The Columbia area sits at approximately 390 feet above sea level on the eastern bank of the Susquehanna River. Camping near Columbia experiences warm, humid summers with average July temperatures reaching 85°F, while spring and fall offer milder temperatures in the 60-70°F range. The landscape features a mix of river valleys and rolling hills that define Pennsylvania's Piedmont region.
What to do
Kayaking at Otter Creek: Access the Susquehanna River directly from Otter Creek Campground, which offers proximity to both the main river and its tributary. "We really enjoyed the secluded sites and peaceful atmosphere. Access to many hiking locations," notes Jessica M. The boat launch provides easy river access for paddlers of all skill levels.
Historical exploration: Visit Indian Steps Museum, just a mile from campsites near Columbia, Pennsylvania. "Covered bridges and road side shopping are close by. Enjoyed river tubing which is close by to this campground," shares Pamela S. from Pequea Creek Campground. Many historical sites throughout the region offer self-guided tours for $5-10 per person.
Fishing opportunities: The area provides diverse fishing spots from riverbanks to stocked ponds. "We caught a handful of bass and an absurd amount of bluegill from shore," reports one angler who visited the lakes near campsites. Early morning and evening hours typically yield the best results.
Mini golf and recreation: "The facilities all seemed clean and well-maintained from what we could see. We were able to order food from the campground's onsite cafe, which was surprisingly tasty for standard CG fare," mentions Jen V. about their stay at Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA, which offers mini-golf courses, basketball courts, and other recreation options.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campers consistently mention the generously sized campsites at several locations. "Our site was very nice! We were in a back in site #4. The patio was concrete stone, very pretty. Nice chairs, fire pit, and picnic table," writes Cat R. about Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA. Most campsites provide at least 30 feet of separation between neighbors.
River access: Direct river access ranks high among camper preferences. "Great campsite right on the Susquehanna! Secluded and nice amenities!" reports Zoe H. who camped at Otter Creek Campground. The swimming areas and boat launches provide water recreation throughout the camping season.
Winter options: Unlike many seasonal facilities, some campgrounds remain operational year-round. "Our kids enjoyed the indoor pool. Looking forward to coming back in the summer. Thank you Brenda our check in lady, you made us feel welcome," mentions Davie Q. about Circle M RV Resort, which offers winter camping options with heated facilities.
Clean facilities: "Bathrooms are very clean and modern, but a decent walk from tent sites. The facilities are all lovely, staff in the camp store are kind and helpful," shares Melissa C. about her experience at a Columbia area campsite. Most campgrounds refresh bathroom facilities twice daily.
What you should know
Water quality: Campers should check water conditions before planning water activities. "Personally, I would not get in the river because of all the agricultural runoff that is probably in it and it was pretty stagnant in places," advises Nancy W. from Old Mill Stream Campground. Water quality tends to be better after several days without rain.
Seasonal closures: Most camping facilities close from November through March. "We stayed over Labor Day weekend however it rained so badly on Friday night that York was flooded in several areas so we decided to stay home and leave on Saturday morning," shares Jen R. about Otter Creek, highlighting the impact of seasonal weather on camping plans.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience noise from transportation and other sources. "There is a shooting range near the property, so at all hours you will hear target practice going on, especially in the wee early hours," notes Tara N. about Pinch Pond Campground. Request sites furthest from highways or railways when making reservations.
Shower costs: Several campgrounds charge for shower use. "Showers good; cost 50¢ for 6 min, but that's fine...ensures enough hot water for everyone and no waste," explains Gerald B. about the practical shower arrangement at Otter Creek. Carry quarters for shower use at most locations.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly swimming: Look for campgrounds with dedicated swimming areas safe for children. "This is a nice KOA but super loud bc of the trains. Bath houses are nice and clean. I would suggest making sure you aren't close to the tracks bc the trains run all night long!" advises Kit from Hersheypark Camping Resort. Swimming areas typically have lifeguards on duty from 10am-6pm during summer months.
Playground access: Most family campgrounds feature playgrounds. "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," writes Julie Y. about Gifford Pinchot State Park, where multiple playgrounds are available throughout the grounds.
Organized activities: Weekends often include scheduled activities for children. "Lots of events to keep the kids busy. We happened to be there on the weekend a magician came, my kids loved it. They have an indoor and outdoor pool. Nice playground," shares Leanne B. about their family camping experience.
Level terrain: For families with strollers or young walkers, terrain matters. "The campground is uphill in parts so it was nice to be able to walk our two dogs around in a large circle without having to leave the campground," notes Jen R. Request lower sections of campgrounds if mobility is a concern.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV campers emphasize the importance of selecting the right site. "We got pretty lucky and were assigned one of the concrete pads that was pretty level. It is absolutely beautiful out. The grounds are well-kept," reports Nick E. about his experience at Circle M RV and Camping Resort. Request full hookup sites with 50 amp service when available.
Arrival timing: Early arrival improves site selection at first-come, first-served campgrounds. "The first thing to know is that Thousand Trails sites are a first come, first serve. Meaning you have to arrive early in order to get the best spots. They don't reserve sites for you," explains Yamileth K. about Thousand Trails Hershey. Plan to arrive between 12-2pm for best site selection.
Leveling challenges: Many campsites require substantial leveling. "Unlevel is an understatement we were in E row and every camper there had front end 4 foot off the ground. Many other sites were the same," cautions Justin B. Pack extra leveling blocks when camping in this region's hilly terrain.
Seasonal site access: Some roads become difficult after rain. "The entrance road is long to maintain but patching some of the holes, clearing debris from the dump site deck, and wiping down the bathrooms would have netted a 5th star," notes J W. about seasonal road conditions at Pequea Creek.
