Swimming, fishing, kayaking, and a lakeside beach give Shawnee State Park Campground a clear recreational focus, making it a practical base for campers who want water access without sacrificing developed amenities. The campground sits within Shawnee State Park outside Schellsburg, roughly ten minutes off Route 76, and its 319 sites span multiple loops with a mix of full hookup, 30- and 50-amp electric, and non-electric tent sites, plus yurts and cabins. The lake and beach are a short distance from the campground, and a trail around the lake draws both hikers and cyclists. One reviewer called the lake trail "incredible for biking."
Site quality varies considerably across the property, and that's worth knowing before you book. Non-electric sites tend to be uneven and lack defined pads, while many of the electric and full-hookup sites have gravel pads and are reasonably level. Rick G. found that "Loop D was quiet with ample space between sites that provided privacy," making it a useful reference point when selecting a loop. Some loops allow pets; others do not, so confirm that detail at booking. RVs are limited to 30 feet on most sites, though a dedicated loop accommodates larger rigs when sites are available.
The bathhouses draw consistent praise. Multiple reviewers describe them as clean and well-maintained, with hot water and good pressure. Firewood is sold at the entrance for $5, but the bundles run small, so campers planning longer fires may want to supplement with collected deadfall. A dump station and water fill station are accessible near the exit. Verizon users report workable signal, adequate for streaming.
One consistent note: highway noise from the Pennsylvania Turnpike carries into the campground. It's audible but not overwhelming, and insect sounds often offset it after dark. The campground fills on summer weekends, so midweek visits tend to offer more site choices and more space between neighbors. Beyond the park itself, the Bedford area gives access to the Flight 93 National Memorial, covered bridges, and Fort Bedford, making this a reasonable overnight stop for campers building a broader Pennsylvania itinerary. Those interested in campsites near Shawnee State Park will find additional options in the surrounding area, including Shawnee Lodge — Shawnee State Park nearby.
Reservations are available and worth making for weekend stays; walk-ins are possible on slower nights using the honor system envelopes posted at the entrance.
Description
Shawnee State Park is 3,983 acres of Pennsylvania's scenic Ridge and Valley Province. Ten miles west of the historic town of Bedford along US 30, Shawnee has modern recreational facilities that blend into the natural environment. A focal point of the park is the 451-acre Shawnee Lake.
Permit Conditions: 1. No more than one family unit or five unrelated persons per campsite. Other facilities are limited to the maximum occupancy for the facility (i.e. beds in cabins) for non-family guests. Note: Family Unit-Persons living under one household. 2. Occupant shall include at least one person 18 years of age or older. 3. Noise or conduct which could interfere with the sleep of other persons is prohibited between 9 p.m. and 8 a.m. 4. Before vacating the facility/site, occupants shall clean and properly dispose of waste. 5. Visitors are permitted only between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. 6. This permit may not be assigned or transferred. 7. Alcoholic Beverages are prohibited in all park locations except authorized unique houses and lodges as identified by the Bureau of State Parks. 8. Failure to abide by Pennsylvania State Park Rules and Regulations. 9. For cabins,/yurts/camping cottages removal of tables, beds or other furnishings from the facility are prohibited. 10. For cabins/yurts/camping cottages, tents, camping trailers and recreation vehicles are not permitted in the area. 11. Pets are only permitted in designated areas. Overnight guest with pets must reserve designated facilities. Violations: Violations of park rules and regulations or violations of a condition of this permit could result in any or all of the following consequences: 1. The permit may be revoked. This would mean that the occupants would be required to vacate the facility immediately. 2. The occupants may be required to leave the park. 3. The occupants may be cited for violations of park rules and regulations, a summary offense. 4. The occupants are responsible for any loss or damages to furnishings, fixtures, equipment, or facilities that occur during or due to their occupancy.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsShawnee State Park Campground is located in Pennsylvania near Schellsburg
Directions
US 30 and PA 96 pass through Shawnee State Park.
Address
132 STATE PARK ROAD
Schellsburg, PA 15559
Coordinates
40.05100007 N
78.62400074 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
Verizon5GGood Coverage- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- Verizon5GGood Coverage
- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Cabins
- Tent Cabin
- Yurts
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Reservable
- WiFi
- Showers
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- 30 Amp Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 35 min from Altoona, PA
- 43 min from Johnstown, PA
- 1 hr 13 min from Hagerstown, MD
- 1 hr 17 min from Chambersburg, PA
