Camping areas near Bellefonte are situated in the Ridge and Valley region of central Pennsylvania, with elevations ranging from 800 to 2,000 feet. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes with warm, humid summers averaging 80°F and cold winters dropping to 20°F. Most campgrounds operate from April through October, though Penn Roosevelt State Park offers year-round tent camping for those prepared for variable mountain weather conditions.
What to do
Fishing at Bald Eagle Lake: Fish for bass, panfish, and trout at Bald Eagle State Park Primitive Campsite, where the large lake offers plenty of space. "We kayaked and biked all over the park. We also fished a lot. Due to the large size of the lake we didn't feel like we were on top of other people fishing," notes Jamie M.
Kayaking and paddleboarding: Rent equipment or bring your own to explore the calm waters at Poe Valley State Park Campground. "It's a great lake to kayak or paddle board on," shares Taylor V., who also mentions the "soft sand, and warm water" at the beach area.
Historical explorations: Visit the restored iron furnace at Greenwood Furnace State Park to learn about PA's industrial past. A camper reports, "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!"
Stargazing opportunities: Take advantage of the limited light pollution at several campgrounds. At Greenwood Furnace, Ann P. was impressed that "we saw the Milky Way!" and enjoyed "hearing screech owls at night."
What campers like
Primitive sites for privacy: Many campers prefer the walk-in sites at Black Moshannon State Park Campground for their seclusion. Travis S. notes its unique water features: "The Iron Ore mines from the past have left the creek water stained red which is why its called the Red Mo with the locals."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities. At Poe Valley, Taylor V. appreciated that "The bath house is extremely clean and they have warm showers which was nice."
Family-friendly amenities: The Bellefonte-State College KOA offers activities specifically for children. "There's a stocked pond and a freakin' bouncy pad!!!" writes madeleine B., while Ryan P. mentions "Nice pool, splash park, and bouncy pillow."
Natural swimming areas: Several parks feature beaches with swimming access. At Poe Valley, Rebecca G. highlights that "They have a swimming area, concession stand, showers, bathrooms and changing area. You can camp, fish, boat, kayak, hike and swim!"
What you should know
Cell phone service limitations: Many campgrounds have limited or no cell service. At Poe Valley, campers note there "isn't any cell service as you are way back in the mountain but it's so beautiful and relaxing you won't care!!"
Variable water pressure: Some sites may have issues with utilities. At Bellefonte-State College KOA, Joel A. warns, "water pressure was 18psi," while Gayle B. describes the water as barely trickling out.
Site selection matters: Research specific site numbers before booking at Greenwood Furnace State Park Campground. Kassie F. recommends, "I think we had the best site w/electric hookup that was also dog-friendly: #48. We loved how it was nicely shaded by hemlocks, oaks, some maples, and with our camper it felt pretty private!"
Road access considerations: Some parks have challenging access roads. Rebecca E. notes about Bald Eagle's Primitive Area: "It's a bit of a drive to Primitive Campground on not so good road, but worth it, I think."
Tips for camping with families
Beach activities: Poe Valley State Park features a swimming beach with amenities. "Great campground! Lots of fishing, swimming and you can rent kayaks or paddle boats. Beach had a concession stand and camping was very shaded and secluded!" reports Chelsie G.
Kid-friendly biking: Look for campgrounds with paved roads for easier biking. At Penn Roosevelt State Park Campground, families can enjoy "secluded" tent camping with access to "a short walk to creek and beautiful pond."
Educational opportunities: Greenwood Furnace offers ranger programs throughout the weekend. Amanda H. recommends, "Don't bring your electronics you won't need them here! No cell phone reception unless you drive a few miles down the road to a cute little store called Couch's!"
Pet-friendly hiking trails: Most campgrounds in the region offer dog-friendly trails. At Bald Eagle's Primitive Campground, Sean Y. notes, "The rustic campground has some parking sites, but we are most fond of the sites with a short walk in. Usually they're very private. Some clusters allow dogs. Nearby lake access through a tunnel under the tracks near the bathrooms."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Check campground restrictions before booking. Kevin D. warns about Bald Eagle Primitive Campground: "Campsites vary from nice large sites set back from the road up some stone stairs or pathway, to small grassy pull offs on the side of the road."
Site leveling: Bring leveling blocks for uneven terrain. Joel A. cautions at Bellefonte-State College KOA to "Make sure you have leveling tools as the sites are not very level side-to-side."
Site access challenges: Some RV sites can be difficult to navigate. Gayle B. describes her experience at Bellefonte-State College KOA: "Getting into the site was almost impossible. We didn't think we'd be able to do it. And as it was, our slide out was about an inch away from a tree on one side and up against a raised concrete pad on the other."
Dog-friendly RV spots: The Bellefonte Campground is particularly accommodating for RVers with pets. "New owners are super friendly. It's an older park they look to be putting some love and work into. Sites are sloped a bit as most are in the mountains. We were able to decently level our motorhome with blocks," reports Clean Slate D.
