RV campgrounds near Castanea, Pennsylvania sit within the ridge-and-valley section of the Appalachian Mountains, with elevations ranging from 550 to 2,200 feet. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing between November and March, making most camping options seasonal. Sites throughout the region often require advance planning during Penn State home game weekends when vacancies become scarce across Clinton and Centre counties.
What to do
Water activities at Foster Joseph Sayers Lake: Bald Eagle State Park provides lake access through a tunnel under the railroad tracks near the bathrooms. The primitive camping area offers hiking trails with "two points for trail access along the campground road," according to Sean Y. from Primitive Camping Area — Bald Eagle State Park.
Explore local caves: Woodward Cave Campground has its own cave system onsite. As Jen R. notes, "Best part was it had it's own cave! No playground for the kids but with the cave we didn't mind. This place is also about 20 to 30 minutes from Penn's Cave which is the only cave in Pa that you tour by boat. It was amazing!!"
River tubing and kayaking: River's Edge RV Park provides direct water access for float trips. A camper explains that "the campground offers direct access to the river for afternoon floats on tubes or kayaks and they're building a large dock for fishing. Beautiful sunsets on the river!"
What campers like
Animal attractions: The Bellefonte Campground features a small farm area. As one reviewer noted, "They have some animals, like goats, as well in a little farm area. Nice new cabins too." Some campgrounds integrate wildlife viewing opportunities into their recreational amenities.
Entertainment options: Several campgrounds provide unique entertainment features. River's Edge RV Park is "literally right next door to a drive-in movie theater!" according to Jenn D. at River's Edge RV Park & Campground.
Waterpark amenities: Splash Magic RV Resort offers extensive water features beyond standard pools. One reviewer described, "There is a great water park as well as adults only pool for those wanting a break from the little ones."
What you should know
Terrain and leveling challenges: Many RV sites near Castanea sit on mountainous terrain requiring leveling equipment. At Bellefonte-State College KOA, "The park is built on a hill and sites are terraced. Some sites are not level at all and others are sloped such that you have to pull all the way forward into your site to get level," notes Nancy W.
Road access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging entrance roads. As Clean Slate D. mentioned about The Bellefonte Campground, "Sites are sloped a bit as most are in the mountains. We were able to decently level our motorhome with blocks."
Varied bathroom facilities: Bathroom quality varies significantly between campgrounds. At the Bellefonte-State College KOA, Joan observed "The Bathrooms were hotel quality and clean. They were combined with a shower. The water pressure was great and very hot."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning for children: Look for campgrounds with multiple recreation options. "The playground was really nice," reported one camper about Splash Magic RV Resort, while another mentioned, "A lot to do for kidos and family."
Swimming options: Many campgrounds offer pools, but quality varies. At Holiday Pines Campground, one reviewer mentioned, "Their swimming pool is opening soon, that's pretty cool," while at Bellefonte-State College KOA, "Pool is in good shape, along with a bounce pillow and several playgrounds."
Campsite privacy considerations: Site spacing differs dramatically between campgrounds. Joel A. notes about Bellefonte-State College KOA, "I did not like the complete openness of the park, the sites are stepped up a hill so there is really no privacy," while primitive sites at Bald Eagle offer more seclusion.
Tips from RVers
Utility service quality: Water pressure and electrical service vary widely. One camper at Bellefonte-State College KOA reported, "Then there was the water pressure… or lack of water pressure. Saying it trickled out would be generous."
Internet connectivity: Several campgrounds provide surprisingly strong coverage. At Holiday Pines Campground, one reviewer noted, "The campground has excellent service, I work online so that was a relief. Full bars on at&t and Verizon."
Site selection strategy: When booking RV sites, prioritize location within the campground. Rebecca E. advises about Bald Eagle State Park, "Stayed in Primitive Area with RV which is MUCH QUIETER & MUCH MORE PRIVATE with many trees than the full hookups down in the main park area. The developed Campground is very 'exposed' - not private, sites close to each other, no trees."
