Camping options near Howard, Pennsylvania range from secluded primitive sites to full-service RV parks within the Appalachian Plateau region. The area sits at approximately 700-1,400 feet elevation with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Winter camping is limited as most facilities close by mid-December due to average temperatures dropping below freezing.
What to do
Fishing access points: The Primitive Camping Area at Bald Eagle State Park provides easy lake access through a tunnel under railroad tracks near the bathrooms. "Nearby lake access through a tunnel under the tracks near the bathrooms. Two points for trail access along the campground road," notes Sean Y.
Cave exploration: Woodward Cave Campground offers its own on-site cave for exploration. "Best part was it had its own cave! No playground for the kids but with the cave we didn't mind. This place is also about 20 to 30 minutes from Penn's Cave which is the only cave in Pa that you tour by boat," shares Jen R.
Boating options: Foster Cove Marina rents pontoon boats, fishing boats, and kayaks within minutes of most Howard campgrounds. "We usually rent a boat and swim and watch the eagles all day. One of the best experiences ever," reports Sara W., who camps at Bald Eagle State Park.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: The Primitive Camping Area section of Bald Eagle State Park offers more seclusion than the main campground. "Stayed in Primitive Area with RV which is MUCH QUIETER & MUCH MORE PRIVATE with many trees than the full hookups down in the main park area. The developed Campground is very 'exposed' - not private, sites close to each other, no trees," explains Rebecca E.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained bathrooms at most RV campgrounds near Howard, Pennsylvania. "The individual bathroom/showers were great & clean. Office facilities & firewood access were also nice," notes Mike who stayed at Bellefonte-State College KOA.
Riverfront camping: Waterside Campground and RV Park offers premium riverside sites. "Absolutely beautiful if you are riverside. Staff was friendly and helpful. Typical overall, but clean and pretty. Stay on the waterside! Sites 48-53. Stayed at 49, it was absolutely perfection!" writes Matthew S.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Coverage varies dramatically between campgrounds in this region. While not mentioned for all parks, campers should prepare for spotty connections, especially at state parks.
Varying site privacy: The Russell P Letterman Campground at Bald Eagle State Park has more open sites compared to the Primitive Area. "The sites are flat and open. There is a lack of trees, so no real wind break. Each site has a fire ring and a hook to hang food from small animals," explains Danielle S.
Wildlife precautions: The region has active wildlife including raccoons and bears. "The raccoons were a fun surprise on our last night! We left the grease trap from the Blackstone out and they found it. We did not see any bears though we heard they are there," shares Erik E. who camped at Russell P Letterman Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Activities for kids: The Bellefonte Campground provides family-friendly amenities beyond traditional playgrounds. "They have some animals, like goats, as well in a little farm area. Nice new cabins too," mentions Clean Slate D.
Bike-friendly campgrounds: Several campgrounds have good biking loops for children. "The kids had fun riding the bikes around the loop and taking the short cuts cut in around the loop. We had fun walking to the foot bridge to go fishing," shares Erik E. about Russell P Letterman Campground.
Swimming options: Most campgrounds near Howard offer swimming access, with Bald Eagle State Park featuring a sandy beach area. "Beach is beautiful, very calm, warm water for early July, soft sand and nice large trees for shade," notes Rachel C., though she adds the beach "is not easily walkable from the campground, 3 mile walk on a muddy overgrown path."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many RV campgrounds in Howard, Pennsylvania require leveling equipment due to terrain. "Sites are sloped a bit as most are in the mountains. We were able to decently level our motorhome with blocks," reports Clean Slate D. at The Bellefonte Campground.
Water pressure issues: Some campgrounds struggle with consistent water pressure. For those staying at RV sites, bringing a water pressure regulator and supplemental water may be necessary.
Seasonal site options: River's Edge RV Park & Campground offers seasonal options for those wanting a regular camping spot. "We stumbled upon this brand new campground along the Juniata River in Mifflintown PA, fell in love with it, and purchased our first seasonal site! The campground currently has 40 sites but is adding 40 more for 2021," shares Jenn D.
