Several good camping spots are within reach of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. Rocky Gap State Park Campground sits just a short drive away, with both tent and RV sites for campers to use. Many people also camp at Owens Creek Campground in Catoctin Mountain Park, where hiking trails branch out from the camping area. The weather around Chambersburg changes dramatically with the seasons - spring and fall bring the most comfortable camping temperatures, while summer heat makes shady campsites much more valuable. Though winter camping is possible, you'll need to prepare for cold nights and possible snow. Most campgrounds connect to well-maintained roads that any vehicle can handle, though some spots might require trucks or SUVs with higher clearance, especially after rain or snow. The woods around Chambersburg have plenty of wildlife, so hang your food and keep a clean camp to avoid unwanted animal visitors.
Compare 2 top campgrounds at a time to find your favorite!
Round 1 of 5
$24 - $151 / night
"Depending on how deep your campsite is, you can easily walk into the park and wander the many trails. Signs are small and easy to miss, especially in the dark."
"Stayed here two nights while visiting Gettysburg (short 20mi drive between the two). Stayed on Chinquapin Hill, each site has picnic table and fire ring and good space for camp."
$24 - $69 / night
"Nestled in the mountains of Pennsylvania, this gem of a campground."
"The bathroom is close by,has showers & is very clean. You can walk or ride a bike to the beach. The water is clean with sand on the bottom. Lakeside trail is short and easy."
"Spent 2 nights at Gettysburg KOA in July while touring Pennsylvania with granddaughter. Very convenient to historical stuff. Large sites, separated by rocks and trees. Quiet and private."
"Our site was very spacious, beautifully landscaped and wooded, but right next to the road. There was a buffer of trees, but unfortunately that didn’t make much of a difference with regard to noise."
$38 - $43 / night
"This is a huge campground with mostly very large RVs situated on farmland. The sites varied. Some were in an open field, others by the stream with trees. We had Site C, which was right on the stream."
"Our kids love the creek and playing in and around it. Some activities, playground, mini golf etc. but more of a relaxing campground."
$24 - $43 / night
"It’s at the midpoint of the Appalachian Trail so there are lots of great hikes as well as a nice path between the two lakes. Our new favorite in Pennsylvania!"
"We were right at the intersection near the campground entrance and one of the other loops, but it wasn't noisy at all. The drinking water was right next to our site, which was handy."
$30 / night
"firewood hut on the way in, unfortunately most of the wood wasn't dry due to rain the day before and the wood being out from under the hut awning, but we made do with the stacks of dead wood along the outside"
"We stayed at site 28 which is right next to the little bridge over the creek for easy access to the trails and near the bathrooms."
$10 / night
"There's a parking area which fits several cars, and I actually counted 4 campsites there is immediate access to."
"Great campsite - Site 8, Hairy Springs; long walk from vehicle so pack lightly. "
"I always appreciate the near solitude experience of this campground as 90% of the sites are RV sites, that are kept away from the tenting area."
"If you’re looking for a backwoods, off-the-beaten-path type of campground, this isn’t it."
$10 / night
"No water close by so you’ll have to bring it. Short walk from car to site. Lots of trails and a golf course close by. Free permit required but you can now get it online"
"Walk in tent site. No amenities, dispersed camping only. Next to a water source that runs well in Spring/Early summer. Midsummer and early Fall can be iffy, so bring a backup."
$10 / night
"Some reviewers have confused nearby State Parks with the actual State Forest, resulting in inaccurate information."
"Every January for the last few years some friends and I have gone and camped along the Appalachian Trail."
GuideProbably my favorite due to the Store, the store employee and the App Trails. Will be back. My site was next to the amp trail which I didn’t particularly like, but my site was beautiful. WiFi available at Camp Store
GuideGreat Park, showers were cold and after the App Trail, A hot shower would have been awesome. Beautiful park though. My site was a little bit uneven but it looks like the park has been through an upgrade recently.
GuideThe sites are close together. The park was not full Mother’s Day weekend. It is a very nice park. The bathhouses were clean. The amenities were good although we didn’t utilize them. The national historic site was very close and we walked over day 1 rode our bikes day 2. The C&O canal is accessible but you must walk your bike across the lower town bridge and carry it down the stairs. This section of the trail was very good and we completed 38 miles.
TravelerWe stayed one night here (didn't even unhook from the truck). Arrived in the rain and were leaving early the next morning, so I didn't want to disconnect. Our gravel pad was over 6" out of level, requiring me to use leveling pads and a leveling jack to get trailer level. All the short-term gravel sites looked like they needed some love!
Campground is about 80% seasonal, and apparently has no housekeeping restrictions on residents - some sites were pretty full of old dead golf carts and various debris. Not sure I would want to stay for a destination camping experience, but it was cheap and fine for a one night stay.
TravelerWe came up here in our Roadtrek campervan. Quiet woodsy forestland. Went for a walk in the morning, lots of birdsong. A bit of road noise from the nearby highways but didn’t hear anything at night.
