Tent camping near Harrisburg, Pennsylvania offers creekside and woodland sites within a 60-mile radius of the city. Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, typically closing during winter months when temperatures average 28°F. Several sites require advance reservations through park offices or township authorities, with fees ranging from $15-30 per night depending on location and amenities.
What to do
Creek exploration and wading: At Mill Creek Camping Area, campers can wade in the stream during summer months. "Campsite for where we stayed is down by the creek making for a cooler camping experience and love the sound of water flowing at night," notes camper Meagan J.
Fishing access: Several campgrounds provide direct access to stocked trout streams. At Reeds Gap State Park Campground, Honey Creek runs through the park with both native and stocked trout populations. Paula L. mentions, "The beautiful stream (Honey Creek) running through it might be the pearl for a fisherman (It has native and stocked trout)."
Digital detox opportunity: Sites like Reeds Gap offer a true disconnection from technology. Cheryl K. reports, "Stayed here on a Sunday night without a reservation. We were the only ones there. Pay by honor system at the park office. Campground was quiet and lovely."
What campers like
Riverside tent sites: Lower Allen Community Park offers a unique kayak-accessible camping experience. "Cute site in a local township park that not many people know about. There actually three total. You just need to call the township to reserve. The sites sit right along the Yellow Breeches creak so you can put in a few miles up and float down to your site," explains Joann I.
Modern bathroom facilities: Several campers highlight the quality of facilities at certain parks. At Reeds Gap, Paula L. appreciates the "super clean, eco-shower. Timed water, lights (solar?)etc. are spot on for me!"
Proximity to urban conveniences: Many tent camping sites maintain a balance between natural settings and access to necessities. Lower Allen Community Park is situated "in the suburbs so it's close to lots of things," according to Joann I., while still providing a genuine outdoor experience.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Verify opening dates before planning your trip. Susquehannock State Park Campground and other state parks typically open mid-April and close mid-October.
Reservation systems vary: Some parks require advance booking while others operate on first-come basis. At Reeds Gap, Cheryl K. notes they use an "honor system at the park office" during less busy periods.
Trail traffic concerns: Public access trails sometimes cross through camping areas. At Mill Creek, Sakina P. warns, "Hikers take any trail instead of marked trails regardless of families camping in a private areas. When I made the reservation it was noted that hikers were not allowed on campsites."
Limited water access: Not all campgrounds provide drinking water. Bring containers to fill at central water stations where available, especially at primitive sites.
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: Several parks offer recreational facilities for children. Rebecca G. says of Shikellamy State Park Campground: "A pavilion and playground with many picnic tables also available."
Consider site location: At Reeds Gap, Danielle C. advises, "We got a nice one tucked back in the trees, but a few of them are pretty close to the road," suggesting families with young children should request sites away from traffic areas.
Bathroom proximity: Check campground maps for bathroom locations relative to tent sites. John Z. at Reeds Gap notes, "Bathhouses were a little far away," which can be challenging with young children, especially at night.
Park closure times: Some parks enforce strict closing hours. Lower Allen locks gates at dusk, requiring campers to plan accordingly for arrivals and departures.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent camping areas near Harrisburg restrict or don't accommodate RVs. Shambala at Mystic Hollow specifically offers walk-in tent sites only, with no RV access.
Consider elevation changes: When planning routes to campgrounds in the region's rolling hills, David G. from Susquehannock advises caution for cyclists: "You can bike to the trail from the campground. All downhill. So be ready for the climb back up."
Pack-in requirements: Many tent-specific sites require carrying gear short distances from parking areas. Kelly C. from Reeds Gap confirms it's "only tents and it's dog and family friendly," but prepare to transport equipment from designated parking areas to your site.
