The Jersey Shore area of Pennsylvania offers camping options in the mountainous terrain of north-central PA, with elevations ranging from 500 to 2,000 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with warm summers averaging 75-85°F and cold winters that can drop below freezing. Several state parks and private campgrounds in the area offer yurt camping near Jersey Shore, Pennsylvania, providing opportunities for hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities throughout the year.
What to do
Hiking the Mid-State Trail: The trail runs directly through Little Pine State Park Campground, offering hikers of all levels access to beautiful wooded paths. "Very Nice Hiking!" notes Aaron W. about nearby Poe Paddy State Park Campground, which connects to extensive trail systems throughout Bald Eagle State Forest.
Kayaking and water activities: Black Moshannon State Park features a 250-acre lake perfect for paddling. As visitor Travis S. explains, "The Iron Ore mines from the past have left the creek water stained red which is why it's called the Red Mo with the locals." The dark-colored water creates a unique kayaking experience surrounded by lily pads and mountain scenery.
Cycling on rail trails: The Pine Creek Rail Trail offers excellent biking opportunities. According to James P., at Little Pine State Park Campground, "A world class rails to trails biking and hiking trails has numerous access points close by." The trail system provides relatively flat terrain through scenic valleys.
What campers like
Privacy in wooded settings: Campers appreciate the spacious, natural sites at Poe Paddy. As one reviewer noted, "The campground was maybe only 1/2 full and the camp sites near us were empty so we had a very quiet and peaceful weekend." This park offers a true forest immersion experience away from crowds.
Clean facilities despite rustic settings: Despite being in remote locations, many campgrounds maintain good amenities. At Bald Eagle State Park Russell P Letterman Campground, campers find "Clean grounds and bath houses. Beautiful scenery," according to Chris G. The park balances natural surroundings with practical comforts.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region's diverse ecosystems support abundant wildlife. Sara W. reports, "We love this park and usually rent a boat and swim and watch the eagles all day." Bald Eagle State Park lives up to its name with regular eagle sightings, particularly during morning hours.
What you should know
Seasonal variations affect site quality: Spring and fall camping can bring muddy conditions at some parks. At Bald Eagle, one camper reported, "We stayed at site 78 on the Sycamore loop at the end of April in a tent, which isn't the best equipment for this campground. Our site had a blacktop driveway, a very small amount of gravel, and a ton of mud."
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have limited or no connectivity. At Pettecote Junction Campground, visitors appreciate being "removed from commercialize chaos" with one camper noting, "It is my escape away from technology and my time to be one with nature." Most parks don't offer WiFi, though some have limited service at main buildings.
Wildlife considerations: Be prepared for local wildlife encounters. As Amber C. noted about Little Pine, "It was extremely buggy when we went. Our dogs wouldn't come out of the camper because there was no relief. It was the height of rattlesnake season. A site near ours and very close to the playground had a rattler under their camper."
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with age-appropriate amenities: Happy Acres Resort offers excellent facilities for children. Penny C. describes, "Playground was huge with multiple playsets suitable for all ages. Bathrooms/showers we're clean and well kept. There was a basketball court, shuffleboard and carpet pool that you could borrow equipment for."
Consider creek access for kids: Streams provide natural play areas. According to Jolene J. at Poe Paddy, "Very primitive, only 2 sites with electric and no playground (but 4 swings), however the creek is beautiful and the kids were so happy to play in it. We had site 108 and had a site path right to the creek."
Plan for temperature fluctuations: Mountain camping means varying conditions. Derek W. advises when staying at Knoebels Campground, "We went in late august and although it was pool weather during the day time the temperatures dropped somewhat dramatically into the evening hours so bring clothes for both 70-80 degree weather and 40-50 degree weather overnight."
Tips for RVers
Check site dimensions carefully: Many campgrounds have tight spaces. James P. notes about Little Pine State Park, "Electric only but water fill up is in convenient locations. Dump station is provided. Well maintained and clean." Some loops accommodate larger rigs better than others.
Look for pull-through options: Some campgrounds offer easier access sites. According to Ron H. about Little Mexico Campground, "We stayed at site 310, which was a fairly nice sized site. It was a pull through. Lots of seasonal campers." These sites minimize backing challenges in wooded settings.
Consider camp locations for generators: Some parks restrict generator use. Zach P. shares about Little Pine, "This is very rustic with electric options which is nice. The campsite we were at was very large probably better for a trailer but we enjoyed the space with our tent." Having electric hookups eliminates generator needs in parks with noise restrictions.
