Best Campgrounds in Pennsylvania

Fireflies illuminate Pennsylvania summer nights. Cricket song fills the air. In Autumn, a motley blaze of red and yellow leaves streaks the hillsides as a rich, earthy scent permeates the woods. Through all seasons, gurgling brooks and creeks weave their way through the countryside. Secret glens and mossy pools await. For centuries this landscape has attracted lovers of the outdoors, and there's no limit to opportunities for camping in Pennsylvania.

An indescribable yet unmistakably ancient energy fills Pennsylvania's wildernesses. It can be felt clearly in places like Bushkill Falls. There, in the "Niagara of Pennsylvania," explorers of all ages find fun and discovery.

A broad network of trails leads to and around eight beautiful waterfalls. The Twin Lakes wait for anglers. Curious travelers can explore three different historical exhibits, sluice for gemstones, or try their luck in the Bushkill Falls Mining Company Maze. Some people claim that if you stand still, close your eyes, and listen, you can feel the history ebbing and flowing around your feet at Bushkill Falls.

Pennsylvania's enormous population of majestic whitetail deer offer great surprises for nature-lovers camping in Pennsylvania. With a closely monitored population ranging from 1 to 1.5 million, Pennsylvania's white tail are famous for their size, grace, and beauty. Alert hikers and campers will likely catch a glimpse of these wonderful animals.

The Pennsylvania landscape is diverse and full of variety. With the Appalachian Mountains bisecting the state, the eastern and western halves are distinctive both culturally and geographically, but neither is lacking for natural wonders.

To the east, you can find camping near popular destinations like the Delaware Water Gap at the border between Pennsylvania and New Jersey. To the west, there's the fantastic Laurel Caverns, where visitors can experience a three-hour-long tour that goes 46 stories deep into the mountainside.

Pennsylvania has plenty of rivers for the aquatically inclined. Chief among them is the Susquehanna, the longest East Coast river draining into the Atlantic Ocean. This impressive waterway offers many opportunities for fishing, boating, and exploration. Folks camping in Pennsylvania may enjoy pitching their tent or parking their camper on the Susquehanna riverside.

All of this is just a small part of what the Keystone State offers to explorers of all kinds. Many more secrets wait nestled in the countryside, waiting to be discovered.

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Best Camping Sites in Pennsylvania (816)

    1. Kentuck Campground — Ohiopyle State Park

    80 Reviews
    Ohiopyle, PA
    Website
    +1 (724) 329-8591

    $24 - $72 / night

    "Ohiopyle is located in a beautiful area of Pennsylvania we've camped there a couple of times and have been able to get last minute tent sites. Lots of outdoor activities nearby."

    "First, I must say, we did not anticipate camping, hiking or rafting in Pennsylvania."

    2. French Creek State Park Campground

    78 Reviews
    Geigertown, PA
    Website
    +1 (610) 582-9680

    $24 - $122 / night

    "We were looking for someplace close to the city but away from the hustle and bustle of our city life, this was the perfect little steal-away; relatively close by, great car camping spots, nice easy hikes"

    "Bathhouse: Pennsylvania state parks get high marks for their modern, clean restrooms and this park (at least the B Loop) was no exception."

    3. Ricketts Glen State Park Campground

    68 Reviews
    Sweet Valley, PA
    Website
    +1 (570) 477-5675

    $24 - $150 / night

    "The biggest draw to this state park (which no one in Pennsylvania I spoke with seemed to know about) is the 22 waterfalls!"

    "Campground is situated very short walk from beach/lake and waterfalls."

    4. Hickory Run State Park Campground

    60 Reviews
    Albrightsville, PA
    Website
    +1 (272) 808-6192

    $24 - $95 / night

    "Great location lots of hiking trails right in the park and many more close by"

    "Hickory Run is in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania. We had a full hook-up site in the back loop, pet friendly part of the campground.   "

    5. Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground

    55 Reviews
    Wellsville, PA
    Website
    +1 (717) 292-4112

    $24 - $89 / night

    "We have a small camper and there are some great sites on the lake side to park it where you can get AMAZING sunset views.  "

    "We had site 108 which is an electric site along the shore and close to the beach, and it was perfect for our needs. "

    6. Cook Forest State Park Campground & Cabins

    51 Reviews
    Cooksburg, PA
    Website
    +1 (814) 744-8407

    $24 - $109 / night

    "Look at the campground map before you book your site if being close to a bathroom is important; ours was across the campsite behind us but we had to step in a rock set in the stream to get to it without"

    "There is a pet trail through the woods that was really great to take our dog rather than walking around the campground."

