Camping options near Carlisle, Pennsylvania range from rural farmland retreats to waterfront locations along the Juniata River. The region sits within the Cumberland Valley at approximately 450 feet above sea level with warm summers reaching 85°F and cold winters dropping below freezing. Most campgrounds remain open April through October, though a few offer year-round accommodations with electricity for winter camping.
What to do
Farm animal experiences: At Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm, children can interact with livestock daily. "The kids LOVED the animals and we fed them at the allotted time every morning and went to visit at other times," reports melissa. The campground features goats, pigs, chickens, horses and llamas on a working farm setting.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer pond or river access for anglers. River's Edge RV Park provides direct river access where "campers can enjoy afternoon floats on tubes or kayaks and they're building a large dock for fishing," according to Jenn D. The Juniata River offers seasonal fishing throughout warmer months.
Historic explorations: Campgrounds near Gettysburg provide convenient access to battlefield tours. "It's literally like a mile from downtown Gettysburg, which also has a lot of different things to do," explains David G. from Drummer Boy Camping Resort. Military history enthusiasts can explore battlefield sites within a 30-minute drive from most Carlisle area campgrounds.
What campers like
Spacious swimming options: Many campgrounds feature well-maintained pools. "The pool was clean and quite good sized, had it to ourselves due to season," reports John L. about Round Top Campground. Drummer Boy Camping Resort offers "2 pools which is a bonus" according to camper F., providing relief during hot summer months.
Indoor recreational facilities: For rainy days or cooler weather, several properties offer indoor options. "There is an indoor pool and spa," notes Kasey M. about Thousand Trails Circle M. Many campgrounds maintain game rooms, craft areas, or recreation centers with pool tables and other activities.
Seasonal celebrations: Halloween is particularly popular in the region's campgrounds. "They had Halloween ever at every weekend of October and we spent Halloween weekend here. The kids loved it!!" shares Kasey M. about Circle M. Many campgrounds decorate extensively and organize themed activities during fall weekends.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience significant noise from nearby transportation or recreational facilities. "There is a shooting range right next door. It is pretty consistent from lunch to dinner," warns Tara N. about Pinch Pond Family Campground & RV Park. Train tracks, highways, and other noise sources affect certain campgrounds more than others.
Site leveling challenges: Uneven terrain is common throughout the Cumberland Valley region. "We had to go out and get more blocks and we're still not very level front to back," reports Sammii D. about Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country. Many RVers recommend bringing additional leveling equipment regardless of campground.
Water quality issues: Some campgrounds experience mineral or sediment problems. "Water was rusty in our row came out brown at first then was tan after running through our filter for the entire stay," notes Justin B. Consider bringing water filters or additional drinking water depending on location.
Tips for camping with families
Playground quality: Facilities vary significantly between campgrounds. "The biggest complaint about our site was that there was only 1 playground, it was all the way at the front of the campground (we had to drive to it) and it was very junky and run down," reports Chelsea about Drummer Boy Camping Resort. Some campgrounds maintain multiple playground areas while others have minimal equipment.
Activities scheduling: Check activity calendars when booking. "Beyond that though, we found there wasn't too much to do. There was a nice little store with hand dipped ice cream — I believe normally there's a game room, but it had flooded so it wasn't open," notes melissa from Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm. Activity availability changes seasonally and with staffing levels.
Bathroom proximity: Consider site location relative to facilities. "Only downside is the walk to the bathrooms if you tent camp. A long walk if you really got to go," warns Emily about Western Village RV Park. Families with young children may prefer sites closer to restroom facilities.
Tips from RVers
Hookup configurations: Water and sewer connections are sometimes awkwardly positioned. "The sewer hookup was inconveniently placed about six inches above the ground which meant that it would not drain properly (even with a slinky placed under it)," reports Nancy W. about Drummer Boy Camping Resort. Check site details or call ahead to verify hookup locations.
Electrical capacity limitations: Some campgrounds have electrical systems that struggle during peak usage. "The fuse on the campsite panel kept blowing every time we ran the air and microwave together," notes Ernest G. about Western Village. Larger RVs with multiple electrical needs may require campgrounds with updated electrical systems.
Arrival timing strategy: For campgrounds with first-come, first-served site selection, timing matters. "For everyone complaining about driving around and not finding spots, if you get there early enough around 1 pm, you won't have a problem," advises Yamileth K. Many campgrounds begin check-in between 1-3pm, with optimal site selection for early arrivals.
