Dog-Friendly Camping near Codorus, PA

Codorus State Park and surrounding areas offer campgrounds set in the rolling hills of south-central Pennsylvania, with elevations between 400-600 feet and a climate that varies from warm summers to cold winters. The region's forests include oak, hickory, and maple trees, creating a diverse habitat for wildlife and ideal camping conditions from April through October when temperatures range from 45°F nights to 85°F days.

What to do

Hiking trails with lake views: The 8.5-mile Lakeside Trail at Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground follows the shoreline of Pinchot Lake, offering multiple fishing spots and wildlife viewing areas. "I took an early morning hike on the Lakeside Trail that goes around the lake and it was really awesome to see the lake from all different angles," notes Danielle V.

Boat rentals and water activities: Lake Marburg at Codorus State Park Campground offers canoe, kayak, and boat rentals during summer months. "You can bring your own boat (gas allowed) or rent one from their marina," states Catherine H., who adds that while "there is no swimming allowed in the lake but there is a pool located at the park, there is no extra cost to use the pool if you are at the campground."

Visit historical sites: The Gettysburg Battlefield KOA provides easy access to historic sites just minutes from camp. "The campground is about a 5 minute drive to downtown Gettysburg," confirms Dave B., noting that "The staff was nice and helpful with finding your site and guiding in vehicles."

What campers like

Private wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the natural setting at Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm. "We chose a non-sewage site, the loop is quiet and large and they have the honey wagon 3x a week (free sewage dump service)," shares Kasey M., who enjoyed "feeding the animals, 'hiking' through the cornfield, fishing, and campfires."

Clean facilities: Bathhouses and amenities at most campgrounds receive positive reviews. At Artillery Ridge Campground, Dave B. notes, "The batterooms were nice. The camp store has everything that any camper could need, and the game room is really nice. The whole campground was clean and well kept."

Farm animal interactions: One unique feature of several campgrounds is the presence of farm animals. "What's better then hanging out camping on a working farm?" asks Robert M. about Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm, explaining, "Got a kick out of the children playing with the kids (baby goats) pigs, goats, chickens, horses and even lamas. Plenty to see and learn."

What you should know

Quiet hours strictly enforced: Most campgrounds maintain strict quiet times to ensure all campers can rest. Melissa F. at Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground appreciated "that the pet area is separate from those of us who don't have pets or want quiet from dogs barking."

Water access limitations: Several lakes in the area have restrictions. "The lake is beautiful and the trail around the lake is nice. Staff was friendly. A nice park to go to if you just want to rest around the camp fire," explains Dawn T.

Weather preparedness: The region can experience significant rain and flooding. At Otter Creek Campground, Scott warned, "Unfortunately, with all of the rain we have had here in Pennsylvania this summer the river was brown with mud and tree debris. The ground aside of the river was also so saturated from flooding it was difficult to walk though without sinking into the ground."

Tips for camping with families

Choose sites near playgrounds: For families with young children, sites close to play areas make supervision easier. Julie Y. from Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground shares: "We took our 3 yo camping for the first time here. He had so much fun. It was clean campground located in a State Park. Easy walk to the lake with a small beach."

Look for scheduled activities: Many campgrounds offer family-friendly events, especially on weekends. "They had Easter egg hunts for kids, adult scavenger hunts for alcohol. Wonderful experience for the whole family," says Melissa E. about Merry Meadows Recreation Farm.

Cabin options for new campers: If you're testing out camping with kids, cabins offer comfort with outdoor access. Wendy W. describes the cabins at Merry Meadows Recreation Farm: "We stayed in one of the cabins, which had 2 beds and a bunk bed, sink and toilet, refrigerator, microwave, dining table and sofa. There was also a front porch with picnic table and fire pit."

Tips from RVers

Site selection for privacy: RVers recommend requesting wooded sites for more privacy. Jim G. at Gettysburg Campground cautions: "If you're looking for a backwoods, off-the-beaten-path type of campground, this isn't it. If you are looking for a campground that is very close to an historical National Park not to mention shopping and restaurants, this is for you."

Level sites with amenities: Most campgrounds offer a range of hookups. Sean M. at Otter Creek Campground appreciates "the spacious sites" and mentions they purchased a "bucket load of wood for $35," which he called a great deal that "made this pyro very happy."

Camp store conveniences: Many campgrounds have well-stocked stores for emergency supplies. Cody L. notes that Otter Creek Campground has a "Very well stocked store and even some Turkey Hill Ice Cream."