Gettysburg camping areas sit at approximately 560 feet above sea level in the rolling Piedmont region of Pennsylvania. The terrain features a mix of open fields and light woodlands, with several streams and small lakes throughout the region. Many campgrounds in the area remain open from April through November, with overnight temperatures that can dip below 50°F even in summer months.
What to do
Trail access to history: Artillery Ridge Campground borders battlefield sites where campers can walk directly onto historic grounds. "The national park is mostly dog friendly. My husband caught a fish first day in the pond behind our site," notes Justine I. from Artillery Ridge Campground.
Battlefield tours on horseback: National Riding Stables at Artillery Ridge offers a unique way to experience the battlefield on rescue horses. "You can take guided tours of the battlefield on horseback. Nice catch and release pond in campground," shares Zack from Artillery Ridge Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer fishing in stocked ponds and nearby creeks. At Codorus State Park Campground, "There are a few spots to get away and do some fishing. The beach was too crowded for my liking," mentions Raymond H.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds maintain swimming facilities during summer months. "There is no swimming allowed in the lake but there is a pool located at the park, there is no extra cost to use the pool if you are at the campground," explains Catherine H. from Codorus State Park.
What campers like
Proximity to town: Campgrounds near Gettysburg offer quick access to the town's attractions while still providing nature settings. "The campground is approximately a 3 minute drive from everything in the town of Gettysburg," shares Dave B. from Artillery Ridge Campground.
Organized activities: Gettysburg Battlefield Resort runs regular themed weekends and events. "The resort had great amenities for all ages. We stayed in October so there was plenty of activities for kids from crafts, games, dancing, to trick or treating," reports Michael R.
Privacy levels vary: Sites range from wide-open to more secluded options. At Gettysburg Campground, "The tenting area is calm and has a creek right next to it to listen to in the evening and morning," notes Dave G., though he warns that "a lot of the trees are black walnut trees and the squirrels do not shy away from dropping the walnuts like bombs on your head."
Off-season experience: For those seeking glamping close to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania in cooler months, some campgrounds maintain year-round operations. "The lady in the office are AMAZING (JENN AND SUE), and they answered all questions we had... they got us a great deal for are winter site," explains Lakota M. from Artillery Ridge.
What you should know
Site conditions vary: Some campgrounds have challenges with terrain. At Granite Hill Camping Resort, campers note that "it took 2 hours to get our camper set up because of the very uneven stone lot, thankfully we had enough wood to get the jack up without having to over extend it."
Reservation needs: During peak history tourism months (May-September), campsites fill quickly. Gettysburg Campground is particularly noted for weekend bookings: "Just as all the other reviews say it's a great place to stay. Quiet clean and the occasional drop of nuts from squirrels but not a big deal," says Martin E.
Weather preparations: The area can experience sudden summer storms with significant rainfall. "Some areas flood when it rains hard," warns Barb C. about Mountain Creek Camp Ground, where glamping options near Gettysburg may require extra weather planning.
Hookup locations: RV campers should prepare for varying utility placements. "The hookups are oddly spaced and you need to ensure you have extentions handy," notes Bobby S. at Granite Hill Camping Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose sites near recreation areas for easier kid monitoring. At Mountain Creek Camp Ground, "You can let the kids play all day while sitting at your campsite cooking and just hanging. It's only 15 yards for the play set," recommends Larry N.
Water play options: Creek tubing is popular at several campgrounds during summer months. "The kids enjoyed playing in the creek and tubing," shares a reviewer at Mountain Creek Camp Ground, where families often spend hours playing in the shallow stream.
Distance considerations: Family campers should note facility locations when booking. "Bathrooms and activities can be a hike," warns a Mountain Creek Camp Ground visitor, suggesting golf cart rentals for families with young children.
Educational opportunities: The historical significance of the area creates learning moments. "We did Park Ranger tours to learn about the 1st shot and how the war started to stand in the footsteps of General Buford at Senitary Ridge in the cupola overseeing the battlefield," shares an Artillery Ridge camper.
Tips from RVers
Noise factors: RVers seeking quieter glamping accommodations near Gettysburg should consider location within campgrounds. "If you're looking for a backwoods, off-the-beaten-path type of campground, this isn't it. If you are looking for a campground that is very close to an historical National Park not to mention shopping and restaurants, this is for you," explains Jim G. about Gettysburg Campground.
Premium site selection: Several campgrounds have recently upgraded their RV accommodations. "A pool, mini golf, pavilion, and premium sites are being constructed," notes Sean M. about Artillery Ridge's improvements for upscale glamping close to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.
Extension cords required: Some RV sites have unusual utility placement. "My electric hookup didn't work on 30A," reports Bobby S. at Granite Hill, suggesting RVers bring adapters and extension cords.
Level site options: Many campgrounds offer mixed terrain. "Site was pretty level," reports Brett D. at Artillery Ridge, while others mention bringing adequate leveling equipment, especially for the more wooded sections of campgrounds.
