162 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Campgrounds near Barnesville, Pennsylvania range from state parks to family-friendly private resorts nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Tuscarora State Park Campground offers year-round camping with electric hookups, picnic tables, and shower facilities within walking distance of the city. Nearby Lakewood Park Campground provides cabin rentals and RV sites under mature shade trees, while Locust Lake State Park Campground accommodates tent and RV camping from mid-April to mid-October. The region includes several options for waterfront camping, with some sites providing direct access to fishing areas and boat launches.
Access to campgrounds varies seasonally, with most facilities fully operational between April and October. Many campgrounds in the area require reservations, especially during summer weekends and holidays when sites fill quickly. The terrain around Barnesville features rolling hills and wooded areas, with some campgrounds positioned on slopes that may present challenges for larger RVs or tents. Weather conditions can impact camping experiences, particularly during spring when rain can create muddy conditions at certain sites. Cell phone coverage is generally available but may be limited in more remote camping areas. According to one visitor at Locust Lake State Park, "It rained fairly heavily during our first day there and the sites became extremely muddy, so be prepared if rain is in the forecast. Some of the sites were covered in gravel which aided the muddiness."
The Pennsylvania Dutch countryside surrounding Barnesville offers scenic landscapes characterized by rolling hills, forests, and waterways that enhance the camping experience. Campers report high satisfaction with waterfront sites, particularly those with lake access for fishing and kayaking. Several visitors mentioned the family-friendly atmosphere at local campgrounds, with amenities like swimming pools, game rooms, and organized activities. A recent review noted that Lakewood Park Campground "has the best of an old-fashioned campground with a great layout. But it offers modern amenities and utilities in a natural setting." Travelers should be aware that campgrounds closer to highways may experience some traffic noise, while those situated deeper in wooded areas provide more peaceful surroundings. The presence of mature shade trees at many developed campgrounds is frequently highlighted as a positive feature, offering protection from summer heat while maintaining a natural camping environment.
"We had lake front access to put kayaks in and fish which was awesome. Great walking path around lake for kids to ride bikes to parks or beach. Beach area was nice."
"Had a site close to the lake. Many sites (including mine) were not level. The sites sizes were a bit small and i would book during peak season. I would definitely return again off season."
from $20 - $43 / night
Check Availability"Great location lots of hiking trails right in the park and many more close by"
"Hickory Run is in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania. We had a full hook-up site in the back loop, pet friendly part of the campground. "
from $20 - $72 / night
Check Availability"Good hiking trails were just a short walk away from our campsite. Would definitely go back again."
"No water but directly across from facilities with basin sinks outside for cleaning dishes, etc. Each yurt has a huge deck, 2 picnic tables and fire pit."
from $44 - $47 / night
Check Availability"We stayed at Lakewood Park Campground in Barnesville, PA, for a few days for R&R. And we got it! "
"They are in the process of adding lots more sites up away from the lake in the woods plus 2 bath houses. The sites along the lake are great, but be aware most of them are seasonal."
from $62 - $114 / night
Check Availability"Makes it fun searching for a good position within the site, kinda like roughing it in the actual wild... so not really a complaint. Sites are not very private or secluded."
"The sites were fine and I liked the location. Next to the creek where you can fish trout (don’t forget to buy a license). About 3 miles stroll along the creek to Jim Thorpe."
"According to hikers on the AT, this is what they call Pennsylvania, as they hike through this section of the state. And Blue Rocks Campground doesn't dissapoint."
"Blue Rocks family campground is close to I78 however it is still off the beaten path. It is very peaceful to camp here as you have different types of environments."
"Easy drive from Philly area, courteous staff, very wooded and quiet at night. Has many sites right along the lake edge, some very large."
"Beautiful lake beach and canoe and kayak rentals. There’s much to explore in the town Jim Thorpe and beautiful hiking close by."
from $20 / night
Check Availability"This campground is nestled in rhe mountains of Pennsylvania. This campgound is family oriented, it has a pool, a store, a game room. They also do things for different holidays."
