Kausalia V.
Scout
ScoutClear Creek State Park Campground
beautiful site and campground ground. peaceful. quite. and the showers were excellent!
Best Campgrounds in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania state parks provide a diverse network of cabin camping options throughout the state. Ricketts Glen State Park Campground offers well-maintained cabins nestled among its famous waterfalls and old-growth forests, with sites that accommodate both rustic and modern preferences. Other notable cabin locations include Cook Forest State Park, French Creek State Park, and Promised Land State Park, which feature varying levels of amenities from primitive to full-service cabins. Most park cabins include basic furniture, electricity, and outdoor fire rings.
Road access to cabin sites varies by season, with many parks maintaining plowed roads during winter months. "Stayed at this campsite, taking our pop-up camper on its maiden voyage to the Grand Canyon of PA. The area we selected was not busy. Campsite appeared to have a lot of seasonal campers," noted one visitor about Stony Fork Creek Campground. Pennsylvania's state park cabin rental system typically requires reservations up to 11 months in advance, with peak summer and fall weekends often booking completely within days of opening. Winter cabin camping remains available at several parks including Caledonia, French Creek, and Ohiopyle, though amenities may be reduced during off-season periods.
Cabin campers frequently highlight the cleanliness and maintenance of Pennsylvania's facilities. The cabins at Gifford Pinchot State Park and Hickory Run State Park receive consistently high ratings for their proximity to water activities and hiking trails. Year-round cabin options typically include heat sources for cold-weather camping, though visitors should verify specific amenities when booking. Several reviews note the family-friendly atmosphere at many Pennsylvania cabin campgrounds, with facilities like Codorus State Park offering organized activities during summer months. Most cabin areas feature central bathhouses with showers and flush toilets, though some more remote cabin sites may only have vault toilets nearby.
Best Camping Sites in Pennsylvania (862)
1. Kentuck Campground — Ohiopyle State Park
87 ReviewsOhiopyle, PAWebsite+1 (724) 329-8591$20 - $54 / night
"Ohiopyle is located in a beautiful area of Pennsylvania we've camped there a couple of times and have been able to get last minute tent sites. Lots of outdoor activities nearby."
"Options to get there include the steep walking trail where bikes are allowed to be walked but not ridden, riding the 3.5 miles along the road, also very steep, or taking a shuttle from downtown Ohiopyle"
2. French Creek State Park Campground
84 ReviewsGeigertown, PAWebsite+1 (610) 582-9680$20 - $75 / night
"We were looking for someplace close to the city but away from the hustle and bustle of our city life, this was the perfect little steal-away; relatively close by, great car camping spots, nice easy hikes"
"Campground Review: French Creek State Park Campground is located in Elverson, Pennsylvania and sits adjacent to Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site."
3. Ricketts Glen State Park Campground
69 ReviewsSweet Valley, PAWebsite+1 (570) 477-5675$15 - $92 / night
"The biggest draw to this state park (which no one in Pennsylvania I spoke with seemed to know about) is the 22 waterfalls!"
"Campground is situated very short walk from beach/lake and waterfalls."
4. Hickory Run State Park Campground
61 ReviewsAlbrightsville, PAWebsite+1 (272) 808-6192$20 - $72 / night
"Great location lots of hiking trails right in the park and many more close by"
"So many beautiful trails and lots to do! We loved everything about this park except the actual campsites. The sites were very close together, and there wasn't a lot of privacy, which sucked for us."
5. Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground
58 ReviewsWellsville, PAWebsite+1 (717) 292-4112$20 - $89 / night
"We have a small camper and there are some great sites on the lake side to park it where you can get AMAZING sunset views. "
"We had site 108 which is an electric site along the shore and close to the beach, and it was perfect for our needs. "
6. Cook Forest State Park Campground & Cabins
52 ReviewsCooksburg, PAWebsite+1 (814) 744-8407$20 - $67 / night
"Look at the campground map before you book your site if being close to a bathroom is important; ours was across the campsite behind us but we had to step in a rock set in the stream to get to it without"
"There is a pet trail through the woods that was really great to take our dog rather than walking around the campground."
7. Raccoon Creek State Park Campground
51 ReviewsClinton, PAWebsite+1 (724) 899-2200$18 - $128 / night
"One tip: each loop does not have its own entrance from a main road. To get to C you drive through or past A and B. Same with E and F. Each loop has its own set of flush toilets and showers."
"All and All great place to camp, good things; 1) lots of deer, turkeys, racoons, owls etc. 2) close to a farmer's market Jankowski's great place to get fresh food, 3) once you have level camp, all good"
8. Codorus State Park Campground
44 ReviewsPorters Sideling, PAWebsite+1 (717) 637-2816$20 - $195 / night
"You just can't beat a pennsylvania park. This one is not an exception. Nice clean restroom, plenty of room. Now, what cost a star. Yes, it rained like hell. When we broke camp and go dump."
