Campgrounds near Danville, PA sit amid the Appalachian ridges and valleys of northeastern Pennsylvania, at elevations ranging from 440-1200 feet. The camping season typically runs from mid-April through October, though a few locations offer limited winter options. Summertime temperatures average 70-85°F during the day with cooler evenings dropping into the 50s and periodic thunderstorms common from June through August.
What to do
Waterfall hiking trails: Ricketts Glen State Park Campground, located about 30 miles from Danville, offers the Falls Trail with 22 named waterfalls. "The biggest draw to this state park (which no one in Pennsylvania I spoke with seemed to know about) is the 22 waterfalls! We saw 18 of them on a four-mile moderate hike, but if you want to see the additional four, you could make it a seven-mile hike. The trails are very well marked," shares a visitor.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer stocked fishing ponds or river access. Lake Glory Campground provides both lake and creek fishing. According to a camper, "The lake is stocked and the fish are always hungry. 10 minutes to Knoebels with the mighty Phoenix. The best wooden coaster on the planet."
River recreation: Riverside Campground along the Susquehanna River offers kayaking and swimming. "We all took the kayaks out on the Susquehanna River that runs behind the property for a sunny paddle. Came back and went to a wine fest, in the park that is right next to the campground," reports one camper.
Wildlife viewing: Several camping areas feature natural habitats where wildlife can be observed. The forested settings provide opportunities to spot deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species native to the Pennsylvania woodlands.
What campers like
Variety of site settings: Knoebels Campground offers different camping environments within one property. "We lucked out in Bermuda Triangle as there was a little more space and we were further away from some of the noise. The sites are clean and well maintained," notes one camper, while another states, "My family likes to camp here for the convenience of being able to walk to the amusement park... I will say the bottom part of the campground they squeeze them in tight. We always try to get a site at the top."
Multi-generational appeal: Many campgrounds cater to all age groups. "I've been camping here since I was 5. I now have a grandchild, so that's a long time. With the amusement park across the street, and the cool stream to splash in, it's a small kids dream," shares a longtime visitor.
Streamside camping: Lake Glory Campground features creek-side sites that are particularly sought after. "We love the creek side sites! Kids can wade in the water to cool off while parents are chatting and cooking just few feet away," according to a frequent visitor.
Private shower facilities: Some campgrounds offer individual bathroom units. "I do have to say I love the bath houses here. They are each their own individual rooms split into shower/changing room. I like the privacy and it made it much easier when my daughter was small."
What you should know
Proximity vs. privacy tradeoff: Sites close to amenities often sacrifice privacy. One camper at Riverside Campground & Riverside Roadhouse noted, "We were right next to the bath house, which was great for being able to send our 6 year-old by herself, but pretty obnoxious as far as foot traffic was concerned."
Weather variability: Temperature swings can be significant. "We went in late august and although it was pool weather during the day time the temperatures dropped somewhat dramatically into the evening hours so bring clothes for both 70-80 degree weather and 40-50 degree weather overnight."
Seasonal water issues: Water quality can sometimes be affected in certain areas. At Ricketts Glen, one camper reported: "The water had been tested earlier in the season and unsafe levels of manganese were detected. All water spigots were shut off and covered but we were told it was safe to wash our dishes and brush our teeth."
Noise considerations: The proximity to roads and amusement parks affects sound levels. "Connected to the park, a great way to visit! If you're an early to bed kinda person it'll be tough, the roller coasters are right there!" explains a Knoebels camper.
Tips for camping with families
Age-appropriate activities: Williamsport South-Nittany Mountain KOA offers family-friendly features. "One of our favorite places to camp! My daughter loves the pools, gem mining, and slushies. The farm animals are adorable. We go every year with friends who use a tent while we use a travel trailer," notes a repeat visitor.
Shuttle services: For families visiting Knoebels Amusement Park, some campgrounds provide transportation. "It's so much quieter than Knoebels campground and so much more room. We have never used the bus to head to the park - but it is one more nice thing they add to help make your stay relaxing."
Budget planning: Campgrounds near attractions often charge for additional activities. "There is so much to do. We should have looked into a pass to do more because the extras can get expensive. But everything is right there and you never have to leave so it's worth it in my opinion," advises a camper at Splash Magic RV Resort.
Bathroom considerations: The quality and accessibility of bathrooms varies significantly. One family noted, "The bathhouse was clean but not adequate for 73 sites. The campground was about ¾ full and there was often a wait in the bathroom."
Tips from RVers
Site selection challenges: Indian Head Campground offers full hookups but with varied site quality. "Pull thru sites are large and have plenty of space. Location is convenient to I-80 but no traffic noise," shares one RVer, while another notes, "The layout of the sites was odd and mostly not marked off very well and looked like a free for all in some areas."
Leveling preparation: Some campgrounds require extra equipment for leveling. One camper reported: "The site was plenty spacious for our pup and TV, but was not level at all. In fact, none of the surrounding sites looked very level."
Water quality considerations: Bring bottled water for drinking. "Good sized sites. Horrible WiFi. The water had a brownish tint to it," cautions a camper who visited during a hot period when systems were under strain.
Power reliability: During peak summer heat, electrical systems may struggle. "Electric ran below 110 volts the entire weekend and the water had a brownish tint to it. It was a VERY hot weekend so I should mention that everyone had their air running."
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