Camping near Biglerville, Pennsylvania takes place in the rolling hills of Adams County, with elevations ranging from 500-1,100 feet above sea level. The area experiences distinct seasons with summer highs averaging in the mid-80s and winters dropping below freezing. The region sits at the northern edge of the Gettysburg Basin, creating a landscape with both wooded highlands and open valleys that influence campsite selection and activities.
What to do
Hike the Appalachian Trail: Pine Grove Furnace State Park provides direct access to the Appalachian Trail at its halfway point. "The Appalachian trail runs right through it and is said to be the middle point of the trail, so you know there is great hiking," notes one camper at Pine Grove Furnace State Park Campground.
Explore historic battlefields: The Gettysburg National Battlefield is minutes from several campgrounds. "The campground was just minutes from downtown Gettysburg. Bathhouse was updated and clean. The RV sites are gravel and pretty level," reports a visitor at Gettysburg Campground.
Fish in local lakes: Multiple camping areas offer fishing opportunities in well-stocked waters. At Codorus State Park, one camper mentioned, "You can bring your own boat (gas allowed) or rent one from their marina. There is no swimming allowed in the lake but there is a pool located at the park."
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Lakeside camping spots are particularly popular in the region. "We stayed in site 108 which is an electric site along the shore and close to the beach, and it was perfect for our needs," shared a visitor at Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathhouses and common areas. A camper at Caledonia State Park noted, "We enjoyed our stay here very much. The trails were very enjoyable and we hiked about 15 miles with sections of the Appalachian trail. Restrooms were very clean and park was beautiful."
Natural swimming areas: Lakes and pools provide cooling options during summer months. At Mountain Creek Campground, a review stated, "The kids had a blast, tubing in the creek, swimming pool and an excellent camp store. Sites in some areas are tight, real tight."
What you should know
Site privacy varies significantly: Campground layouts range from open to wooded settings. "Small sites but some are along the creek. Playground and mini golf available. Close to battlefields," explains a camper about Gettysburg Campground.
Limited cell service: Connectivity can be spotty throughout the region. A visitor at Pine Grove Furnace State Park Campground reported, "Cell service is pretty much nonexistent in the campground, so keep this in mind if you can't be out of touch."
Seasonal availability: Most facilities operate from spring to fall. "Normal state park facilities. Park has several swimming lakes and Appalachian trail running through it," mentions a visitor about Pine Grove Furnace, which operates from March to mid-December.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose sites near play structures for convenience with children. At Mountain Creek Camp Ground, a family noted, "We stay here 2-3 times a year in a tent. Family friendly campground, lots of weekend activities, great pool, well stocked campstore, playground."
Educational opportunities: The historical significance of the area creates learning experiences. A camper at Artillery Ridge Campground shared, "Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded. Literally right outside the entrance of the campgrounds is where the battlefield starts."
Creek exploration: Water features provide natural entertainment. One visitor mentioned, "The kids enjoyed playing in the creek and tubing" at Mountain Creek Camp Ground, where creek access is a highlight for families with children.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling preparation: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring equipment. "We had site 55. Big site but hard to get into. There are a couple of pull thru sites that are much easier," reports an RVer at Artillery Ridge Campground.
Water access planning: Not all electric sites include water hookups. A camper at Gettysburg / Battlefield KOA explained, "We had a long weekend (4 day/3 night) stay here. The staff was nice and helpful with finding your site and guiding in vehicles. The campsites were all a very good size with nice fire-pits."
Extension cord requirements: Hookups at some campgrounds have unusual placements. At Granite Hill Camping Resort, a visitor noted, "The hookups are oddly spaced and you need to ensure you have extensions handy. My electric hookup didn't work on 30A."
