Campgrounds near Airville, Pennsylvania occupy a region where the Susquehanna River carves through rolling hills at approximately 300 feet above sea level. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer highs typically in the 80s and winter temperatures often dropping below freezing. Many campgrounds in this region are tucked into wooded areas with varying degrees of tree coverage, which affects satellite reception and solar capabilities for RV users.
What to do
Kayak and boat access: At Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina, the water is just steps from most sites. "Kayak rentals, boat slips...can fish from your chair," notes Lisa T. This park provides 91 sites with water access for various activities.
Fishing opportunities: Campgrounds with stocked ponds offer family-friendly fishing. "The pond is not suitable for swimming and has no swimming signs around. It is a wonderful fishing pond," explains one camper about fishing areas at Gettysburg Farm. Some require fishing licenses while others maintain private ponds.
Explore Amish country: The Lancaster area provides unique cultural experiences. "In nearby Quakertown, there's a Giant & Aldi's grocery store as well as a local Target, Walmart, TJMaxx, Kohl's and Link Beverages," mentions Stuart K. about amenities near PA Dutch Country RV Resort, ideal for restocking while exploring the countryside.
What campers like
Live entertainment: Weekend events are popular at many parks. "Saturday night bands are concert worthy," notes Scott J. about Sun Valley Campground, where entertainment adds to the camping experience during peak season.
Farm animal interactions: Several campgrounds feature farm animals for visitors to interact with. "We LOVED the animals and went to visit at other times. Beyond that though, we found there wasn't too much to do," shares Melissa about Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm, highlighting a unique attraction at this camping destination.
Seasonal celebrations: Halloween weekends are particularly popular at rv parks near Airville. "We spent Halloween weekend here. The kids loved it!" reports Kasey M. about Circle M Campground, where themed weekends create memorable experiences for families throughout the camping season.
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: Review site dimensions before booking. "Sites are very close together. Fire rings are very close to campers," reports Justin B., noting challenges at some parks. Look for end sites or those on outer loops for more space.
Shooting range proximity: Several rv camping options near Airville are affected by nearby shooting ranges. "The nearby shooting range is incredibly loud," mentions Angelica K. about one campground, while Tara N. notes that shooting activity is "pretty consistent from lunch to dinner" at another location.
Cell service details: Coverage varies by carrier and location within parks. "Excellent cell and gateway service. Cell is AT&T and our gateway is T-Mobile," reports Nick E. about Thousand Trails Circle M, where connectivity exceeds what's available at many other campgrounds in the region.
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds have water quality issues. "Water was rusty in our row came out brown at first then was tan after running through our filter for the entire stay," notes one camper. Consider bringing extra filtration if water quality is important.
Tips for camping with families
Mini-golf condition check: Many campgrounds offer mini golf but quality varies. "Mini golf was fun but need to be regreened….several holes needed maintenance," mentions Beth B. about Spring Gulch, suggesting families check course conditions or bring their own outdoor games.
Playground locations: Campground size affects amenity access. "There was only 1 playground, it was all the way at the front of the campground (we had to drive to it) and it was very junky and run down," reports Chelsea about Drummer Boy Camping Resort, highlighting the importance of checking playground proximity when selecting sites with children.
Pool operating hours: Pool availability varies seasonally and daily. "Staff was nice but not enough staffing to keep amenities like pool open after 5 during the week," notes one camper, showing that family-friendly features may have limited hours outside weekends.
Farm animal feeding schedules: At animal-focused campgrounds, check feeding times. "We fed them at the allotted time every morning," reports a camper, noting structured interaction times that families should plan around for maximum enjoyment.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds feature sloped sites requiring extra equipment. "Unlevel is an understatement we were in E row and every camper there had front end 4 foot off the ground," reports Justin B. about a particularly challenging row at one park, suggesting RVers bring additional leveling blocks.
Sewer connection placement: Position can affect drainage efficiency. "The biggest complaint about our site was that the sewer hookup was inconveniently placed about six inches above the ground which meant that it would not drain properly," notes Nancy W. about one campground, recommending RVers bring sewer hose supports.
Navigation to campgrounds: Access roads can present challenges for larger rigs. "You have to drive through a residential neighborhood to reach Bar Harbor, so big rigs take care/caution," advises Craig Z., highlighting the importance of researching approach routes before arrival at rv parks in Airville area.
Site selection strategy: Arrive early at first-come, first-served parks. "For everyone complaining about driving around and not finding spots, if you get there early enough around 1 pm, you won't have a problem," advises Yamileth K., noting timing can significantly improve site options at popular campgrounds.