Best Campgrounds near Dauphin, PA

Several good camping spots can be found near Dauphin, Pennsylvania. Pinch Pond Family Campground works well for both RV and tent campers and has basic amenities. Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground has larger sites and good facilities that many families like. Campers also head to Codorus State Park Campground for its nice surroundings and things to do. Pine Grove Furnace State Park Campground sits in a quiet area with hiking trails and some historical places to check out. You'll probably need reservations at most of these places, especially in summer. It's smart to book ahead since spots fill up fast. During dry weather, there might be rules about campfires, so check before you go. Most of these campgrounds limit stays to about two weeks so everyone gets a chance to camp there. The Dauphin area has different types of campgrounds that fit whatever kind of camping trip you're planning.

Best Camping Sites Near Dauphin, Pennsylvania (151)

    1. Hersheypark Camping Resort

    27 Reviews
    Hummelstown, PA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (833) 936-0949

    "This campground has a little something for everyone, from full hook up sites neatly stacked next to each other, to quiet patches of grass next to the river."

    "They don’t sell alcohol but there is a shopping center within walking distance with restaurants and liquor stores! Even a supermarket. There is shuttle service to the park."

    2. Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground

    55 Reviews
    Wellsville, PA
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 292-4112

    $28 - $89 / night

    "We have a small camper and there are some great sites on the lake side to park it where you can get AMAZING sunset views.  "

    "We had site 108 which is an electric site along the shore and close to the beach, and it was perfect for our needs. "

    3. Little Buffalo State Park Campground

    18 Reviews
    New Bloomfield, PA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 567-9255

    $30 - $165 / night

    "A playground is near bathhouse in the campground, along with several hiking trails. The dump station is easily accessible. Firewood is also available for purchase at the campground."

    "The driving path is gravel with a steep hill at the end so if you can help it I would avoid sites 32,34,36 as they are VERY difficult to back into with larger rigs."

    4. Riverfront Campground

    4 Reviews
    Duncannon, PA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 834-5252

    "Great river front location! Could be a bit muddy depending on the river. The train does run right near all night long, but I find it soothing. Bath houses are a bit rough, hence the 4 stars."

    5. Ferryboat Campsites

    6 Reviews
    Millersburg, PA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 444-3200

    $30 - $100 / night

    "With that said they do have primitive camping spots next to the putt putt course and water only tent sits at the upper feild."

    "Lots to do very close to water and many things to do in and around camp ground. Stayed for a few days would go back."

    6. Camp Hebron

    2 Reviews
    Halifax, PA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 896-3441

    $26 - $85 / night

    "Nice pool and lots of hiking trails. The sites have lots of tree cover and they are private. This place does not have many amenities as far as crafts and "drop off the kids" activities."

    7. Thousand Trails Hershey

    21 Reviews
    Mount Gretna, PA
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    $50 - $60 / night

    "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."

    "This is a clean, nice looking campground in a location very close to Hershey park and the outlets. It’s a very nice area."

    8. Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA

    15 Reviews
    Elizabethtown, PA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 367-7718

    $45 - $279 / night

    "There was a bathhouse and dish sink nearby, as well as the entrance to a nice little nature trail a few sites down. "

    "Large and easy to enter/exit sites. Wifi was pretty good. (It helped that the antenna was right beside our site!) Cable TV, too! Everyone we talked to was nice and friendly."

    9. Jonestown/Hershey KOA

    16 Reviews
    Jonestown, PA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 865-6411

    "Love the close proximity to the highway and gas. We didn’t eat there but they had a restaurant! Lots of activities for the kids. Wooded sites and very clean bathrooms."

    "Pet friendly and you can access the Appalachian trail from campground. Lots of great food and places to go in the area. They have a river that is great for kayaking or tubing."

    10. Lake Heron Retreat

    5 Reviews
    Millersburg, PA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (929) 464-3766

    $20 - $240 / night

    "I wanted to find something close enough to home, but far away from the hustle and bustle of our suburban lives. This fit the bill. There are 10 sites….some are occupied by seasonal guests."

    "This lake was beautiful! A short walk from the campsite. We had the lake to ourself both evening and morning. $61. No WiFi. Leveling was fine. Verizon service was fine."

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Recent Reviews near Dauphin, PA

905 Reviews of 151 Dauphin Campgrounds



Guide to Dauphin

Camping near Dauphin, Pennsylvania, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From scenic parks to family-friendly campgrounds, there’s something for everyone looking to enjoy nature.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails at French Creek State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "Hiking and biking this park is fun," highlighting the variety of trails available.
  • Fishing: Many campgrounds, like Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground, are near lakes where fishing is popular. A reviewer noted, "The lake is very nice and it's a very family park!"
  • Historical Sites: Visit the Gettysburg area, just a short drive from Codorus State Park Campground. One camper shared, "We used it as a home base to explore Gettysburg and the surrounding area."

What campers like:

  • Spacious Sites: Campers at Caledonia State Park Campground appreciate the spaciousness, with one saying, "Sites are nicely spaced except for a few that are tucked into a few odd-shaped places."
  • Clean Facilities: Many visitors rave about the cleanliness of the restrooms. A reviewer at Cowans Gap State Park Campground mentioned, "Bathrooms and showers very clean."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers enjoy the peaceful environment at Locust Lake State Park Campground. One guest noted, "It was very quiet, and we had a relaxing evening."

What you should know:

  • Limited Cell Service: If you rely on your phone, be prepared for spotty service. A camper at Pine Grove Furnace State Park Campground said, "If you are planning to use your cellphone at this one, probably not going to happen."
  • Seasonal Availability: Some campgrounds, like Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground, are only open from the 2nd Friday in April to October 31. Make sure to check the dates before planning your trip.
  • Tight Spots: Campers at Hersheypark Camping Resort have noted that some RV sites can be cramped. One reviewer mentioned, "The ONLY good thing this RV park has going is the Hershey park bus that runs all day back and forth."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Many campgrounds, like Gettysburg / Battlefield KOA, offer fun activities for kids. A parent shared, "They have plenty of activities for the kids from swimming, mini golf, and a scavenger hunt!"
  • Proximity to Attractions: Choose a campground close to attractions. For instance, Hersheypark Camping Resort has a shuttle to Hershey Park, making it easy for families to enjoy the amusement park.
  • Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids, especially near water. A camper at Locust Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "The lake was very clean," but it’s essential to supervise children while they play.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Before booking, ensure the site can accommodate your RV. A reviewer at Cowans Gap State Park Campground noted, "Make sure to double check that before you book."
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Some campgrounds, like Pine Grove Furnace State Park Campground, have limited stores. One camper advised, "The store is really just a small carry out with a few things, so bring everything you are planning to have in with you."
  • Leveling Equipment: Many sites can be uneven. A visitor at Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground mentioned, "Some weren’t level front to back so adjustments needed to be made to level camper."

Camping near Dauphin, Pennsylvania, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation, making it a great spot for families and outdoor lovers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Dauphin, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Dauphin, PA is Hersheypark Camping Resort with a 4-star rating from 27 reviews.

What parks are near Dauphin, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 20 parks near Dauphin, PA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.