Michaux State Forest offers several primitive camping options near Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, spanning over 85,000 acres of woodland terrain. The region sits at elevations ranging from 750 to 2,100 feet with summer temperatures often reaching the high 80s. Camping sites throughout the area include both established campgrounds with facilities and more remote dispersed sites requiring permits through the Pennsylvania state forest system.
What to do
Hiking the Appalachian Trail: Access points near Caledonia State Park Campground offer connections to various sections of the AT. "The greatest feature of this park is that there is access to the AT! And there are plenty of hiking trails," notes Amanda H. The trail system provides options for day hikes of varying difficulty levels.
Visit historic sites: The Gettysburg National Battlefield is less than 30 minutes from most Chambersburg area campgrounds. "We chose this park for the nice pool (short walk from campsites) but loved the synchronous firefly show we saw in July!" shares Stephanie S. about Caledonia State Park's additional natural attractions.
Water activities: Cowans Gap State Park Campground features a 42-acre lake with swimming and fishing options. "Nice small lake within walking distance along with a beach. There is also a few hiking trails near the campground," writes Amber in her review of the park's amenities.
Mountain biking: The extensive trail networks throughout Michaux State Forest cater to riders of all skill levels. The Camps Trail at site #10 is particularly popular, with one camper noting: "The Camps trail starts at this campsite's back door. We hiked part of this gorgeous trail, which enters many different types of forests. We saw a baby deer on this hike. We were the only hikers, but mountain bikers love this trail."
What campers like
Creek access for cooling off: At Twin Bridge Campground, water access is a major draw. "Our favorite campground. The most relaxing setting. Our kids love the creek and playing in and around it," writes one reviewer. The creek provides natural cooling during hot summer months.
Firefly displays: Some campers report spectacular natural light shows during summer evenings. "We chose this park for the nice pool (short walk from campsites) but loved the synchronous firefly show we saw in July!" notes a visitor to Caledonia State Park.
Spacious wooded sites: Pine Grove Furnace State Park Campground offers well-spaced camping areas. "The campsites are spacious! If you are on a site around the perimeter you can turn your chair and your back to the campground and look out into the forest!" mentions Amanda H. in her review.
Diverse wildlife viewing: Many campsites throughout Michaux State Forest provide opportunities for nature watching. "We saw a baby deer on this hike. We were the only hikers, but mountain bikers love this trail," reports a visitor about their experience on trails near the forest's site #10.
What you should know
Reservation requirements vary: While established campgrounds require advance booking, South Michaux State Forest Campsites require free permits. "The Michaux State Forest has several FREE rustic campsites that can be reserved up to 7 consecutive nights. We chose site 15 - Raccoon Run and loved it," shares Nathan D.H.
Limited amenities at primitive sites: Many dispersed camping locations lack facilities. "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," notes a reviewer about site #15 in South Michaux State Forest.
Campsite spacing varies: Some established campgrounds have closely positioned sites. As Kyle J. mentions about Caledonia, "Sites are very close to each other, there's no privacy, and you can hear everyone and everything."
Water sources: Not all sites have reliable water access year-round. A camper at South Michaux notes, "Beautiful large site with open field, fire pit, and trees. No water close by so you'll have to bring it."
Tips for camping with families
Water play opportunities: Children particularly enjoy the creek access at Twin Bridge Campground. "Our kids love the creek and playing in and around it. Some activities, playground, mini golf etc. but more of a relaxing campground," notes a reviewer about the family-friendly environment.
Educational opportunities: Gettysburg Battlefield KOA provides convenient access to historical sites while maintaining kid-friendly amenities. "Last weekend we took our first family camping trip! Gettysburg KOA was the perfect place to try out our new truck tent! It was close to the battlefield for touring around. It also had lots of activities for kids and dogs!" shares Melissa E.
Swimming options: Several parks feature swimming areas to help families beat the heat. "There is a lake where you can swim or fish! You can also visit the Furnace and the AT Museum," mentions a Pine Grove Furnace visitor.
Playground facilities: Multiple campgrounds offer play equipment for younger campers. "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," reports Pam R. about the varied options at Twin Bridge Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Owens Creek Campground requires preparation for RVs. "Parkng pads are 22', so take that into consideration if you are trailering/RVing," advises a reviewer about the size limitations.
Hookup availability: Many campers note the varying level of services. "The water and electric were fine. We had nice people with extended families on either side of us. It seems to be a place where families get together yearly," mentions a Twin Bridge camper.
Limited cellular service: Connectivity varies significantly across the area. "Cell service is pretty much nonexistent in the campground, so keep this in mind if you can't be out of touch (we had Verizon)," reports one visitor about Pine Grove Furnace State Park.
Dump station access: For pet friendly camping near Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, RV owners should note facilities. "Easy access to dump station. Coming back in July to a site we scout out. Looking forward to our next visit," shares Tom R. about his experience at Cowans Gap State Park.
