Raystown Lake in Huntingdon County offers diverse camping options near Entriken, Pennsylvania, situated within the Allegheny Mountain range at elevations between 760-800 feet. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging in the 80s and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. Fall camping season typically runs from September through mid-November with peak foliage colors appearing in mid-October.
What to do
Riverside recreation: At Honey Bear Campground, campers can paddle on the lake year-round. "Can paddle and hike year round and camp in the spring, summer and fall. Amazing camp sites and several have beautiful lookouts over the lake," notes Elizabeth K.
Fishing opportunities: Branch Camp provides electric sites along a creek connected to Raystown Lake. "Situated along a creek connected to Raystown Lake. Beautiful scenery, close to everything, Giant Grocery, Walmart, Hoss' steakhouse, beer stores, winery and everything in between!" says Sara N.
Special events: Family-centered activities happen regularly at Entriken area campgrounds. Timber Run Campground hosts themed weekends like "Bigfoot weekend" with organized activities. As one camper shares: "We started out Friday night getting the offered $12 bbq plate that included pork burnt ends, beans and potato salad that were 'oh it's so good'. On Saturday was rock painting and then bingo and ended the night with a DJ dance party."
What campers like
Clean facilities: The rv parks near Entriken, Pennsylvania maintain high standards of cleanliness. At Raystown Lake / Saxton KOA at Four Seasons, visitors appreciate the meticulous upkeep. One reviewer states: "It is still a small family run and family friendly campground, it still has a pool the is as clean as they come (they may have added a new liner, not sure) and they still maintain it like it is being inspected the next day."
Quiet atmosphere: Nature's Getaway RV Park offers a peaceful camping experience for overnight or weekend stays. "Whether your stopping overnight on the way to somewhere or staying the weekend, this is a great place to park. We got the pull through at the end of one loop so we could face the woods," reports Paul B.
Friendly staff: Campers consistently mention positive interactions with campground personnel. At Honey Bear Campground, staff go above and beyond: "We called to make the reservation and told them we would be pulling in around 7 pm. Danielle (one of the owners) stated no problem, I will be here. On arrival we noticed the hours were till 5 pm and we apologized. Danielle stated, no problem, glad we could help."
What you should know
Terrain challenges: Many Entriken camping areas have uneven terrain. Nature's Getaway RV Park has pull-through sites that may require leveling: "The site wasn't so level, but we made it work."
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds operate from April through October, with limited year-round options. Honey Bear Campground specifically operates "April 15 to October 15."
Shower facilities: Campground shower quality varies significantly across Entriken's rv parks. Branch Camp has limitations: "Bathrooms with flush toilets but showers are outside showers (ew)," cautions Sara N.
Road access: Navigation to Entriken area campgrounds may involve mountain roads. Some routes offer shortcuts that can save significant time: "If traveling from the Altoona area, go out through Martinsburg over Cove Mountain Rd - it saves you 30 minutes to an hour."
Tips for camping with families
Entertainment options: Friendship Village Campground & RV Park offers numerous kid-friendly activities. "Lots of fun for kids, live music on the weekend, this campground was full of activity. The campground was packed with everyone from seasonal full timers to overnighters," shares Daniel S.
Playgrounds: Multiple play areas keep children engaged throughout their stay. "There is 3 play grounds all different and all well kept," notes Steve K. about Friendship Village.
Pool facilities: Swimming options exist at several campgrounds but with specific rules. At Friendship Village: "Neither pool has provided seating so you will need to bring your own camp chairs or towels to sit on. They also do not provide umbrellas but allow you to bring your own as long as they are 5 feet wide or less."
Recommended sites: Certain camping spots work better for families with children. For Friendship Village: "In my opinion, the best sites to stay at if you have kids are sites 145–171 as those are right beside the jumping pillow, playground and gaga ball pit."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When booking at rv parks in Entriken, Pennsylvania, consider the specific layout and amenities. At River's Edge RV Park & Campground, "Sites are good sized, mostly shaded, and grassy."
Hookup availability: Water and electric connections are standard at most campgrounds, but sewer connections vary. River's Edge addresses this: "There are water and electric hookups with sewer to be added (currently, a honey wagon comes through to pump out anyone who needs it on Saturdays)."
Seasonal advantages: For RVers wanting longer stays, some campgrounds offer seasonal options. "We stumbled upon this brand new campground (was just built this spring) along the Juniata River in Mifflintown PA, fell in love with it, and purchased our first seasonal site!" reports Jenn D.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity can affect the camping experience. Friendship Village has this challenge: "The only thing we didn't like was all of the road noise. This campground is located by 2 major highways and truck traffic and Jake brake are constant all night long. The road noise made it hard to hear when we were sitting around the fire."