"The trails from Campground are ok for a short walk, not much of a lake view but mostly shaded trail. The pool is conveniently located maybe even walking distance for some. "
9. Caledonia State Park Campground
36 ReviewsFayetteville, PAWebsite+1 (717) 352-2161$20 - $92 / night
"Stayed here two nights while visiting Gettysburg (short 20mi drive between the two). Stayed on Chinquapin Hill, each site has picnic table and fire ring and good space for camp."
"It’s a fantastic state park with great picnic areas next to the creek. You can also drive up the road to the dam where there’s a beautiful lake with fishing, kayaking, etc."
10. Pickerel Point Campground — Promised Land State Park
34 ReviewsSkytop, PAWebsite+1 (570) 676-3428$20 - $44 / night
"Pros: beautiful new bathrooms -private lakeside walk-in sites -beavers! Far away but exciting nonetheless -the Conservation Walk on the island is short, easy, and beautiful. Well-marked."
"Some sites are right on the lake, just put the kayak on the shore, and you're ready for an early morning paddle."
Recent Camping Photos in Pennsylvania
1490 Photos of 862 Pennsylvania Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Recent Reviews in Pennsylvania
3909 Reviews of 862 Pennsylvania Campgrounds
Matt S.
LegendLake Raystown Resort and Lodge
Enormous property, but...
We spent a long weekend for walks in the woods, seeing the fall colors, and all around a huge lake.
What We Liked:
- Even though the sites are sloped, they’re huge. I like that a lot.
- This property is enormous. They have a marina on the lake, a wedding facility, conference center, lots of cabins which look pretty good, and tent sites in addition to the RV sites. Go say hi to the goats behind the store. The property is amazing!
- If you’re interested, it’s a 90-minute drive to the Flight 93 Memorial— well worth the trip!
Things to Keep in Mind:
- The roads getting there are like a roller coaster. This isn’t the resort’s fault, but something you need to know if you’re going there.
- The sites are sloped. Took several blocks to get even close to level. I may be spoiled, but I really appreciate a level site.
- No sewer connection. There’s a dump station available, but just know the sites are water and electric only.
Would We Return?
- Probably not. It’s not fun driving in that area and there’s nothing much to do in the area.
Thomas B.
RangerRoller Coaster Road
Unique place! Boondocking only. Really suited for smaller setups. My 30ft TT fit fine but was limited. Host was great. Partially shaded spot in the woods. Great trails. Ticks galore. Sadly had a very wet trip but was otherwise nice.
- WWill W.
GuideCrooked Run Campground — Prince Gallitzin State Park
Very large CG. I car camped at site 066 (with electric) in mid-October and CG was 3/4 empty. Nice location on Glendale Lake with a beach and boat activities (for warmer months). Showers had no hot water but facilities were nice. Very little separation between sites. Nearby hunters discharging guns into evening hours.
- BBrandon W.
TravelerKeystone State Park Campground
Decent place
Stayed the weekend for the first time and it wasn’t bad! There were kids playing at sites nearby but that was all the noise, highway noise at all! I like how they have a spot for your tent with a picnic table and fire ring. I was in my rooftop tent on my truck so I wish the parking spot went back a little deeper for a little more privacy. But it was nice that there was bathrooms and showers within a 1 minute walk from the site! Also it says on here there is no AT&T signal, that’s not true…it’s not great but there is a bar or 2 at times!
Pam R.GuideGifford Pinchot State Park Campground
We booked two nights mid October not realizing that it's duck hunting season and that hunting is allowed RIGHT by the campground - with kids everywhere. We were jolted out of sleep at 5 am by gun fire right near our site. It kept up for the next hour. In addition, the bathrooms, although clean are in poor condition. Peeling paint everywhere with bare concrete in the showers. For such a pretty site, we had a miserable stay. We left after one night.
SkywaystoHighways.com Y.LegendRicketts Glen State Park Campground
Beautiful Falls!
What a great campground! We stayed here on a recommendation from a friend after the Overland Expo. Great hiking trails and the falls were absolutely breathtaking. Truly enjoyed our stay and plan to return!
- WWill W.Guide
Lackawanna State Park Campground
Car camping
Stayed October 14 without reservations because website showed lots of availability. Office was closed (M-F 8-4) so submitted honor system envelope with cash and stayed at Site 041 on Carpenter loop. Shower building was a short walk and was spacious enough. Water temp didn’t quite reach hot but was warm enough.
Electric kept on tripping breaker.
Roger V.TravelerBake Oven Knob
solid parking place for vans and RVs. road is dirt gravel but not terrible. nice hike nearby
Guide to Pennsylvania
Camping in Pennsylvania offers a mix of beautiful landscapes, family-friendly activities, and unique experiences. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there's something for everyone in the Keystone State.
What to do
- Hiking and Nature Walks: Many campgrounds, like Cook Forest State Park Campground, have trails that wind through stunning forests. One camper noted, “If you're into hiking, there's lots to see here.”
- Stargazing: For those who love the night sky, Cherry Springs State Park Campground is a must-visit. A reviewer said, “Great place for stargazing and astronomy!”
- Water Activities: Campgrounds near lakes, like Seven Points, offer swimming, kayaking, and fishing. One visitor shared, “The lake is a great place to kayak, paddleboard, or just relax and enjoy the view.”
