Camping near Blue Marsh Lake, Pennsylvania encompasses a range of established campgrounds within the rolling hills of southeastern Pennsylvania. The area is surrounded by several family-oriented camping resorts, including Adventure Bound Camping Resort at Eagles Peak in Robesonia and Blue Rocks Family Campground in Lenhartsville. French Creek State Park, located about 20 miles southeast of Blue Marsh Lake, provides a more natural camping experience with 200 individual sites across four loops. The region sits within Pennsylvania Dutch Country, offering access to both outdoor recreation and cultural attractions like the Appalachian Trail and Amish communities.
Most campgrounds in the Blue Marsh Lake area operate seasonally from April through October, with a few facilities like French Creek State Park and Sill's Family Campground remaining open year-round. Summer brings higher occupancy rates, particularly on weekends and holidays when reservations are strongly recommended. Spring and fall camping can experience significant temperature fluctuations and occasional heavy rainfall that may affect site conditions. According to campers, some sites in low-lying areas can become muddy or even flood during heavy rain events, so selecting sites on higher ground is advisable during wet weather.
The camping options around Blue Marsh Lake cater to various preferences, from tent camping to full-service RV resorts. Family campgrounds like Hickory Run and Mountain Springs Camping Resort feature amenities such as swimming pools, playgrounds, and organized activities. Most established campgrounds offer electric hookups, with many providing full hookups for RVs. As one visitor noted, "There are plenty of hiking trails, and a 'yellow blaze' trail that leads directly to the Appalachian Trail." Pet-friendly options exist at most campgrounds, though specific loops or areas may be designated for campers with pets. Pennsylvania state parks in the region maintain clean facilities with reasonable rates, particularly for primitive sites during weekdays.
$20 - $75 / night
"We were looking for someplace close to the city but away from the hustle and bustle of our city life, this was the perfect little steal-away; relatively close by, great car camping spots, nice easy hikes"
"Campground Review: French Creek State Park Campground is located in Elverson, Pennsylvania and sits adjacent to Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site."
"According to hikers on the AT, this is what they call Pennsylvania, as they hike through this section of the state. And Blue Rocks Campground doesn't dissapoint."
"Blue Rocks family campground is close to I78 however it is still off the beaten path. It is very peaceful to camp here as you have different types of environments."
$40 - $60 / night
"As we drove up I loved the look and location of the campground. "
"It rained the entire time I was there so we didn’t go in the pool but the campground is walkable, I was able to go running, there are things for kids to do, some animals to go visit on our walks, obviously"
"All of the sites are full electric and more than a few have very little space for a family size tent to be safely away from the fire ring. Ours had adequate distance but we got lucky tbh."
"Streams are close by, hiking trails are numerous and Hawk Falls was a high point of the park. Peaceful, crisp air and beautiful Surroundings."
"It was a nice size and was in a good location - near the ponds, pool, office, and bathhouse - but was still quiet! There were scheduled activities for kids and adults."
"We started our trip Friday afternoon, we pulled into the campground and they had a table set up outside to “check in.” We did not wait in a mile long line to park and go into the office."
"Easy access and a great central location to TONS of antique shops. Very clean and very friendly. Highly recommend!"
$60 - $73 / night
"Close to other stores and camping center."
"Large size pool for the bigger folks and a walk in pool for the toddlers. Fun activities for all to enjoy. All the campers that were there when we there are super friendly."
"Many local attractions such as Maple Grove raceway, near Amish farms and a plentiful amount of antique shopping."
"Starlight is a nice campground to relax or explore central Pennsylvania."
"The campground is in a great location with easy access to Lancaster, Hershey and many other places to explore."
ScoutChoose another campground unless you are certain you can arrive before 4pm. Otherwise, you'll not be allowed in. Owner is belligerent on this point, and from other comments, belligerent on other issues also.
We strongly recommend the nearby French Creek State Park campground.
GuideWe've stayed here annually for 7 years and it's one of our favorite campgrounds. There are enough trees and green spaces that it feels like a park despite the number of RVs it accommodates.
The sites are level, large, and well maintained. If you need to contend with a tree blocking your satellite dish the sites are large enough that you can usually just move up or back a bit so that you are not blocked.
The pool is nice and clean. Has water fountains, etc. for kids to play in in addition to a kiddie pool. I do wish it was open a bit later into the evening. The camp store is a bit small but is well stocked with camping items in addition to souvenirs and impulse purchase items.
