Camping near Duncannon, Pennsylvania offers access to both the Susquehanna River and nearby state forests at elevations ranging from 400 to 1,200 feet. The camping season typically runs from April through October, with temperatures ranging from 40°F in spring to 85°F in summer months. Sites near water often experience morning fog, creating challenging fishing conditions until mid-morning.
What to do
Hiking on the Appalachian Trail: The AT passes directly through Duncannon, making Pine Grove Furnace State Park Campground an excellent basecamp for day hikes. "I took an early morning hike on the 8.5 mile Lakeside Trail that goes around the lake and it was really awesome to see the lake from all different angles," notes one visitor who enjoyed the park's trail system.
Tubing down the Juniata River: Buttonwood Campground offers river tubing with shuttle service. "Tubing down the river is so fun and the highlight of a stay here. Campground does have a wristband system for most activities and amenities, with the exception of pool and playgrounds," according to a recent camper who enjoyed the river activities.
Swimming in state park pools: Some state parks in the region offer swimming facilities beyond natural water bodies. "The pool here is top notch and it's good for fishing but the hiking isn't super great. We did have a nice bat spotting walk with a Ranger when we were there," reports one visitor about Little Buffalo State Park's recreational offerings.
Fishing in Lake Heron: The 10-acre lake at Lake Heron Retreat provides excellent fishing opportunities. "This lake was beautiful! A short walk from the campsite. We had the lake to ourself both evening and morning," writes one camper who enjoyed the solitude of this smaller conservation property.
What campers like
Quiet campgrounds with privacy: Many campers appreciate the secluded sites available in the region. "It is a nice camp ground but the lower drive threw spots are packed together. They have other spots up on the hill but would have been more of a challenge with our rig," notes a visitor at Hershey RV and Camping Resort, highlighting the importance of site selection.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses remain consistently important to campers in the region. At Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground, "The bathhouses/restrooms are clean (about average for PA state park system) and the campground has a very friendly atmosphere - we really enjoyed our stay," reports one visitor.
Water access: Riverfront and lakefront sites remain popular throughout the region. "Large grassy sites right on the Juniata River. Tubing, canoeing, swimming. Nice pool. GORGEOUS landscaping," explains a camper at Buttonwood Campground, emphasizing the value of waterfront access.
Historical attractions: The region offers unique historical sites beyond natural features. "There is an Appalachian trail museum, which was very neat to check out, and the old Ironmaster's Mansion serves as a hostel and event venue," writes a visitor to Pine Grove Furnace State Park.
What you should know
Train noise affects some campgrounds: Several campgrounds near Duncannon experience railroad activity. "Basic RV's park 95 night is way to much you pay for location. Trains are all night," warns one camper about staying at Hershey Camping Resort. Riverfront Campground also experiences train noise, though some find it "soothing."
Flooding potential: Riverside campgrounds can experience rapid water level changes. "Update: Storms with heavy rain in the area made the river rise. We were told the campground is susceptible to flooding, so check the weather when you come!" cautions a visitor at Ferryboat Campsites.
Limited cellular service: Communication can be challenging in more remote areas. "The cell service is 'spotty' as they state on their website, but hey you are camping," notes one visitor at Pine Grove Furnace State Park, highlighting the digital disconnection common to camping in the region's valleys.
Reservation systems vary: Different campgrounds handle reservations differently. "You can book your site online and go straight to your site! No check in required. If you are passing through and there are sites you can sign in by the honor envelops!" explains a visitor describing Little Buffalo State Park's flexible check-in process.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Little Buffalo State Park Campground offers extensive water features for younger visitors. "They offer a large area that is only 1 foot deep, great for little ones! There is also a splash pad! There are 2 slides for fun!" reports one family who enjoyed the pool facilities.
Campgrounds with playgrounds: Select sites offer dedicated play areas. "Easy walk to the lake with a small beach. There was also a beach location on the state park side vs campground side of the lake," notes a parent who visited Gifford Pinchot State Park with their 3-year-old.
Kid-friendly ranger programs: Some parks offer educational activities. "We did have a nice bat spotting walk with a Ranger when we were there and there's an interesting historic mill you can tour," explains a visitor to Little Buffalo, highlighting the structured learning opportunities.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Local wildlife offers natural entertainment for children. "Wildlife is everywhere and there is even an eagle nest in the park and you can see the pair and often their young," shares a camper about Little Buffalo's natural attractions.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the region require leveling equipment. "Sites were of ample size and well spaced. The sites have a small man made beach and playground. Bathrooms were in good shape," notes a visitor to Gifford Pinchot, emphasizing the adequate but sometimes challenging site conditions.
Limited large rig access: Not all campgrounds accommodate bigger RVs. At Riverfront Campground, recent visitors note the campground is "under new ownership & management with many upgrades, including updated bathhouse," but the area remains challenging for larger rigs due to tight turns and limited space.
Hookup variations: Water access points vary between campgrounds. "If traveling in an RV you will need to fill your fresh water tank as each site does not have water hook up," advises an RVer who stayed at Pine Grove Furnace State Park, highlighting the importance of arriving prepared.
Dump station access: Sewage disposal facilities are important considerations. "They have pull through sites which I was looking for. Sites were a bit close where we were but they had other sites that were more spread out," explains a camper at Hersheypark Camping Resort, noting the range of site options for different RV needs.
