Raystown Lake dominates the camping landscape near Hesston, Pennsylvania, with Seven Points campground serving as the primary developed camping area managed by the Army Corps of Engineers. The region includes multiple camping loops with varied terrain and amenities, from waterfront sites to more secluded wooded areas. Seven Points offers electric hookups at most sites, with accommodations for tents, RVs, and cabin camping across its six distinct camping loops. Other mixed-use campgrounds in the area include Lake Raystown Resort, Trough Creek State Park Campground, and smaller private operations like Nancy's Boat To Shore and Star Lee Farm.
Seasonal considerations shape the camping experience in this region, with most campgrounds operating from April through October. A camper noted, "We stayed in Senoia loop in site 236 which was spacious, private, and with a nice breeze!" Reservations are strongly recommended for waterfront sites, which typically book immediately when reservation windows open. The terrain throughout the Raystown Lake recreation area features significant elevation changes, with many sites split between different levels—parking pads on one level and fire rings or picnic tables accessed by stairs on another. Cell service is generally available but can be spotty in some of the more remote camping loops, particularly those farther from the main lake area.
Waterfront campsites represent the most sought-after camping options around Hesston, offering direct lake access for boating and swimming. According to visitor reports, "The sites were nice, there was some garbage left behind from prior campers but a nice layout." Mountain biking enthusiasts frequent the campground areas near the extensive Allegrippis Trail system, with Ridge camp providing the closest access to these trails. The campground facilities receive consistent praise for cleanliness and maintenance, with multiple bathhouses, playgrounds, and a beach area with concessions available during peak season. While the natural setting remains the primary draw, campers should be prepared for significant boat traffic and associated noise during summer weekends, as Raystown Lake is a popular boating destination in central Pennsylvania.
$28 - $200 / night
"This campground is located on the east side of Pennsylvania and offers a beautiful view of Lake Raystown. The campground has over 200 sites to choose from, and many of them are right on the water."
"Campground Review: Located in the Raystown Lake Recreation Area is Seven Points. It has 6 different loops to choose from. Two are waterfront and view."
$25 - $32 / night
"We ended up with spot 3, which was on a cliff’s edge. So, it looked like it may be near the water, but there was no way down, and the forest obscured any view that may have been there."
"Loops for RVs, higher on the hill, waterfront loops on steeper grounds for tents, and some walk-to sites adjacent to parking right at the point which double as boat-in."
"Fantastic lake side camping resort. Best for campers or using their cabins but it has freeway access to the lake and beautiful views."
"Beautiful lakeside sites."
"Lost a star for the long and steep incline walk to the bathrooms. Accessibility note: Careful if you have mobility issues. Many of the sites are terraced and require using steps."
"Wonderful views of the lake and the lake go-ers!"
$27 - $29 / night
"We wanted to be close to Raystown Lake. Trough is quiet and small. It's really great if you're looking for a spot to "rough" it (not really, but closer than most!) with the kids. Awesome sites."
"Nice small park with gravel drives/roads and plenty of room for big rigs. All sites level with partial shade. Open, but with plently of space between sites. The trails are nice and very sceinic."
$100 / night
"The pavilion where all those activities happened were right next to our site (22 with the doggie den)."
"The staff here at Raystown Lake/Saxton KOA are great. They a friendly, willing to help anyway they can, and keep the place spotless."
$1 - $395 / night
"thankful to have raystown family campground so close to home. Can paddle and hike year round and camp in the spring, summer and fall."
"We called to make the reservation and told them we would be pulling in around 7 pm. Danielle (one of the owners) stated no problem, I will be here."
$15 / night
"They are in an area of the lake that has a lot of boat traffic, the waterfront spots usually book a few weeks in advance and are in a wake zone. There is mooring along both sides of the campground."
"There's a huge field to start gaze as well as taking pictures, lots of hiking and if you're a bee enthusiast they grow their own honey in the property and you're more than welcome to walk around and look"
$9 / night
"Bathrooms with flush toilets but showers are outside showers (ew). Situated along a creek connected to Raystown Lake."
"Flush toilets but showers are outside public showers (ew) ."
ScoutNice campground, level site, very clean. (Here early in season though!) $40/night. Lost a star for the long and steep incline walk to the bathrooms. Accessibility note: Careful if you have mobility issues. Many of the sites are terraced and require using steps.
TravelerSite SS007 sits roughly two miles off pavement along a fairly rough access road. A standard Ford Explorer handled the drive without trouble, though bringing a trailer would likely only be practical if it is set up for overlanding conditions.
The location offers excellent views of the Susquehanna River and exceptionally clear night skies with strong stargazing opportunities. There was no existing fire ring on site, so we built one using nearby stones. The site does not include a picnic table or other amenities, making it a primative experience.
Cell service was limited but usable, averaging about one bar with AT&T and two bars with T-Mobile.
Overall, it is a quiet, scenic roadside site best suited for campers comfortable with minimal facilities and no other people around.
TravelerWe have camped there twice. One was a buddy site.
GuideThe weather wasn’t too great, but the campaign joy could not be hampered. We had a great spot along the creek, which was also a short walk from the lake. The bathroom facilities are fantastic nice and clean couldn’t be happier.
