Central Pennsylvania's landscape offers premium glamping opportunities close to Beaver Springs, Pennsylvania. The region, characterized by dense forests and elevation changes of 600-1,200 feet, creates distinct microclimates affecting seasonal camping conditions. Most luxury glamping sites operate in this region's moderately humid continental climate with approximately 42 inches of annual rainfall.
What to do
Hiking accessibility: Poe Paddy State Park provides glamping visitors with excellent hiking trails through Bald Eagle State Forest. "The walking trails are nice, we went to the tunnel about a mile away. Very beautiful when crossing the bridge," notes a visitor at Poe Paddy State Park Campground.
Water exploration: Luxury camping at Waterside Campground offers direct river access with convenient amenities. "Absolutely beautiful if you are riverside. Staff was friendly and helpful. Typical overall, but clean and pretty. Stay on the waterside! Sites 48-53," recommends a guest at Waterside Campground.
Historical sites: Greenwood Furnace State Park combines glamping with educational opportunities. "The blacksmith shop was very educational! Great trails to hike! You can pick up a compass at the ranger station and complete a compass course! Beginner course available," shares a camper from Greenwood Furnace State Park Campground.
What campers like
Secluded creek access: Many premium glamping sites offer direct water access. "The creek and river are perfect for curious little ones to explore. Great fishing spot. The walk to the tunnel is quick and easy for all ages. Beautiful spot," reports a visitor from Poe Paddy State Park.
Family-friendly amenities: Upscale camping at Buttonwood includes activities for all ages. "This campground is very fun. Campground is clean and very well maintained. Staff is friendly and knowledgeable. Tubing down the river is so fun and the highlight of a stay here," states a guest at Buttonwood Campground.
Diverse accommodation options: Little Buffalo State Park offers various glamping styles. "Campground was small, clean and quiet. The showers kinda sucked since you it had water limits on them that only last 20 seconds before you had to hit the button again. But they were extremely clean," notes a visitor from Little Buffalo State Park Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most luxury camping sites in the region operate from April through October with variable conditions. "We stayed at site 108 and had a site path right to the creek. I wouldn't recommend big campers as most of the spots would be a pain to back into. But if you're looking for a quiet campground in the woods, this is it," advises a Poe Paddy visitor.
Wi-Fi and connectivity: Cell service varies significantly across glamping locations. "There is NO cell service and park rangers do 'rounds' but aren't stationed at the site. There are a couple of water pumps, several well-maintained pit toilets, and an emergency phone. It's about 20-30 min to gas," reports a Poe Paddy camper.
Booking requirements: Premium glamping sites fill quickly during peak season. "We arrived on a Thursday night, and pretty much had the whole place to ourselves. We were out and about during the day on Friday, and when we came back in the evening, it was packed," shares a visitor from Knoebels Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Water safety: Several glamping sites feature creeks or lakes requiring supervision. "The creek was amazing and the kids loved it. We used our own bathroom so I can't say how clean the public bathroom was. Activities are plenty here but Covid restrictions always change plans," mentions a visitor from Little Mexico Campground.
Activity planning: Many luxury sites require additional fees for premium activities. "Only downsides I can say about this campground are the sites are small. We where on the upper side and it felt more like tailgating than camping but everyone was super friendly. Also plan on spending $20 per person for an activity wristband that includes all the extras," advises a Buttonwood Campground guest.
Weather preparedness: Temperature fluctuations affect glamping comfort. "This campground helped me finally convince my fiance that not all 'campgrounds' are actually waterpark/family fun/RV parking lots. We came here in mid June so it was a bit chilly at night and warm during the day - bring layers + raincoats as the PA mountain weather can be iffy," recommends a Greenwood Furnace visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV glamping requires careful research of site dimensions. "Clean and well kept campground located 12 mile below Lewistown, Pa. Campground has two distinct levels with open spaces with few trees above and well shaded spots with large trees for shade located down along Juniata River," notes a Buttonwood Campground guest.
Hookup quality: Water and electrical services vary across glamping locations. "Very nice campground with a lot of amenities for kids. Most sites have electric water and cable hookup. Bath houses were clean and private which was a nice plus," shares a Buttonwood visitor.
Leveling considerations: Many luxury sites require adjustment for comfortable setup. "The site was plenty spacious for our pup and TV, but was not level at all. In fact, none of the surrounding sites looked very level. We were right next to the bath house, which was great for being able to send our 6 year-old by herself," reports a Knoebels Campground camper.
