Glamping options near Craley, Pennsylvania provide a unique outdoor experience in south-central Pennsylvania along the Susquehanna River. Located at approximately 400 feet elevation, this area experiences four distinct seasons with hot summers reaching into the 90s and cool winters. Campers can explore the region's mix of rolling farmland and forested hills while enjoying proximity to major attractions between Hershey and Lancaster.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Just 20 minutes from Craley, Codorus State Park Campground offers abundant fishing on Lake Marburg. "Nice campground. Very clean facilities. We typically stay in the primitive tent loop which is right on the lake. It can get a little busy on the weekends since there is a boat launch at the end of the primitive lane, but some of the sites are secluded/set back enough to be private," notes Catherine H.
Amish countryside exploration: The region surrounding Old Mill Stream Campground provides access to authentic Amish cultural experiences. "This Campground is in the town of Lancaster, close to everything. A little complicated getting in, you need to turn in at the Cartoon Network Hotel driveway," shares Emily L., who found the location perfect for exploring nearby Amish communities.
Water activities: The river and lakes in the Craley region support various water sports. "You can bring your own boat (gas allowed) or rent one from their marina. 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," explains a visitor about Codorus State Park's amenities.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA earns high marks for maintenance. "Spotless bathrooms. Nice pool and playgrounds. Not a lot of traffic. Quiet. Friendly. Price is fair and not nearly as expensive as many other KOAs but the quality is just as good!" says Regina C., highlighting the campground's attention to cleanliness.
Woodland camping spots: For those who prefer glamping close to Craley, Pennsylvania with more natural surroundings, campers recommend certain sections. "Almost every site in this section was similarly large and wooded, with an impressive amount of space between sites for a KOA. There was a bathhouse and dish sink nearby, as well as the entrance to a nice little nature trail a few sites down," explains Jen V. about the wooded areas at Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA.
Lake access: Water features rank high on camper preference lists. "We had site 114. It has water access and is right next to a small man made beach and playground. Bathrooms were in good shape. Sites were of ample size and well spaced," shares a SkywaystoHighways.com reviewer about Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground, demonstrating the appeal of waterfront glamping sites.
What you should know
Train noise: At some locations, nearby railroad tracks can disrupt sleep. "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!" warns Kit about Hersheypark Camping Resort.
Shooting range proximity: Some campgrounds have unexpected noise sources. "The only thing that is negative is that there is a shooting range right next door. It is pretty consistent from lunch to dinner. If you're out and about, it won't be an issue. However if you enjoy sitting outside of your camper and relaxing this might be nerve wracking," cautions Tara N. about Pinch Pond Family Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Most luxury camping options near Craley have limited operating seasons. Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground runs from "2nd Friday April to October 31," while Codorus State Park operates from "2nd Friday April to November 1," making advance planning essential for shoulder season visits.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Families with young children benefit from sites near play areas. At Tucquan Park Family Campground, a visitor notes, "Our 3 young kids enjoyed the playground the most — there were lots of fun things for the kids on the playground. There was also a nice pond — it looked pretty full of fish, but we had forgotten our fishing gear."
First-time camping spots: For introducing children to outdoor stays, consider state parks. "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," shares Julie Y. about her experience at Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground.
Activity scheduling: Many campgrounds offer organized events for children. "There were a lot of events for everyone of all ages. The kids enjoyed the indoor pool. Looking forward to coming back in the summer," writes Davie Q. about their stay at Thousand Trails Circle M, showing how programmed activities can enhance family glamping trips.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Merry Meadows Recreation Farm offers various RV site types. "Wooded sites, open sites, tent sites. All great!" shares Amy R., who visited multiple times in one season, emphasizing the importance of selecting the right site type for your preferences.
Level site considerations: Look for campgrounds with concrete or level pads. "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," shares Nick E. about Thousand Trails Circle M, highlighting the value of stable parking surfaces for larger rigs.
Full hookup availability: Many luxury camping options provide complete RV services. "Large and easy to enter/exit sites. Wifi was pretty good. (It helped that the antenna was right beside our site!) Cable TV, too!" notes Nate J. about Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA, listing essential amenities for comfortable extended stays.
