Glamping near Bendersville, PA

The Appalachian Mountains frame the landscape around Bendersville, Pennsylvania, where elevations range from 500 to 1,100 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winters often dropping below freezing. Dense woodland provides natural shade at most campsites, with hiking trails typically rated easy to moderate in difficulty.

What to do

Hiking the Appalachian Trail: Mountain Creek Campground provides direct access to connecting trails that lead to the Appalachian Trail. "We have camped here several times and love the waterfront sites and the yurts," notes Tom F. about nearby Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground.

Fishing in stocked waters: Cedar Lake Family Campground maintains a lake stocked with trout for campers. "The lake is nice and they stock it with trout. The animal area could stand a good cleaning, but my little one enjoyed them," shares Nate J. from Cedar Lake Family Campground.

Historical exploration: Located just 15 miles from Bendersville, Gettysburg offers significant historical sites. "Whenever we go to Gettysburg which is usually once a year we always stay here. Really nice place. Recommend a site by the creek," says Brandon W. about Gettysburg Campground.

What campers like

Private wooded sites: Campers appreciate the natural screening at many area campgrounds. "The full shade sites were amazing. Large, fire ring with grate, and nice picnic table. We fit all 4 tents on the site," writes Sarah L. about Codorus State Park Campground.

Water recreation options: Lakes near Bendersville provide multiple activity options. "Pinchot State Park has a great little lake to take out a kayak in. The sites are decent size and there are some great hiking trails," explains Tracey about Pinchot State Park.

Family-oriented activities: Scheduled events keep families entertained throughout camping season. "Fun filled weekend of activities for the whole family. Close to historic Gettysburg battleground. Fantastic horse rescue on the campground. You can take guided tours of the battlefield on horseback," reports Zack from Artillery Ridge Campground.

What you should know

Yurt camping fills quickly: Bendersville area yurts are among the first accommodations to book up, especially at Gifford Pinchot and Codorus State Parks. Reservations open 11 months in advance through the Pennsylvania State Parks system.

Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds in the Bendersville region close from late October through early April. "Itwas a shock we had to pay to swim when we camped there," mentions Bonnie T. about Codorus State Park Campground.

Site selection matters: Topography varies significantly between campgrounds and even within the same park. "The campground was spacious and the sites were pretty private. Closer to the beach they are a little more open and crowded," notes Amber W. about Mountain Creek Camp Ground.

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: Select sites near recreation areas for convenience with children. "We had site 114. It has water access and is right next to a small man made beach and playground. Bathrooms were in good shape," shares SkywaystoHighways.com Y. about Gifford Pinchot State Park.

Shallow water areas: Lakes in the region often have designated shallow swimming zones. "We took our 3 yo camping for the first time here. He had so much fun. It was clean campground located in a State Park. Easy walk to the lake with a small beach," explains Julie Y. about camping at Gifford Pinchot.

Weekend activities: Many campgrounds schedule child-focused events on weekends. "The resort had great amenities for all ages. We stayed in October so there was plenty of activities for kids from crafts, games, dancing, to trick or treating," writes Michael R. from Gettysburg.

Tips from RVers

Leveling requirements: Bring ample leveling blocks as many sites have modest slopes. "Make sure to bring your leveling blocks, some sites do have a slope to them of 3-4"," advises Gregory L. from Gettysburg.

Utility placement: Hook-up locations can require extensions at some parks. "The hookups are oddly spaced and you need to ensure you have extentions handy. My electric hookup didn't work on 30A," notes Bobby S. when staying at Granite Hill Camping Resort.

Access challenges: Some campgrounds have narrow roads that require careful navigation. "It took 2 hours to get our camper set up because of the very uneven stone lot, thankfully we had enough wood to get the jack up without having to over extend it," shares Priscilla M. about her Granite Hill experience.