The Pennsylvania Appalachian region around Fallentimber sits at elevations between 1,800-2,200 feet, creating cooler temperatures year-round compared to surrounding lowlands. The area experiences heavy snowfall in winter months and features numerous waterways and lakes formed by dam projects during the mid-20th century. Most glamping sites near Fallentimber remain open April through October, with limited year-round options available in select state parks.
What to do
Mountain biking on Allegrippis Trails: Located near Seven Points (PA), these trails are rated as the top network in Pennsylvania with over 30 miles of singletrack. "IMBA standard built trails that are open year round and in any weather," notes Travis S., who adds, "The mtb trails begin just above the upper camp loops and provide a full day of fast flowing singletrack."
Water recreation at Raystown Lake: The 8,300-acre lake offers excellent fishing, swimming, and boating opportunities. "The lake is so clean and refreshing and we have such beautiful views from our camp site. We went down to the swim beach and our kiddo made sand castles and swam in the clear water," shares Jennifer D. from Seven Points campground.
Historical exploration: Visit the historic furnace at Greenwood Furnace State Park Campground for a glimpse into Pennsylvania's industrial past. "Beautiful campgrounds with spacious camp sites... The blacksmith shop was very educational! Great trails to hike! You can pick up a compass at the ranger station and complete a compass course!" explains Amanda H.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Many campers praise the lakeside sites at Raystown Lake. "The waterfront sites are beautiful and well maintained, but difficult to book," notes Megan W. from Seven Points (PA). For tent campers seeking water access, Susquehannock offers alternatives. "Very cool camp. Loops for RVs, higher on the hill, waterfront loops on steeper grounds for tents, and some walk-to sites adjacent to parking right at the point which double as boat-in," reports Ian W.
Dark night skies: The rural setting around Fallentimber provides excellent stargazing. Ann P. from Greenwood Furnace notes: "We saw the Milky Way!" and mentions "little light pollution" as a highlight of their stay, along with "hearing screech owls at night."
Clean facilities: State park campgrounds in this region maintain high standards. At Black Moshannon State Park Campground, Lisa L. reports: "Spaces are clean and spacious, bath house is very well kept. Very peaceful and well maintained, plan to go back again for sure!! The park also runs a ton of classes for different things like fly fishing, hiking, etc."
What you should know
Site selection matters: Many campgrounds in the area have varied terrain. "We stayed in Senoia loop in a water view (somewhat) site. It was small for our 22 foot total camper but we fit. It was carved out of the side of the hill with 3 wood walls. Our table and firepit were up several stairs/steps," explains Laure D. from Seven Points.
Off-grid experience: Several glamping locations have limited connectivity. From Ridge Top Retreat, there's no cell service, and Diane T. notes about Greenwood Furnace: "There is little to no phone service here and it's not super close to town, so come prepared."
Weather preparation: Mountain elevations bring unpredictable weather. "It was a bit chilly at night and warm during the day - bring layers + raincoats as the PA mountain weather can be iffy!" advises Diane T. about glamping at Greenwood Furnace in mid-June.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Multiple parks offer programming for children. "The park has a playground and lake to swim in... ranger programs were held throughout the weekend," notes Kassie F. from Greenwood Furnace. Jackie W. adds that at Crooked Run Campground — Prince Gallitzin State Park: "Great place for kids! Has a beach on the lake. Affordable boat rentals. Bmx track for kids."
Educational opportunities: Several sites incorporate learning experiences. Nicole F. reports: "We used the group tent sites for our Girl Scout weekend. It was a fun weekend. We participated in the Outdoors for Everyone event... Rangers were wonderful to work with in setting up teaching opportunities for the girls."
Playground access: Many campgrounds feature designated play areas. Ann P. notes at Greenwood Furnace: "Valley Camp (VCAM) was a single in/out with a loop around the playground" and Tim J. reports about Seven Points: "Each loop has a playground and bathhouse."
Tips for RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many RV sites require preparation. At Shawnee State Park Campground, Gerard observes: "We happened to be assigned what I believe was the best of the RV sites, a pull through that had full hook up. We have a 32 foot trailer. The site we were assigned was easily accessed and had a nice view of the campground. However, as we drove through the rest of the RV park area we noted that many of the sites had very awkward back-in approaches."
Dump station convenience: Seven Points receives high marks for its facilities. Tim J. notes: "From the time we arrived and filled up the fresh water tank at the ultra-cool 4 lane dump station, I knew we were in for a great weekend. The signage was very well marked and the fresh water spigot was more like a little tank, super-solid, clean and modern."
Loop selection matters: Different camping loops offer varied experiences. Tim J. explains: "We took a drive around through the other six campgrounds and decided Point was our favorite, but obviously crowded because it is right on the lake. Senoia camp was (our) tied with Ridge, but only the lower portion. Once you go up the hill to sites above #231, it gets very steep and far away from the water."
