Raystown Lake Recreation Area sits at approximately 760 feet above sea level in central Pennsylvania's ridge and valley region. The 8,300-acre lake stretches 27 miles through the area with 118 miles of shoreline, creating numerous secluded coves and inlets popular for camping. Weather conditions vary seasonally, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F—ideal for water activities during peak glamping in Entriken, Pennsylvania season from May through September.
What to do
Mountain biking on Allegrippis Trails: Access points near Seven Points Campground provide entry to 36+ miles of purpose-built mountain biking trails. "The Allegrippis Trail system begin just above the upper camp loops and provide a full day of fast flowing singletrack," notes reviewer Travis S., who appreciated that "from the entrance of the camp loop there is a trail head!"
Fishing in multiple lake areas: Cast for striped bass, walleye, and catfish in Raystown Lake's numerous fishing spots. At Susquehannock Campground, "spots 51, 52, 53 best waterfront with parking," according to Ian W., who adds they're perfect for fishing but to "be prepared to be woken by bass boats and subsequent wake at sunrise."
Hiking around the lake perimeter: Take the 5-mile trail at Rocky Gap State Park that circles Lake Habeeb. "A fair amount of gnats and other bugs but no mosquitoes to speak of," notes Jeff H., who recommends the hike as a "great way to see all sides of the park."
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Many campers value direct lake access from their campsite. At Lake Raystown Resort and Lodge, reviewer Tori found site 79 particularly impressive: "Perfect views of the lake and very spaced out. Never felt like we were on top of our neighbors and even though people did cut through the back of the site (at the waters edge) the site was so spacious it didn't really bother us."
Clean facilities with reliable amenities: Visitors consistently mention well-maintained bathhouses and shower facilities. At Cowans Gap State Park Campground, a recent visitor reported: "Bathrooms and showers were clean. Firewood available at the park ($5 for 6 pieces self-serve). Location near the dam and lake trail is nice."
Multiple swimming options: Both developed beaches and natural swimming areas attract families. "The lake is absolutely gorgeous. There's a beach and swimming area," notes a camper at Seven Points, adding that "the sites are pretty close together, and it's usually really packed throughout the summer, but it's still a beautiful place to camp."
What you should know
Primitive camping considerations: Not all sites offer full services. At Susquehannock, "they are 100% electricity free, so you have to bring a generator if you want electricity. They have vault toilets available and water from a hand pump for camper use," explains camper Kristen H.
Site positioning challenges: Many lakefront sites have terrain issues. "Some sites are on a slight slope but they're still bearable," notes Madelyn D. about Susquehannock, while Mary C. cautions about some areas of Lake Raystown Resort: "Sites across the way were on the water. They had cement pads only as wide as your rv/tt but then the surrounding grass dropped off sharply. Very dangerous as you barely had enough room to walk around your unit."
Reservation timing: For premium spots, book well in advance. "There aren't many waterfront sites, so book early," advises a Susquehannock camper, adding that "some sites not listed as waterfront can be used for boats (with a permit from the campground office)."
Tips for camping with families
Look for comprehensive kid activities: Choose campgrounds with multiple recreation options. Friendship Village Campground offers "mini golf, fishing, and special events on weekends," according to Heidi K., while Tasha M. adds "the kids played mini golf, jumped on the pillow, played on multiple playgrounds, enjoyed ice cream and went fishing."
Consider designated swimming areas: Some campgrounds maintain private beach areas for campers only. At Rocky Gap State Park, a visitor appreciated that "the campground has their own beach so it's not over crowded with the public. Near the beach there is a nice playground near shade for parents to watch."
Check site-specific shade coverage: Summer temperatures can reach the mid-80s, making shade important. At Friendship Village, "sites are very spacious and the gravel pad was level upon parking," while at Seven Points, "Ridge, Meadow, and Valley seem less shaded. I didn't drive down Bay. Point and Senoia have lots of shaded spots."
Tips from RVers
Verify site levelness before booking: Many RV sites in the region require leveling equipment. At Shawnee State Park Campground, "the non-electric sites were decidedly not level but many of the FHU and electric sites were fairly level," according to a recent visitor who recommends not reserving ahead of time to check sites in person.
Utilize multi-lane dump stations: Seven Points offers exceptional dump facilities. "The ultra-cool 4 lane dump station" impressed Tim J., who noted: "On our way out, we visited the dump station again and got in one of the 4 lanes with no wait. The dump station had wide lanes and made the experience an easy and clean one."
Check water access logistics: Not all waterfront sites have convenient boat access. At Lake Raystown Resort, "we had a waterfront site and thoroughly enjoyed it. No sewer (waterfront) but for only 3 nights it wasn't a big deal," while at Susquehannock, "some sites have been completely renovated, with level tables, better water access, and new fire rings."
