Campgrounds near Hummelstown, Pennsylvania sit in the gently rolling hills of the Susquehanna Valley at approximately 400 feet elevation. The area experiences four distinct seasons with humid summers reaching into the 80s and winters that can drop below freezing. Most campgrounds in this region operate on limestone or shale terrain, creating natural drainage but occasionally challenging leveling conditions for larger rigs.
What to do
Visit working farms: At Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm in Dover, campers can experience agricultural life firsthand. "We've enjoyed mini-golf, feeding the animals, 'hiking' through the cornfield, fishing, and campfires," shares Kasey M. The farm atmosphere creates unique camping memories as "the sounds of the farm animals all around was fun and amusing for us," according to Mary H.
Explore Amish Country: Lancaster County offers authentic cultural experiences within 30 minutes of many Hummelstown area campgrounds. "Not much for amenities, but I loved the surrounding dutch/Amish towns! It was pretty cool to seemingly step back in time," writes Jill R. about her stay at Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country.
Visit historic sites: Gettysburg National Military Park is accessible from several campgrounds in the region. "The campground is about ten minutes away from Gettysburg National Military Park which is definitely worth visiting," notes Nancy W. who stayed at Round Top Campground. The area offers both daytime battlefield tours and evening ghost walks through historic districts.
What campers like
Pool facilities: Many rv sites near Hummelstown feature swimming pools that remain open late into the evening. At Pinch Pond Family Campground, "the pool stayed open pretty late so that was a huge bonus for me," mentions Melissa Y. These facilities provide welcome relief during Pennsylvania's humid summer months.
Clean bathhouses: Travelers consistently highlight the importance of clean facilities. "The bathhouses were heated, and okay," notes Kasey M. about her experience at Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country. At Sun Valley Campground, Jim C. appreciated the "immaculately clean bathrooms and showers" during his stay.
Community activities: Drummer Boy Camping Resort near Gettysburg organizes regular events for all ages. "A yard sale, vendor sale, golf cart parade, as well as other activities going on. The campground offers free mini golf, a pool and a splash pad pool area," reports Laure D. These organized activities create a social atmosphere particularly appreciated by seasonal campers.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the Hummelstown area feature sloping terrain that requires preparation. At Thousand Trails Circle M in Lancaster, Karla R. noted "lower sites are muddy" after rainfall. At Spring Gulch Resort Campground, campsites "can be on top of each other and can be very rocky or muddy. We actually broke quite a few tent stakes just trying to get our footprint down," warns Phinon W.
Seasonal closures: Most camping facilities near Hummelstown operate from March/April through October/November. Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country RV Resort has a specific season "from April 14 to October 29," according to their listing information. Plan accordingly if visiting during shoulder seasons.
Noise considerations: Several campgrounds experience noise from nearby roadways or other facilities. At Pinch Pond Family Campground, "there's a shooting range near the property, so at all hours you will hear target practice going on," reports Stuart K. Some sites at Thousand Trails Circle M experience road noise from nearby highways.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with kid-focused amenities: Spring Gulch Resort Campground offers "Lots of sports gear available for free to use within park," notes Beth B., though items "must be returned by 5 when main office closes." Look for properties with splash pads, playgrounds, and organized activities.
Consider farm experiences: Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm provides unique educational opportunities. "If you love farm animals, that is the spot to be. Got a kick out of the children playing with the kids (baby goats) pigs, goats, chickens, horses and even lamas. Plenty to see and learn," recommends Robert M.
Book early for holiday weekends: Holiday periods fill quickly at popular campgrounds near Hummelstown. "We camped here in May for Memorial Day weekend and it was full," shares Jen R. about Spring Gulch Resort Campground. Sites with specific amenities like pull-throughs or full hookups become particularly scarce during peak periods.
Tips from RVers
Prepare for site variations: RV sites near Hummelstown, Pennsylvania vary significantly in size and accessibility. At Appalachian Camping Resort, "if you are an RVer or 5th Wheeler, the best sites IMHO are those that back up to the periphery and are northernmost up the slight embankment as you'll have greater privacy," advises Stuart K. Researching specific site details before arrival helps avoid disappointment.
Water quality considerations: Some campgrounds experience water quality issues. At Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country, "Water was rusty in our row came out brown at first then was tan after running through our filter for the entire stay," reports Justin B. Bringing extra water filters or bottled water for drinking might be necessary at certain locations.
Sewer connection positioning: Placement of hookups can impact the camping experience. At Appalachian Camping Resort, Luis B. notes "fire pit is within feet from poop sewer connection of neighbor." At Round Top Campground, one camper mentioned "Septic dump was about 20 feet away and we had to use an extension to get to it."