    7. Raccoon Creek State Park Campground

    49 Reviews
    Clinton, PA
    Website
    +1 (724) 899-2200

    $22 - $128 / night

    "One tip: each loop does not have its own entrance from a main road. To get to C you drive through or past A and B. Same with E and F. Each loop has its own set of flush toilets and showers."

    "All and All great place to camp, good things; 1) lots of deer, turkeys, racoons, owls etc. 2) close to a farmer's market Jankowski's great place to get fresh food, 3) once you have level camp, all good"

    8. Codorus State Park Campground

    40 Reviews
    Porters Sideling, PA
    Website
    +1 (717) 637-2816

    $24 - $247 / night

    "The trails from

    Campground are ok for a short walk, not much of a lake view but mostly shaded trail.  The pool is conveniently located maybe even walking distance for some.  "

    "Older State Park just outside of Hanover, PA. Used it as a home base to explore Gettysburg and the surrounding area."

    9. Pickerel Point Campground — Promised Land State Park

    33 Reviews
    Skytop, PA
    Website
    +1 (570) 676-3428

    $20 - $44 / night

    "Pros: -beautiful new bathrooms -private lakeside walk-in sites -beavers! Far away but exciting nonetheless -the Conservation Walk on the island is short, easy, and beautiful. Well-marked."

    "Some sites are right on the lake, just put the kayak on the shore, and you're ready for an early morning paddle."

    10. Caledonia State Park Campground

    33 Reviews
    Fayetteville, PA
    Website
    +1 (717) 352-2161

    $24 - $151 / night

    "Stayed here two nights while visiting Gettysburg (short 20mi drive between the two). Stayed on Chinquapin Hill, each site has picnic table and fire ring and good space for camp."

    "It’s a fantastic state park with great picnic areas next to the creek. You can also drive up the road to the dam where there’s a beautiful lake with fishing, kayaking, etc."

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Recent Reviews in Pennsylvania

3651 Reviews of 816 Pennsylvania Campgrounds


  • Kathy L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Laurel Hill State Park Campground

    Okay campground

    Okay campground. We met nice people staying there. However, the sites are REALLY not level because the RV sites are on a major slope, especially the pull-through sites. Large open grassy area. The camp host saw me walking my pups, and as I walked toward the trash can(near the bathroom) to throw away a pooped that I had picked up, she yelled across the green area from her site“no dogs in the bathrooms!” Kinda rude, but later she was friendly. Some okay hiking trails off the campground in a meadow.

  • S
    Sep. 3, 2025

    Rothrock Roadside Campsites — Rothrock State Forest

    Nice spot to camp in the mountains

    First I'll just say that the Rothrock campsites should probably each be listed separately, rather than as a group; they are very spread out throughout the State Forest and each is a different experience.  This review will be for site 002 Colerain Road.  

    This site is accessed by driving up a bit of a winding dirt road up the mountain.  It's easy enough during the summer, though the road is narrow and you've got some sharp bends depending on which way you come from.  This road is not safe to access in the winter in my opinion.  

    The parking is just right off the road, and there's a picnic table and large stone fire ring near the parking.  There's a small path further up the hill into the woods where there is a tent pad, another fire ring and another picnic table.  There are also a lot of flat spots nearby for additional tents to be set up.  

    Just behind the upper tent site is the top of the mountain, and the site has their own private overlook to the valley below.  The site is pretty remote, though there were vehicles and the occasional biker coming up the road.  Traffic may have been busier than usual the weekend we went because there was the Mid Atlantic Overland festival nearby at the same time.  At one point a family parked in the campsite's parking to start a walk... (there's a better trailhead up closer to Indian Lookout they should have used).

    No hookups, water, bathrooms, etc; its fully primitive camping here.  Cell coverage was fine on Xfinity Mobile (Verizon). 

    These sites used to be totally free but they're now $10 a night.  You still need to book a while out if you want to be here on a weekend, especially during the fall when Penn State is playing.

