Camping options around Craley, Pennsylvania offer access to Pennsylvania Dutch countryside with views of rolling farmland and wooded terrain. The area maintains average summer temperatures in the mid-80s, providing comfortable camping conditions from spring through fall. Many campgrounds in this region provide excellent bases for exploring the Pennsylvania Amish communities while offering diverse outdoor recreation options.
What to do
Explore Amish Country attractions: Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country places you near authentic Amish experiences where "the Pennsylvania Dutch countryside is a combination of rolling hills in a plush countryside punctuated by massive rolled bays of hay in the surrounding fields, covered wooden bridges and the occasional quaint New England well-preserved charming towns."
Fish in stocked ponds: Multiple campgrounds offer fishing opportunities for both beginners and experienced anglers. As one visitor at Pinch Pond Family Campground mentioned, "Clean bathhouses and staff was friendly. Fishing pond is a joke and near by Gun Range can be annoying and tough on pets. But, over all, this place is pretty nice."
Visit historical sites: The campgrounds near Craley provide convenient access to significant historical attractions. "We were looking for a semi-local final fall get-a-way near us. What better location for that than Gettysburg. The drive in and out was never an issue or annoyance," noted a camper at Round Top Campground.
What campers like
Farm animal interactions: Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm offers unique opportunities to interact with farm animals. "We came amidst COVID-19, so the many activities and events this location usually holds are down, BUT there is still fun to be had here! We've enjoyed mini-golf, feeding the animals, 'hiking' through the cornfield, fishing, and campfires."
Swimming amenities: Many rv campgrounds near Craley, Pennsylvania feature well-maintained swimming facilities. A camper at Thousand Trails Circle M shared that "the good parts of the trip were definitely the pool. It was clean and roomy. We enjoyed hours hanging out there."
Weekend activities: Seasonal events and regular weekend programming keep campers entertained. "The campground had numerous activities set up all throughout the day and there was something for everyone. I find that a lot of campground activities tend to be centered around small children and with my kids being 13 and 12, they're usually left out of the fun. There was bingo, crafts, a vendor craft show, hot dog eating contest for adults and kids, candy scramble in the dark for adults and kids," reported a visitor to Appalachian Camping Resort.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the area require careful planning for RV leveling. At Sun Valley Campground, "we immediately had multiple people offer insight as to how best approach the site. Our particular site was a bear to park in but once situated we were very happy."
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds in the region operate from spring through fall, with limited winter options. Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country runs from "April 14 to October 29," while Spring Gulch Resort Campground operates from "Mar 21 - Dec 1."
Noise considerations: Some campers report noise from nearby highways or shooting ranges. A Pinch Pond Family Campground visitor noted, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Mini golf activities: Drummer Boy Camping Resort provides free mini golf amenities. "The campground offers free mini golf, a pool and a splash pad pool area. The store didn't have much for the size of the campground and store itself. They have a snack bar that sells prepared food."
Activity scheduling: Plan your stay around campground events to maximize family enjoyment. A camper at Thousand Trails Circle M shared, "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."
Budget for attractions: Many families use campgrounds as bases for regional exploration. "We stayed here because we wanted to visit Gettysburg National Military Park which is about ten minutes away and definitely worth visiting," noted a visitor to Drummer Boy Camping Resort.
Tips from RVers
Arrival timing: For RV parks with first-come-first-served policies, early arrival makes a difference. "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. For everyone complaining about driving around and not finding spots, if you get there early enough around 1 pm, you won't have a problem," advised an RVer staying at Thousand Trails Hershey.
Water pressure variations: Water systems at rv campgrounds in Craley area can vary significantly. An RVer at Sun Valley Campground found that "Water pressure is low and the sewer pipe is a little high but all around a really solid experience."
Mobile coverage planning: Service varies by location and provider. A TT PA Dutch Country camper reported, "Definitely got lucky with site F03 for Starlink. The rest of the campground has a lot of tree cover. Beautiful grounds and clean. Site is gravel and pretty level."