ScoutLess amenities than advertised. We usually camp in more rustic locations and planned this trip simply for the fun of the amenities. Their website claims that the pool is seasonal but doesn't list anything else as seasonal. There was supposed to be mini golf, a giant bounce pillow, indoor basketball, an arcade with air hockey and a pool table. Mini golf was fine. The bounce pillow was deflated and full of water. The arcade/pool table/air hockey building was locked and the maintenance guy(who locks it up) was outside smoking before leaving early for the day. The employee at the camp store said it was supposed to be open until the store closed but that he probably just closed it early.
 The rules state that dogs need to be on a leash at all times and, in the two hours we actually stayed, we saw four that weren't. One was staying near us and started chasing us when we rode our bikes by. One was wandering about 4 campsites down from it's owner. We mentioned it to the person at the camp store before we were chased and she just shrugged it off.Â
The map is incorrect. It lists site numbers that don't exist and doesn't list some sites that supposedly do. We spent a fifteen minutes trying to find a non-existent site before going back to the camp office and getting assigned a new site. They acted like it was a new thing caused by maintenance but we just looked and saw a review from ten months ago saying the map was messed up then.Â
The description of the site we paid for was non electric tent with a sand tent pad. The site we got was on a hill(no actual flat spot) overgrown with weeds, no tent pad, a slanted picnic table, and no actual parking spot. You had to drive over a drainage ditch and park on the hill. If our car didn't have high clearance we wouldn't have made it. There was also a hole in the middle of the site. And the map showed that number site on the corner where another unmarked site was. Our originally assigned site was supposedly in the same group of sites, so it would've been similar. Also don't believe the claim that they're"large sites." Most of them are crammed together. There are a few that look decent sized and flat, but they want you to pay an extra$30 to pick your own site.Â
We didn't even look in the bathrooms.Â
We left after two hours. Definitely a waste of$60+ dollars.Â
Next time we'll go over to the Brunswick Family campground. Their owners are lovely people who care about their customers.
GuideIt is NOT closed for 2026! Spent the weekend here as it is only an hour from home. There are 4 large camping loops. Only loop C- cedar has electric. None of the loops have water hookups but all have spigots to fill your rig. There are also 3 fill stations at check in (which we missed). The campground is on a hill and the loop roads are narrow, hilly, and winding. We had no trouble with our 23 ft TT and saw some bigger rigs. There are some tight angles to get into a few sites. But, once you are in, the sites are spacious and mostly private. It is wooded without feeling overgrown. Loop D has some sites that are good buddy campsites. There are many hiking trails and a lovely lake. The only bad thing are the dated bathhouses. Mostly clean but there are only 2 showers for each fenced for each loop and they were yucky enough that we showered at our rig. It was busy but pretty quiet. It’s close to I-70
TravelerNice campground, level site, very clean. (Here early in season though!) $40/night. Lost a star for the long and steep incline walk to the bathrooms. Accessibility note: Careful if you have mobility issues. Many of the sites are terraced and require using steps.
ScoutWe chose this campground expecting a family-friendly environment for Easter weekend, but unfortunately our experience was significantly impacted by repeated disturbances from a group of adults in nearby campsites. There was excessive screaming, loud music, and disruptive behavior that continued well past midnight, making it extremely difficult for families and young children to enjoy the holiday weekend. Even more concerning was the apparent lack of response to enforce quiet hours or address the ongoing noise issue. This does not reflect the family atmosphere many guests would reasonably expect during a holiday weekend. I strongly encourage management to take these complaints seriously and enforce campground rules consistently to ensure all guests can enjoy their stay. Families considering visiting during Easter weekend should be aware that this has been an ongoing issue.
Chambersburg's central location in south-central Pennsylvania makes it an excellent base for exploring the Appalachian foothills, with elevations ranging from 650 to 2,100 feet in the surrounding areas. Camping opportunities span state forests, state parks, and private campgrounds within a 45-minute drive. Water features like streams and lakes provide cooling options during summer, when daytime temperatures often reach into the 80s.
Hiking trails from camp: At Pine Grove Furnace State Park Campground, the Appalachian Trail passes right through, offering multiple day-hiking options. "Make sure you take a hike on the AT and then up to Pole Steeple for a great view! You may even bump into a through hiker excited to chat," writes Amanda H., who recommends visiting the AT Museum to "hear the store about the first through hikers."
Fishing and boating: Cowans Gap State Park Campground features a lake with multiple recreation options. Beth C. notes, "One of our favorites! Campground sits right on a gorgeous lake. Lots of fishing options including boats you can rent. A walking trail wraps around the whole lake." Pedal boats and canoes are available for rent during the summer months.
Historical exploration: Located just 26 miles east of Chambersburg, Gettysburg offers immersive battlefield tours and educational programs. A camper at Gettysburg Campground explains, "If you're looking for a campground that is very close to an historical National Park not to mention shopping and restaurants, this is for you." The National Military Park visitor center provides orientation films and guided tour options.
Cooling off in natural waters: With summer temperatures frequently reaching the mid-80s, water access is highly valued. At Twin Bridge Campground, melissa notes, "We spent the weekend participating in their MANY activities as well as fishing and swimming in the creek." She adds that the campground offers "concierge service" where "you can get just about anything from the store delivered to your site."
