Best Campgrounds near Columbia, PA

Camping near Columbia, Pennsylvania, offers a mix of beautiful nature and family-friendly activities. Whether you're looking for a quiet getaway or a fun-filled adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails in the area. Many campers enjoy the nearby state parks for hiking. One visitor at Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground mentioned, "We love this park… it's one of our favorites!"
• Fishing and Swimming: Enjoy the lake at Codorus State Park Campground. A reviewer said, "The lake is great! Lovely areas to relax and explore."
• Amusement Parks: If you're in the mood for some thrills, Hersheypark Camping Resort is nearby. One camper noted, "The trolley was a great addition to getting to and from the Hershey attractions."

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Lake-In-Wood Campground said, "The campground is very well maintained, and the staff is very nice."
• Spacious Sites: Many enjoy the roomy sites at Codorus State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "The trailer sites in loop C are spacious enough with plenty of shade and trees."
• Family-Friendly Activities: Campgrounds like Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park at Quarryville offer plenty for kids. A camper shared, "Kids enjoy the water park and nighttime laser tag parties."

What you should know:

• No Alcohol Allowed: Some campgrounds, like Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground, have strict no-alcohol policies. A camper noted, "We had to write in large letters with chalk on the road for people to slow down."
• Site Availability: Popular spots can fill up quickly. A visitor at Thousand Trails Circle M mentioned, "We drove two hours to get there… all the travel trailers were literally on top of one another."
• Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife. One camper at Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park at Quarryville reported, "We had a skunk living under our cabin."

Tips for camping with families:

• Plan for Activities: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. A parent at Hersheypark Camping Resort said, "Our kids were able to walk to the playground and play every day before our outings."
• Check Site Size: Make sure your site can accommodate your family. A camper at Lake-In-Wood Campground mentioned, "The sites appeared to all be a very good size."
• Bring Outdoor Games: Keep kids entertained with outdoor games. A visitor at Merry Meadows Recreation Farm said, "They have a lot to do but half is only open on the weekends."

Tips from RVers:

• Leveling Blocks: Many sites are uneven, so bring leveling blocks. A reviewer at Circle M RV and Camping Resort noted, "Only negative is that sites are uneven. Must have leveling blocks."
• Check Hookups: Make sure your site has the right hookups for your RV. A camper at Thousand Trails Hershey mentioned, "Sites came with full hookups, picnic table, and fire pit."
• Arrive Early: Get to the campground early to secure a good spot. A visitor at Jonestown/Hershey KOA said, "We had a reservation booked MONTHS in advance, yet when we arrived… the previous night's resident was still in the site assigned to us."

Camping around Columbia, Pennsylvania, has something for everyone. Whether you're in a tent, RV, or cabin, you'll find a spot that suits your needs.