Tent camping near Enola, Pennsylvania centers around several local and state parks within the Susquehanna River Valley. The region experiences four distinct seasons with moderate summer temperatures averaging 80-85°F and winter lows often below freezing. Camping options range from primitive sites requiring complete self-sufficiency to more developed areas with basic amenities located within a 45-minute drive radius of Enola.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Shikellamy State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy angling in the Susquehanna River. One camper noted the park offers "cliff-side pavilion" views while another mentioned there are "2 trails" available for exploration.
Creek exploration: Tent campers at Mill Creek Camping Area can enjoy the natural water features. A camper shared that camping "down by the creek making for a cooler camping experience and love the sound of water flowing at night."
Wildlife observation: The Susquehanna River Valley houses diverse bird and animal species. At Susquehannock State Park, visitors can access "great bike trail to the Conowingo dam which is a nice place to visit, and a great place to see lots of eagles."
What campers like
Natural cooling: The wooded settings provide relief during warmer months. At Lower Allen Community Park, a visitor described it as a "Cute site in a local township park that not many people know about. There actually three total. You just need to call the township to reserve."
Stream sounds: Campers frequently mention water features as highlights. One Mill Creek visitor appreciated that "the stream is refreshing and the site stays fairly cool. When it's hits the high temperatures a quick dip in the water is amazing."
Peaceful settings: Many sites offer quiet environments away from crowds. At Reeds Gap State Park Campground, a camper noted: "Put your phone away cuz there's no cell service here! We got a nice one tucked back in the trees, but a few of them are pretty close to the road - not like it's terribly busy."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most tent camping sites near Enola require advance booking. At Reeds Gap, one visitor mentioned: "Stayed here on a Sunday night without a reservation. We were the only ones there. Pay by honor system at the park office."
Water access limitations: Several campgrounds have restricted or no potable water. At Standing Stone Farm, the 5 tent sites have no drinking water available, requiring visitors to bring their own supply.
Bathroom facilities: Amenities vary significantly between locations. A Reeds Gap camper stated, "The bathhouses are rebuilt recently and are very nice," while another noted "the bathrooms were down during our trip making night time potty visits a little unpleasant."
Trail traffic: Some campgrounds experience hiker traffic through camping areas. A Mill Creek camper reported: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer recreational facilities for children. At Susquehannock State Park Campground, visitors can access "a short walk from the scenic overlooks and other hiking trails."
Creek safety: Sites along water require supervision. A camper at Lower Allen Community Park mentioned "The sites sit right along the Yellow Breeches creak so you can put in a few miles up and float down to your site."
Site privacy considerations: Select locations based on family needs. At Reeds Gap State Park, one camper reported it's "dog and family friendly! I'm from Philly and we don't get to camp much but boy was this decision a winner!"
Weather preparation: The area experiences seasonal temperature fluctuations. At Susquehannock, one visitor advised "Potable water is available in several places on each loop" which helps families prepare for hot weather conditions.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Most tent camping areas near Enola offer minimal or no RV accommodations. Reeds Gap State Park is described as having "two loops. One has a few sites with electric and some cabins," making it one of the few options for RVers seeking natural surroundings.
Parking proximity: Vehicle access varies between campgrounds. At Mill Creek Camping Area, a visitor noted "The campground is not a far walk from the parking lot," which may help those with equipment or supplies.
Seasonal operations: Many campgrounds close during winter. Lancaster County Mill Creek Camping Area operates from "March 15 to November 15," requiring off-season alternatives for tent camping near Enola, Pennsylvania.
