The Imler region sits at a higher elevation than surrounding areas, creating cooler temperatures throughout camping season. Located near the second highest peak in Pennsylvania, Imler area campgrounds experience temperature drops of 5-10 degrees compared to nearby towns. Camping options range from primitive tent sites along creeks to full-service RV parks with extensive family activities.
What to do
Fishing access points: Pat's Primitive Place offers excellent creek fishing with trout. "Right around the corner from our site was a great spot along the river for sitting out in the sun and fishing for trout," notes a camper at Pat's Primitive Place.
Mountain biking trails: Seven Points campground provides direct access to the Allegrippis Trail system. "The mtb trails begin just above the upper camp loops and provide a full day of fast flowing singletrack," according to a reviewer who appreciated the "IMBA standard built trails that are open year round and in any weather."
Lake activities: Lake Raystown offers multiple water recreation options beyond swimming. "The lake is beautiful and has a large, sandy beach. Would love to spend more time there to explore the park further," shares a visitor at Shawnee State Park Campground. Rentals for pontoon boats and jet skis are available in season at several locations around the lake.
Historical sites: Bedford County contains numerous historical points of interest within 30 minutes of Imler. "If you stay here, make sure to travel down the road to see the Flight 93 Memorial," recommends a Shawnee State Park camper.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Blue Knob State Park Campground offers well-spaced camping areas. "The sites are nice, the bathrooms are clean, the lake was great to swim and canoe in. Also like that each loop has a host who supplies fire wood for a nominal price," notes a camper at Rocky Gap State Park, which shares similar amenities to Blue Knob.
Multiple camping loops: Seven Points features distinct camping areas each with their own character. "Ridge camp is the furthest away from the marina and the public swimming area. However it's the closest to the Allegrippis Trail system and from the entrance of the camp loop there is a trail head!" A reviewer adds that "Ridge has a laundromat at only 25¢/load."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds throughout the Imler area maintain well-kept restrooms and shower facilities. "The bathhouse was clean with 3 showers," notes one camper about Seven Points, while another mentions "the restroom at Ridge has 4 shower stalls which were very clean with hot water at a great water pressure."
Weekend activities: Many campgrounds organize social events for guests. "This campground is very clean and family friendly. They have mini golf, fishing, and special events on weekends," shares a visitor at Friendship Village Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate on limited schedules with varying amenities. "The campground is quite spread out through the property with sites ranging from primitive campsites to full hook up big rig sites," explains a camper at Friendship Village Campground.
Temperature variations: Higher elevation campgrounds remain cooler than valley locations. "It was chillier than surrounding areas due to being on the mountain," notes a Blue Knob State Park visitor about September temperatures.
Site selection: Research specific sites when booking. "Double check site booked," warns a Shawnee State Park camper. "We absolutely loved our stay at this park once we changed sites. We have a 35' TT and there was no way it was going to fit in the site we originally booked."
Supply planning: Limited services in the area require advance planning. "Bring everything you need, it's about 30 minutes to some supplies. Make sure you bring firewood," advises a Blue Knob camper who also notes to "be prepared for extremely limited cell service (Verizon)."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Multiple campgrounds feature dedicated children's areas. "Lots of fun for kids, live music on the weekend, this campground was full of activity," shares a visitor at Friendship Village Campground and RV Park, adding "there is a jumping pillow and a very well-built gaga ball pit."
Beach access: Several campgrounds offer swimming areas with amenities. "The campground beach is fun. There is a 5 mile trail that goes all around the lake. Lots of lake to paddle," notes a Rocky Gap State Park visitor.
Playground options: Look for campgrounds with multiple play areas. "We love that the campground has their own beach so it's not over crowded with the public. Near the beach there is a nice playground near shade for parents to watch," shares a Rocky Gap State Park camper.
Weekend programming: Check campground schedules for family events. "Went camping here for the first time this weekend. Although it was the off season there was still tons to do. The kids played mini golf, jumped on the pillow, played on multiple playgrounds, enjoyed ice cream and went fishing," explains a Friendship Village visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain. "Sites are very spacious and the gravel pad was level upon parking. Good connections and solid cable," reports a camper at Raystown Lake / Saxton KOA, contrasting with less level sites at other area campgrounds.
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience highway sounds. "Nice campground, clean and plenty of activities for the kids. The only thing we didn't like was all of the road noise. This campground is located by 2 major highways and truck traffic and Jake brake are constant all night long," notes a Friendship Village camper.
RV site selection: Research specific sites before booking. "For big rig campers, you need to stay at the upper portion of the campground at sites 200-500," advises a Friendship Village visitor, providing specific guidance based on experience.
Dump station access: Campground facilities vary significantly. "On our way out, we visited the dump station again and got in one of the 4 lanes with no wait. The dump station had wide lanes and made the experience an easy and clean one," shares a Seven Points camper.
