Camping areas near Glen Rock, Pennsylvania range from state parks to family-owned recreational farms across varying terrain. Located between rolling hills at approximately 600-700 feet elevation, this south-central Pennsylvania region experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F. State parks dominate the camping landscape, with multiple water features providing recreation options during the May-October peak season.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Codorus State Park Campground, anglers can access multiple fishing spots along the lake. "Nice campground. Very clean facilities. We typically stay in the primitive tent loop which is right on the lake. It can get a little busy on the weekends since there is a boat launch at the end of the primitive lane," notes Catherine H.
Disc golf courses: Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground offers two 18-hole disc golf courses, though terrain varies between them. "The Conewago day use area on the south side of the lake and the Quaker Race day use area on the north side of the lake. Both areas have their own 18 hole disc golf course," according to a review.
Historic tours: Located about 30 minutes from Glen Rock, the Gettysburg battlefield provides extensive history options. "Close to historic Gettysburg battleground. You can take guided tours of the battlefield on horseback," shares Zack from Artillery Ridge Campground.
What campers like
Waterfront camping: Primitive tent loops at Codorus State Park provide direct lake access. "We typically stay in the primitive tent loop which is right on the lake... some of the sites are secluded/set back enough to be private," explains Catherine H., highlighting the balance between access and privacy.
Year-round activities: Cedar Lake Family Campground maintains programming throughout the seasons. "This campground has it all, friendly staff, activities galore, cleanliness, & fun, fun, fun," explains Laurie D., referencing the camp's reputation for organized events.
Yurt camping near Glen Rock, Pennsylvania: For those seeking yurt accommodations in the Glen Rock area, Gifford Pinchot offers comfortable options with varying amenities. "We have camped here several times and love the waterfront sites and the yurts," noted Tom F., describing the yurt camping experience near Glen Rock.
What you should know
Campsite variations: Tucquan Park Family Campground offers dramatically different experiences depending on site location. "We were originally supposed to be in the woods — which FYI is far out of the way of the main activities, and also has a pretty steep incline. But the site was too uneven for our taste so we moved down in the main area," explains Melissa.
Bathroom facilities: Cleanliness standards vary across parks but are generally well-maintained. "The bathhouses / restrooms are clean (about average for PA state park system)," notes a camper at Gifford Pinchot, while another mentions, "Camp sink says to not leave food in sink, where exactly are you supposed to throw it away?!?!"
Seasonal limitations: Most parks have operating seasons from April through October with limited amenities outside this window. "We camped right up against the lazy River, the campground was pretty open because it was a weekday," notes a camper at Hersheypark Camping Resort in early season.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Merry Meadows Recreation Farm offers excellent swimming amenities. "They have upgraded any of the activities such as miniature golf and the pool area looks great," says Brian S. about the family-friendly facilities.
Holiday programming: Multiple campgrounds schedule special events for holidays. "We have visited 5x this year. Wooded sites, open sites, tent sites. All great!" explains Amy R. about Merry Meadows, where seasonal celebrations take place throughout the camping season.
Playground facilities: For families with young children, playground proximity matters. "We had a corner site and had plenty of room. We met a whole bunch of very nice people and would definitely go back," Jennifer R. notes about Tucquan Park, mentioning, "Playground and pool were both nice and clean."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA offers varying site privacy levels. "I was pleasantly surprised by the amount of trees and separation between many sites. If you're looking for trees and privacy, stick to the sites at the bottom of the hill," advises Jen V., noting site quality varies significantly within the same campground.
Accessibility considerations: RVers should research specific site dimensions before booking. "Roads are narrow, but the sites are large and level," notes Nate J. about Cedar Lake Family Campground, highlighting the sometimes challenging navigation despite adequate site size.
Hookup variations: Many campgrounds offer electric-only sites alongside full hookup options. "No water but the bath house was close and very clean," explains Kevin M. about Codorus State Park, where RVers need to plan for water access.
