Located in the heart of the Susquehanna Valley region, horse campgrounds near Annville, Pennsylvania provide access to rolling hills and forested landscapes at elevations ranging from 400-1,100 feet. The area experiences four distinct seasons with typically humid summers reaching into the 80s and cold winters with occasional heavy snowfall. Most campgrounds in this area maintain primitive to full-service sites along creek beds and river valleys.
What to do
Hiking trails: French Creek State Park Campground offers multiple hiking options for various skill levels. "There is lots of hiking, the lake is beautiful, at least two playgrounds (perfect for our kids), the bathrooms were well maintained," notes Katie M. The park features several trails ranging from easy family walks to more challenging routes.
Fishing spots: The multiple waterways provide excellent fishing opportunities. "There are several warm water fish in the lakes including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish," according to one reviewer at French Creek. Ice fishing is permitted at both Scotts Run Lake and Hopewell Lake during winter months when safe conditions exist.
Historic exploration: Visit the restored iron furnace at Hibernia County Park, where weekend mansion tours are available. "There is an old mansion that gives tours on weekends," mentions Jim N. The park preserves important industrial heritage sites with interpretive signage throughout the grounds.
What campers like
Natural water features: Colonel Denning State Park Campground receives praise for its accessible water features. "Great stream right behind the sites. If you stay in lower sites you are near the water and will have to walk up a large hill to get to bathrooms," writes Casey L. The park also includes "a wide open area to swim that was very clean and well kept."
Private, wooded sites: Campers appreciate the natural screening at many locations. At Colonel Denning, "we chose site 28 which was a walk-in site, this was perfect for us since we wanted to be further away from people and the light from the bathroom/shower facility," reports Tiff T. Many campgrounds maintain varying degrees of site separation through natural vegetation.
Modern facilities: Starlite Camping Resort maintains clean, updated amenities. "The facilities are spotless and the campground is maintained to the highest standards I have seen," notes Elizabeth L. The campground features "a community pool, general store, snack bar, playground area, toilets, indoor shower stalls, daily activities, pets permitted, water/electric utilities and laundry units," according to Brie A.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most area campgrounds operate with limited services during winter months. At Little Buffalo State Park Campground, "the pool here is top notch and it's good for fishing but the hiking isn't super great," states Christopher E., highlighting the seasonal variability of available activities.
Terrain challenges: Many campsites in the region feature sloping or uneven ground. "Sites are not level, but nothing a little creative positioning can't fix," notes Jennifer S. about Hibernia County Park. Similarly, at Starlite Camping Resort, "it is quite hilly throughout the campground, but the individual sites are very level to park the camper with almost no blocks needed."
Reservation requirements: Peak season often requires advance planning. "Peak season requires minimum 5 day reservation, I believe," shares one camper about Tuscarora State Park. Some parks operate on first-come, first-served basis during off-peak times, while others maintain reservation systems year-round.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access considerations: At Little Buffalo State Park, "you have to pay to get in the pool, yes even if you are camping!" cautions Amanda H. The facility does offer "a large area that is only 1 foot deep, great for little ones" and "a splash pad" which makes the additional cost worthwhile for many families.
Playground accessibility: Tuscarora State Park Campground maintains "very nice playground area and clean" facilities according to multiple reviewers. Most family-friendly campgrounds in the area include playground equipment within walking distance of camping loops.
Educational programs: Many parks offer ranger-led activities. At Colonel Denning, "the park rangers had an owl program on Friday night and ended up calling in several screech owls. Very cool to hear their eerie cries in the woods," shares Nate & Erika L. Check park bulletin boards or websites for current program schedules.
Tips from RVers
Site selection guidance: At Ferryboat Campsites, RV campers should note that sites "can be close to neighboring campers" according to reviews. "Most sites were occupied by permanent or seasonal residents," observes Robin, so weekend visitors should reserve well in advance.
Hookup availability: French Creek State Park provides electric sites but limited water access. One reviewer mentions, "If you have a large camper or 5th wheel you may need to double check what sites can accommodate your RV to ensure you have enough room." Most parks provide site dimension information online or by phone.
Leveling requirements: At Colonel Denning, RVers note challenges with site layout. One camper mentioned, "electric was on the wrong side of the site for our door and canopy to open to the fire ring." Bringing extra leveling blocks and extension cords is recommended for most campgrounds in this hilly region.
Ranger
