Tent campsites near Duncannon, Pennsylvania offer primitive to developed sites within the Appalachian Mountain region. Several campgrounds operate throughout winter months while others close seasonally after October. Located along the Susquehanna River with elevations ranging from 400 to 2,000 feet, these camping areas provide diverse terrain for outdoor activities with temperature variations across seasons.
What to do
Paddle creeks and rivers: At Lower Allen Community Park, sites sit directly on Yellow Breeches Creek where visitors can combine water activities with camping. "You can put in a few miles up and float down to your site. There is parking right there. The park is in the suburbs so it's close to lots of things," notes camper Joann.
Hike woodland trails: Reeds Gap State Park features hiking paths alongside Honey Creek with trout fishing opportunities. "There's a creek along the outside and a nice easy hiking trail that follows it," reports Danielle C. The park connects to larger trail systems for extended day hikes.
Disconnect from technology: Penn Roosevelt State Park in Rothrock State Forest offers a true digital detox. According to Chuck M., "It was so secluded, I heard nothing but nature for over an hour before a plane flew over." Winter camping is available here for those seeking solitude during off-season.
What campers like
Complete privacy: Many campsites offer separation from neighboring sites. Paige L. notes about Penn Roosevelt State Park, "The sites are tent only and pretty close together but some still feel secluded. Very accessible and the park has some good trails."
Natural water features: Several campgrounds feature creek access providing natural cooling. At Mill Creek Camping Area, camper Meagan explains, "Campsite for where we stayed is down by the creek making for a cooler camping experience and love the sound of water flowing at night."
Affordable rates: Local campgrounds maintain reasonable pricing structures. Mill Creek Camping Area charges "$25 a night flat rate, for up to 6 days" and offers rain-date rebooking options according to recent visitors.
Wildlife viewing: The wooded settings around Duncannon provide opportunities to observe native Pennsylvania species. Lancaster County Mill Creek notes, "The site is public access and there are lots of hikes, joggers, and people expecting you not to be camping. I was woke up every morning by people walking through the site but the conversation were friendly and pleasant."
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds require advance booking while others use honor systems or first-come availability. At Reeds Gap State Park, Cheryl K. reports, "Stayed here on a Sunday night without a reservation. We were the only ones there. Pay by honor system at the park office."
Service limitations: Cell coverage varies significantly between campgrounds with most offering minimal connectivity. "Put your phone away cuz there's no cell service here!" warns Danielle C. about Reeds Gap State Park.
Seasonal facilities: Water availability changes seasonally at many campgrounds. One visitor noted at Penn Roosevelt: "The water was off, but I was prepared to wilderness camp later in my trip so that was no big deal."
Road access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. Chuck M. warns about Penn Roosevelt State Park: "If you have a trailer, I do not recommend this spot. There is a very tight hairpin turn on the way in. My six foot long trailer barely made the turn!"
Tips for camping with families
Pack extra water: Since drinking water may be unavailable at certain times, families should bring additional supplies. Rebecca G. mentions Reeds Gap State Park has "a nice creek that runs through it, picnic pavilions and a playground for the kids!"
Prepare for shared public spaces: Some camping areas overlap with day-use facilities. At Mill Creek Camping Area, camper Sakina cautions, "Hikers take any trail instead of marked trails regardless of families camping in private areas. When I made the reservation it was noted that hikers were not allowed on campsites."
Check park closure times: Some campgrounds have specific entry hours. Lower Allen Community Park requires awareness of park schedules: "They do lock the park at dusk though. They have portapotties, fire pits, and picnic tables."
Consider bathhouse locations: Bathroom proximity varies between sites. John Z. notes about Reeds Gap State Park, "Clean nice sites. Bathhouses were a little far away. Quite camping and hiking."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions apply: Most campgrounds near Duncannon accommodate only smaller RVs or tent camping exclusively. None are designated as big-rig friendly according to amenity listings.
Limited hookup availability: Only select campgrounds offer electric, water or sewer connections. Reeds Gap State Park provides electrical hookups but most other nearby options offer primitive camping only.
Supply planning essential: Denise D. advises about Penn Roosevelt: "Make sure you bring everything you need as there isn't a store nearby." Most campgrounds lack on-site stores or convenient shopping options.
