Situated along the Susquehanna River in York County, Pennsylvania, Airville sits at approximately 600 feet above sea level in the rolling hills of southeastern Pennsylvania. The area experiences a moderate four-season climate with warm summers and cold winters, making camping possible year-round with proper preparation. Fall camping is particularly popular as temperatures typically range from 45-70°F with colorful foliage displays in October.
What to Do
Hiking trails at Gifford Pinchot State Park: The park features an 8.5-mile Lakeside Trail circling the water with multiple access points. "I took an early morning hike on the Lakeside Trail that goes around the lake and it was really awesome to see the lake from all different angles," notes a visitor to Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer fishing access for various species. "There is a small, slow flowing river that runs along the front of the park which some people play in and float down in inner tubes," reports a camper at Old Mill Stream Campground.
Local cultural experiences: Lancaster County's Amish attractions are easily accessible from several campgrounds. "Close to local activities, clean and quiet. The front desk staff was super friendly and the site was perfect," shares a visitor from Country Acres Campground.
What Campers Like
Wooded tent sites: Secluded camping areas provide privacy between neighbors. "The primitive sites are back in the woods which kept us nice and cool on hot July nights. The location also kept us fairly bug free," mentions a camper at Tucquan Park Family Campground.
Yurt accommodations: Several parks offer yurt camping near Airville for those seeking shelter with minimal setup. "Nice campground. Very clean facilities. We typically stay in the primitive tent loop which is right on the lake," reports a visitor at Codorus State Park Campground.
Campground layout: Sites with natural separation are highly valued. "For the most part we didn't notice any that really seem to be right on top of each other, but we think the site we got was the best one in the park. We were in 132, which was huge and had nice open flat areas for the tent."
What You Should Know
Seasonal considerations: Weather can affect camping conditions significantly. "We stayed here for a few days for a quick getaway. 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."
Local wildlife awareness: Native species may be encountered during your stay. "This area tends to have a lot of rattlesnakes, and we spotted one about 20 feet off the trail in a downed wood pile - cool, but a little terrifying!" warns a hiker at Gifford Pinchot State Park.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. "You can reserve online you can see the availability and pick your site which is always a nice feature. They also have pictures of each campsite on the website so you really know what you are getting," notes a camper at French Creek State Park Campground.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Select sites near recreation areas for convenience with children. "The kids enjoyed the playground the most — there were lots of fun things for the kids on the playground. There was also a nice pond... We were originally supposed to be in the woods — which FYI is far out of the way of the main activities."
Swimming options: Several parks offer designated swimming areas. "The pool is nice and clean to cool off on those hot camping days. They also have a nice little pond you can fish," explains a reviewer from Tucquan Park.
Educational opportunities: Consider proximity to historical sites. "There are two lakes, Scotts Run Lake and Hopewell Lake that you can fish at, kayak, canoe or just relax by," mentions a camper at French Creek State Park, which is adjacent to Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Check utilities before booking if you require specific services. "Our site was level, shaded and quite large. Almost every site in this section was similarly large and wooded, with an impressive amount of space between sites for a KOA," notes a camper at Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA.
Site leveling: Many campgrounds have prepared pads for easier setup. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other. Bathrooms were very nice and clean with large showers."
Access roads: Some parks have terrain limitations for larger vehicles. "It is a little complicated getting in, you need to turn in at the Cartoon Network Hotel driveway. Nice showers & friendly staff. Our site was asphalt, that was a treat, tho not all of them were..."
