Tent camping near Carlisle, Pennsylvania offers locations beyond established campgrounds. The Yellow Breeches Creek area serves as a popular watercraft access point, while state forests provide more secluded options at elevations ranging from 700 to 2,000 feet. Seasonal considerations affect water availability with spring bringing higher water levels and summer requiring additional planning for water supplies.
What to do
Creek paddling excursions: Campers at Lower Allen Community Park can combine paddling with camping. "You can put in a few miles up and float down to your site. The park is in the suburbs so it's close to lots of things," notes one visitor who appreciated the convenience of parking adjacent to the sites.
Winter camping adventures: The colder months provide solitude at Penn Roosevelt State Park where camping continues year-round. "Stayed during the winter so the park wasn't very busy but there was one other group of campers. The sites are tent only and pretty close together but some still feel secluded," explains a winter camper.
Night sky viewing: Star Lee Farm offers exceptional dark sky conditions for astronomy enthusiasts. A camper reports, "There's a huge field to star gaze as well as taking pictures. Service is a little sketch but it's perfect for those who want to completely escape the business of modern world."
What campers like
Natural water access: The region's streams and small lakes provide cooling relief during summer camping trips. At Reeds Gap State Park, "There's a nice creek that runs through it, picnic pavilions and a playground for the kids! They used to have a swimming pool but they removed it a few years ago," mentions one reviewer.
Digital disconnection: Limited cellular service creates opportunities for undistracted nature immersion. As one Reeds Gap visitor notes, "Put your phone away cuz there's no cell service here! Nice and peaceful with a dozen or so tent only sites." Similarly, campers at Annapolis Rock Campground appreciate the complete break from technology on this Appalachian Trail site.
Spring water sources: Natural springs provide drinking water at select locations. An Annapolis Rock camper explains, "Short walk to cold natural spring for water. Short walk to Annapolis rock. Rock climbing available." This reduces the need to carry large water quantities when backpacking to these sites.
What you should know
Primitive facilities standard: Most tent-focused sites offer basic amenities only. At Lancaster County Mill Creek Camping Area, "The stream is refreshing and the site stays fairly cool. The site is public access and there are lots of hikers, joggers, and people expecting you not to be camping," reports a visitor who experienced morning walk-throughs.
Permit requirements vary: Some locations require advance reservations while others operate on first-come systems. Lower Allen Community Park sites need township office contact, while Reeds Gap State Park Campground uses an honor system as one camper notes, "Stayed here on a Sunday night without a reservation. We were the only ones there. Pay by honor system at the park office."
Water planning essential: Water availability changes seasonally and by location. A Penn Roosevelt visitor warns, "The water was off, but I was prepared to wilderness camp later in my trip so, that was no big deal." Always confirm current water status before arrival, especially during shoulder seasons.
