Yurt camping opportunities near Highspire, Pennsylvania position visitors within the Susquehanna River Valley at approximately 350 feet above sea level. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 85°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Several state parks within a 25-mile radius of Highspire maintain camping facilities that remain operational from April through October, with limited winter availability at select locations.
What to do
Water recreation on Lake Pinchot: Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground offers kayaking, fishing, and swimming from their large maintained beach area. "The state park itself has a LOT to offer, especially in the two main day use areas: the Conewago day use area on the south side of the lake and the Quaker Race day use area on the north side of the lake. Both areas have great access for fishing," notes Danielle V.
Riverfront activities: River Rock Recreation provides direct river access for kayaking, fishing and wildlife observation along the Susquehanna River. "We spent our time fishing the river banks right outside our tents and kayaking on the Susquehanna to fish the warm waters. We caught a ton of catfish and carp using live bait," says Zach R.
Historic site exploration: Several campgrounds offer access to nearby historic attractions including Amish country tours. At Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country, "If you'd like to experience what it's like to go camping in Amish country then Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country RV Resort has you covered," observes Stuart K.
What campers like
Spacious camping layouts: Many campers appreciate the well-designed sites at Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA where yurt camping options are available. "Our site was very nice! We were in a back in site #4. The patio was concrete stone, very pretty. Nice chairs, fire pit, and picnic table," mentions Cat R.
Year-round yurt availability: Codorus State Park Campground maintains yurts even during cooler seasons. "We had site 132, which was huge and had nice open flat areas for the tent, there were actually three spots that we could have put it on, and lots of trees to hang our hammocks," says J K.
Private camping experiences: For those seeking isolation while yurt camping near Highspire, Pennsylvania, some sites offer complete privacy. "Shout out to River Rock Adventures for an amazing weekend! This place is so quiet and so well maintained! The trails are awesome," writes Kelly M. about Little Buffalo State Park Campground.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby highways or other facilities. "The only negative I have is there is a railroad nearby. During the day you kind of don't notice it but you may hear it at night if you are a light sleeper. Just bring earplugs," advises Kellyann M. about her stay at River Rock Recreation.
Limited water access: Water availability varies significantly between campgrounds. "No water but the bath house was close and very clean," reports Kevin M. about Codorus State Park. Other campers note bringing additional water supplies is recommended for tent and yurt camping near Highspire.
Seasonal variations: Weather impacts campground accessibility and comfort. "It was about 90 degrees with high humidity both days. The shade and the breeze from the river was a bonus," shares James B., highlighting the importance of selecting shaded sites during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Pool facilities for children: Families value campgrounds with swimming options. "They have a pool but not included in the camping price and it gets very crowded," notes Dawn T. about Little Buffalo State Park Campground, while another camper adds, "The pool is very nice! They offer a large area that is only 1 foot deep, great for little ones!"
Playground proximity: Pinch Pond Family Campground & RV Park offers family-friendly amenities close to glamping and yurt options. "The office and grounds keeping staff were super friendly and helpful. They have Hershey's ice cream in the office and my kids enjoyed getting a treat. Their game room has tickets," writes Melissa Y.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Families enjoy nature-based activities at multiple locations. "By the far the highlight of ours as well. If you sit by the river long enough you may see a barn owl fly by in the evening and back again in the morning. My boys spotted the nest while kayaking," shares Kellyann M.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: RVers recommend checking site conditions before selecting a spot. "Campground loses a start because the sites are pretty uneven. Not just the one we're on but others as well. The campground is pretty hilly and they don't seem to want to level out the sites. We had to go out and get more blocks and we're still not very level front to back," advises Sammii D. about Hersheypark Camping Resort.
Hookup considerations: Water and electric connections vary widely between sites and campgrounds. "Sites were a bit close where we were but they had other sites that were more spread out. Nice pool and great camp store!" notes Ray L., emphasizing the importance of researching site specifics before booking.
Seasonal facility operations: Services and amenities change throughout the year. "Our site was very nice! The patio was concrete stone, very pretty. Nice chairs, fire pit, and picnic table. The bath house was extremely clean and very nice. The pool was nice, but being that it was the end of June, the water was freezing!" cautions Cat R.