  • Ronnie B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Hidden Springs Campground

    Labor Day Weekend

    It was packed-all went smoothly. From check in, wood delivery, and parking.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Whispering Pines Family Campground

    Lake Wateree

    Lovely GEM in the heart of Carolina. Nestled in a quiet area full of smiling faces. And the staff were extremely accommodating.

  • Bettina A.
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Bear Run Campground

    Options.

    This is an amazing campground with reasonable prices, an array of camping options to suit different camping needs as well as budget range. I am unsure if I just happen to have gotten lucky and decided to go camping during a special weekend, but it’s Labor Day weekend and I am loving that there is a calendar of events for campers to participate in if they choose to. Activities include wagon rides to the lake, talent show, karaoke…etc, as well as church! This was an unexpected gem as we are from Florida and were blessed enough to stumble upon the right person in a parking lot when my husband asked if they knew of any places that we could possibly camp at nearby and that gentleman told us about Moraine Park. Upon making our way out to here, we found Bear Run and have loved our experience so far. Love it!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Whispering Pines Family Campground

    Nee Meadow Creek campground

    Beautifully set in midst of a 360* view of mountains. Site are nicely spaced and are blessed with constant gentle breeze. Lovely wild flowers surrounded during my brief visit.

    However I was deceived seeing post and electrical hookup. Pretty sure none of them function.

  • Werner S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Old Mill Stream Campground

    In Amish area, next to an amusement park

    Our kids where happy with the small playground and with a few dollars they could have some fun in the small arcade/gameroom. In the area you have Lancaster, Amish area and an amusement park (that is a bit outdated). The camping has a bit over 100 spots. They are just oké.

  • Scott J.
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Sun Valley Campground

    My Happy Place

    My wife and I have been seasonal camper for 4 years and love it. We had visited numerous campgrounds and found Sun Valley to be the atmosphere there beyond our expectations. The minute you walk into the office you get that" aha" moment. The office greets you with a smile and " Welcome to Sun Valley, how can I help you ". That alone told us these folks are here to make your stay enjoyable. They go above and beyond any campground we have ever been to. The activities go above and beyond. The Saturday night bands are concert worthy. We have enjoyed our stay more than you ever imagined. For the past 4 years it has been our "Happy Place"

  • B
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Leonard Harrison State Park Campground

    Small campground with clean bathrooms

    We stayed here Wednesday through Saturday of Labor Day weekend.  On Wednesday and Thursday nights there were about 5 sites that were taken. By Friday they were all full

    The campground is a simple loop of 28 sites.  19 are non -electric and 9 are electric. Sites are spacious and easy to back in to. I believe there are two pull throughs. Water spigots are continently located around the campground.  

    The PA Grand Canyon Visitor center and the Turkey Path (main path down into the canyon) are a short 5 minute walk across the parking lot from the campground.  For biking there is the  Pine Creek Rail Trail, that runs the length of the canyon at the bottom. To access from the campground you can drive there in 16 minutes Darling Run trail access area.


Guide to Pennsylvania

Camping in Pennsylvania offers a mix of beautiful landscapes, family-friendly activities, and unique experiences. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there's something for everyone in the Keystone State.

What to do

  • Hiking and Nature Walks: Many campgrounds, like Cook Forest State Park Campground, have trails that wind through stunning forests. One camper noted, “If you're into hiking, there's lots to see here.”
  • Stargazing: For those who love the night sky, Cherry Springs State Park Campground is a must-visit. A reviewer said, “Great place for stargazing and astronomy!”
  • Water Activities: Campgrounds near lakes, like Seven Points, offer swimming, kayaking, and fishing. One visitor shared, “The lake is a great place to kayak, paddleboard, or just relax and enjoy the view.”

What campers like

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. A review from Lyman Run State Park Campground mentions, “This has to be the best campground I’ve ever been to. From the beautiful lake to the stunning views of the vistas, you are always feeling at peace.”
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds pride themselves on cleanliness. A camper at Black Moshannon State Park Campground said, “The bathhouse was pristine, and the shower was clean with plentiful hot water.”
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Crooked Run Campground — Prince Gallitzin State Park are great for families. One reviewer stated, “This is a great campground. Private beach on the lake for campground guest use only as well as a playground.”

