Camping opportunities near Amberson, Pennsylvania range from seasonal to year-round sites across several campgrounds nestled in the rural Pennsylvania mountains. Located in Franklin County at approximately 1,300 feet elevation, the area features rolling forested terrain with typical summer highs around 85°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Spring and fall offer comfortable camping weather with occasional rainfall that can create muddy conditions on unpaved access roads.
What to do
Farm animal interactions: Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm features a working farm environment where families can participate in animal feeding. "We've enjoyed mini-golf, feeding the animals, 'hiking' through the cornfield, fishing, and campfires," shares one visitor. The animals prove consistently popular, with another camper noting, "We came amidst COVID-19, so the many activities and events this location usually holds are down, BUT there is still fun to be had here!"
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds provide water access for fishing within 30-45 minutes of Amberson. "Great place to go fishing!" reports one visitor about Gettysburg Farm. For those seeking larger water bodies, Raystown Lake offers multiple fishing access points. "We fished at Tautman Run and Aitch - both were accessible and had lots of bluegill to steal our worms," explains a camper who stayed at Timber Run Campground.
Historical exploration: The Gettysburg battlefield sits approximately 45 minutes from Amberson. "Not to mention it's a few minute drive to historic Gettysburg. It's nice and out of the way of the busy parts of town," explains a reviewer about Gettysburg Campground. Another camper adds, "If you're looking for a campground that is very close to an historical National Park not to mention shopping and restaurants, this is for you."
What campers like
Creek-side camping: Several campgrounds offer sites along water features. At Gettysburg Campground, "the tenting area is calm and has a creek right next to it to listen to in the evening and morning." Another visitor recommends, "Really nice place. Recommend a site by the creek." The natural soundscape provides a relaxing backdrop for campers seeking a more natural experience.
Swimming options: Multiple RV sites near Amberson, Pennsylvania include pool facilities that receive positive reviews. At Round Top Campground, "Pool was clean and quite good sized, had it to ourselves due to season." Similarly, a visitor to Raystown Lake/Saxton KOA reported, "It still has a pool the is as clean as they come (they may have added a new liner, not sure) and they still maintain it like it is being inspected the next day."
Convenience to attractions: The proximity to activities beyond camping grounds appeals to many visitors. "The proximity to Gettysburg National Park can't be beat," states one review. Another camper at Round Top Campground explains their activities: "Battlefield audio tour, Nighttime walking ghost tour, Battlefield Brew Works, Visited shops around the square, Mr Ed's."
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: Campground density differs substantially throughout the region. "Sites are small and tight and some are at strange angles," notes a visitor to Round Top Campground. At Raystown Lake/Saxton KOA, however, experience can be different: "It is still a small family run and family friendly campground."
Seasonal limitations: Many campgrounds operate on limited schedules. A Round Top visitor notes, "Off-season so not crowded." Weather conditions also affect facilities, with some pools and activities unavailable during colder months. Plan accordingly for shoulder season visits when amenities may be limited.
Terrain challenges: The mountainous landscape means many campgrounds have sloped sites. "The site was pretty level and an okay side," reported one visitor to Drummer Boy, while another noted about Western Village RV Park, "We camped here in May for Memorial Day weekend. The site wasn't hard to level our RV but overall the sites are hilly and in fact the whole park is on a hill."
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: Not all campgrounds have equal facilities for children. A disappointed visitor to one location noted, "In my opinion as a mom of small kids maybe the worst part was that 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." For better options, consider Gettysburg Campground which has "nice playground for kids."
Special events: Some campgrounds organize themed activities for families. At Timber Run Campground, one visitor enjoyed "Bigfoot weekend. It was super fun as our family likes bigfoot fun. We started out Friday night getting the offered $12 bbq plate... On Saturday was rock painting and then bingo and ended the night with a DJ dance party."
Kid-friendly amenities: Seek out campgrounds with dedicated children's facilities. At Drummer Boy Camping Resort, "The campground offers free mini golf, a pool and a splash pad pool area," reports one visitor. Another notes it has "a lot of amenities for all," making it suitable for family camping trips near Amberson.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility concerns: RV owners report variable experiences with site access. "The roads are very confusing and difficult to navigate. Many of the sites are on annoying slope where the table/fire pit is not level to the camper," reports one RVer about Round Top Campground. Another mentioned that "Roads through the park are fairly narrow with potholes."
Hookup placements: Consider sewer, water, and electric hookup locations when selecting an RV site near Amberson, Pennsylvania. "Sites have reasonable spacing with gravel pads, mostly level," reported a Round Top visitor. However, another camper at Western Village noted, "The sites are so small that my truck was either parked over the firering or blocking our door. Our slideout is 3" from the neighbor site's picnic table."