Since the pandemic what they offer has varied. Sometimes hot food like taco Tuesday, ice cream sundaes, burgers and dogs in their activity center at certain times and days. Sometimes ceramic, arts and crafts, etc.. Sometimes their activity center remains closed during our entire stay.
ScoutEnjoy an amazing experience staying at Hershey Park camp site 😄😄
ScoutThought it was super cool that the owner of the campsite came through to see if anyone needed anything and make sure everything was going okay, I also thought the 5 gallon jug of water was a nice touch. The site was nicely laid out and had a great view of the gorge. Loved that we were back in the trees for a little more privacy. My dogs had a great time as well.
ScoutThe park is very nice however the site H2 was the site assigned to us. The distance between our Coach and the fence was 7 feet and the bathhouse was blocking the view. I do not recommend this site.
TravelerThe camp site was amazing. Everything is neat and clean and really beautiful place so quiet.
ScoutA lot of people recommended this campground. We were late to book for Memorial Day weekend and Indian Head had plenty of spots open so we gave it a chance. Upon arriving, they gave us a map to our spot, we drove to the area and it was essentially a big open field with no spots marked, no numbers, no direction to really pull in. We had to ask the owner where our spot was because there was nothing to show where it was in the fielded grass area. I understand they are putting work into the campground to improve it, it seems, but seemed Alittle messy just from the store, entrance and overall upkeep of the campground. Overall, if we had the chance to camp here again, we probably wouldn’t. I would reccomend J&D or Lake Glory that’s in the same area if able to be booked.
TravelerGreat location a updated grounds, sites and restrooms n bath houses. Local to hershey but out of the traffic.
Great vaction site for RVs n longer stays. Quiet n comfortable RV living!
GuideWe camp here several times thru out the year. Always an enjoyable stay. Staff is very friendly and accommodating.
French Creek State Park campground accommodates campers year-round just 15 miles southeast of Blue Marsh Lake, offering 200 sites across four distinct loops. The area sits at elevations between 500-800 feet, with campsites positioned among mature hardwoods that provide natural shade during summer months when temperatures typically reach the mid-80s. Winter camping remains available at select Blue Marsh Lake campsites, though facilities may be limited and preparation for temperature drops into the 20s is essential.
Fishing in stocked lakes: Multiple fishing opportunities exist within a short drive of Blue Marsh Lake campsites, particularly at French Creek State Park where both Hopewell and Scotts Run Lakes offer diverse fishing. "There are two lakes, Scotts Run Lake and Hopewell Lake that you can fish, kayak, canoe or just relax by. There are several warm water fish in the lakes including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish," notes a camper at French Creek State Park.
Boulder field exploration: At Blue Rocks Family Campground, families can explore a unique glacier rock field. "Our campsite had a great view of the glacier rock field and the corn field," writes one visitor. The unusual geological feature provides a natural playground that keeps children occupied: "our children loved to climb all over the rocks, that is where they spent most of the time."
Appalachian Trail access: Hiking options abound with access to major trails. "Lovely camp site with access to a lot of amenities, all the while keeping a 'primative' feel. Super easy access to Appalachian trail. Trail heads begin inside the campsite," reports a guest at Blue Rocks Family Campground. For serious hikers, this provides direct routes to Pennsylvania's most famous long-distance trail.
Spacious, private sites: Campers consistently mention the generous spacing between sites at French Creek State Park. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other," notes one reviewer. Another adds, "Our site was a full hook up. It was a nice size and was in a good location - near the ponds, pool, office, and bathhouse - but was still quiet!"
Unique accommodation options: Lake-In-Wood Campground offers distinctive lodging choices beyond standard tent and RV sites. "There are a lot of really neat and different rentals here like a tree house, double decker bus, among others," shares one visitor. This variety allows non-traditional camping experiences for those seeking something beyond standard sites.
Year-round accessibility: While many campgrounds close seasonally, some remain open through winter. "Stayed over for one night in early December. Showers and bathrooms were great!" reports a winter camper at French Creek State Park. Another notes, "I'm a women in my thirties traveling alone and I felt very safe here. The honor system of payment at the office makes it really easy to come in late and leave early."
Bathhouse conditions vary: Facilities range from excellent to problematic across Blue Marsh Lake campsites. A visitor to Hickory Run Family Camping Resort observed: "The bath/shower house in this loop was adequate and includes two dish washing stations outside. The showers had good pressure and hot water. It was cleaned often throughout the weekend, however it is definitely in need of an update." At other locations, coin-operated showers may surprise campers: "you have to pay $.25 to take a shower."
