Best Campgrounds near Hesston, PA
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.