"We chose this campground mainly because it was close to home and we could camp and not miss my daughter's soccer practice/game. We were pleasantly surprised by the campground. "
"There’s lots of space to walk your dog on leash but no dog park. We had an issue with our surge protector and the manager had an electrician out to us quickly who helped us solve a problem. "
"Our site(F20) is level and beautiful— spacious and beautifully landscaped
- We interacted with 5 members of their staff and all were welcoming and friendly to talk with
- There’s a heated pool behind"
"occasionally stocked), badminton, horseshoes, golf cart friendly, A large pavilion with a large flatscreen display and community firepit is there for general use or for rental, There is wifi by store and surrounding"
ScoutChoose another campground unless you are certain you can arrive before 4pm. Otherwise, you'll not be allowed in. Owner is belligerent on this point, and from other comments, belligerent on other issues also.
We strongly recommend the nearby French Creek State Park campground.
ScoutThought it was super cool that the owner of the campsite came through to see if anyone needed anything and make sure everything was going okay, I also thought the 5 gallon jug of water was a nice touch. The site was nicely laid out and had a great view of the gorge. Loved that we were back in the trees for a little more privacy. My dogs had a great time as well.
ScoutThe park is very nice however the site H2 was the site assigned to us. The distance between our Coach and the fence was 7 feet and the bathhouse was blocking the view. I do not recommend this site.
TravelerThe camp site was amazing. Everything is neat and clean and really beautiful place so quiet.
ScoutA lot of people recommended this campground. We were late to book for Memorial Day weekend and Indian Head had plenty of spots open so we gave it a chance. Upon arriving, they gave us a map to our spot, we drove to the area and it was essentially a big open field with no spots marked, no numbers, no direction to really pull in. We had to ask the owner where our spot was because there was nothing to show where it was in the fielded grass area. I understand they are putting work into the campground to improve it, it seems, but seemed Alittle messy just from the store, entrance and overall upkeep of the campground. Overall, if we had the chance to camp here again, we probably wouldn’t. I would reccomend J&D or Lake Glory that’s in the same area if able to be booked.
Travelerwe loved both of our stays here! it was mine and my partner’s first time camping and we had a great experience. the layout was really nice, and easy to get to. the bathrooms were really close to walk to and VERY clean! the only issue we faced was the closeness of the other campsites. we went during off season and during the week, so it didn’t really affect us but i can see how this place can get crowded and a little noisy during peak season. with all the being said, it was WONDERFUL!! we LOVED the late checkout (3pm) and loved the peaceful atmosphere! i would definitely recommend this place for beginner campers!
TravelerReally nice views from the sites. Facilities are well equipped and taken care of, but older. Trees between each rv site give a nice level of privacy
LegendLike always we like to begin our camping season with a Easter Weekend Trip, my husband's family is partial to the Lancaster Area, so we headed there to Sun Retreats Lancaster. As we drove up I loved the look and location of the campground. You could see there was a indoor pool setup, arcade, playground, store, ice cream, mini-golf and a huge lake and that was everything we saw from the truck. We pulled up to a gate and a guy came out of the shed next to it to check us in.
The campground looked well maintained, the sports were on both sides of the lake and they offered many different options like woods or open, pull through or back up. We choose a really wooded site. It was tight getting in but I can't complain I don't drive the truck. It seemed like there was a fair amount of seasonal sites but they didn't overwhelm the place. I could see also a lot of cabins there were some shaped like teepees, a frontier cabin, and a caboose. They had a fair amount of open grass to play and enjoy. You can bring your own golfcart or they have on site rentals also.
They had an activity list that would help keep everyone busy, they had a mini golf course that was in great shape, an arcade which was definitely lacking in the game department, I think there was 4 pinball machines, 2 Skee ball, 3 racing games, and the play to you win machine. The playground x2 were both in great condition with a lot to keep kids playing on. I can only comment on the indoor pool which at the time was said to be under construction however still open, the water was on the colder side and the hot tube the same temp as the pool, the ceiling had been ripped off so the iron rusting beams were exposed and rust falling down. The kids still went in the pool unfortunately the air from the open window made them too cold so we didn't stay long. I am hoping it will be finished because the concept of the indoor-outdoor pool area looks so fun.
The staff was extremely helpful and super friendly. The store was fully stocked with everything you could want. The bathrooms were all kept so clean and in working order with hot water. We enjoyed the area we ventured out to see the Choo Choo barn, the green dragon flea market, and kitchen kettle village which are a must if your in the area. We also choose to hike the Welsh Preserve and Money Rock. The lake had a path you could walk completely around and you could choose to fish if that's your thing.
