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Best Campgrounds near Ephrata, PA

937 Reviews

Ephrata in Pennsylvania has good camping choices within driving distance. Pinch Pond Family Campground near Mount Gretna keeps kids busy with a playground and regular activities for families. Over in Wellsville, Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground has different kinds of sites and puts campers close to hiking trails and fishing spots. Many people like Blue Rocks Family Campground for its unusual rock formations and big, shady campsites. If you don't mind driving a bit further, Elk Neck State Park Campground has nice views and well-kept facilities. Both tent and RV campers can find spots that work for them at these places. Spring and fall are typically the best seasons to camp around Ephrata since summer gets hot and humid, while winter often means closed campgrounds due to snow. It's smart to look up any seasonal rules or permits you might need before you go. Pet policies and fire rules differ at each campground, so check those details ahead of time. The natural areas around these Ephrata camping spots make for good trips outdoors.

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Best Camping Sites Near Ephrata, Pennsylvania (136)

    1. French Creek State Park Campground

    76 Reviews
    Geigertown, PA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 582-9680

    $24 - $135 / 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"

    "Campground Review: French Creek State Park Campground is located in Elverson, Pennsylvania and sits adjacent to Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site."

    2. Lake-In-Wood Campground

    22 Reviews
    Narvon, PA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 445-5525

    $40 - $60 / night

    "It rained the entire time I was there so we didn’t go in the pool but the campground is walkable, I was able to go running, there are things for kids to do, some animals to go visit on our walks, obviously"

    "You must try the family style restaurants in the area, delicious and close by as well. Overall a great experience and I would go again for sure :-)"

    3. Old Mill Stream Campground

    14 Reviews
    Lampeter, PA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 299-2314

    "Tent sites are lined up along the water which is great for fishing (especially when you need to stay close to the littles sleeping in the tent). Lots of benches lined up along the water."

    "Not to noisy being next to a theme park. The bath house was just remodeled so it's excellent! Good price!"

    4. Hickory Run Family Camping Resort

    9 Reviews
    Reinholds, PA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 336-5564

    "All of the sites are full electric and more than a few have very little space for a family size tent to be safely away from the fire ring. Ours had adequate distance but we got lucky tbh."

    "Streams are close by, hiking trails are numerous and Hawk Falls was a high point of the park. Peaceful, crisp air and beautiful Surroundings."

    5. Thousand Trails Circle M

    19 Reviews
    Millersville, PA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "Close to Lancaster for necessities and great proximity to Baltimore and Philadelphia for day trips."

    "I used to stay here all the time with my grandparents when they were around. It was always some of the best times for me."

    6. Spring Gulch Resort Campground

    14 Reviews
    Narvon, PA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "Site next to us had a pipe break, they had a maintenance crew come out immediately and fix it. Amish stores/attractions close by for some entertainment also."

    "Fishing pond is a joke and near by Gun Range can be annoying and tough on pets. But, over all, this place is pretty nice."

    7. Beacon Hill Camping

    10 Reviews
    Concord, PA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 768-8775

    $57 - $70 / night

    "Located w/in walking distance of small town of Intercourse, PA, with plenty of shopping and Amish crafts. Very friendly people. Inexpensive stay."

    "Within walking distance are Amish shops, and guided tours into the Amish countryside. Restaurants are nearby. Clean and quiet area."

    8. Lancaster-New Holland KOA

    12 Reviews
    Narvon, PA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 354-7926

    "This is a great spot for visiting Pennsylvania Amish of Lancaster County and about a one-hour drive to Hersheypark. "

    "Not too close to each other. Has a great view of the valley and Amish farms. Everyone has been very friendly. No pool but the kids seem to enjoy the playground."

    9. Mill Bridge Village & Camp Resort

    14 Reviews
    Concord, PA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 687-8181

    "Great, convenient location. Cost friendly considering the location. Clean grounds & maintained sites. Mix of open & shaded sites, all appear to be pretty level, our site was next to stream."

    "The site was right next to the creek. Shade is perfect for our dogs.

    Office personnel were so very helpful. Office does close at 4 but that is due to staff shortages."

    10. Country Acres Campground

    10 Reviews
    Concord, PA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 983-3064

    "This is a great spot for visiting Pennsylvania Amish of Lancaster County and about a one-hour drive to Hersheypark. 

    Our site(# 837) was a good size for our motor home+ toad."

    "We had the best time in a site next to our son and his gal. We both had pop-ups. The sites were clean and lovely places to stay while we enjoyed the Amish sites in the area."

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Recent Camping Photos near Ephrata, PA

423 Photos of 136 Ephrata Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Ephrata, PA

937 Reviews of 136 Ephrata Campgrounds

Guide to Ephrata

Camping near Ephrata, Pennsylvania, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From scenic parks to family-friendly campgrounds, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

What to do

  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the numerous trails available at French Creek State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "Hiking and biking this park is fun," highlighting the outdoor activities available.
  • Fishing: Many campgrounds, like Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground, offer fishing opportunities. A reviewer noted, "The lake is very nice and it's a very family park!"
  • Visiting Local Attractions: Campers can easily access attractions like Hersheypark from Hersheypark Camping Resort. One family shared, "The trolley was a great addition to getting to and from the Hershey attractions."

What campers like

  • Spacious Sites: Campers appreciate the roomy sites at Elk Neck State Park Campground. A visitor said, "Accessible and pet friendly. Great trails and great staff."
  • Clean Facilities: Clean bathrooms and well-maintained grounds are a big plus. A reviewer at Codorus State Park Campground mentioned, "Bathrooms are clean, sites are spacious."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Many campgrounds, such as Blue Rocks Family Campground, are designed for families. One camper noted, "Beautiful campground! Very family-oriented and a great place for a weekend getaway in the woods!"

What you should know

  • Alcohol Policies: Some campgrounds, like Elk Neck State Park Campground, do not allow alcohol. A visitor pointed out, "NO alcohol allowed," so check the rules before you go.
  • Site Proximity: Campers at Knoebels Campground noted that sites can be tight. One review mentioned, "The only knock on it is how tight the sites are."
  • Seasonal Availability: Many campgrounds have specific seasons. For example, Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground is open from the 2nd Friday in April to October 31.

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Kid-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and activities. A parent at Lums Pond State Park Campground shared, "Our site was directly in front of a small playground with a slide, swings, and monkey bars."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep kids engaged. A reviewer at Pine Grove Furnace State Park Campground said, "There are a ton of different activities to do."
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can make a big difference. One camper at Locust Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "The camp store was great! They sell most things you’d need for camping."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Levels: Some sites may not be level, so be prepared. A visitor at Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground noted, "Some weren’t level front to back so adjustments needed to be made to level camper."
  • Full Hookups: Look for campgrounds with full hookups for convenience. A reviewer at Codorus State Park Campground appreciated, "They do have some full hookup sites which is nice."
  • Be Mindful of Traffic: Some campgrounds can have busy roads nearby. A camper at Hersheypark Camping Resort mentioned, "There is a freight train that runs next to the park. It is loud but it didn’t bother us."

Camping near Ephrata, Pennsylvania, provides a mix of nature, family fun, and relaxation. Whether you’re in an RV or tent, there’s a spot waiting for you!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Ephrata, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Ephrata, PA is French Creek State Park Campground with a 4.1-star rating from 76 reviews.

What parks are near Ephrata, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 17 parks near Ephrata, PA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.

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