Raystown Lake Recreation Area offers several camping options near Centre Hall, Pennsylvania, located approximately 40 miles southwest. The region features rolling hills and elevations ranging from 700-2,000 feet with moderate summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F. Several state parks and private campgrounds offer yurt accommodations in the area, with most sites requiring reservations well in advance during peak season from May through September.
What to do
Hiking Trails with Elevation: Black Moshannon State Park Campground provides miles of hiking trails through diverse terrain. "Great camping area stop a mountain...nice unique lake that is incredibly dark in color. Lilly pads abound with great flowers," notes Clay P. The park features trails for all skill levels, with many connecting directly to campsites.
Mountain Biking Access: Seven Points (PA) offers immediate access to the Allegrippis Trail system. "The mtb trails begin just above the upper camp loops and provide a full day of fast flowing singletrack," explains Travis S. The trail system includes over 30 miles of purpose-built mountain bike trails rated as some of the best in the eastern U.S.
Water Recreation Options: Raystown Lake provides extensive boating and swimming opportunities. "We stayed in Senoia loop in site 236 which was spacious, private, and with a nice breeze! There's a marina, amphitheater where there are concerts most weekends, planned activities like yoga and scavenger hunts, a bicycle skills park, extensive bike trails," reports Laure D. The lake spans 8,300 acres with 118 miles of shoreline.
What campers like
Natural Features: Greenwood Furnace State Park Campground offers a blend of nature and history. "Very interesting history of the old furnaces. Gorgeous park - very PA-scenic!" comments Melanie Z. The park contains remnants of a 19th-century iron furnace community alongside forest and lake settings.
Waterfront Camping Options: Buttonwood Campground provides river access directly from campsites. "Large grassy sites right on the Juniata River. Tubing, canoeing, swimming. Nice pool. GORGEOUS landscaping. Very friendly," shares Darcy S. The campground is situated on the Juniata River with many sites offering direct water views and access.
Peace and Quiet: Many campers appreciate the secluded nature of campsites at Poe Paddy State Park. "We stayed here with friends and had a lovely time. The campground was maybe only 1/2 full and the camp sites near us were empty so we had a very quiet and peaceful weekend. The creek and river are perfect for curious little ones to explore," reports Sarah. The park offers a more rustic experience compared to other nearby options.
What you should know
Limited Connectivity: Poe Paddy State Park Campground has no cell service and minimal staff presence. "There is NO cell service and park rangers do 'rounds' but aren't stationed at the site. There are a couple of water pumps, several well-maintained pit toilets, and an emergency phone," explains Joanna H. Campers should arrive prepared with supplies and information.
Yurt Availability: Yurt camping near Centre Hall, Pennsylvania requires advance planning. At Bald Eagle State Park, yurts are available from April through December and offer a more comfortable camping experience. Black Moshannon State Park also features yurt options approximately 30 miles from Centre Hall.
Reservation Timing: Most campgrounds in the region open reservations 6-11 months in advance. "Make a reservation way ahead of your date as this campground is very popular and sites book early," advises Denise D. about Black Moshannon State Park. Waterfront and yurt sites typically fill fastest, especially for summer weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Pool Access: Little Buffalo State Park Campground offers excellent swimming facilities. "The pool is very nice! They offer a large area that is only 1 foot deep, great for little ones! There is also a splash pad! There are 2 slides for fun!" shares Amanda H. Note that pool access requires an additional fee even for campers.
Educational Opportunities: Greenwood Furnace provides historical learning experiences. "The blacksmith shop was very educational! Great trails to hike! You can pick up a compass at the ranger station and complete a compass course! Beginner course available!" explains Amanda H. The park offers ranger-led programs throughout summer.
Kid-Friendly Activities: Buttonwood Campground provides multiple entertainment options. "There is tons to do for the kids. Ours really enjoyed the bounce pillow, laser tag and peddle cars the most. There is also a small pool and nice canopies around the pool to sit under," notes Bryan S. Activity wristbands cost approximately $20 per person.
Tips from RVers
Site Selection: Waterside Campground and RV Park offers prime riverside locations. "Absolutely beautiful if you are riverside. Staff was friendly and helpful. Typical overall, but clean and pretty. Stay on the waterside! Sites 48-53. Stayed at 49, it was absolutely perfection!" advises Matthew S. The campground provides full hookups with easy access to water recreation.
Terrain Considerations: Seven Points campground features varied terrain across its loops. "We pulled into Ridge Camp (RCAM on Recreation.gov) and drove a little bit down a hill to our site. One backup attempt into the site and it was perfectly level...that was definitely a first for us," shares Tim J. Different loops offer varying levels of shade, privacy and proximity to amenities.
Hookup Options: RVers should note the availability of utilities at various campgrounds. "The park has basic, water & electric as well as a few full hookup up sites. The sites are very spacious with a picnic table and fire rings and are easy to back into even with a rig as big as ours," reports Cheryl W. about Bald Eagle State Park. Most campgrounds in the area offer electric hookups, while full hookups are less common.
