The Grantville area sits at approximately 450 feet elevation in Pennsylvania's Lebanon Valley, with summer temperatures averaging 72-85°F during peak camping season. The region features rolling hills and farmland nestled between Blue Mountain and South Mountain, creating distinct microclimates that affect camping conditions. Thunderstorms develop quickly in summer months, requiring campers to secure equipment properly.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Lake-In-Wood Campground, a stocked pond provides recreation for anglers of all ages. "Nice fishing in the lake," notes Edward M., who appreciated the amenity despite the campground's remote location. The pond area includes a sloping lawn leading down to the water.
Renaissance Fair excursions: Many campers at Pinch Pond Family Campground use the location as a base for attending the Pennsylvania Renaissance Fair. "Nice location for PA Renaissance Fair goers. Lots of activities in the campground. Pool is awesome," mentions Pamela W. The fair typically runs weekends from August through October.
Amish countryside exploration: The Pennsylvania Dutch region offers unique cultural experiences near several rv campgrounds around Grantville. "Not much for amenities, but I loved the surrounding dutch/Amish towns! It was pretty cool to seemingly step back in time," reports Jill R. about her stay at Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country.
What campers like
Pool access: Multiple campgrounds maintain swimming pools, with varying schedules and features. "The pool with the slide was very clean," notes Sabrina H. at Drummer Boy Camping Resort. Year-round swimming is available at some properties where "There is an indoor pool and spa (spa closed due to Covid)," according to Kasey M. at Thousand Trails Circle M.
Weekend activities: Organized events provide entertainment at most Grantville-area rv parks, particularly during peak season. At Appalachian Camping Resort, "There was bingo, crafts, a vendor craft show, hot dog eating contest for adults and kids, candy scramble in the dark for adults and kids, a dj Saturday night and a live band Sunday night," according to Melissa Y., who found activities appropriate for teens and adults.
Mini-golf courses: Free or low-cost mini-golf is available at several properties. "Free mini golf. You can borrow golf clubs but you do have to buy balls," notes Melissa Y. about Appalachian Camping Resort. Some courses require maintenance, as Jen R. observed at Spring Gulch: "Mini golf was fun but need to be regreened...several holes needed maintenance."
What you should know
Shooting range proximity: Several campgrounds near Grantville experience noise from nearby shooting ranges. "The only negative thing is that there is a shooting range right next door. It is pretty consistent from lunch to dinner," warns Tara N. about Pinch Pond. Similarly, Steve R. notes about Spring Gulch Resort Campground: "nearby Gun Range can be annoying and tough on pets."
Site levelness varies: Many campgrounds in the hilly terrain feature uneven sites requiring extra equipment. At Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country, "Unlevel is an understatement we were in E row and every camper there had front end 4 foot off the ground," according to Justin B. Some parks, like Drummer Boy Camping Resort, have "sites on annoying slope where the table/fire pit is not level to the camper," reports Chelsea.
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds in the Grantville region operate from April through October. At Sun Valley Campground, seasonal dates run "April 1 to November 1," which aligns with most properties in the area. Facilities often reduce operations during shoulder seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Check playground conditions: Quality and quantity of play areas vary significantly between campgrounds. Chelsea observed at Drummer Boy Camping Resort that "there was only 1 playground, it was all the way at the front of the campground (we had to drive to it) and it was very junky and run down." For better options, consider Thousand Trails Circle M where "kids love all the activities to do," according to Terri S.
Consider themed accommodations: Some campgrounds offer unique sleeping quarters that appeal to children. At Lake-In-Wood, "There are a lot of really neat and different rentals here like a tree house, double decker bus, among others," notes Jen R., creating memorable stays for families.
Indoor activity backup plans: Weather can change quickly in the region, so properties with indoor facilities provide alternatives during rain. Kasey M. notes that at Thousand Trails Circle M, "Arcade was open. There is an indoor pool and spa," ensuring activities continue regardless of conditions.
Tips from RVers
Sewer connection positioning: RVers report unusual sewer connection setups at some campgrounds. At Robin Hill Campground, Linda F. found "our site had a big 'tank' that was used for sewer hookup instead of ground connection as did all the sites around us." Similar issues occur at other parks where "the sewer pipe is a little high" as Nick E. reported about Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country.
Site selection for privacy: When making reservations at campgrounds near Grantville, consider the layout for maximum space. Stuart K. advises at Pinch Pond: "the best campsite locations are actually the ones designated for primitive tents as they are all located in the rear of the property and therefore quieter and more removed from the rest of the somewhat crowded campground."
Early arrival importance: First-come, first-served site selection operates at some Thousand Trails properties. "The first thing to know is that Thousand Trails sites are a first come, first serve. Meaning you have to arrive early in order to get the best spots," explains Yamileth K., who recommends arriving by 1 pm to avoid disappointment.
