Tent camping near Bellefonte, Pennsylvania offers sites within the Appalachian Mountain range at elevations between 1,000 and 2,000 feet. The region typically experiences moderate summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season from May through September, with cooler nights in the 50s. Most primitive campsites in state forests lack cell service and require campers to pack out all trash.
What to do
Hiking trails access: The Mid State Trail runs near several campgrounds, with trailheads accessible from Penn Roosevelt State Park Campground. "The area has lots of hikes to offer including the Alan Seeger State Forest, Midstate Trail and several others," notes camper Denise D.
Creek exploration: Honey Creek at Reeds Gap State Park Campground provides natural water features. "There's a nice creek that runs through it, picnic pavilions and a playground for the kids!" writes Rebecca G. The creek maintains consistent water levels throughout summer.
Stargazing opportunities: The limited light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing. At Star Lee Farm, "There's a huge field to star gaze as well as taking pictures," according to camper Tiana S. Most campgrounds have open areas suitable for astronomy.
Digital detox experience: Many campgrounds have minimal or no connectivity. At Reeds Gap, one camper advises, "Put your phone away cuz there's no cell service here! Nice and peaceful with a dozen or so tent only sites."
What campers like
Site privacy levels: Ravensburg State Park Campground offers secluded sites with natural buffers. "There are bushes and trees between the sites and it feels very private. Sometimes it can feel too secluded but the park ranger drives through a number of times," reports Traci F.
Tree coverage for shade: Most tent sites feature established forest canopy. At Ravensburg, a camper mentions, "There are plenty of trees that are good for hammocking. And in a few sites, you can set them up right by the creek, which is my favorite part."
Water proximity: Several campgrounds position sites near water features. At Nancy's Boat To Shore Campground, "The waterfront spots usually book a few weeks in advance and are in a wake zone. There is mooring along both sides of the campground," according to Kristen H.
Tent pad construction: Raised tent platforms at many sites provide level sleeping surfaces. "They have nice raised tent pads. It's very humid so many picnic tables have green moss," notes a Ravensburg camper.
What you should know
Road noise factors: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds despite forest settings. "The sites are close to the road and therefore are loud at night occasionally," mentions Andrew G. about Ravensburg State Park Campground.
Water access points: Water availability varies significantly between campgrounds. "It's a bit primitive having only bathrooms and water in several spots in the campground," notes a Penn Roosevelt camper, while another mentions, "Water is near the picnic pavilion" at Reeds Gap.
Site reservation systems: Most state forest campgrounds operate on first-come, first-served basis. Wilson Hollow Boondock is reservable but only offers two sites total, while larger campgrounds have different policies.
Hairpin turns on access roads: Some campgrounds have challenging approach roads. At Penn Roosevelt, a camper warns, "If you have a trailer, I do not recommend this spot. There is a very tight hairpin turn on the way in. My six foot long trailer barely made the turn!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Facilities for children exist at select locations. At Reeds Gap State Park, "There's a nice creek that runs through it, picnic pavilions and a playground for the kids! They used to have a swimming pool but they removed it a few years ago."
Swimming spots: Natural swimming areas provide cooling options. At Long Acres on Clover Creek, "The secluded area combined with the creek nearby made for a great escape from reality," while Ravensburg offers "places deep enough to swim" according to reviews.
Educational opportunities: Some properties offer learning experiences. Star Lee Farm provides bee education opportunities as "they grow their own honey in the property and you're more than welcome to walk around and look at all the boxes."
Supply planning: Remote locations require thorough packing. "Make sure you bring everything you need as there isn't a store nearby," advises a Penn Roosevelt camper.
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Most campgrounds near Bellefonte limit RV size due to narrow roads and tight turns. Multiple campgrounds are marked as "not big-rig friendly" in their amenities listings.
Hookup availability: Electric service is available at select sites in Reeds Gap State Park, though most tent-focused campgrounds provide no hookups. According to reviews, Reeds Gap has "nice and peaceful" tent sites with a dozen spots available.
Road conditions: Access can be challenging on forest roads. A camper at Penn Roosevelt notes, "Driving in I got a little worried I was getting lost, but I drove on," highlighting the remote nature of many access routes.
