Best Campgrounds near Hanover, PA

State parks and private campgrounds surround Hanover, Pennsylvania, creating a diverse camping landscape within a short drive of town. Codorus State Park Campground, just outside Hanover, serves as a popular base for exploring both local attractions and nearby Gettysburg. The park features multiple camping loops with a mix of wooded and open sites, many with electric hookups suitable for RVs and tent campers alike. Within a 30-minute drive, additional options include Gettysburg-area campgrounds like Artillery Ridge, Gettysburg Battlefield KOA, and Drummer Boy Camping Resort, which cater to history enthusiasts visiting the battlefield sites. Cedar Lake Family Campground and Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm provide year-round and seasonal camping options north of Hanover.

Most campgrounds in the region operate from April through October, with state parks typically opening the second Friday in April and closing by early November. Campers report varying site conditions at Codorus, with some mentioning unlevel terrain. "Our site was in an open area in Loop D, but plenty of electric wooded sites available as well," notes one visitor. "Easy access to fresh water on the way in as well as various spigots inside the park." Cell service can be spotty, with Verizon signal described as "not great for streaming, but adequate for all else." Advance reservations are strongly recommended, especially for summer weekends and during fall foliage season when the area draws significant tourism.

Water recreation features prominently in camper experiences at Codorus State Park, with Lake Marburg offering fishing and boating opportunities. "The lake has lots of game fish," reports one visitor. "There's lots of places to fish from the shore, and boat rentals if you want to fish it deeper." Families appreciate the swimming pool, splash pad, and disc golf course available at the park. Many campers mention using the area as a hub for regional attractions, including the Utz potato chip factory tours in Hanover and the historic sites of Gettysburg. Site spaciousness varies considerably between campgrounds, with state park sites generally offering more room than private facilities. Bathroom and shower facilities receive mixed reviews, with cleanliness and maintenance varying by location and season.

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Best Camping Sites Near Hanover, Pennsylvania (136)

    1. Codorus State Park Campground

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

    $20 - $195 / night

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

    "We took our maiden voyage in April to this camp ground since it was close to home. We’ve tented camped and pop up camped here prior so we knew the area. Beautiful weather! Great camp ground!"

    2. Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground

    56 Reviews
    Wellsville, PA
    17 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. "

    3. Artillery Ridge Campground

    24 Reviews
    Gettysburg, PA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 334-1288

    "This park is a perfect location if you want to explore Gettysburg National Historical Site as you can literally walk across the street and be in the park or venture½ mile up the road and you come to the"

    "Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded."

    4. Gettysburg Campground

    25 Reviews
    Gettysburg, PA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 642-5713

    "I always appreciate the near solitude experience of this campground as 90% of the sites are RV sites, that are kept away from the tenting area."

    "If you’re looking for a backwoods, off-the-beaten-path type of campground, this isn’t it."

    5. Gettysburg / Battlefield KOA

    26 Reviews
    Fairfield, PA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 642-5713

    "Spent 2 nights at Gettysburg KOA in July while touring Pennsylvania with granddaughter. Very convenient to historical stuff. Large sites, separated by rocks and trees. Quiet and private."

    "Our site was very spacious, beautifully landscaped and wooded, but right next to the road. There was a buffer of trees, but unfortunately that didn’t make much of a difference with regard to noise."

    6. Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm

    9 Reviews
    Wellsville, PA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "The bathroom near the pool left a little something to be desired. It wasn’t filthy but also wasn’t sparking clean. It was great being close to the battlefield."

    "We were there around Halloween and they had decorated the park so nicely. The sounds of the farm animals all around was fun and amusing for us."

    7. Merry Meadows Recreation Farm

    19 Reviews
    Freeland, MD
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (410) 329-6636

    "It was a VERY dark walk to get to the bathhouse for showers. And the fire pit had no grill, so we ended up having to use the stoves of some RV camping friends for meals."

    "Large campground with some good trails

    Will definitely return!"

    8. Drummer Boy Camping Resort

    8 Reviews
    Gettysburg, PA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "They were constantly driving past our site. This is the first time I’ve stayed where there were so many golf carts. It was a bit noisy. The site was pretty level and an okay side."

    "Great campground, close to Gettysburg but far enough to escape. 2 pools which is a bonus. Many folks have golf carts, as the campground is huge—and you can get turned around easily."

    9. Gettysburg

    11 Reviews
    Gettysburg, PA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 337-3363

    $66 - $127 / night

    "This campground worked out perfectly..so close to the battlefields. It was only for the weekend but we really enjoyed our stay."

    "It also has a lake and cabins available."

    10. Cedar Lake Family Campground

    6 Reviews
    Wellsville, PA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 292-2918

    $60 - $100 / night

    "Nice lake for fishing. Easy check in. Nice little store. About an hour away from Hershey where we went to the RV show. We will come back if we are in the area again"

    "Just takes away from the rural feel. Cabin was clean and perfect. Grounds were very clean. Toilet and showers clean. Golf carts a little dated but overall good. Night time was serene and quite."

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Recent Reviews near Hanover, PA

1008 Reviews of 136 Hanover Campgrounds


  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 9, 2025

    Artillery Ridge Campground

    Great location and friendly staff

    We have a motorhome with no additional vehicle and two dogs, and this site couldn’t have been more perfect for us. A dog park, walking distance to most everything we wanted to see. The national park is mostly dog friendly. My husband caught a fish first day in the pond behind our site. The staff was super friendly and welcoming.

