for every kind of outdoor enthusiast.
Key Takeaways
- Pennsylvania’s campgrounds offer a unique blend of adventure and tranquility, perfect for any outdoor enthusiast.
- Ridgeview Campground emerges as a top choice with its modern amenities and proximity to Lake Raystown’s activities.
- Camping in Pennsylvania is diverse, with options ranging from rustic tent sites to full-service RV resorts.
Pennsylvania’s Premier Camping Destinations
As we delve into the heart of Pennsylvania’s camping scene, we uncover a curated selection of the finest retreats for nature lovers. Each campground we’re about to explore offers its own unique charm, amenities, and access to the state’s abundant natural wonders.
From the thrill of wilderness trails to the tranquility of lakeside evenings, these havens provide the perfect backdrop for your next outdoor adventure.
Ridgeview Campground – Huntingdon
Ridgeview Campground is one of the best camping grounds in Pennsylvania and is in close proximity to Lake Raystown, the largest lake in the state. This newest addition to the Raystown Lake Region’s camping scene welcomes both seasonal and daily visitors with a variety of camping options tailored to every preference.
Ridgeview Campground’s strategic location makes it an ideal spot for guests eager to indulge in the vast array of activities that Lake Raystown has to offer. The campground’s proximity to Snyder’s Run Boat Launch, Seven Points Marina & Recreation Area, and the Allegrippis Trails ensures that adventure is just a stone’s throw away.
Designed with the camper in mind, Ridgeview Campground combines the rustic charm of the outdoors with the comforts of modern amenities. It’s a place where families and their pets can create lasting memories amidst the backdrop of Pennsylvania’s lush landscapes.
The campground’s amenities are thoughtfully curated to enhance any camping adventure. Amenities such as RV hookups, playgrounds, Wi-Fi, sports fields, fire pits, and more are available.
The campground’s user-friendly booking system allows guests to easily view available sites and secure reservations online, offering flexible payment options for all. And for those who seek a more personalized experience, Ridgeview’s concierge service is ready to assist with local recommendations and any queries during your stay.
Hersheypark Camping Resort – Hummelstown
Found in the chocolate capital of the US, the Hersheypark Camping Resort offers a sweet retreat for RV and tent camping enthusiasts.
Guests can choose from a variety of accommodations to suit their style of camping. RV campers will find partial or full hook-up RV sites equipped with water, electric, and cable hook-ups, while tent campers can set up their base along the creek.
For a unique stay, the resort offers log cabins and a new Tiny Home, blending the rustic feel of camping with the comforts of modern amenities.
The resort’s amenities include recreational facilities including volleyball, basketball, and shuffleboard courts; playgrounds, horseshoe pits, an indoor game room, and swimming pools for adults and kids. The Country Store within the Historic Landis Barn is stocked with camping essentials and treats.
Minister Creek Campground – Sheffield
Tucked away within the serene settings of the Allegheny National Forest, Minister Creek Campground presents an intimate escape into nature and a truly authentic outdoor adventure. Open from April 1st through October 31st, this quaint campground is the Allegheny’s smallest, offering only six family campsites for RV and tent camping.
Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and tent pad, ensuring a comfortable and rustic camping experience.
The allure of Minister Creek Campground is enhanced by the Minister Creek Hiking Trail, a six-mile loop that begins and ends within the campground. For anglers, the campground offers excellent trout fishing opportunities in both Minister Creek and the nearby Tionesta Creek.
Bear Run Campground – Portersville
Bear Run Campground is strategically located near Pittsburgh with easy access to the stunning Lake Arthur’s shoreline and Moraine State Park.
For those who prefer the RV lifestyle, Bear Run has a variety of spacious campsites to choose from, including 50amp pull-thrus. It also has more secluded primitive camping walk-in sites, as well as cabin rentals for people who like their comfort and convenience.
The campground offers a full-court basketball/pickleball pavilion with lights, swimming opportunities, softball fields, and rentals for canoes and kayaks. The General Store and gift shop are stocked with souvenirs, camping necessities, and more, ensuring guests have everything they need for their vacation. To keep guests connected, the campground offers WiFi throughout the park.
Cherry Springs State Park – Coudersport
Cherry Springs State Park is nestled within the Susquehannock State Forest, renowned for its picturesque black cherry trees and exceptional stargazing opportunities. As a certified Dark Sky Park, Cherry Springs is one of the premier destinations in the United States for astronomers and night sky enthusiasts to observe the dark skies for celestial wonders.
The park’s rustic campground has 30 non-electric campsites that feature picnic tables and fire rings. During the day, the park serves as a gateway to the 85-mile Susquehannock Trail, offering miles of hiking trails, and mountain biking paths. It even has trails for horseback riding and ATV adventures.
Educational programs and stargazing events are regularly held, providing visitors with insights into the cosmos and the natural world around them. The annual Woodsmen’s Show draws crowds eager to celebrate and learn about forestry traditions. For those who enjoy winter sports, the park and surrounding state forest offer trails for snowmobiling, adding to the year-round appeal of the area.
Otter Lake Camp Resort – Marshalls Creek
Otter Lake Camp Resort serves as a gateway to a beautiful location, the Pocono Mountains. The resort is anchored by a stunning 60-acre lake.
The resort offers full hookups with 50/30-amp electric, while pull-thru sites provide easy access for larger vehicles. For those who prefer a more solid structure, cabins are also available. Lakefront sites offer serene views, and paved roads make the campground easily navigable.
There is Wi-Fi available throughout the resort. The camping experience is enhanced by deluxe, heated restrooms complete with separate showers and dressing areas, ensuring comfort in all seasons.
