Situated in central Pennsylvania, Bellefonte sits at an elevation of 853 feet in a valley surrounded by ridges and mountains of the Appalachian range. The area typically experiences four distinct seasons, with summer camping season running from April through November, though some campgrounds remain open year-round. Sites across local campgrounds vary from terraced and sloped positions to riverside locations with dramatic elevation changes that affect accessibility.
What to do
Explore local caves: The region features unique underground formations at Woodward Cave Campground, which has its own on-site cave. "This campground is off the beaten path which we like. Best part was it had it's own cave! No playground for the kids but with the cave we didn't mind. This place is also about 20 to 30 minutes from Penn's Cave which is the only cave in Pa that you tour by boat."
Water recreation at state parks: Local waterways support multiple activities including kayaking and tubing. At Bald Eagle State Park, "the lake is huge with a beautiful beach to spread out on and play in the sand! 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."
Visit Black Moshannon State Park: The park features a distinctive bog ecosystem and dark-colored waters. "Great camping area stop a mountain...nice unique lake that is incredibly dark in color. Lilly pads abound with great flowers." The park runs educational programming for visitors interested in local ecology and outdoor skills.
What campers like
Secluded woodland sites: Several campgrounds offer more private camping experiences away from the main areas. At Bald Eagle State Park, campers appreciate the Primitive Area: "Stayed in Primitive Area with RV which is MUCH QUIETER & MUCH MORE PRIVATE with many trees than the full hookups down in the main park area. The developed Campground is very 'exposed' - not private, sites close to each other, no trees."
Riverside camping spots: Waterside Campground and RV Park (formerly Locust Campground) offers premium waterfront locations. "Absolutely beautiful if you are riverside. Staff was friendly and helpful. Typical overall, but clean and pretty. Stay on the waterside! Sites 48-53. Stayed at 49, it was absolutely perfection!"
Farm animals and cabin options: The Bellefonte Campground features unique amenities not found at other parks. "They have some animals, like goats, as well in a little farm area. Nice new cabins too." The campground sits on a sloped terrain with 87 sites arranged in tiers.
What you should know
Water quality and pressure varies: Several campgrounds experience water supply issues. "First, I'll agree with Gayle that water pressure was 18psi. Aside from that, the campground is clean and the staff is friendly." Problems with water pressure appear most common at hillside sites.
Road access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult approach roads or entrances. "IMPORTANT— almost got killed getting just off the freeway to make the left turn towards the koa — please be careful. traffic either side does not stop or slow, and they are going extremely fast. be patient. wait for ample time."
Site leveling requirements: Sloped terrain throughout the region means many sites require leveling equipment. At Black Moshannon State Park, "Sites are situated nicely, your neighbors are not 'right there'. Our only trouble was our GPS brought us in the most difficult way. We suggest avoiding heading south from I80 on Casanova road."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Most rv parks near Bellefonte, Pennsylvania offer recreational amenities. "They had a great amount of activities for the kids and the pool was great! The bathrooms were nice and clean. The sites just could use some space and upkeep in the older part."
Playground and water feature access: Bellefonte-State College KOA has multiple play areas. "It had a cute little dog park, nice play ground, bouncy pillow, gem mining, pool, etc.- what you expect to find at a KOA." The campground also features a splash pad that remains open even when the swimming pool is closed for maintenance.
Cabin options for families: Several campgrounds offer cabin rentals for those without camping equipment. At Seven Mountains Campground, "Nice, clean, friendly/accommodating staff and the prices were reasonable for the accommodations... Bunk room had 2 bunk beds, each with a full size mattress AND room to move, plus good natural light."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for big rigs: Many Bellefonte campgrounds have size and slope limitations. "Some pull-thru sites have a very steep short hill to go up which made for some RV's scraping bottom. The section in the front of the park is open with spotty trees; whereas, sites in the back of the park are tucked in the woods and are a lot more private."
Seasonal limitations: Most rv camping options near Bellefonte, Pennsylvania operate seasonally. "Campground was packed 10/16-10/18, we had a 30 amp back-in full hook up site, those sites are very close to one another, well shaded though. A lot to do for the kids throughout the weekend, workers did a great job, very polite."
Premium site availability: For those wanting more amenities, premium sites offer substantial upgrades. "Our site was the only one available for that weekend and it was a premium with a large paved patio with a nice outdoor patio set with table and chairs, a swing, and a sunken fire pit. We loved this deluxe site but they are a lot pricier than the standard ones."