Fall foliage viewing: Autumn transforms the forests around Chambersburg into a colorful landscape. At Caledonia State Park Campground, the dense deciduous forest creates a striking display. Michael W. from nearby Cowans Gap confirms the area's appeal: "Absolutely amazing fall color on the lake and great drives surrounding."
Stargazing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer good night sky viewing due to distance from urban light pollution. Breanna F. at North Michaux State Forest Campsites reports: "Beautiful night sky!" The primitive sites provide minimal lighting, making them ideal for astronomy enthusiasts.
Reserve well ahead for pet sites: Pet-friendly campsites fill quickly at popular parks. At Cowans Gap State Park, a reviewer advises: "Pet friendly (spaces 1-30, Campground A)... I would recommend booking in advance if you plan on bringing your dogs." Similar patterns exist at most area campgrounds.
Site privacy varies significantly: Campsite spacing differs dramatically between properties. At Gettysburg / Battlefield KOA, Jen V. notes the intelligent use of natural elements: "What impressed me most about this CG was the landscaping and use of natural surroundings. There are tons of really nice boulders everywhere, bordering each site and most of the fire rings."
Water restrictions at primitive sites: State forest primitive sites lack running water. Bridget D. explains that in Michaux State Forest, there's "no drinking water available at sites (some have a creek or springhouse, which must be treated first)." Pack extra water or proper filtration equipment when using these free sites.
Creek access for kids: Water features provide hours of entertainment for children. At Twin Bridge Campground, a reviewer named Jwalker shares: "Our favorite campground. The most relaxing setting. Our kids love the creek and playing in and around it." Bring water shoes for safety on slippery rocks.
Firefly season viewing: Early summer brings a special natural light show to the region. At Caledonia State Park, Stephanie S. remembers: "We chose this park for the nice pool (short walk from campsites) but loved the synchronous firefly show we saw in July!" The best viewing typically occurs in June and early July.
Ice cream options: The heat of summer makes cool treats welcome. Jeffrey H. at Pine Grove Furnace notes: "When it gets hot, they've got multiple stores and snack bars that serve tasty Hershey's ice cream... among other tasty treats." Many campgrounds in the region feature either on-site ice cream or shops within a short drive.
Advance planning for older parks: State park electrical service can be limited. At Owens Creek Campground in nearby Catoctin Mountain Park, Sarah N. advises: "If traveling in an RV you will need to fill your fresh water tank as each site does not have water hook up." Check campground details carefully before booking.
Site leveling challenges: Terrain in the Appalachian foothills creates naturally uneven sites. A reviewer at Gettysburg Campground notes, "Level sites, friendly and efficient staff, decently sized sites long enough for my 32' coach and a toad." When booking, ask specifically about site dimensions and leveling.
Utility placement considerations: Hookup positions vary widely at area campgrounds. At Twin Bridge Campground, Angela K. shares practical insights: "Big spacious sites, and a honeywagon to make things easier (there weren't any full hookup sites the I saw besides the long term spaces)." Call ahead to confirm the length of water and electrical cords needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best campgrounds near Chambersburg, PA?
The Chambersburg area offers several outstanding campgrounds. Caledonia State Park Campground is a local favorite with both family and group camping options. The park features a mix of sites, though some are on inclines, so selecting carefully is recommended. For nature enthusiasts, Pine Grove Furnace State Park Campground provides electric sites, updated bathrooms, and sits at the midpoint of the Appalachian Trail, offering excellent hiking opportunities and access to two beautiful lakes. Both locations provide a peaceful woodland setting and serve as great basecamps for exploring the region's natural beauty.
Where can I find affordable camping options near Chambersburg, PA?
Budget-conscious campers near Chambersburg have several economical options. Green Ridge State Forest offers dispersed roadside campsites for just $10 per night, providing excellent privacy and a true wilderness experience. Registration at the main office is required. Another affordable option is Michaux State Forest, which features free primitive camping with drive-in and walk-in access. These public lands provide a more rustic experience without the amenities of developed campgrounds, but deliver tremendous value for those willing to forego some conveniences.
Are there RV-friendly camping options in Chambersburg, PA?
RV campers near Chambersburg have several excellent options. Friendship Village Campground & RV Park in nearby Bedford is easily accessible regardless of rig size, with straightforward check-in procedures and sites that accommodate larger vehicles. Cowans Gap State Park Campground also welcomes motorhomes with spacious, non-crowded sites that offer plenty of shade and privacy. The campground features clean facilities with showers and convenient access to a beautiful lake with swimming and boating opportunities. Both locations provide the essential amenities RV campers need while offering different experiences.
What amenities are available at Twin Bridge Campground in Chambersburg, PA?
Twin Bridge Campground offers essential amenities for a comfortable camping experience. The facility provides potable water and toilet facilities for campers. Sites are reservable, allowing visitors to secure their spot in advance rather than relying on first-come, first-served availability. The campground features drive-in access for convenient arrival, and some sites are also accessible via short hiking trails for those seeking a more secluded experience. While not as developed as some larger campgrounds in the region like Seven Points or Campground Island, Twin Bridge provides the necessary basics for an enjoyable outdoor stay.
Keep Exploring