I would definitely return to this campground again, we had 8 sites in total and we all really thought it was a wonderful place and really enjoyed our holiday weekend there. It was very busy but the staff was present but not overbearing. People were very respectful and friendly.
LegendTucked just off Route 309 north of Quakertown, Melody Lakes Country Estate feels far less like a traditional campground and much more like a quiet, semi-permanent residential community, with a small pocket of opportunity for the occasional overnight RV stay if you happen to time it right.
While my review from a few years ago provides a ton of detail, I thought I would follow up that review with a topline of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS along with a smattering of new photos.
HIGHLIGHTS:(1) Peaceful, tucked-away setting surrounded by wooded acreage that gives the property a calm, removed feel from nearby roads;(2) Access to a range of community-style amenities including a pool, clubhouse, playground, and small fishing ponds;(3) Proximity to Quakertown makes it relatively easy to access groceries, restaurants, and basic supplies within a short drive;(4) Nearby outdoor options like the Upper Bucks Rail Trail provide a great outlet for hiking and biking;(5) Close to local gems like Kathy’s Country Kitchen, which is well worth the stop if you’re passing through.
LOWLIGHTS:(1) Extremely limited RV availability, with only a handful of spots, making it unreliable for spontaneous overnight stays;(2) Not a true campground experience, as the majority of the property is made up of semi-permanent or seasonal residences;(3) No tent camping options whatsoever, limiting flexibility for different types of campers;(4) Entrance is easy to miss with minimal signage, requiring careful navigation or prior knowledge to find;(5) Unclear availability of full hookups due to the limited number of transient sites and lack of consistent turnover.
Happy Camping!
Camping spots near Barnesville, Pennsylvania center around the foothills of the Blue Mountains with elevations ranging from 800-1,500 feet. The region experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Most campgrounds in the area sit within mixed deciduous forest zones featuring oak, maple and birch trees, providing natural shade coverage for approximately 60% of available campsites.
Hiking trails access: At Hickory Run State Park Campground, campers can explore 44 miles of marked trails ranging from easy to difficult. "Nice and clean and lots of trails. We were warned to be cautious about leaving food out as there have been some bear sightings," notes Jennifer D.
Boulder field exploration: The unique glacial boulder formation at Blue Rocks Family Campground offers geological interest within walking distance. "Boulders everywhere! Big ones, small ones, run (carefully) across them all! Beyond the Boulder field is a vast, scary, unknown," shares Mike M.
Paddling opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer direct water access. At Mauch Chunk Lake Park, visitors appreciate the pristine water conditions. "Our first time tent camping was here and it set a great tone. We set up the tent, kayaked on the lake, cooked up some dinner, watched a strawberry super moon rise over the lake," explains Emma T.
Wildlife viewing: The forested settings provide habitat for diverse wildlife. Hickory Run State Park's wooded areas support populations of white-tailed deer, black bear, and various bird species. "There is a high bear population and all campers are required to keep food items in their vehicles or trailers when not at the site," advises Shirley M.
Quiet weekday stays: For those seeking solitude, timing matters. "During the week it's very quiet. If you go during the week, it's quite calm," notes Lisa S. about Mauch Chunk Lake Park, where waterfront sites are particularly valued for their access.
Family-operated facilities: Personal touches from long-term owners create loyal followings. "Camping here is a delight. It's a secluded, public campground that has been owned and ran by the same family for generations," explains John B. about Rosemount Camping Resort, where some campers have returned annually for over 30 years.
Fall foliage: Autumn camping receives consistently high ratings. "PA is beautiful in the fall. Nice campground with some trails and access to Pottsville - for the best brewery tour ever - Yeungling! Check out the Jim Thorpe fall fest and Hershey Park," recommends Melanie Z. from Locust Lake State Park.
Modern facilities: Newer campgrounds provide updated amenities without sacrificing natural settings. "The park is relatively new. Everything is clean and in great working order. All kinds of maintenance was going on throughout each day, and it shows," observes Matt S. about Lakewood Park Campground.
