Camping around Boiling Springs sits within Pennsylvania's South Mountain region, characterized by rolling hills and forested terrain at elevations ranging from 500-1,000 feet. Located in the Cumberland Valley, the area features moderate summers with temperatures typically reaching 85°F during peak camping season and cooler spring and fall conditions. The proximity to both the Appalachian Trail and numerous water features makes this location popular for weekend camping trips.
What to do
Creek exploration and tubing: Mountain Creek Camp Ground offers a refreshing waterway perfect for summer activities. "The kids enjoyed playing in the creek and tubing. I didn't think site sizes were bad but it depends on which site," notes one visitor at Mountain Creek Camp Ground.
Hiking the Appalachian Trail: Access points near several campgrounds connect to the famous trail. A camper at Mountain Creek mentions, "There is access to hiking trails that connect to the AT, plenty of organized activities for kids, fishing and mini golf."
Disc golf courses: Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground offers multiple courses for enthusiasts. "Both areas have their own 18 hole disc golf course, but I will say: BEWARE of poison ivy!! We played the first 10 holes around the Conewago day use area," warns one visitor.
Lake recreation: Explore the full perimeter of Pinchot Lake via trail. "I took an early morning hike on the 8.5 mile Lakeside Trail that goes around the lake and it was really awesome to see the lake from all different angles," shares a Pinchot visitor.
Historical exploration: Gettysburg National Park borders several campgrounds, offering immersive history experiences. A visitor at Artillery Ridge notes, "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."
What campers like
Private tent areas: Codorus State Park Campground offers secluded options for tent campers. "We typically stay in the primitive tent loop which is right on the lake. It can get a little busy on the weekends since there is a boat launch at the end of the primitive lane, but some of the sites are secluded/set back enough to be private."
Waterfront sites: Many visitors specifically request lakeside accommodations. According to a visitor at Pinchot State Park, "FYI tent campers get site 280. The view is amazing."
Family-friendly amenities: Deer Run Campgrounds offers activities throughout the camping season. "We had a wonderful family time. Concerts, games, pool, hikes etc. Can't wait to go again!" reports one satisfied camper.
Off-grid tent options: For those seeking a more rustic experience than luxury glamping in Boiling Springs, Pennsylvania, state parks provide alternatives. "The tent and RV sites are absolutely crammed together. Then another car pulled up and signaled that there was ANOTHER site between us. There wasn't even 10ft between our tents; you could hear everything," notes one Deer Run camper explaining site spacing.
Clean facilities: Little Buffalo State Park Campground maintains quality bathrooms. "The bathrooms are clean. It is nice and dark at night! Little buffalo does offer a variety of activities."
What you should know
Site selection matters: Consider location within campgrounds carefully. At Codorus State Park, "The site we originally picked was advertised as 'partially shaded' but when we got there we found one small tree per site in a grass field. But on the way in we noticed there are lots of wooded sites, and asked to move."
Seasonal closures: Some campgrounds operate with limited sections during certain periods. One camper at Pinchot State Park noted, "When we were there in July, entire loops were closed. This was our first and likely only time so I do not know if this is normal or not."
Bathroom availability: Facilities may be distant from certain sites. At Mountain Creek Camp Ground, visitors report "Bathrooms and activities can be a hike. Some areas flood when it rains hard."
Wildlife considerations: Native animals may impact camping experience. At Gettysburg Campground, "One of the drawbacks of this campground is that a lot of the trees are black walnut trees and the squirrels do not shy away from dropping the walnuts like bombs on your head, car, or table when you're preparing breakfast."
Train noise: Some sites experience railroad disruptions. At Hershey Highmeadow Campground, campers advise, "I would suggest making sure you aren't close to the tracks bc the trains run all night long!"
Tips for camping with families
First-time camping spots: Family-friendly environments help introduce children to outdoor stays. "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," shares a visitor about Gifford Pinchot State Park.
Transportation planning: Consider distance between sites and attractions. At Mountain Creek, a parent advises, "We stayed in the upper tent area. It's a walk to the pool and arcade area. As an adult I was fine with it. I have a 5 year old though and she got tired. Lesson learned: rent a golf cart ahead of time."
Water recreation options: Pools provide alternative swimming when lake access is limited. A Little Buffalo visitor notes, "The pool is very nice! They offer a large area that is only 1 foot deep, great for little ones! There is also a splash pad! There are 2 slides for fun!"
Activity scheduling: Check campground calendars for programming. "Lots of weekend activities for families, access to fishing, and natural areas for wildlife viewing," reports a Mountain Creek visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site layouts: Gettysburg Campground offers varying options for larger vehicles. "The amenities of Gettysburg Campground are quite good: full hookups with cable, all working as expected. Level sites, friendly and efficient staff, decently sized sites long enough for my 32' coach and a toad."
Electrical hookup reliability: Power capacity varies between sites. At Deer Run, a camper noted, "The fuse at power source blew every time the air turned on."
Premium site selection: For larger RVs, careful site selection improves stays. "It is a nice camp ground but super loud bc of the trains. Bath houses are nice and clean," notes a visitor at Hershey Highmeadow Campground.
Leveling considerations: Check ground conditions before setup. "Stone surface. Not to bad for leveling. Our site was spacious," reports a Hershey Highmeadow camper.
