RV campgrounds near Boalsburg, Pennsylvania typically open from April through October, with a small number remaining available year-round. The area sits at approximately 1,180 feet of elevation in the Appalachian Mountains with average summer temperatures reaching the mid-80s. Spring camping often requires preparation for rainfall averaging 3-4 inches monthly between April and June.
What to do
Mountain biking access: Greenwood Furnace State Park connects directly to Rothrock State Forest mountain biking trails, located "less than a mile to trails that take you to the IMBA epic coopers gap loop" according to a visitor at Greenwood Furnace State Park Campground.
Nighttime stargazing: Camp at Greenwood Furnace for exceptional views of the night sky with minimal light pollution. One camper noted, "we saw the Milky Way!" and mentioned hearing screech owls at night, adding to the wilderness experience.
River activities: River's Edge RV Park offers direct river access for water recreation. A seasonal camper shared, "The campground offers direct access to the river for afternoon floats on tubes or kayaks and they're building a large dock for fishing. Beautiful sunsets on the river!"
What campers like
Clean bathroom facilities: Multiple campers praise the shower buildings at Raystown Lake / Saxton KOA. One reviewer specifically mentioned, "Bathrooms are Soo nice" while another noted, "they have recently remodeled the bathrooms/showers (3 of the 4 look brand new), and the pool has been crystal clear."
Peaceful lakeside camping: Bald Eagle State Park receives consistent praise for its lakefront options. A camper described it as having a "beautiful beach with playground, warm showers available—all-around good place!" Another mentioned the "beautiful beach to spread out on and play in the sand!"
Accessibility options: The Bellefonte Campground offers accommodations for various camping preferences. A recent visitor noted, "They have some animals, like goats, as well in a little farm area. Nice new cabins too."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Unlike areas closer to State College, more remote campgrounds have limited connectivity. A camper at Primitive Camping Area — Bald Eagle State Park mentioned there's "No cell phone reception unless you drive a few miles down the road to a cute little store called Couch's!"
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the mountainous terrain require leveling equipment. At Bellefonte-State College KOA, "Some sites are not level at all and others are sloped such that you have to pull all the way forward into your site to get level."
Campground layout variations: The region offers both open and wooded options. At Bald Eagle State Park, "The developed Campground is very 'exposed' - not private, sites close to each other, no trees. Yuk. But closer to the water."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Bellefonte-State College KOA offers extensive family amenities. A visitor mentioned, "Nice pool, splash park, and bouncy pillow. We did the Friday night pizza and wings which worked out great."
Educational opportunities: Explore historical features at nearby parks. One family noted that at Greenwood Furnace, "The blacksmith shop was very educational! Great trails to hike! You can pick up a compass at the ranger station and complete a compass course! Beginner course available!"
Bike-friendly environments: Several campgrounds feature paved roads ideal for children. A parent shared, "The park is great for kids. Paved roads so they can ride their bikes. There is a nice park for the kids to play."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: When booking at Waterside Campground and RV Park, request riverside locations. A camper advised, "Absolutely beautiful if you are riverside. Staff was friendly and helpful. Typical overall, but clean and pretty. Stay on the waterside! Sites 48-53."
Weekend planning: Penn State football games create high demand. One RVer noted their experience: "We stayed here over a weekend and the campground was packed because there was a Penn State football game. Once the weekend was over, the park cleared out."
Access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging entry points. A Seven Mountains Campground visitor shared, "The sites are close, but we were here the day after July 4th and there were many open spots. We were spaced out well."
