Best Campgrounds near Lykens, PA

Lykens is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Lykens, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Lykens, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Lykens, Pennsylvania (157)

    1. Jonestown/Hershey KOA

    16 Reviews
    Jonestown, PA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 865-6411

    "Love the close proximity to the highway and gas. We didn’t eat there but they had a restaurant! Lots of activities for the kids. Wooded sites and very clean bathrooms."

    "Pet friendly and you can access the Appalachian trail from campground. Lots of great food and places to go in the area. They have a river that is great for kayaking or tubing."

    2. Twin Grove RV Resort

    9 Reviews
    Tower City, PA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 865-4602

    "There are 2 dog parks right next to each other, which is great for your furry friend to be able to run around and play off leash."

    "Needs a pond and more shade but still is one of the nicer parks around. Twin Grove is also one of the cheaper ones, and that is hard to believe because of all the offer."

    3. Hersheypark Camping Resort

    29 Reviews
    Hummelstown, PA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (833) 936-0949

    "This campground has a little something for everyone, from full hook up sites neatly stacked next to each other, to quiet patches of grass next to the river."

    "They don’t sell alcohol but there is a shopping center within walking distance with restaurants and liquor stores! Even a supermarket. There is shuttle service to the park."

    4. Thousand Trails Hershey

    21 Reviews
    Mount Gretna, PA
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    $50 - $60 / night

    "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. They don't reserve sites for you."

    "This is a clean, nice looking campground in a location very close to Hershey park and the outlets. It’s a very nice area."

    5. Knoebels Campground

    24 Reviews
    Marion Heights, PA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 672-9555

    $59 - $160 / night

    "Knoebels campground is situated next to Knoebels amusement park and offers sites for tent campers and RVs, as well as cabins.

    There is electricity at every site but not water."

    "In addition to the campsites you have access to the campsite bathrooms which also have showers. They’re nothing special but they get the job done and are cleaned daily by staff."

    6. Ferryboat Campsites

    6 Reviews
    Millersburg, PA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 444-3200

    $30 - $100 / night

    "With that said they do have primitive camping spots next to the putt putt course and water only tent sits at the upper feild."

    "Lots to do very close to water and many things to do in and around camp ground. Stayed for a few days would go back."

    7. Lake Heron Retreat

    5 Reviews
    Millersburg, PA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (929) 464-3766

    $20 - $240 / night

    "I wanted to find something close enough to home, but far away from the hustle and bustle of our suburban lives. This fit the bill. There are 10 sites….some are occupied by seasonal guests."

    "This lake was beautiful! A short walk from the campsite. We had the lake to ourself both evening and morning. $61. No WiFi. Leveling was fine. Verizon service was fine."

    8. Camp A While

    7 Reviews
    Ravine, PA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 682-8696

    $26 - $44 / night

    "Not to much to do in the area but it is somewhat close to the Appalachian Trail if you’re into that. It seems like the camp ground always has something fun going on."

    "The only reason for not giving five stars is because it’s very close to a freeway. There’s quite a bit of truck and car noise from the freeway."

    9. Camp Hebron

    2 Reviews
    Halifax, PA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 896-3441

    $26 - $85 / night

    "Nice pool and lots of hiking trails. The sites have lots of tree cover and they are private. This place does not have many amenities as far as crafts and "drop off the kids" activities."

    10. Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground

    56 Reviews
    Wellsville, PA
    37 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 292-4112

    $20 - $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. "

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 157 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Recent Reviews near Lykens, PA

812 Reviews of 157 Lykens Campgrounds


  • Stephen W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 7, 2025

    Hersheypark Camping Resort

    Very clean campground friendly staff

    We stay here once a year in September. Stone surface. Not to bad for leveling. Our site was spacious.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2025

    Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground

    Peace and quiet !

    Great spot! We had site 114 . It has water access and is right next to a small man made beach and playground. Bathrooms were in good shape. Sites were of ample size and well spaced.

  • 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"

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 19, 2025

    Old Mill Stream Campground

    Good stay

    The entrance in off the main road turns you into the theme park. Fear not. Turn in and follow the road to the right and into the campground. We stayed on site 123 with a 40 ft Allegro Bus. Plenty of room to maneuver a big rig. All gravel sites and we had full hookup with 50 Amp.

  • Barbara P.
    Aug. 19, 2025

    Spring Gulch Resort Campground

    BED BUGS in Cabin

    I believe Cabin 1409 is infested with BED BUGS! After a short stay in this cabin(7/28-7/30) I came home with 80+ bug bites that I'm certain were from BED BUGS. A dozen of them were on my eyelid! My dermatologist gave me a high strength dosage of prednisone to combat the swelling and itching. We promptly advised the property manager, who was sympathetic, but once our claim for damages(mostly items we had to throw out due to contamination) reached the insurance company, the process stalled. It's been 19 days and now the insurance adjuster is out of the office for another week- having provided no updates or feedback on our claim. I wish I had posted this earlier, as I wonder if the cabin that Michael M complained about in his Aug. 4 YELP review was the very same cabin. I had hoped our conversations with the property manager would have prevented additional folks from the same fate. I also wish I had read a few earlier reviews that warned of BED BUGS. I continue to fear an infestation in my home, in the event we brought home nymphs or eggs or the bugs themselves. I'm constantly vacuuming and looking under seat cushions and my mattress. I now dry all my laundry on high for 60 minutes, knowing it's damaging my clothes, but also knowing it's the best way to kill the bugs and their eggs- which can go dormant and survive for a year without biting again. Zero stars. Choose to stay elsewhere!