Site specifics: Topography varies significantly between campgrounds. "Sites were a little small and rocky/rooty, but we made it work," reports Joe F. about Locust Lake State Park. At Tuscarora State Park, sites offer more separation: "Campsites are not even anywhere near each other. It's like you have the whole forest to yourself," explains Jen R.
Weather considerations: Rain preparation remains essential throughout camping season. "Our site was for the most part clean, the fire pit was so full of ash and trash and giant rocks that we had to clean ourselves right when we arrived," notes Corbin about Mauch Chunk Lake Park.
Reservation timing: Competition for prime sites requires advance planning. "Book early as they sell out fast!" advises Joshua W. about Knoebels Campground, which experiences particularly high demand due to its proximity to the amusement park.
Connectivity limitations: Cell service varies widely. "If you want to be disconnected, literally because there is no cell service, then this is the place for you," mentions Jen R. about Tuscarora State Park, while Hickory Run offers "respectable" service in most areas according to reviewers.
Campground amenities: Facilities specifically designed for children vary between locations. "This place really has something for everyone! Classic cars, huge playground, lots of activities, friendly staff," shares Gayle B. about Blue Rocks Family Campground.
Multi-generational accommodations: Various sleeping arrangements accommodate different family needs. "We have camped in our pop up but we have also rented the cabins here too. Either way is a great way to stay the weekend and enjoy the park. Restrooms are clean," reports Jen R. about Knoebels Campground.
Site selection strategy: Location within campgrounds affects experience significantly. "We had 3 families and sites (2 campers & 1 tent) all sites were decent sizes. We had lake front access to put kayaks in and fish which was awesome. Great walking path around lake for kids to ride bikes to parks or beach," shares Dawn R.
First-timer friendly options: Some locations work particularly well for introducing children to camping. "I believe it is a great spot to go with people who haven't camped much before. It has flat tent spaces, generally clean bathrooms, and access to tons of things to do on the campground and nearby," recommends Mackenzie B. about Tuscarora State Park Campground.
Leveling requirements: Site terrain presents challenges at several campgrounds. "The only reason I didn't give this 5 stars is because our site wasn't level and it took hours to get it right," notes Angie G. about Jim Thorpe Camping Resort.
Hook-up variations: Electrical service differs between parks. "Great place. No water hook up. No sewer hook up. Just electric at certain sites," explains Brandon W. about Locust Lake State Park, while full-service options exist at other nearby campgrounds.
Space considerations: Site dimensions require advance planning. "Sites are very close to one another. We lucked out in Bermuda Triangle as there was a little more space and we were further away from some of the noise," shares Derek W. about Knoebels Campground.
Dump station access: Limited facilities for waste disposal exist. At Allentown KOA, "They allow to dump and fill fresh water (sign at the entrance says that as well) for a small $10 which is quite nice. Was quick and convenient," reports Christoph.
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities are available at Lakewood Park Campground in Barnesville, PA?
Lakewood Park Campground offers a blend of modern amenities within a natural setting. The campground features full utilities for RVs while maintaining an old-fashioned campground layout. Facilities include modern bathrooms, a well-maintained swimming area, and family-friendly recreation options. The campground is family-owned and operated, which contributes to its welcoming atmosphere and attention to detail. Unlike Mountain Vista Campground, which some campers note is very bright at night, Lakewood Park provides a more nature-immersive experience while still offering the comforts campers seek.
Where is Lakewood Campground located in Barnesville, PA?
Lakewood Park Campground is situated in the scenic town of Barnesville, Pennsylvania. This family-owned campground is nestled in a natural setting that provides a peaceful environment while still being accessible to nearby attractions. It's located near Tuscarora State Park Campground, making it a great base for exploring the broader Barnesville area. The campground offers a perfect balance of seclusion and convenience for campers looking to enjoy the Pennsylvania countryside.
Do I need reservations for camping at Barnesville campgrounds?
Reservations are highly recommended for campgrounds in the Barnesville area, especially during peak camping season (late spring through early fall). Ricketts Glen State Park Campground, which is within driving distance of Barnesville, gets particularly busy due to its popular waterfall trails and requires advance booking. Similarly, nearby French Creek State Park Campground fills up quickly during summer weekends. For the most secure camping plans, make reservations several weeks to months in advance, particularly for holiday weekends and summer dates, when Pennsylvania campgrounds experience their highest demand.
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