Campsites around Annville, Pennsylvania rest at elevations between 400-600 feet, creating varied terrain throughout Lebanon County. The region experiences all four seasons distinctly, with summer camping temperatures typically ranging from 65-85°F and winter lows often dropping below freezing. Local campgrounds offer a mix of wooded sites and open meadows, with many facilities located within 30 minutes of Hershey attractions.
What to do
Hiking the Conewago Trail: Access the trailhead directly from Jonestown/Hershey KOA for a scenic walk or bike ride. "The campground is connected to the Swatara Rail trial which is great for biking. The Swatara creek runs right next to it so it is great for kayaking, tubing, etc," notes Bobby S. in a review.
Fishing at local ponds: Stoevers Dam Park offers simple electric-only sites with a small lake for fishing. "Nice area. Primitive camping with portapot. Must get permits on line or from city hall. $3/night. Small lake," explains Mike V., highlighting the affordability.
Visit surrounding Amish communities: Pennsylvania Dutch countryside provides unique cultural experiences near campgrounds. At Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country, "you'll be engulfed by the incredibly rich, verdant countryside populated by incredibly rural residents who's ancestors settled this vast rich farmland a few hundred years ago," according to Stuart K.
What campers like
Clean, accessible bathrooms: Pinch Pond Family Campground earns high marks for maintenance. "ENTIRE campground was extremely clean and tidy. The office and grounds keeping staff were super friendly and helpful," reports Melissa Y., who appreciated the well-kept facilities.
Family-friendly activities: Twin Grove RV Resort offers extensive recreation options that keep families returning. "My family has been going here for the last 3 years. We love camping here. They have a pool and fun activities though the day. At night they have a merry go round, train, giant slide and ferries wheel you can ride," Dawn T. shares.
Convenient Hershey Park access: Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA provides shuttle service to Hershey attractions. "We were able to purchase Hershey Park tickets which were cheaper than buying from the Hershey (at a discount) and it includes shuttle service to and from the park!" says Marlaina M., highlighting the transportation convenience.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience highway or other noise issues. "This campground has nice large sites, shade and sunny, full hookups, clean pool, playground, super clean laundry room and bathrooms. The only thing that is negative is that there is a shooting range right next door. It is pretty consistent from lunch to dinner," warns Tara N. about Pinch Pond.
Reservation timing: For pet friendly camping near Annville, Pennsylvania during peak season, book well ahead. "If you are thinking about staying here during the Renaissance Faire, which apparently is a VERY BIG thing in these parts, you are going to want to book your spot as soon as possible," advises Stuart K.
Site leveling challenges: Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground offers waterfront sites but some terrain issues. "We had site 114. It has water access and is right next to a small man made beach and playground. Bathrooms were in good shape. Sites were of ample size and well spaced," reports SkywaystoHighways.com Y.
Tips for camping with families
Pet exercise options: Dog owners appreciate designated pet areas. "One of our favorite places we have visited! Friendly staff, very quant, laundry onsite, splash pad, play grounds, very clean restrooms/showers, provides shuttle to Hersheypark, some creekside sites along with access to creek from your campite!" says Amber R. about Jonestown/Hershey KOA.
Water activities for hot days: Choose campgrounds with swimming options for summer visits. "There is a fenced not in area for dogs and a mini golf course, but it's more for younger children," notes Marlaina M. about recreational amenities at Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA.
Wildlife awareness: Keep food secure and pets leashed to avoid unwanted encounters. "Beware of ticks," warns Kasumi from a review of Jonestown/Hershey KOA, indicating the importance of tick checks after outdoor activities in this region.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Starlite Camping Resort, choose carefully based on your preferences. "We had two sites this trip with water and electric, but they do have quite a few full hook-up sites. Overall the sites were large, with trees between, providing additional privacy. Except for the Plateau sites, which have the amazing view, the rest of the campground had a great tree cover!" recommends Craig F.
Leveling equipment: Bring extra blocks for some campgrounds in the Annville area. "Not just the one we're on but others as well. The campground is pretty hilly and they don't seem to want to level out the sites. We had to go out and get more blocks and we're still not very level front to back," reports Sammii D. about conditions at Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country.
Access considerations: Navigate the winding roads carefully in larger rigs. "This is a large KOA with lots of sites, set on a hilly/'tiered' landscape with winding roads," explains Jen V. about Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA, which despite the terrain, offers "sites closer to the entrance of the park near all the amenities."
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