Camping options around McClure, Pennsylvania provide both seasonal and year-round access for outdoor enthusiasts in the central Pennsylvania wilderness area. The region sits within the Seven Mountains region at elevations between 500-2,000 feet, creating varied camping terrain across valley floors and ridge tops. Weather can shift rapidly in this area, with summer thunderstorms common from June through August and early fall frost possible by mid-September.
What to do
River activities: Near Waterside Campground and RV Park, campers can enjoy direct river access. One camper noted the convenient setup, saying "Water is easy access, pool is heated. Rates are reasonable, store is basic. Come here every year, worth the trip."
Cave exploration: The Woodward Cave Campground offers a unique camping experience with its own on-site cave. A visitor mentioned, "This campground is off the beaten path which we like. Best part was it had its own cave! No playground for the kids but with the cave we didn't mind."
Fishing opportunities: Lake Heron Retreat provides excellent fishing on their 10-acre lake surrounded by 240 acres of woodland. A camper shared, "This lake was beautiful! A short walk from the campsite. We had the lake to ourself both evening and morning."
What campers like
Entertainment options: Twin Grove RV Resort receives consistent praise for its recreational amenities. One review noted, "On Saturday nights they usually have a band playing on the stage which is really neat. There is also an ice cream place to get a nice cold treat."
Spacious sites: Several campgrounds offer larger camping spaces than typically found at RV campgrounds in McClure, Pennsylvania and surrounding areas. A camper at Twin Grove mentioned, "It accommodates a large family reunion with plenty of space. The campground was well populated but we didn't feel cramped at all."
Clean facilities: Bathroom and shower cleanliness stands out at many area campgrounds. One reviewer commented about Twin Grove, "Very nice sites and shower houses are very clean. Staff is excellent. Camp store is well stocked."
Peaceful environment: For those seeking quiet camping, Lake Heron Retreat delivers. A visitor shared, "I wanted to find something close enough to home, but far away from the hustle and bustle of our suburban lives. This fit the bill. There are 10 sites...It was very quiet and peaceful!"
What you should know
Shower facilities: Some campgrounds charge for showers. At Lake Heron Retreat, "Bring quarters if you are going to use the showers...25 cent a minute."
Seasonal changes: Many RV parks near McClure operate between April and October, with limited winter camping options. Sunsational Family Campground operates "Apr 15 to Oct 15" according to their listing information.
Site preferences: At Splash Magic RV Resort, riverside sites are highly recommended. One camper advised, "We had a site right on the river which was absolutely beautiful. Navigating to the site itself definitely tests your skills when you have a total rig length of 52'."
Power considerations: During peak usage times, electricity can fluctuate. A Splash Magic visitor noted, "Electric ran below 110 volts the entire weekend and the water had a brownish tint to it. It was a VERY hot weekend so I should mention that everyone had their air running."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: For families visiting Twin Grove, plan for multiple recreation options. A repeat visitor shared, "We come here once a year to take our grandkids on an annual camping trip with us. Lots to do! Playgrounds, special events, crafts."
Kid-friendly attractions: Some campgrounds offer unique family amenities. One Twin Grove camper reported, "At night they have a merry go round, train, giant slide and ferries wheel you can ride."
Pet accommodations: Many campgrounds welcome four-legged family members. A Twin Grove visitor mentioned, "Super dog friendly. Many little dog parks throughout."
Bathroom proximity: Consider bathroom location when choosing tent sites. At Western Village, a camper noted, "Only downside is the walk to the bathrooms if you tent camp. A long walk if you really got to go."
Tips from RVers
Site positioning: For River's Edge RV Park & Campground, site selection impacts overall experience. A seasonal camper noted, "Sites are good sized, mostly shaded, and grassy."
Electrical management: When camping during hot weather, be mindful of electrical loads. At Splash Magic, one RVer advised being careful with simultaneous appliance use during hot weather when everyone runs air conditioning.
Site dimensions: Some RV parks have limited turning space. A Splash Magic reviewer cautioned, "Navigating to the site itself definitely tests your skills when you have a total rig length of 52'."
Maintenance expectations: Water quality can vary between campgrounds. At Splash Magic, a camper noted "water had a brownish tint to it" during their stay, suggesting bringing drinking water as a backup.
