Camping options near Dallastown, Pennsylvania extend throughout York County and into neighboring counties, with varied terrain including river valleys and rolling farmland. Located at approximately 600 feet elevation, the region experiences four distinct seasons with mild springs and falls ideal for outdoor recreation. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F while winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that regularly drop below freezing.
What to do
Water recreation: Explore the Susquehanna River at Otter Creek Campground, where visitors gain direct access to both the creek and river. "Its close proximity to the Susquehanna River, Otter Creek, and the Mason Dixon Trail is absolutely ideal," notes Gerald B. The boat launch accommodates private watercraft while multiple fishing spots line the shore.
Disc golf: Try two different 18-hole courses at Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground. "Both areas have their own 18 hole disc golf course, but I will say: BEWARE of poison ivy," advises one visitor. The course in Conewago day use area offers relatively flat terrain while the Quaker Race course provides more challenging wooded holes on hillier landscapes.
Hiking options: Walk the 8.5-mile Lakeside Trail circling Pinchot Lake for varied perspectives of the water. Nearby White Rocks Trail connects with the Appalachian Trail for extended hiking. "I took an early morning hike on the 8.5 mile Lakeside Trail that goes around the lake and it was really awesome to see the lake from all different angles," reports one camper.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Find secluded woodsy sites at many campgrounds for a true forest experience. Pequea Creek Campground offers particularly spacious options. "We had a huge spot on the end and hardly saw the other campers," writes Danielle C. Sites backing up to trees or along the creek provide the most seclusion.
Mulch tent pads: Enjoy comfortable tent camping at Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA, which has upgraded their tent sites. "They have upgraded the tent sites since last year, no more primitive sites, all the tent sites are now mulch pad with water and electric," explains Melissa C., making this a good option for those who prefer more comfort while tent camping.
Farm animal interaction: Experience a working farm setting at Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm. "We were in C103. If you love farm animals, that is the spot to be. Got a kick out of the children playing with the kids (baby goats) pigs, goats, chickens, horses and even lamas," shares Robert M. The animals provide unique entertainment, especially for families with children.
What you should know
Seasonal flooding concerns: Check weather forecasts before visiting riverside campgrounds. At Pequea Creek Campground, some sites are more vulnerable to water issues. "We first had a 2 point site near the river, but when it rains the sites get flooded with runoff from the campground," reports one camper at Circle M.
Cash requirements: Bring paper money as some facilities don't accept cards. Several parks operate on cash-only systems for activities, store purchases, or showers. "Yeah, I knows it's not popular because most of us live in a plastic dominated world. I read it in advance and I just made sure we had some with us," notes Sharon L.
Varying shower setups: Expect different shower facilities across campgrounds. Some feature timed push-button systems that require quarters. "The shower is an annoying push button that only stays on for a few seconds," explains one visitor at Indian Rock Campgrounds. Other parks offer unlimited hot water included with your stay.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose sites near play areas for convenience with children. Tucquan Park Family Campground receives praise for its facilities. "Our 3 young kids enjoyed the playground the most — there were lots of fun things for the kids on the playground," notes Melissa. Site selection near these amenities saves walking time with tired children.
Swimming options: Research water access restrictions before promising swimming to children. While many parks feature lakes, not all permit swimming. "There is no swimming allowed in the lake but there is a pool located at the park, there is no extra cost to use the pool if you are at the campground," explains Catherine H. at Codorus State Park.
Kid-friendly creek play: Seek shallow water options where children can safely splash. "We enjoyed the birds singing in the mornings and welcomed grandkids' visit for splashing and floating in Pequea Creek," shares J.W., noting that "site 24 had steps down the 'levee' affording easier access to the creek."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Request sites away from group areas to avoid noise at busier campgrounds. "Next time I will be getting a site away from the group area," advises Melissa F. at Gifford Pinchot, explaining, "Some of the groups can get rather loud especially when there are a bunch of teens."
Leveling challenges: Be prepared with leveling blocks as site terrain varies across the best places to camp near Dallastown. Even campgrounds with paved sites may require adjustment. "Our site was level, shaded and quite large," notes one RVer about Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA, but experiences differ across facilities and specific site numbers.
Utility availability: Check hookup locations before setup as placement varies between campgrounds. Most campgrounds offer electric sites, but amperage varies between 30 and 50-amp service. "We had site 114. It has water access and is right next to a small man made beach and playground," shares Toshi about their experience at Gifford Pinchot.
