Artillery Ridge Campground offers dedicated horse facilities and campsites located within 3 minutes of downtown Gettysburg. The campground sits at 530 feet elevation in Adams County, with typically mild springs and falls but hot summers that can reach 90°F. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing, making the April to November camping season most comfortable for visitors with horses or those looking to explore the historic battlefield region.
What to do
Trail riding near Gettysburg: Access the Stangler Farm trail directly from Artillery Ridge Campground, where campers report: "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."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer fishing ponds or creeks for anglers. As one visitor to Gettysburg Campground notes: "Nice creek with ducks. Close to battlefield." Another camper adds that the grounds include "a nice catch and release pond in campground."
Winter camping: Michaux State Forest remains open year-round for more adventurous campers seeking solitude. A regular visitor explains: "Every January for the last few years some friends and I have gone and camped along the Appalachian Trail. It's you can park at Pine Grove State Park and then hike your way into locations or park at other trail heads."
What campers like
Proximity to historical sites: Campers value staying within walking distance of Gettysburg National Military Park. One visitor states: "If you're looking for a backwoods, off-the-beaten-path type of campground, this isn't it. If you are looking for a campground that is very close to an historical National Park not to mention shopping and restaurants, this is for you."
Tent camping by water: Colonel Denning State Park Campground receives high marks for its creekside sites: "We love the dog friendly sites near the water, the kids and pups play all day! We love how large site 15 is and that it is near the trail head."
Clean facilities: Multiple campers note the well-maintained restrooms at various campgrounds. One visitor to Colonel Denning reported: "The bathrooms were the absolute cleanest bathrooms we've seen in a state park," while another camper noted that "The campsites were very clean, no trash, and pretty level."
What you should know
Variable cell service: Coverage differs significantly across camping areas. One reviewer notes that at Artillery Ridge: "AT&T cell reception at our site was hit or miss, but good in the rest of the campground."
Site size considerations: Some campgrounds have limited space between sites. A camper at Little Buffalo State Park Campground noted: "This is a small campground but worth going to. Very nice park and clean bath house."
Permit requirements: Michaux State Forest requires permits for designated motorized sites. A visitor explains: "Camping is free in several areas throughout Michaux State Forest (as well as other PA State Forests), BUT you usually need to have a camping permit (also free) and you can only stay in designated campsites."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas. At Little Buffalo, "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!"