Camping options near Jacobus, Pennsylvania span York County's varied terrain, where elevations range from 400 to 1,100 feet and summer temperatures average 75-85°F with moderate humidity. The area experiences distinct seasons, with campgrounds typically operating from April through October, though several locations now offer winter accommodations with heated facilities for year-round outdoor recreation.
What to do
Hiking trails: At Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground, the 8.5-mile Lakeside Trail offers diverse perspectives of the lake. "I took an early morning hike on the Lakeside Trail that goes around the lake and it was really awesome to see the lake from all different angles," notes one camper who appreciated the well-maintained path.
Fishing opportunities: The Susquehanna River provides excellent fishing near River Rock Recreation. "We spent our time fishing the river banks right outside our tents and kayaking on the Susquehanna to fish the warm waters. We caught a ton of catfish and carp using live bait," explains a visitor who found the riverside location ideal for anglers.
Historical exploration: Located 40 miles from Jacobus, Artillery Ridge Campground sits adjacent to Gettysburg National Military Park. A visitor explains, "Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded. Literally right outside the entrance of the campgrounds is where the battlefield starts."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Visitors to Cedar Lake Family Campground consistently praise the maintenance standards. "Cedar Creek was amazing and clean. Staff was friendly and courteous. Price is affordable. Cabin was clean and perfect. Grounds were very clean. Toilet and showers clean," reports one satisfied camper.
Spacious sites: Many glamping sites near Jacobus provide ample room between accommodations. "Our site was very nice! We were in a back in site #4. The patio was concrete stone, very pretty. Nice chairs, fire pit, and picnic table," describes a camper at Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA, noting the thoughtful site design.
Family activities: The region's campgrounds offer extensive recreation options. "This campground has it all, friendly staff, activities galore, cleanliness, & fun, fun, fun," writes one visitor about Cedar Lake Family Campground, which maintains a calendar of events throughout the camping season.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Be aware of potential noise sources when selecting glamping locations near Jacobus. "The electric plant directly across the river... was loud on Friday night to the point where we were having to speak very loudly in order to hear each other," reports a River Rock Recreation camper, though they noted the plant eventually shut down during their stay.
Reservation requirements: Most premium sites book quickly, especially during holiday weekends. At Tucquan Park Family Campground, one reviewer mentioned, "At $35/night during peak season for a primitive site it's a little above our usual budget. However we found it to be well worth it."
Weather preparation: The region experiences occasional severe weather, particularly summer thunderstorms. One camper at River Rock Recreation learned this the hard way: "A 1:00 AM thunder storm reminded me to never forget to use ALL the tie downs." Pack appropriate rain gear and secure anchoring equipment for tents and canopies.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Swimming options vary by location. At Tucquan Park Family Campground, "This campground features an amazing playground, a pond, a beautiful pool, a rec room, a wonderful hiking trail, and a basket ball court," making it ideal for active children.
Kid-friendly events: Thousand Trails Circle M provides scheduled activities for younger campers. "We happened to be there on the weekend a magician came, my kids loved it. They have an indoor and outdoor pool. Nice playground," shares one family who appreciated the entertainment options.
Wildlife education: Several campgrounds near Jacobus incorporate nature experiences. A family at Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground reported, "We took our 3 yo camping for the first time here. He had so much fun. It was clean campground located in a State Park. Easy walk to the lake with a small beach."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose carefully based on your specific needs and rig size. "Roads are narrow, but the sites are large and level. The lake is nice and they stock it with trout," notes an RVer at Cedar Lake Family Campground who appreciated the spacious accommodations despite some navigation challenges.
Hookup options: Check for full-service sites if traveling with larger rigs. "Spots are kind of close, no trees or anything to separate spots. We're used to that now haha. It had really nice bathrooms and showers. The washers and dryers work awesome, grateful for that!" shares an RVer who stayed at Hershey Highmeadow Campground.
Off-season advantages: Consider spring or fall trips for less crowded glamping near Jacobus. "We went in October and we almost had the whole place to ourselves," reports a camper who enjoyed the privacy and quiet atmosphere at Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA during shoulder season.