TravelerIve camped at Black Moshannon State Park many times both in a tent and our camper. The Park has tent only, electric and full hookup sites. It is well cared for and clean. The bathhouses are nice and well maintained. The Park itself offers a lot to do with fishing. Hiking, the beach, kayak rentals, etc. I've never had a bad time at Black Moshannon and will keep coming back.
TravelerWe absolutely love camping here, we've been at multiple sites, electric only and full hookup and they never disappoint. The sites are big and spaced far apart. Its a quiet park at night, but thers plenty to do during the day.
GuideClean bathrooms, full hookups with paved spots, firewood and ice for sale based on an honor system - so nice.
1 bar ATT 2 bar T-Mobile 50-100mbps with Starlink with obstructions
ScoutClean and well taken care of, pretty quiet. Would definitely stay here again but a few things to keep in mind.
For kids the play grounds are run down. Also no real “dog run”. All in all if your a couple wanting to go relax its great, but if you have pets and or younger kids there isn’t much on the grounds.
ScoutStaying for two weeks.
Camping options near Hesston, Pennsylvania center around Raystown Lake, the largest lake entirely within Pennsylvania at 8,300 acres with 118 miles of shoreline. The area sits within the Ridge and Valley physiographic province, with elevations ranging from 760 feet at the lake to over 2,300 feet on surrounding ridges. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from April through October, with some sites requiring reservations up to 6 months in advance.
Mountain biking access: Ridge Camp provides the most convenient entrance to the Allegrippis Trail system. "Ridge camp is the furthest away from the marina and the public swimming area. However it's the closest to the Allegrippis Trail system and from the entrance of the camp loop there is a trail head!" reports a camper at Seven Points.
Hiking options: Trough Creek State Park offers scenic trails with unique geological features. "It has a nice hike up above a creek with a huge rock that appears ready to fall over the cliff with a simple touch. very neat," notes a visitor to Trough Creek State Park Campground.
Lake recreation: The lake provides extensive fishing, swimming, and boating opportunities. "There's a marina, a restaurant at the marina, a visitors center, and a bicycle 'course' for younger people I think," explains a camper from Seven Points. Boat rentals are available seasonally at some locations.
Secluded waterfront camping: Susquehannock Campground offers primitive sites directly on Raystown Lake. "Very cool camp. Loops for RVs, higher on the hill, waterfront loops on steeper grounds for tents, and some walk-to sites adjacent to parking right at the point which double as boat-in. Some site right on the water, can walk right into the lake," reports a visitor to Susquehannock.
Well-maintained facilities: Campground facilities throughout the region receive consistent maintenance. "Great clean campground, easy to maneuver with a big rig, level sites, clean restrooms and shower rooms. Lots of great hiking, footpath around the park layered with recycled rubber was great to walk on," notes a camper at Seven Points.
Convenient boat access: Some campgrounds offer direct lake access for boats. "These campsites are accessible by boat ONLY! They are in an area of the lake that has a lot of boat traffic, the waterfront spots usually book a few weeks in advance and are in a wake zone," explains a visitor to Nancy's Boat To Shore Campground.
Site terrain considerations: Many campsites throughout the area are built on slopes or uneven terrain. "Our site was carved out of the side of the hill with 3 wood walls. Our table and firepit were up several stairs/steps. This is a hilly area so your site is split and the two areas are on different levels," shares a visitor to Seven Points.
Limited cell service: Cell reception can be spotty throughout the area, especially in more remote campgrounds. "Service is a little sketch but it's perfect for those who want to completely escape the business of modern world," notes a camper at STAR LEE FARM.
Reservation timing: Waterfront sites book extremely quickly when reservation windows open. "We wanted a waterfront spot, and although we booked over a month in advance none were available," reports a camper at Susquehannock.
Frequently Asked Questions
What recreational activities are available at Raystown Lake in Hesston?
Raystown Lake offers extensive recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy swimming in designated beach areas, fishing, kayaking, and boating on the lake's expansive waters. Lake Raystown Resort provides access to many of these water activities. The area features numerous hiking trails and an extensive mountain bike trail system. Other popular activities include wildlife viewing, picnicking, and night sky observation. During summer months, some locations offer concession stands for visitor convenience. The variety of activities makes it ideal for families, with options suitable for all ages and interests.
Where is the Raystown Lake recreation area in Hesston, Pennsylvania?
The Raystown Lake recreation area is located in south-central Pennsylvania, near the community of Hesston. Seven Points (PA) is situated on the east side of the lake, offering beautiful waterfront views. The recreation area encompasses several thousand acres along the Raystown Branch of the Juniata River, with multiple access points around the lake. The area is easily accessible regardless of vehicle size, making it convenient for visitors traveling with various types of recreational vehicles.
Are there camping facilities at Raystown Lake near Hesston, Pennsylvania?
Yes, Raystown Lake offers excellent camping facilities. Nancy's Boat To Shore Campground (PA) near Hesston provides both boat-in and drive-in access with reservable sites. Point Campground offers water access and is big-rig friendly. The area features over 200 campsites, many right on the water with options ranging from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV spots. Campgrounds in the region typically provide clean facilities with amenities like showers, toilets, and in some cases, electricity. Most sites are reservable, which is recommended during peak summer months when the area becomes popular.
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