Tent camping options near Annville, Pennsylvania range from basic walk-in sites to more developed campgrounds with minimal amenities. The region sits within the ridge and valley section of the Appalachian Mountains, with most campsites located between 400-800 feet in elevation. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F with higher humidity levels, while spring and fall camping seasons offer cooler temperatures and less crowded conditions.
What to do
Creek fishing access: Lower Allen Community Park provides direct water access for anglers with tent sites along Yellow Breeches Creek. According to one camper at Lower Allen Community Park, "Cute site in a local township park that not many people know about. There actually three total. You just need to call the township to reserve."
Trail systems: Multiple hiking options exist within a 30-minute drive. At Susquehannock State Park Campground, one reviewer noted, "There are some excellent views of the Susquehanna River," while another mentioned "lots of long scenic hiking trails down to Deer creek and to the Susquehanna River."
Seasonal activities: Spring wildflower viewing peaks in April-May along forest trails. A Susquehannock visitor commented, "There are amazing wildflowers on that trail. You can bike to the trail from the campground. All downhill. So be ready for the climb back up."
What campers like
Stream sounds: Creekside sites provide natural white noise for sleeping. One camper at Mill Creek Camping Area shared, "Campsite for where we stayed is down by the creek making for a cooler camping experience and love the sound of water flowing at night."
Cool temperatures: Sites near water stay noticeably cooler during summer months. A Mill Creek visitor noted, "The stream is refreshing and the site stays fairly cool. When it's hits the high temperatures a quick dip in the water is amazing."
Wooded privacy: The best tent camping near Annville, Pennsylvania often features tree coverage for shade. At Hibernia County Park, one camper described, "Fiddler's loop is heavily wooded which means plenty of hammock hanging opportunities. The sites are mostly grass, and not very well defined."
What you should know
Reservation systems: Most campgrounds require advance booking during peak season (May-September). A Lower Allen visitor advised, "You just need to call the township to reserve. The sites sit right along the Yellow Breeches creak so you can put in a few miles up and float down to your site."
Bathroom limitations: Facilities range from pit toilets to portable units with limited hours. One Hibernia County Park camper explained, "There are only pit toilets in Fiddler's loop, however there is a bathroom with running water, flush toilets and electric outlets (no shower) within walking distance of the loop."
Trail traffic conflicts: Hikers sometimes cross through designated camping areas. A Mill Creek review cautioned, "Hikers take any trail instead of marked trails regardless of families camping in a private areas. When I made the reservation it was noted that hikers were not allowed on campsites."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer play equipment within walking distance of tent sites. An Hibernia County Park visitor mentioned, "Great for families. We are already planning our next trip. Super great price at $15/night as well. The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing."
Kid-friendly fishing: Designated children's fishing areas available at select locations. One Hibernia visitor highlighted, "Inexpensive $15 a night, but you only get picnic table and fire ring. No hook ups. Great children's pond for 12 and under."
Site selection: Corner sites typically provide more buffer space from other campers. A camper noted about Hibernia Lake Loop, "Large campsites at the Lake Loop. Map is a little deceiving- the sites are farther from the lake than I expected and there are no running water bathrooms."
Tips from RVers
Small RV compatibility: A few sites accommodate compact RVs despite primitive appearances. At Rolling Hills Retreats, one visitor emphasized, "It rained the weekend we went but it didn't ruin our time what so ever, somehow the fire was still roaring in down pouring rain."
Site leveling challenges: Prepare with leveling blocks as most tent sites have slight grades. A Hibernia County Park reviewer explained, "As I said in the first paragraph, we mostly camp in a 28ft 5th wheel and though at first glance the sites don't look big enough to house an RV, there are a few sites that will, including #3, #17 & #18... They aren't level, but nothing a little creative positioning can't fix."
Water access limitations: Fill tanks before arrival as water points are limited. Another Hibernia camper advised, "There are NO HOOKUPS, and water is not easy to come by if you are in an RV. If you are coming in an RV, you should come with a full water tank. There is one spigot at the bathroom."
