Camping near Fayetteville, Pennsylvania offers diverse options in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, where elevations range from 640 to 1,200 feet above sea level. Most campgrounds in the area remain open from April through October, though winter temperatures can drop to the low 20s F, making year-round yurt camping in Fayetteville, Pennsylvania a practical alternative to traditional tent camping. The region typically receives 42 inches of rainfall annually, which maintains the lush forest surroundings.
What to do
Explore battlefield history: Just minutes from most campgrounds, the historic Gettysburg battlefields provide educational opportunities. "Very fun family friendly getaway for the weekend. Close to Gettysburg Battleground," notes Matthew K. about Gettysburg Campground.
Creek fishing: Many campgrounds feature access to small waterways for fishing. At Artillery Ridge Campground, one visitor shared their experience: "My husband caught a fish first day in the pond behind our site. The staff was super friendly and welcoming."
Trail hiking: The region offers numerous hiking trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. At Cowans Gap State Park, "A walking trail wraps around the whole lake. There's lots of hiking trails, a real sand beach and swimming area, pedal boat and canoe rentals. You wont be disappointed!" according to Beth C.
Seasonal camping activities: Campgrounds organize themed weekends throughout the season. "They have tons to do as the family. During the summer they have different themed weekends and fun activities for the whole family. In the fall they have Halloween weekends," shares Danielle W. about Gettysburg Battlefield Resort.
What campers like
Privacy options: Some campgrounds offer more secluded sites. As one Cunningham Falls State Park visitor noted, "I stayed at Cuningham Falls State Park a few weeks ago and the campground was very good with lots to do hikes, swimming etc. But last night I stayed at same state forest but 4 miles away the Cunningham Falls State Park Manor Area. I haven't seen this much space between campsites in a long time."
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms and shower houses. A visitor to Cowans Gap State Park commented, "Bathrooms are clean and hot showers. Well looked after and plenty to do for our 5 year old with evening activities. Picnic bench, fireplace, gravel camp area."
Weather variability: The region offers distinctly different camping experiences by season. "Absolutely amazing fall color on the lake and great drives surrounding. Bathrooms are clean and hot showers," notes Michael W. about his autumn visit to Cowans Gap.
Creek-side camping: Water features enhance many camping experiences. At Twin Bridge Campground, "We had Site C, which was right on the stream. This was a very nice site and we had more space between us than others had," shared one camper.
What you should know
Campsite spacing varies: Some campgrounds have tighter layouts than others. At Granite Hill Camping Resort, one camper observed: "The sites are filled with tree roots that someone was always tripping over, it took 2 hours to get our camper set up because of the very uneven stone lot, thankfully we had enough wood to get the jack up without having to over extend it."
Seasonal water features: Water levels at falls and streams change dramatically by season. "We hiked to the falls but with little rain, there was no falls. A very crowded hike with people everywhere," noted one Cunningham Falls visitor during a dry period.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially for weekends and holidays. "This is a very busy campground and I was advised it normally sells out on weekends, so securing a site in advance is wise," shares a Cunningham Falls visitor.
Hookup locations: Electric and water hookups may be positioned unusually at some sites. "The hookups are oddly spaced and you need to ensure you have extensions handy," notes one camper about Granite Hill Camping Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose sites near play areas for easier supervision. "We stayed in the 'C' row site. Great shade and access to the playground. You can let the kids play all day while sitting at your campsite cooking and just hanging. It's only 15 yards for the play set," shares Larry N. about Granite Hill.
Water activities: Lakes and streams provide natural entertainment for children. At Twin Bridge Campground, one visitor commented: "Our favorite campground. The most relaxing setting. Our kids love the creek and playing in and around it. Some activities, playground, mini golf etc. but more of a relaxing campground."
Consider permanent yurt options: For families new to camping, yurt accommodations in Fayetteville offer a comfortable introduction. "We've been here a few times and only choose this campground. Everyone from the campers to the staff are inviting and friendly. Artillery Ridge is close to the battlefields and has all the fun of larger campgrounds," notes one visitor.
Educational opportunities: Historic sites provide learning experiences. "We camped at Artillery Ridge Campground, which served as an artillery storage/staging area for the Union during the battle. Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded," shares a visitor to Artillery Ridge.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Bring extra leveling blocks for uneven sites. "Not especially great for tent camping," notes one RVer about Granite Hill, highlighting its focus on RV camping rather than tents.
Pull-through availability: Some campgrounds offer easier access sites. "A perk for us for our first trip with a camper was the pull thru sites," mentions a visitor to Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park.
Size restrictions: Larger rigs may not fit at all campgrounds. "The roads are very windy and narrow, and I can't imagine trying to maneuver a large RV in there," cautions a visitor about Hagerstown/Antietam KOA.
Extension cords needed: Be prepared with longer hookup cables than standard. "My electric hookup didn't work on 30A," notes a camper at Granite Hill, highlighting potential electrical challenges.