What campers like
- Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. A review from Lyman Run State Park Campground mentions, “This has to be the best campground I’ve ever been to. From the beautiful lake to the stunning views of the vistas, you are always feeling at peace.”
- Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds pride themselves on cleanliness. A camper at Black Moshannon State Park Campground said, “The bathhouse was pristine, and the shower was clean with plentiful hot water.”
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Crooked Run Campground — Prince Gallitzin State Park are great for families. One reviewer stated, “This is a great campground. Private beach on the lake for campground guest use only as well as a playground.”
What you should know
- Site Proximity: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A visitor at Parker Dam State Park Campground mentioned, “The individual camp sites are all right on top of each other.”
- Limited Cell Service: Many areas have poor cell reception. A camper at Black Moshannon State Park Campground noted, “Verizon and AT&T cell service were basically non-existent.”
- Reservations Recommended: Popular spots fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A camper at Clear Creek State Park Campground said, “It is often challenging to reserve a site unless done far in advance.”
Tips for camping with families
- Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and activities. A reviewer at Crooked Run Campground said, “There is a nice little lake area where you can rent kayaks and paddle boards.”
- Pack Snacks and Meals: Some campgrounds don’t have stores nearby. A camper at Cook Forest State Park Campground mentioned, “There’s no camp store in the campground, which is something they could improve upon.”
- Plan for Quiet Time: Many campgrounds have quiet hours. A visitor at Parker Dam State Park Campground noted, “Folks were very friendly, but nighttime was silent.”
Tips from RVers
- Check Site Sizes: Some sites may not accommodate larger RVs. A camper at Seven Points said, “The sites here are some of the nicest we have ever seen. They are all big and private.”
- Utilize Dump Stations: Make sure to empty your tanks before heading to your site. A reviewer at Red Bridge Recreation Area mentioned, “Each loop has a pit potty on it. Shower facility in the park, very very hot water.”
- Bring Extra Water: Some campgrounds may not have water hookups. A camper at Bald Eagle State Park Primitive Campsite noted, “No water on site but available.”
Camping in Pennsylvania offers a unique blend of nature, family fun, and adventure. With so many options, you're bound to find the perfect spot for your next getaway!
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the top waterfront camping sites in Pennsylvania?
Where are the top waterfront camping sites in Pennsylvania?
Seven Points (PA) stands out with over 200 sites along beautiful Lake Raystown, offering prime waterfront locations and activities like swimming, fishing, and kayaking. Linesville Campground — Pymatuning State Park sits on the Pennsylvania-Ohio border beside a large lake, making it a fishing paradise with electric and non-electric sites available. Other excellent waterfront options include Ricketts Glen State Park with lakeside camping and spectacular waterfalls, and Gifford Pinchot State Park featuring shoreline camping on Pinchot Lake. For river enthusiasts, Clear Creek State Park offers sites along the Clarion River with excellent kayaking opportunities.
What are the best Pennsylvania state parks for camping?
What are the best Pennsylvania state parks for camping?
Cook Forest State Park Campground & Cabins is a top choice with spacious sites featuring picnic tables and fire rings with grills, though bathroom facilities could use updating. Leonard Harrison State Park Campground offers an incredible experience adjacent to the stunning "Pennsylvania Grand Canyon" with beautiful views and exploration opportunities. Other excellent options include Worlds End State Park with amazing trail views and beach access along Loyalsock Creek, Lyman Run State Park with nearby Cherry Springs Dark Park for stargazing, and Hickory Run State Park featuring the famous Boulder Field. Most Pennsylvania state parks offer a mix of electric and non-electric sites, clean facilities, and abundant recreational activities.
What are the best campgrounds in Pennsylvania for families?
What are the best campgrounds in Pennsylvania for families?
Pennsylvania offers excellent family-friendly campgrounds with activities for all ages. Pinch Pond Family Campground & RV Park features spacious sites, organized activities like music bingo, and convenient access to nearby attractions. Double Rainbow Farm provides a unique experience with friendly farm animals, swimming in the pond, and hiking opportunities in the adjacent National Forest. Families also enjoy Pequea Creek Campground for its picturesque setting, large sites with plenty of trees, and proximity to Lancaster's attractions, including covered bridges and river tubing. Look for campgrounds with amenities like playgrounds, swimming areas, and scheduled activities to keep children entertained throughout your stay.
What should I know about tent camping in Pennsylvania?
What should I know about tent camping in Pennsylvania?
When tent camping in Pennsylvania, site selection is crucial. At Clear Creek State Park Campground, you'll find excellent tent sites, though RVers should avoid non-power sites due to uneven terrain. Lyman Run State Park Campground offers ideal tent camping with convenient amenities and incredible stargazing opportunities at nearby Cherry Springs Dark Park. Pennsylvania's seasonal weather requires preparation—pack for temperature variations even in summer, and be prepared for rain. Most state parks offer tent-specific areas with level pads, picnic tables, and fire rings. Always check reservation requirements as popular parks fill quickly during peak season (May-October). Consider elevating your tent with a footprint to manage occasional dampness, and be aware that many parks enforce quiet hours starting at 10 PM.
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