Recreational opportunities abound with numerous lake activities available for the entire family, while land lovers can explore the walking trails or engage in sports, such as volleyball, pickleball, tennis, racquetball, and basketball.
Appalachian RV Campground – Shartlesville
Appalachian RV Campground is a large camping ground with 363 campsites spread across 87 lush acres. Open from early April to early November, it offers a diverse range of accommodations, including RV camping, cabin camping, and tent sites. There are also cottages on site, if you prefer those.
Recreation at Appalachian RV Campground is abundant. Anglers can enjoy fishing in the stocked pond, while the swimming pool provides a refreshing escape on warm days. Additional amenities like mini golf, a basketball court, and a sand volleyball court offer endless entertainment.
The campground’s proximity to the Appalachian Trail and other hiking trails offers ample opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts to explore the scenic surroundings. The resort’s amenities extend to a clubhouse, fishing spots, and pet-friendly policies, ensuring that every member of the family, including four-legged ones, has an enjoyable stay.
Christmas Pines Campground – Auburn
Christmas Pines Campground offers a festive and family-friendly camping experience in southeastern Pennsylvania. Amenities include a doggie park for pet lovers, a snack bar for quick bites, and a game room for some indoor fun. Outdoor activities include a basketball court, a swimming pool, a playground, and a pond for fishing.
The campground is close to Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, a haven for raptor conservation. Other nearby attractions include Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom, Knoebel’s Amusement Park, Ashland Pioneer Tunnel coal mine, and Crystal Cave.
For hikers, the proximity to the Appalachian Trail provides an excellent opportunity to explore the scenic trails of Pennsylvania. It is the perfect location for those seeking a camping trip with a tent or a full hook-up site for your RV.
Lauder Family Campground – Frenchville
Lauder Family Campground offers a variety of modern campsites for vacationers, including RV sites, tent camping, and full-service cabins. These cabins are heated and furnished with beds, a futon, and kitchen amenities. Each also has a fire pit for those who enjoy an evening under the stars.
For a more glamorous camping experience, the campground provides glamping tents equipped with bunk beds, a refrigerator, and a microwave. These tents also include heating and air-conditioning to ensure comfort in any season.
The campground is a gateway to wildlife watching, with Frenchville offering access to Pennsylvania’s state game lands where deer, elk, and bear roam freely. Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy the two private stocked ponds for catch-and-release fishing.
The campground is conveniently located within driving distance to several attractions, including the Mosquito Creek Sportsman’s Club, Penn State University, and the popular Elk Viewing area in Benezette.
Lampe Marina Campground – Erie
Lampe Marina Campground, located on the south shore of Lake Erie, offers a serene waterfront camping experience. With 42 campsites adjacent to Lampe Marina, each site includes water and electric hookups with options for 20, 30, and 50 amp service. The campground provides essential amenities such as restroom facilities, dump stations, and 24-hour security to ensure a comfortable stay.
The sites are designed as back-in sites to maximize the scenic views of the lake. Campers can enjoy picnic tables and fire rings at each site, adding to the outdoor experience. Additional conveniences include laundry facilities, shower facilities, and a free public boat launch for those looking to explore the waters of Lake Erie.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the campground is connected by a bike path to bayfront attractions and the natural beauty of Presque Isle State Park. Fishing charters and boat rentals are also available nearby for those seeking to engage in lake activities.
Raccoon Creek State Park – Hookstown
Raccoon Creek State Park stands out as one of Pennsylvania’s premier natural attractions, sprawling across 7,572 acres and boasting the picturesque Raccoon Lake.
Campers at Raccoon Creek State Park can choose from 172 modern tent and trailer campsites, complete with flush toilets, warm showers, and options for electric hookups. Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and fire ring, and pets are welcome in designated loops.
The campground is thoughtfully laid out with a variety of site options, including secluded spots and adjoining sites for larger groups.
For connectivity, the park offers phone service and is noted to have good Verizon and T-Mobile coverage. While the availability of WiFi is not specified, the park ensures that essential services like market access, firewood, drinking water, and electric hookups are readily available.
Seize Your Slice of Outdoor Bliss!
Perched on the cusp of Pennsylvania’s largest lake, Ridgeview Campground is your ticket to an unforgettable outdoor experience. With Lake Raystown’s pristine waters as your backdrop, every day is an invitation to dive into nature’s playground. Whether you’re a boating enthusiast, a fishing aficionado, or a trail trekker, Ridgeview is the perfect base camp for all your escapades.
Secure a spot at Pennsylvania’s newest camping gem with just a few clicks. Whether you’re here to disconnect in the tranquility of nature or to engage in exhilarating outdoor activities, Ridgeview offers the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern convenience.
Contact us to know more, and we’d be happy to fill you in.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the #1 campground in the US?
The title of #1 campground in the US is subjective and varies a lot based on individual preferences.
Is Pennsylvania good for camping?
Yes, Pennsylvania is excellent for camping, with diverse landscapes, state parks, and forests like Allegheny National Forest and Ricketts Glen State Park.
What are the top 5 camping states?
Each state in the US offers a different kind of appeal for campers, but here are the states which are generally popular for their diverse and rich camping experiences:
- California, with its vast array of national parks, beaches, and forests.
- Colorado, for its majestic Rocky Mountains and numerous scenic campgrounds.
- Montana, known for its sprawling wilderness areas and Glacier National Park.
- Utah, celebrated for its unique red rock landscapes and desert camping experiences.
- Pennsylvania, which boasts a variety of outdoor experiences from the Appalachian Trail and Allegheny National Forest to the tranquil shores of Lake Erie.
How many campgrounds are there in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania boasts hundreds of campgrounds, including state park campgrounds, private campgrounds, and national forest camping areas.