Primitive tent camping around Hershey, Pennsylvania provides affordable overnight options generally within 30-45 miles of the chocolate destination. The region features several county and township-managed tent camping areas typically costing $15-25 nightly. Most primitive sites in the greater Hershey area require payment by cash or check, with reservations handled through individual park offices rather than centralized systems. Winter camping is limited, with most locations closing between October and April.
What to do
Creek activities: Yellow Breeches Creek at Lower Allen Community Park offers kayak-in camping opportunities. "Cute site in a local township park that not many people know about. You can put in a few miles up and float down to your site," notes a camper. The park locks gates at dusk but provides fire pits and picnic tables.
Fishing access: Children under 12 can enjoy designated fishing at Hibernia County Park. "Great children's pond for 12 and under. Brandywine creek and Chambers Lake are there too," states one reviewer. No gas-powered motors are permitted on Chambers Lake, creating a quieter fishing environment.
Trail exploration: Multiple trail networks connect campgrounds to broader hiking systems. "You can bike to the trail from the campground. All downhill. So be ready for the climb back up," mentions a camper about Susquehannock State Park's bike trail to Conowingo dam, approximately 4 miles from the campground.
What campers like
Cooling creek proximity: The temperature regulation provided by streamside sites appeals to summer campers at Mill Creek Camping Area. "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," shares a reviewer who found the site provided natural air conditioning during hot periods.
Budget-friendly rates: Campsites maintain affordable pricing compared to commercial options. "Super great price at $15/night as well," notes a family staying at Hibernia County Park. Most primitive sites in Lancaster County maintain flat rates regardless of occupancy, typically allowing 4-6 people per site.
Flexible weather policies: "Campground will refund you if rain prevents your stay or allow you to rebook," mentions a reviewer about Mill Creek Campground, highlighting policies some parks have implemented to accommodate weather disruptions. Check with individual park offices as refund policies vary significantly.
What you should know
Site privacy varies: Some campgrounds provide minimal separation between neighboring campers. "There is absolutely no privacy. The campsites are right next to each other with hardly any trees," reports one camper about Lake Loop at Hibernia. For more isolation, request sites farther from main trails.
Limited drinking water: Water availability is inconsistent across primitive sites. "There are NO HOOKUPS, and water is not easy to come by if you are in an RV. If you are coming in an RV, you should come with a full water tank," advises a camper about Fiddler's Loop. Many locations provide only a single spigot near toilet facilities.
Hiker traffic: Tent sites situated near trail systems experience foot traffic. "Hikers take any trail instead of marked trails regardless of families camping in private areas," notes a camper about Mill Creek Campground. Trail users sometimes pass through camping areas, particularly during peak daylight hours.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Rolling Hills Retreats and other locations provide playground equipment near tent sites. "Great playground," mentions a reviewer about Hibernia County Park, which features play structures within walking distance of camping loops.
Bathroom considerations: Facilities vary significantly between camping areas. "The porta potties are very clean and don't smell and are lit with a street lamp," shares a family camper about Lake Campground, noting the child-friendly bathroom maintenance. Most primitive campgrounds feature vault toilets rather than flush facilities.
Age-appropriate activities: Consider age restrictions for recreation areas. "The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing," mentions a parent about Hibernia's designated youth fishing pond, which maintains special regulations for anglers 12 and under.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accessibility: Few primitive tent campgrounds accommodate larger recreational vehicles. "I wouldn't attempt to park an RV up there," cautions a reviewer about Lake Loop at Hibernia County Park. Susquehannock State Park Campground offers some of the best tent camping near Hershey with electric hookups at select sites.
Tank management: "There is NO DUMP STATION. There are a few nearby campgrounds that will let you dump for a fee, otherwise, you'll have to look for a truck stop on the way home," advises an RVer staying at Hibernia. Most primitive tent sites near Hershey lack waste disposal facilities.
Site leveling challenges: Uneven terrain requires preparation. "They aren't level, but nothing a little creative positioning can't fix," explains a camper with a 28-foot fifth wheel about Fiddler's Loop. Small travel trailers and pop-ups can access more tent-focused campgrounds than larger RVs.
