Tent camping near Centre Hall, Pennsylvania offers outdoor enthusiasts access to the abundant forests and waterways of central Pennsylvania at elevations ranging from 1,300 to 2,200 feet. The region experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months and cooler spring and fall conditions that many campers prefer. Several campgrounds limit amenities to maintain a more rustic, immersive outdoor experience away from cell service and other modern conveniences.
What to do
Creek exploration: Ravensburg State Park Campground features multiple trails that follow the creek with swimming holes deep enough for cooling off. One camper noted, "There are few hiking trails; short and long that take you to beautiful views along the creek with a couple of places deep enough to swim."
Stargazing: Clear mountain skies offer exceptional night viewing at Star Lee Farm where there's "a huge field to star gaze as well as taking pictures" according to a recent visitor. The farm's remote location minimizes light pollution for optimal viewing.
Beekeeping observation: Some locations allow visitors to observe sustainable farming practices. At Star Lee Farm, "if you're a bee enthusiast they grow their own honey in the property and you're more than welcome to walk around and look at all the boxes."
Appalachian hiking: The mountains surrounding these campgrounds provide hiking opportunities on established trails. At Penn Roosevelt State Park Campground, "the area has lots of hikes to offer including the Alan Seeger State Forest, Midstate Trail and several others."
What campers like
Secluded sites: Many campsites provide privacy from neighboring campers. At Ravensburg State Park Campground, "there are bushes and trees between the sites and it feels very private. Sometimes it can feel too secluded but the park ranger drives through a number of times."
Natural soundscape: The flowing water creates ambient noise that many campers appreciate. At Long Acres on Clover Creek, "the secluded area combined with the creek nearby made for a great escape from reality. The stars are so bright out here and the tent was absolutely fabulous!"
Weekday solitude: Visiting during non-peak times often means having entire campgrounds to yourself. One Penn Roosevelt visitor shared: "I arrived on a Wednesday evening. I had my pick of campsites, because I was the only person there!"
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds provide access to trout streams. Ravensburg features "lots of nature to explore" according to visitors, with fishing spots along the creek that runs through the campground.
What you should know
Road access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult approach roads. At Penn Roosevelt, one camper advised: "If you have a trailer, I do not recommend this spot. There is a very tight hairpin turn on the way in. My six foot long trailer barely made the turn!"
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds in the area have poor or non-existent mobile connectivity. At Reeds Gap State Park Campground, campers are told to "put your phone away cuz there's no cell service here!"
Self-registration systems: Many parks operate with minimal staff. One Ravensburg visitor noted, "It's first come first serve. They have tent pads which are nice but we have a 10x20 tent so we pick a site that the pad is flush with the surrounding ground."
Road noise: Some campgrounds sit near busier roads than expected. At Ravensburg, a visitor mentioned: "Only issue is the campgrounds are close to the road and therefore are loud at night occasionally."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Some parks offer recreational facilities for children. At Reeds Gap, "there's a nice creek that runs through it, picnic pavilions and a playground for the kids!"
Spacious group sites: For families camping together, certain areas accommodate multiple tents. Ravensburg is "good for large groups (you can get sites in a row) or just you."
Mid-week camping: For a quieter family experience, consider non-weekend visits. At Nancy's Boat To Shore Campground, one visitor noted, "Some weekend get slightly loud because of college kids, but most are mindful of younger children if you ask them to keep it down."
Bathroom proximity: With children, consider bathroom location when selecting sites. At Reeds Gap, a visitor observed, "Bathhouses were a little far away," which might require planning for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Many campgrounds in the Centre Hall area have limitations for larger vehicles. Penn Roosevelt specifically notes that big rigs aren't accommodated, with one camper warning about "a very tight hairpin turn on the way in."
Tent-only designations: Several campgrounds exclusively serve tent campers. Reeds Gap is described as having "a dozen or so tent only sites," making it unsuitable for RVs despite the beautiful setting.
Water access points: RVers should note water sources aren't always at individual sites. At Ravensburg, "there is no electric but there are spots to get water even placed throughout" requiring RVers to fill tanks before parking.