  • Edison L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Country Acres Campground

    So Nice It’s Almost Not Camping

    We stayed at one of the primitive tent sites with no hookups adjacent to the farm field. Watching a horse drawn equipment cutting grass while we cooked dinner was a joy. Amenities are super clean and modern. Clean bathroom, laundry room, pool area for the kids, and a well stocked store. The only critique I have is that you can hear the distant sound of cars on the road. But this is by no means a nuisance. Just helping you make an informed decision. I would definitely go back.

  • R
    Aug. 16, 2025

    Deer Run Campgrounds

    Good for kids

    It's very nice here, good for kids, big pool. The sites for campers are very tight.


Guide to Lykens

Camping near Lykens, Pennsylvania, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled weekend, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails at French Creek State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "Hiking and biking this park is fun," highlighting the variety of trails available.
  • Water Activities: At Ricketts Glen State Park Campground, you can kayak on Lake Jean. A visitor noted, "The lake felt clean and wasn't too cold in July," making it a great spot for swimming and kayaking.
  • Fishing: Many campgrounds, like Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground, offer fishing opportunities. One camper shared, "There are some neat places around and markets are close by," perfect for a day of fishing and picnicking.

What campers like:

  • Spacious Sites: Campers appreciate the roomy sites at Hickory Run State Park Campground. A reviewer said, "The sites were not too close together," which is great for privacy.
  • Clean Facilities: Many visitors rave about the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. At Codorus State Park Campground, one camper mentioned, "The bathrooms are clean, sites are spacious," which adds to the overall experience.
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Gettysburg / Battlefield KOA are noted for their family-friendly activities. A visitor remarked, "They have plenty of activities for the kids from swimming, mini golf, and a scavenger hunt!"

What you should know:

  • Limited Cell Service: If you plan to stay at Pine Grove Furnace State Park Campground, be prepared for spotty cell service. One camper noted, "If you are planning to use your cellphone at this one, probably not going to happen."
  • Seasonal Availability: Many campgrounds, like Hickory Run State Park Campground, are only open from mid-April to mid-October. Check the dates before planning your trip.
  • Wildlife: Campers at Locust Lake State Park Campground have spotted various wildlife. One reviewer mentioned, "The lake was very clean," indicating a healthy ecosystem.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Hersheypark Camping Resort, where kids can enjoy playgrounds and pools. A parent shared, "The campground had two pools and a child’s pool."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. At Ricketts Glen State Park Campground, one family enjoyed the "Falls Trail (21 beautiful waterfalls)," which can be a fun adventure for older kids.
  • Pack Snacks and Games: Keep the kids entertained with snacks and games. One camper at Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground mentioned, "There is a great small camp store if you need last minute items."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Levels: RVers at Caledonia State Park Campground recommend checking site levels before booking. One reviewer noted, "It would be a 10 if the utilities were closer to the back of the site."
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Campers at French Creek State Park Campground suggest bringing everything you need, as the camp store is limited. A visitor said, "The store is really just a small carry out with a few things."
  • Plan for Tight Spaces: Some campgrounds have tight spots. A reviewer at Hersheypark Camping Resort mentioned, "The ONLY good thing this RV park has going is the Hershey park bus that runs all day back and forth."

Camping near Lykens, Pennsylvania, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best camping options near Lykens, PA?

The Lykens area offers several excellent camping options. Hemlock Acres Camp Ground provides a peaceful, quiet experience in the Pennsylvania woods with spacious sites and natural surroundings. For those seeking family-friendly camping with lakes and hiking trails, Pine Grove Furnace State Park Campground offers updated bathrooms, electric sites, and access to the Appalachian Trail. Other notable options include Camp A While near Hegins and Camp Hebron near Halifax, both offering various amenities and activities. Most campgrounds in the region are within a 30-45 minute drive of Lykens and provide a mix of tent and RV camping opportunities.

What amenities are available at Lykens campgrounds?

Campgrounds near Lykens offer a range of amenities to enhance your stay. Campground Island provides a unique experience on an island with tranquil waterfall sounds and excellent fishing opportunities. Hersheypark Camping Resort features full hookup sites, grassy areas by the river, and easy access to nearby attractions. Most campgrounds in the area offer clean restrooms, showers, water access, and electric hookups. Many also provide picnic tables, fire rings, and dump stations. Family-oriented facilities like playgrounds, game rooms, and organized activities are common at the larger campgrounds, while some also feature swimming pools, camp stores, laundry facilities, and Wi-Fi access.

Is there free dispersed camping available in the Lykens Valley?

True free dispersed camping is limited in the Lykens Valley area. While not free, Blue Rocks Family Campground offers a more remote experience in the rolling hills below the Appalachian Trail. For those with self-contained vehicles, overnight parking is available at The Home Depot — Lower Paxton, though this isn't traditional camping. Most camping in the region requires fees and reservations. For dispersed camping options, you'll need to venture further into state forests like Weiser State Forest, but always check current regulations with the Pennsylvania DCNR before planning a trip, as rules change frequently.