Camping sites near Burnham, Pennsylvania typically range in elevation from 500 to 1,200 feet and experience varied seasonal conditions with summer highs around 85°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Most primitive camping areas in this region sit within the Ridge and Valley Province, characterized by parallel mountain ridges covered in mixed oak and hemlock forests. Primitive tent sites generally close earlier in the season than RV campgrounds, with most tent-only areas shutting down by mid-October.
What to do
River activities: The Juniata River provides excellent recreation opportunities for campers staying at Buttonwood Campground. "Tubing down the river is so fun and the highlight of a stay here," notes Heather G. The river offers multiple access points for fishing, kayaking, and swimming during summer months.
Historical exploration: Visit the historic iron furnace at Greenwood Furnace State Park Campground. "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," shares Amanda H. The park maintains several preserved structures from its industrial past.
Night sky viewing: Areas with minimal light pollution allow for stargazing opportunities. Ann P. at Greenwood Furnace notes, "We saw the Milky Way!" Most state parks in the region have minimal artificial lighting, making them suitable for astronomy enthusiasts, particularly during new moon phases.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Certain campgrounds offer more secluded options. "If you camp on the upper loop, there is a lot of separation between sites, which is nice," reports Everet B. about Reeds Gap State Park Campground. Tent sites generally provide better seclusion than RV areas.
Cool mountain temperatures: The higher elevation camping areas provide natural air conditioning during summer months. Kelly C. from Reeds Gap notes it's "Sooo relaxing" and perfect for "anyone who really just wants to relax." The elevation creates comfortable sleeping conditions even during July and August.
Digital disconnection: Limited cellular coverage creates opportunities to unplug. "Put your phone away cuz there's no cell service here! Nice and peaceful with a dozen or so tent only sites," mentions Danielle C. Similarly, Amanda H. notes at Greenwood Furnace: "Don't bring your electronics you won't need them here! No cell phone reception unless you drive a few miles down the road."
What you should know
Winter accessibility: Penn Roosevelt State Park Campground remains open year-round but requires preparation. Chuck M. warns: "If you have a trailer, I do not recommend this spot. There is a very tight hairpin turn on the way in. My six foot long trailer barely made the turn!" Winter campers should check road conditions before departure.
Shower facilities: Bathroom amenities vary significantly between campgrounds. Jason H. at Buttonwood Campground notes, "Bath houses were clean and private which was a nice plus." However, Ann P. cautions about Greenwood Furnace: "The shower house is nice, nothing too fancy but clean."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. Gary C. recommends Waterside (formerly Locust) Campground: "Nearly all full hook-ups with back-ins and pull-thrus available. 42 mile South from State College and 48 mile North of Harrisburg on Rt 322."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation: Poe Valley State Park Campground offers multiple water activities. "Great campground! Lots of fishing, swimming and you can rent kayaks or paddle boats. Beach had a concession stand and camping was very shaded and secluded!" reports Chelsie G.
Activity planning: Consider campgrounds with organized programs. Bryan S. observed at Buttonwood: "There is tons to do for the kids. Ours really enjoyed the bounce pillow, laser tag and peddle cars the most. There is also a small pool and nice canopies around the pool to sit under."
Kid-friendly sites: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and open spaces. Taylor V. notes about Poe Valley: "The beach was nice, not crowded, soft sand, and warm water. It's a great lake to kayak or paddle board on."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Waterside Campground offers premium waterfront locations. Matthew S. advises: "Absolutely beautiful if you are riverside. Staff was friendly and helpful. Typical overall, but clean and pretty. Stay on the waterside! Sites 48-53. Stayed at 49, it was absolutely perfection!"
Hookup availability: Most RV sites in the region offer electric and water, but not all include sewer connections. Michael L. notes at Waterside: "Easy in and out, full utilities. Rates are reasonable, store is basic. Come here every year, worth the trip."
Road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. Joann&WellsThePup I. reports about Bald Eagle State Forest: "The only downside of our campsite was that it was listed as 'motorized'. These sites are advertised as drive-up and occupy your vehicle sites, however there were two giant boulders blocking the pathway to the actual site."
