The Beavertown area sits in central Pennsylvania's Susquehanna River valley at approximately 600 feet elevation, surrounded by the rolling hills and forested ridges of the Appalachian Mountains. The region experiences four distinct seasons with warm, humid summers and cold winters that can drop below freezing from November through March. Primitive camping options exist in nearby state forests where designated roadside sites provide more secluded alternatives to established campgrounds.
What to do
Hiking trails: Little Buffalo State Park offers multiple well-maintained paths for hikers of all experience levels. "There are nice trails to hike. There is a large lake for fishing! You can rent boats there," notes Amanda H., highlighting the diverse recreation options beyond hiking.
Fishing opportunities: Black Moshannon State Park provides unique fishing experiences in its 250-acre lake. "Nice unique lake that is incredibly dark in color. Lilly pads abound with great flowers," reports Clay P., describing the distinctive water features that make this spot memorable for anglers.
Historic exploration: Colonel Denning State Park combines natural beauty with historical significance. "The park rangers had an owl program on Friday night and ended up calling in several screech owls. Very cool to hear their eerie cries in the woods," shares Nate & Erika L., showing how ranger programs enhance the visitor experience.
Ferry riding: Ferryboat Campsites offers a unique water crossing experience. "Rode on the Ferry every time I could. The campground is very nicely run and the campstore is great," states Dorothy P., emphasizing this distinctive regional attraction.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Little Buffalo State Park maintains excellent restrooms and grounds. "The bathrooms are clean. It is nice and dark at night!" reports Amanda H., noting both the facility maintenance and the natural darkness that enhances stargazing.
Water recreation: Black Moshannon State Park's lake serves as a focal point for multiple activities. "Great camping area stop a mountain...nice unique lake that is incredibly dark in color," says Clay P., highlighting the unusual water characteristics that make paddling distinctive.
Spacious sites: Colonel Denning State Park offers well-designed camping areas. "Tent pads are level and smooth. Showers and restrooms are close to sites," Rick W. explains, pointing out the practical site features that enhance comfort.
River access: Ferryboat Campsites provides direct water access. "Lots to do very close to water and many things to do in and around camp ground," explains Elaine R., emphasizing the river-centric location.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds in the area operate from April through October, with limited winter access. Ferryboat Campsites runs "from April to the end of October," making seasonal planning essential for visitors.
Site variations: Little Buffalo State Park offers diverse camping options. "There are standard tent sites available and there are water/electric site available. There is a dump station available for the end," explains Amanda H., detailing the practical differences between site types.
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially on summer weekends and holidays. "You can book your site on line and go straight to your site! No check in required," Amanda H. notes about Little Buffalo, explaining the streamlined arrival process.
Weather considerations: Riverside locations can experience flooding during heavy rain periods. "Storms with heavy rain in the area made the river rise. We were told the campground is susceptible to flooding, so check the weather when you come!" warns Robin at Ferryboat Campsites.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Little Buffalo State Park features excellent swimming facilities separate from camping areas. "They offer a large area that is only 1 foot deep, great for little ones! There is also a splash pad! There are 2 slides for fun!" shares Amanda H., though noting that "you have to pay to get in the pool, yes even if you are camping!"
Kid-friendly activities: Colonel Denning State Park provides water play opportunities. "Wide open area to swim that was very clean and well kept," reports Casey L., highlighting the maintained swimming areas suitable for children.
Animal encounters: Ferryboat Campsites includes animal attractions for young visitors. "There is a small goat petting zoo, with very friendly pigmy goats and the camp is extremely pet friendly as long as they are on a leash," explains Avery M., describing the unique animal interaction opportunity.
Bathroom proximity: Consider site location relative to facilities. "If you stay in lower sites you are near the water and will have to walk up a large hill to get to bathrooms," Casey L. advises about Colonel Denning State Park, providing practical logistics for families with small children.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: Black Moshannon State Park offers well-separated sites for larger rigs. "The sites are situated nicely, your neighbors are not 'right there'," notes Sandi G., highlighting the privacy advantage for RV camping.
Access challenges: Some horse campgrounds near Beavertown, Pennsylvania have difficult approach roads. "Our only trouble was our GPS brought us in the most difficult way. We suggest avoiding heading south from I80 on Casanova road," warns Sandi G. about Black Moshannon State Park, providing specific routing advice.
Hookup availability: Colonel Denning State Park provides limited electrical options. "We have a small 19" travel trailer which was almost impossible to park due to very tight sites," cautions Shirley M., noting the space constraints that affect larger rigs.
Equestrian facilities: For those seeking horse campgrounds in the Beavertown region, Ferryboat Campsites offers dedicated equestrian facilities with stables on-site, providing a practical base for trail riding in the Susquehanna Valley.