Site topography challenges: Some camping areas present leveling difficulties. "Our site was very rocky and on an incline so hard to get the camper level," reports a camper at Blue Rocks. Similarly, at French Creek State Park: "it was kind of hard to find a level and rock-free spot large enough for our tent, but we managed!"
Pet restrictions apply: Not all camping loops allow pets. At French Creek State Park: "Loop C is the only loop that allows pets." When planning with animals, confirm pet-friendly areas in advance: "All of the dogs were well behaved, and we didn't have any problems as we took our walks around the loop."
Consider site selection carefully: Sun Valley Campground provides particularly family-friendly sites with natural buffers. "We stayed in loop 700 - very nice, new and well-maintained area with mature trees and lovely fall colors," notes a visitor. When camping with children, ask for sites away from main roads for safety.
Pool access varies by season: Many campgrounds offer swimming facilities with family-specific features. "A huge pool that has a beautiful view overlooking the lake. A huge pool for the bigger folks and a walk in pool for the toddlers," reports a camper at Mountain Springs Camping Resort. Most pool facilities operate from Memorial Day through early September, weather permitting.
Book early for holiday weekends: Holiday periods fill quickly at Blue Marsh Lake campsites. "We stayed at French Creek over the Labor Day holiday. Appalachian is one of the absolute best campgrounds I have ever stayed at. It's extremely clean and very well organized," shares one visitor. Reservations for summer holiday weekends often open 6-12 months in advance.
Full hookup availability: Appalachian Camping Resort provides complete services for larger rigs. "This is a great place for a family or the outdoor enthusiast as there is so much to do. We had electric however no water or sewer hookup. There was a spigot for water at the next site over from us, so we didn't have to walk far to get fresh water," explains a visitor at another local campground. Most Blue Marsh Lake campgrounds accommodate RVs up to 40 feet.
Leveling can be challenging: RVers report varied experiences with site leveling. "The sites are smaller and you definitely want to be on the top of the hill or right below the country store. The people from Sites 100-116 were mad, it rained and the water ran down hill," reports a visitor to Hickory Run. Request information about site grade when booking.
Consider seasonal camping options: Long-term stays offer economic benefits. "We have been seasonal camper for 4 years and love it. We had visited numerous campgrounds and found Sun Valley to be the atmosphere there beyond our expectations," shares one dedicated camper. Seasonal rates typically run from April through October with discounted monthly rates available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any campgrounds near Blue Marsh Lake in PA?
Several campgrounds are located within a short drive of Blue Marsh Lake. Sill's Family Campground near Mohnton offers drive-in and walk-in access with reservable sites featuring water and toilet facilities that accommodate big rigs. Blue Rocks Family Campground is another excellent option situated in the woods and rolling hills just below the Appalachian Trail. This large campground provides a true 'Rocksylvania' experience with RV sites nestled among the trees. Other nearby options include Starlite Camping Resort in Stevens and Dutch Cousin Campground near Denver, both offering full amenities and convenient access to Blue Marsh Lake's recreational opportunities.
Where are the camping areas at Blue Marsh Lake?
Blue Marsh Lake itself doesn't have designated camping areas within the recreation area. However, nearby French Creek State Park Campground offers excellent camping opportunities just a short drive away. French Creek provides car camping spots with convenient access, nice hiking trails, and a lake. For those seeking alternatives close to Blue Marsh Lake, Adventure Bound Camping Resort at Eagles Peak near Robesonia provides drive-in access with reservable sites, water, toilets, and is big-rig friendly. While Blue Marsh Lake is primarily a day-use recreation area focusing on boating, fishing, hiking, and other water activities, these nearby campgrounds make excellent base camps for exploring the lake.
What amenities are available at Blue Marsh Lake camping areas?
Since Blue Marsh Lake doesn't have designated camping areas within the recreation area itself, visitors seeking amenities should look to nearby campgrounds. Pequea Creek Campground offers beautiful picturesque sites with large spots among many trees, providing a quiet atmosphere with Saturday night music bingo for entertainment. Shady Oak Campground features both full hookup sites (mostly gravel) and grassy sites without sewer that offer more of a camping park feel. Their facilities include clean bathrooms with great hot water, though slightly dated. Both locations provide convenient access to Blue Marsh Lake while offering the camping amenities the lake recreation area itself doesn't provide.
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