What you should know

  • Site Proximity: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A visitor at Parker Dam State Park Campground mentioned, “The individual camp sites are all right on top of each other.”
  • Limited Cell Service: Many areas have poor cell reception. A camper at Black Moshannon State Park Campground noted, “Verizon and AT&T cell service were basically non-existent.”
  • Reservations Recommended: Popular spots fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A camper at Clear Creek State Park Campground said, “It is often challenging to reserve a site unless done far in advance.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and activities. A reviewer at Crooked Run Campground said, “There is a nice little lake area where you can rent kayaks and paddle boards.”
  • Pack Snacks and Meals: Some campgrounds don’t have stores nearby. A camper at Cook Forest State Park Campground mentioned, “There’s no camp store in the campground, which is something they could improve upon.”
  • Plan for Quiet Time: Many campgrounds have quiet hours. A visitor at Parker Dam State Park Campground noted, “Folks were very friendly, but nighttime was silent.”

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Some sites may not accommodate larger RVs. A camper at Seven Points said, “The sites here are some of the nicest we have ever seen. They are all big and private.”
  • Utilize Dump Stations: Make sure to empty your tanks before heading to your site. A reviewer at Red Bridge Recreation Area mentioned, “Each loop has a pit potty on it. Shower facility in the park, very very hot water.”
  • Bring Extra Water: Some campgrounds may not have water hookups. A camper at Bald Eagle State Park Primitive Campsite noted, “No water on site but available.”

Camping in Pennsylvania offers a unique blend of nature, family fun, and adventure. With so many options, you're bound to find the perfect spot for your next getaway!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the top waterfront camping sites in Pennsylvania?

Seven Points (PA) stands out with over 200 sites along beautiful Lake Raystown, offering prime waterfront locations and activities like swimming, fishing, and kayaking. Linesville Campground — Pymatuning State Park sits on the Pennsylvania-Ohio border beside a large lake, making it a fishing paradise with electric and non-electric sites available. Other excellent waterfront options include Ricketts Glen State Park with lakeside camping and spectacular waterfalls, and Gifford Pinchot State Park featuring shoreline camping on Pinchot Lake. For river enthusiasts, Clear Creek State Park offers sites along the Clarion River with excellent kayaking opportunities.

What are the best Pennsylvania state parks for camping?

Cook Forest State Park Campground & Cabins is a top choice with spacious sites featuring picnic tables and fire rings with grills, though bathroom facilities could use updating. Leonard Harrison State Park Campground offers an incredible experience adjacent to the stunning "Pennsylvania Grand Canyon" with beautiful views and exploration opportunities. Other excellent options include Worlds End State Park with amazing trail views and beach access along Loyalsock Creek, Lyman Run State Park with nearby Cherry Springs Dark Park for stargazing, and Hickory Run State Park featuring the famous Boulder Field. Most Pennsylvania state parks offer a mix of electric and non-electric sites, clean facilities, and abundant recreational activities.

What are the best campgrounds in Pennsylvania for families?

Pennsylvania offers excellent family-friendly campgrounds with activities for all ages. Pinch Pond Family Campground & RV Park features spacious sites, organized activities like music bingo, and convenient access to nearby attractions. Double Rainbow Farm provides a unique experience with friendly farm animals, swimming in the pond, and hiking opportunities in the adjacent National Forest. Families also enjoy Pequea Creek Campground for its picturesque setting, large sites with plenty of trees, and proximity to Lancaster's attractions, including covered bridges and river tubing. Look for campgrounds with amenities like playgrounds, swimming areas, and scheduled activities to keep children entertained throughout your stay.

What should I know about tent camping in Pennsylvania?

When tent camping in Pennsylvania, site selection is crucial. At Clear Creek State Park Campground, you'll find excellent tent sites, though RVers should avoid non-power sites due to uneven terrain. Lyman Run State Park Campground offers ideal tent camping with convenient amenities and incredible stargazing opportunities at nearby Cherry Springs Dark Park. Pennsylvania's seasonal weather requires preparation—pack for temperature variations even in summer, and be prepared for rain. Most state parks offer tent-specific areas with level pads, picnic tables, and fire rings. Always check reservation requirements as popular parks fill quickly during peak season (May-October). Consider elevating your tent with a footprint to manage occasional dampness, and be aware that many parks enforce quiet hours starting at 10 PM.