Glamping accommodations near Carlisle, Pennsylvania provide convenient access to outdoor recreation within South Mountain, part of the northern Blue Ridge range. Most campgrounds in this region sit at elevations between 500-1,200 feet with moderate humidity in summer months. The camping season typically runs April through October, though some locations offer heated accommodations for winter visits when temperatures can drop below freezing.
What to do
Hike to the Appalachian Trail: Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground offers access to an 8.5-mile Lakeside Trail with connections to other regional hiking systems. One visitor noted, "I took an early morning hike on the Lakeside Trail that goes around the lake and it was really awesome to see the lake from all different angles."
Fish in stocked waters: Little Buffalo State Park Campground provides fishing opportunities in its lake. A camper mentioned, "Its an amazing little quite camping ground. Super clean. Lots of easy hiking trails and tons of fishing."
Enjoy water recreation: Buttonwood Campground offers river tubing that many guests consider a highlight. "Tubing down the river is so fun and the highlight of a stay here. Campground does have a wristband system for most activities and amenities, with the exception of pool and playgrounds," explains one visitor.
Visit historical sites: With Gettysburg just 26 miles south of Carlisle, many campgrounds serve as bases for battlefield tours. A camper at Gettysburg Campground shared, "If you're looking for a campground that is very close to an historical National Park not to mention shopping and restaurants, this is for you."
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Many campgrounds near Carlisle feature premium sites along creeks and lakes. At Paradise Stream Family Campground, visitors appreciate the water access: "Beautiful views! What a beautiful campground. So many things to do here! Very family oriented. We stayed creekside so only had electric."
Well-maintained facilities: Campers frequently mention the cleanliness of campgrounds in the region. A visitor at Mountain Creek Camp Ground shared, "Two bath houses, one near the entrance and one in the way back. May not be anything fancy or new, but they are clean."
Kid-focused amenities: Most glamping locations near Carlisle offer structured activities for children. "This is a small campground but worth going to. Very nice park and clean bath house. They do have a pool but not included in the camping price and it gets very crowded," explained a camper at Little Buffalo State Park.
Quiet atmosphere: Despite being near attractions, many campgrounds maintain peaceful environments. A Gifford Pinchot visitor commented, "Nice sized spots, wooded, paved roads beautiful lake. Not a garbage can to be found park wide!"
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: While luxury glamping options provide privacy, standard sites at some campgrounds can be crowded. At Deer Run Campgrounds, a visitor cautioned, "It's very nice here, good for kids, big pool. The sites for campers are very tight."
Reservation timing matters: Most premium glamping sites book months in advance, particularly for summer weekends. Weekday visits typically offer more availability and lower rates at all campgrounds.
Seasonal weather considerations: The region experiences hot, humid summers with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Spring and fall offer more moderate temperatures but variable weather patterns.
Transportation planning: Artillery Ridge Campground and other locations often require driving to major attractions. One guest advised, "Amazing location surrounded by the national park. The grounds are nice and shaded, and you don't feel crowded."
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: When booking sites with children, check proximity to playgrounds and bathhouses. A visitor at Mountain Creek Camp Ground shared, "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."
Activity passes: Many campgrounds offer daily or weekend activity passes covering multiple attractions. At Buttonwood Campground, a camper noted, "Plan on spending $20 per person for an activity wristband that includes all the extras including mini golf and tubing shuttle."
Swimming options: Several locations offer alternatives to natural swimming. A visitor to Little Buffalo observed, "By the far the highlight of ours as well. Especially since they engaged the wheel and actually ground corn! It rained every day during our 3 night stay but no one can beat the weather our campsite did flood however."
Educational opportunities: Many glamping sites near Carlisle provide nature programs. At Gifford Pinchot, "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."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: RVers should carefully research site dimensions before booking. A camper at Hershey Campground advised, "Nice camp ground but super loud bc of the trains. Bath houses are nice and clean. I would suggest making sure you aren't close to the tracks bc the trains run all night long!"
Utility placement challenges: Some campgrounds have unusual utility setups. An RVer at Western Village RV Park mentioned, "We shared 1 water source with 2 other campers. In order to hook anything up, you had to be in your neighbor's space."
Seasonal site availability: Several campgrounds near Carlisle offer extended-stay options for seasonal campers. Artillery Ridge Campground received this feedback: "We had site 114. It has water access and is right next to a small man made beach and playground. Bathrooms were in good shape. Sites were of ample size and well spaced."
