Raystown Lake camping facilities in the Hesston area provide both seasonal and year-round options for outdoor enthusiasts. The region sits at approximately 760 feet above sea level in the Allegheny Mountains, creating significant elevation changes that impact both navigation and campsite conditions. Cell phone coverage varies by carrier throughout the mountainous terrain, with Verizon typically offering the most reliable service in remote areas.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The 8,300-acre Raystown Lake offers multiple access points for anglers within a 15-20 minute drive of most campgrounds. "We fished at Tautman Run and Aitch - both were accessible and had lots of bluegill to steal our worms," notes a camper at Timber Run Campground.
Walking trails: Several campgrounds maintain on-site walking paths perfect for morning exercise. "It was quite nice to walk through the campground at 5 o'clock every morning," mentions a visitor to Friendship Village Campground & RV Park.
Boating access: Direct water access is available at select camping facilities. "The campground offers direct access to the river for afternoon floats on tubes or kayaks and they're building a large dock for fishing," reports a camper staying at River's Edge RV Park.
What campers like
Year-round camping options: Several RV sites near Hesston remain open during winter months, though with reduced amenities. "We can paddle and hike year round and camp in the spring, summer and fall. Amazing camp sites and several have beautiful lookouts over the lake," shares a reviewer at Honey Bear Campground.
Renovated facilities: Many campgrounds have recently updated their infrastructure. "It looks like they have recently remodeled the bathrooms/showers (3 of the 4 look brand new), and the pool has been crystal clear," notes a camper at Raystown Lake/Saxton KOA.
Water recreation: Proximity to water remains a major draw for campers. "Great setup location. Easy in and out, full utilities. Water is easy access, pool is heated," states a visitor to Waterside Campground and RV Park.
What you should know
Limited activities in surrounding towns: The rural location means fewer off-site attractions. "This campground is in the middle of nowhere but if you like the outdoors, I recommend it," observes a visitor to Raystown Lake / Saxton KOA at Four Seasons.
Site terrain challenges: Many campsites require leveling equipment. "The site wasn't hard to level our RV but overall the sites are hilly and in fact the whole park is on a hill," reports a Timber Run Campground visitor.
Seasonal events: Local festivals influence campground availability. "They provide a shuttle for Bedford's annual Fall Foliage festival, which is a bonus," mentions a Friendship Village camper.
Tips for camping with families
Event scheduling: Many campgrounds organize themed weekends with activities. "We stayed during Bigfoot weekend. It was super fun as our family likes bigfoot fun. We started out Friday night getting the offered $12 bbq plate that included pork burnt ends, beans and potato salad," shares a visitor to Timber Run.
Multiple playgrounds: Family-focused campgrounds often feature multiple play areas. "There is 3 play grounds all different and all well kept," notes a camper at Friendship Village.
Movie nights: Indoor entertainment options exist for inclement weather. "The property had a movie showing in their barn on Saturday night (Despicable Me) and they also seem to schedule a lot of live entertainment, mostly Bluegrass," explains a visitor to Friendship Village.
Tips from RVers
Premium sites availability: Deluxe accommodations with additional amenities can be reserved at select campgrounds. "Site 22 is a deluxe patio back in site with a patio, 4 nice Adirondack chairs, a double glider, a weber propane grill and built in fire pit AND a dog fence just for that site that was maybe 6 ft x 6ft," describes a camper at Timber Run Campground.
Mountain driving considerations: Alternative routes can save significant time. "If traveling from the Altoona area, go out through Martinsburg over Cove Mountain Rd - it saves you 30 minutes to an hour," advises a Timber Run visitor.
Hookup positioning: Site layouts sometimes require creative connections. "We shared 1 water source with 2 other campers. In order to hook anything up, you had to be in your neighbor's space," reports a Western Village RV Park visitor.