  • p
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Artillery Ridge Campground

    Rv stay

    Site and bathrooms clean. Activities provided free each day. Food trucks in park. Close to museum and battleground sites.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 7, 2025

    Round Top Campground

    Better than OK

    Stayed for 2 days while passing through from FL to NH. Off-season so not crowded. Pool was clean and quite good sized, had it to ourselves due to season. Did laundry while here, ample laundry room. On-site extras include food-truck restaurant and small country goods vendor during our stay. Office staff did ok. Sites have reasonable spacing with gravel pads, mostly level. Trees between sites with sloping hills , not just a big open field. It’s a corporate site so automated web-based reservation system was finicky so we had to verify reservation went through. Tried to book 2 nights but system only set us up for 1. Phone call to help line easily resolved the issue. Quiet and no spotlights on all night.

  • 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.

  • eThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 21, 2025

    Round Top Campground

    I camped and worked here.

    I’m a shamanic energy healer and health enthusiast exploring a new life and hunting for healthy. While this campground has some nice features. This certainly is not a health conscious facility. Lots of smoking, drinking and unhealthy food. There was also evidence of mice in the main store and definitely issues with the water.

  • 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.

  • 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.


Guide to Hanover

Camping near Hanover, Pennsylvania, offers a mix of beautiful nature and family-friendly activities. Whether you're looking for a quiet getaway or a fun-filled adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Codorus State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "The trails from the campground are ok for a short walk," making it a great spot for a leisurely hike.
  • Fishing: The lake at Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground is perfect for fishing. A visitor shared, "The lake is very nice and it's a very family park!"
  • Historical Sites: Visit Gettysburg, just a short drive from Gettysburg Campground. One camper noted, "Was very easy to access from the campground," making it convenient for history buffs.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Caledonia State Park Campground. A reviewer said, "I was very impressed with the cleanliness of the campground."
  • Spacious Sites: Many enjoy the roomy sites at Codorus State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "The trailer sites in loop C are spacious enough with plenty of shade and trees."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The vibe at Gettysburg / Battlefield KOA is welcoming for families. A visitor remarked, "They have plenty of activities for the kids from swimming, mini golf, and a scavenger hunt!"

What you should know:

  • No Alcohol Allowed: If you're planning to enjoy a drink, be aware that many campgrounds, like Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground, do not permit alcohol. A camper noted, "NO alcohol allowed" in their review.
  • Crowded During Peak Season: Expect busier sites during holidays. One camper at Cunningham Falls State Park mentioned, "It was crowded but the campground is very wooded so I did not feel a lack of privacy."
  • Limited Cell Service: If you rely on your phone, be prepared for spotty service at places like Pine Grove Furnace State Park Campground. A visitor said, "If you are planning to use your cellphone at this one, probably not going to happen."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Campgrounds with Activities: Look for campgrounds that offer fun for kids, like Hersheypark Camping Resort. A reviewer said, "The campground had two pools and a child’s pool."
  • Check for Playground Facilities: Many campgrounds, such as Gettysburg Campground, have playgrounds. One parent shared, "Playground and mini golf available."
  • Plan for Meals: Bring your own food or check if the campground has a store. A camper at Codorus State Park Campground mentioned, "There are some neat places around and markets are close by."

Tips from RVers:

  • Level Sites Matter: Make sure to choose a level site, especially at places like Cunningham Falls State Park. One RVer warned, "The sites on the upper side of the road... are short and have a lot of slope."
  • Full Hookups are a Plus: Look for campgrounds with full hookups, like Caledonia State Park Campground. A visitor noted, "Wouldn't book that site again for our unit. It was on a slope."
  • Check for Amenities: Ensure the campground has the amenities you need. A reviewer at Gettysburg / Battlefield KOA said, "The camp store was well-stocked."

Camping around Hanover, Pennsylvania, has something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family adventure, you'll find plenty of options to enjoy the great outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What campgrounds are available in Hanover, PA?

The primary campground in the Hanover area is Codorus State Park Campground, an older state park just outside of Hanover with electric wooded sites and open areas. It offers easy access to fresh water and serves as a great home base for exploring Gettysburg and surrounding areas. For those looking for alternatives near Hanover, Artillery Ridge Campground is another option in the vicinity, providing reservable sites with water and toilet facilities. Both campgrounds are conveniently located for visitors wanting to explore the Hanover region while enjoying the outdoors, with Codorus featuring a lake for boating and fishing activities.

Which campgrounds near Hanover offer amenities like swimming pools?

Pinch Pond Family Campground & RV Park offers swimming amenities for families visiting the Hanover area. Although conveniently located near Highway 30, the campground provides a family-friendly atmosphere with water recreation options. Another excellent option is Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country, which features resort-style amenities including swimming facilities. Located in nearby Amish country, this campground offers a more luxurious camping experience with recreational options for visitors looking to cool off during their stay. Both locations provide swimming opportunities while serving as convenient bases for exploring the greater Hanover region.

Where can I find dispersed camping opportunities near Hanover?

True dispersed camping options are limited near Hanover, but Pine Grove Furnace State Park Campground offers a more natural camping experience about 30 minutes from Hanover. Located at the midpoint of the Appalachian Trail, it provides electric sites with updated bathrooms and excellent hiking opportunities. For those seeking a unique semi-dispersed experience, Campground Island offers a peaceful setting completely surrounded by creek waters, creating a secluded atmosphere with the tranquil sounds of waterfalls and wildlife. While not true dispersed camping, these locations provide more natural settings than typical developed campgrounds in the region.