Located in south-central Pennsylvania at approximately 1,250 feet elevation, Imler sits in the Appalachian Mountain range with moderate seasonal temperatures. The region surrounding Imler features a mix of state parks and private campgrounds with varied glamping accommodations available from April through October. Many sites report limited cellular service due to the mountainous terrain.
What to do
**Mountain biking trails: Seven Points recreation area at Raystown Lake features extensive biking trails enjoyed by both casual riders and enthusiasts. "The 5 mile hiking trail around Lake Habeeb is enjoyable. Great way to see all sides of the park," notes a visitor at Rocky Gap State Park. Another camper reports that Seven Points has "a bicycle 'course' for younger people."
Fishing opportunities: Most campgrounds offer fishing access, with many sites directly on lakes. A camper at Susquehannock Campground notes, "Some sites right on the water, can walk right into the lake. Beautiful scenery, be prepared to be woken by bass boats and subsequent wake at sunrise." The campground provides primitive waterfront sites perfect for anglers.
Winter recreation: While many campgrounds close for winter, some areas remain accessible for day use. "Foggy mornings are the best in the beautiful forest near Schellsburg historical sites. Nice lake too. Easy access from the PA Turnpike," notes a Shawnee State Park visitor who enjoyed off-season exploration of the area's hiking trails.
What campers like
Family activities: Friendship Village Campground earns high marks for its organized events. One camper reports, "This is truly a good campground for the family," while another states, "One of the best campgrounds I have stayed at so far the pond is nice and has a 1/2 mile walking path around it with trees and beaches to stop and sit dog park is big and has a place for small or large dogs."
Affordable boat rentals: Many glamping sites near Imler provide water recreation options. At Cowans Gap State Park, visitors appreciate the accessibility of watercraft. As one camper notes, "One of our favorites! Campground sits right on a gorgeous lake. Lots of fishing options including boats you can rent. A walking trail wraps around the whole lake."
Privacy between sites: Campers consistently mention the spaciousness of sites as a key benefit. "Large camp sites, with decent space for tents. The descriptions on the State Park site seem very accurate," reports a Rocky Gap State Park visitor, while another notes the "huge" state park offers "300+ site campground with a mix of FHU, 30 and 50-amp electric, and non-electric tent sites, yurts, and cabins."
What you should know
Reservation timing: For glamping close to Imler, Pennsylvania, book early for premium waterfront sites. A Trough Creek State Park visitor advises, "All sites level with partial shade. Open, but with plenty of space between sites. The trails are nice and very scenic. No cell service at all, nor OTA TV."
Site selection importance: Carefully research specific site locations before booking. "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," warns a Shawnee State Park camper. Many campgrounds have varied terrain with some sites on steep inclines.
Seasonal limitations: Most glamping accommodations close between late October and April. "There is a 5 mile trail that goes all around the lake. Lots of lake to paddle. Easy to get to from I-70," notes a Rocky Gap visitor, adding that this park is "best earlier and later in the year. It's less crowded."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Prince Gallitzin State Park offers dedicated facilities for younger campers. "Great place for kids! We love staying at crooked run campground. Has a beach on the lake. Affordable boat rentals. BMX track for kids," shares one visitor. Many sites include playgrounds with convenient bathhouse access.
Weekend programming: Several campgrounds offer scheduled activities, particularly on summer weekends. "My family camps here most weekends in the summer. It's close to our house and easily accessible," notes a Friendship Village camper, adding, "They have fun holiday events, like the Halloween trick or treat."
Safety considerations: Parents should note potential hazards at some sites. At Susquehannock Campground, a visitor cautions about waterfront sites: "We were right on the water, secluded from other campsites visually, though we could hear them on either side." Another mentions that some sites are "on a cliff's edge" with steep drop-offs.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Lake Raystown Resort offers multiple campground areas with different amenities. "There's a few different areas of the campground. Definitely recommend bringing a boat. Large marina, prepared food is expensive though," advises one RVer. Many glamping sites near Imler feature partial hookups only.
Site leveling challenges: RVers should bring leveling equipment as many sites require adjustments. "Many of the non-electric sites were decidedly not level but many of the FHU and electric sites were fairly level," notes a Shawnee State Park visitor, adding that "Some sites have gravel pads that were level and vary in length from 20' to 115'."
Road conditions: Some campground access roads present challenges for larger RVs. A Seven Points camper shares detailed observations: "From the time we arrived and filled up the fresh water tank at the ultra-cool 4 lane dump station, I knew we were in for a great weekend. The signage was very well marked and the fresh water spigot was more like a little tank, super-solid, clean and modern."
