Raystown Lake area accommodations offer diverse camping experiences within a 3,900-acre forested landscape. The region maintains a humid continental climate with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Camping options extend beyond traditional tent sites to include yurt camping near Calvin, Pennsylvania, with several campgrounds providing elevated platforms and permanent canvas structures.
What to do
Mountain biking trails access: Ridge Camp at Seven Points connects directly to the extensive Allegrippis Trail system. "The mtb trails begin just above the upper camp loops and provide a full day of fast flowing singletrack," notes Travis S., adding these IMBA standard trails are "open year round and in any weather."
Historical exploration: Visit Trough Creek State Park Campground to explore natural formations and historic sites. "It has a nice hike up above a creek with a huge rock that appears ready to fall over the cliff with a simple touch. Very neat," explains Nick S. The park offers multiple hiking trails with geological features.
Lake activities: Rent watercraft from the marina at Lake Raystown Resort. "There is a boat hire place located on the grounds that hires pontoon boats and jet skis in season," says Britt B. Rental costs range from $75-300 depending on watercraft type and rental duration.
Fishing opportunities: Access multiple fishing spots along Raystown Lake shoreline. "Camping at Lake Raystown...it's a primitive campground with no electricity. Get your water at a hand pump and they have pit toilets. Nice place to camp along the lake. Water sites are available," reports Rebecca G. about the Susquehannock campground.
Scenic overlooks: Drive to nearby vantage points for lake views. "If you have a boat, bring it. There's trailer parking. Many walking paths throughout but it's hilly," advises Laure D. The dam and overlooks are accessible by car with dedicated parking areas.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Campers appreciate the secluded water access at Susquehannock. "We were right on the water, secluded from other campsites visually, though we could hear them on either side," says Karie Anne P. Waterfront sites 51-53 are noted as the best with convenient parking.
Clean facilities: Greenwood Furnace State Park Campground maintains high cleanliness standards. "You can buy ice ($2), bundles of wood (15 pc @ $5) and as long as you don't need change, it's self serve. The shower house is nice, nothing too fancy but clean," reports Ann P.
Level camping pads: Some campsites feature extremely flat surfaces. "One backup attempt into the site and (according to our LevelMatePRO app) it was perfectly level...that was definitely a first for us," explains Tim J. about site #6 in Ridge Camp.
Yurt accommodations: Several resorts near Calvin offer yurt camping options with sturdy platforms and canvas walls. "Camping at Raystown like this provides a real camping experience without electricity and running water. Not to worry, the showers are located at Seven Points," notes Deanna B.
Family amenities: Resort facilities include multiple recreational options. "Both RV sites and lots to rent to pitch your own tent, fishing, huge lake with beach, lots of activities for the kids throughout the summer, one of the nicest parks we have camped at!" shares Dawn N.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Not all campsites are created equal. "Most of the campsites are on a slight slope but they're still bearable. Also a lot of them are waterfront sites which is convenient for swimming in the summer!" explains Madelyn D. about Crooked Run Campground.
Off-grid considerations: Many campgrounds have limited services. "There is only compostable toilets and no showers but that didn't bother us and was expected. Water is available at the entrance only," notes Amelie B. about primitive camping areas.
Weather preparedness: The area experiences rapid weather changes. "We came here in mid June so it was a bit chilly at night and warm during the day - bring layers + raincoats as the PA mountain weather can be iffy!" advises Diane T.
Reservation timing: Waterfront sites book quickly, especially for yurt camping near Calvin. "We wanted a waterfront spot, but even trying to reserve the first day we could for this weekend, they were all taken," reports Laure D. Reserve 6+ months in advance for premium locations.
Boat noise: Expect watercraft sounds during peak season. "Be prepared to be woken by bass boats and subsequent wake at sunrise," warns Ian W. Weekdays typically have less boat traffic than weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Trough Creek State Park Campground offers family-friendly swimming areas. "Loved this campground. We wanted to be close to Raystown Lake. Trough is quiet and small. It's really great if you're looking for a spot to 'rough' it (not really, but closer than most!) with the kids," recommends Michael L.
Playground options: Several campgrounds feature play areas. "The campground can host tents, as well as RVs/campers, and includes clean bath houses with both toilets and showers. The park itself has a playground and lake to swim in," explains Diane T.
Educational opportunities: Visit historical features with kids. "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!" suggests Amanda H.
Kid-friendly trails: Find appropriate hiking paths for different ages. "A walking trail wraps around the whole lake. There's lots of hiking trails, a real sand beach and swimming area, pedal boat and canoe rentals," notes Beth C.
Cell service considerations: Limited connectivity can affect family planning. "There is little to no phone service here and it's not super close to town, so come prepared," warns Diane T., while another camper mentioned this disconnect as a positive feature for family bonding.
Tips from RVers
Campsite specifications: Check site dimensions before booking. "The sites are paved as are the roads. Bathrooms are fairly modern and clean. We take our dog so there is a restriction on where you can camp. Some sites are larger than others," advises Mark S.
Dump station amenities: Seven Points features superior waste disposal facilities. "We visited the dump station again and got in one of the 4 lanes with no wait. The dump station had wide lanes and made the experience an easy and clean one," explains Tim J.
Setup considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging terrain for larger vehicles. "As we drove through the rest of the RV park area we noted that many of the sites had very awkward back-in approaches that did not provide sufficient area to maneuver a large rig into them," warns Gerard about Shawnee State Park Campground.
Water and electric placement: Hookup locations vary between campgrounds. "We stayed in Senoia loop in a water view (somewhat) site. It was small for our 22 foot total camper but we fit. It was carved out of the side of the hill with 3 wood walls," reports Laure D.
Pet-friendly loops: Not all campground sections allow pets. "We have a 35' TT and there was no way it was going to fit in the site we originally booked. Luckily it was opening weekend and the rangers and super accommodating!" shares Brittany V., who had to relocate to a more suitable site.
