Stephen W.
Guide
GuideMill Bridge Village & Camp Resort
Great olacevto camp in Lancaster County
We camp here several times thru out the year. Always an enjoyable stay. Staff is very friendly and accommodating.
Best Campgrounds near Lebanon, PA
Lebanon, Pennsylvania is surrounded by a mix of private and established campgrounds offering diverse accommodation options. The area between Hershey and Lebanon features several family-oriented camping resorts including Thousand Trails Hershey, Jonestown/Hershey KOA, and Stoevers Dam Park. Most facilities in this region cater to both tent and RV campers, with many also offering cabin rentals for those seeking more shelter. The Pennsylvania Dutch Country influence is evident throughout the area, with several campgrounds positioned to provide access to both Amish cultural experiences and the attractions of nearby Hershey.
Camping facilities in the region typically operate seasonally, with most open from April through October or early November. "If you are an RVer or 5th Wheeler, the best sites are those that back up to the periphery and are northernmost up the slight embankment as you'll have greater privacy and less noise," noted one visitor to PA Dutch Country RV Resort. Site quality varies considerably across the area, with many campgrounds featuring uneven terrain that can present leveling challenges for larger RVs. Water pressure fluctuations and rusty water have been reported at some locations, particularly during peak season. Most established campgrounds require advance reservations, especially for weekend stays during summer months.
The camping experience around Lebanon combines accessibility to attractions with varying degrees of natural settings. Many campgrounds are situated within 30 minutes of Hershey Park, making them convenient bases for families visiting the area's attractions. Several visitors mention the proximity to local Amish communities as a cultural highlight. Campground amenities typically include swimming pools, mini-golf, and recreational facilities, though their availability may be limited during shoulder seasons. One camper at Stoevers Dam Park described it as a "cute little park" that's "fine for a night or two," highlighting the park's small size but accommodating staff. Noise considerations vary by location, with some campgrounds affected by nearby highways or, in one case, a shooting range that visitors described as "incredibly loud."
Best Camping Sites Near Lebanon, Pennsylvania (153)
1. Thousand Trails Hershey
21 ReviewsMount Gretna, PA7 milesWebsite+1 (888) 707-1477$50 - $60 / night
"The first thing to know is that Thousand Trails sites are a first come, first serve. Meaning you have to arrive early in order to get the best spots. They don't reserve sites for you."
"This is a clean, nice looking campground in a location very close to Hershey park and the outlets. It’s a very nice area."
2. Pinch Pond Family Campground & RV Park
15 ReviewsMount Gretna, PA8 milesWebsite+1 (717) 665-7640"Set just off I-76 in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch country, Pinch Pond Family Campground& RV Park is a large, all-in-one, family-focused campground with a layout that feels more like a small neighborhood"
"campground so inconveniently located (more on this later) right next to highway I76."
3. Hersheypark Camping Resort
30 ReviewsHummelstown, PA15 milesWebsite+1 (833) 936-0949"This campground has a little something for everyone, from full hook up sites neatly stacked next to each other, to quiet patches of grass next to the river."
"They don’t sell alcohol but there is a shopping center within walking distance with restaurants and liquor stores! Even a supermarket. There is shuttle service to the park."
4. Jonestown/Hershey KOA
16 ReviewsJonestown, PA10 milesWebsite+1 (717) 865-6411"Love the close proximity to the highway and gas. We didn’t eat there but they had a restaurant! Lots of activities for the kids. Wooded sites and very clean bathrooms."
"Pet friendly and you can access the Appalachian trail from campground. Lots of great food and places to go in the area. They have a river that is great for kayaking or tubing."
5. Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country
14 ReviewsMount Gretna, PA7 milesWebsite+1 (888) 707-1477"Tucked into the rolling, wooded hills of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country RV Resort offers a unique blend of peaceful countryside and activity-packed camping, all just a stone"
"this campground is completely surrounded by a fairly dense forest, which likely is what blocks any irritable sound and most certainly blocks any highway or traffic visibility."
6. Twin Grove RV Resort
9 ReviewsTower City, PA13 milesWebsite+1 (717) 865-4602"There are 2 dog parks right next to each other, which is great for your furry friend to be able to run around and play off leash."
"Needs a pond and more shade but still is one of the nicer parks around. Twin Grove is also one of the cheaper ones, and that is hard to believe because of all the offer."
7. Starlite Camping Resort
6 ReviewsHopeland, PA11 milesWebsite+1 (717) 733-9655"Starlight is a nice campground to relax or explore central Pennsylvania."
"The campground is in a great location with easy access to Lancaster, Hershey and many other places to explore."
8. Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA
15 ReviewsElizabethtown, PA18 milesWebsite+1 (717) 367-7718$45 - $279 / night
"There was a bathhouse and dish sink nearby, as well as the entrance to a nice little nature trail a few sites down. "
"Large and easy to enter/exit sites. Wifi was pretty good. (It helped that the antenna was right beside our site!) Cable TV, too! Everyone we talked to was nice and friendly."
9. Hickory Run Family Camping Resort
9 ReviewsReinholds, PA15 milesWebsite+1 (717) 336-5564"All of the sites are full electric and more than a few have very little space for a family size tent to be safely away from the fire ring. Ours had adequate distance but we got lucky tbh."
"Streams are close by, hiking trails are numerous and Hawk Falls was a high point of the park. Peaceful, crisp air and beautiful Surroundings."
10. Stoevers Dam Park
3 ReviewsLebanon, PA1 mileWebsite+1 (717) 228-4470"Small lake."
"It really would be nice if there were campsites further from the lake."
Recent Camping Photos near Lebanon, PA
376 Photos of 153 Lebanon Campgrounds
Mike V.
Stoevers Dam Park
Danielle V.
Thousand Trails Hershey
Grace H.
Pinch Pond Family Campground & RV Park
Horizon M.
Jonestown/Hershey KOA
Steve S.
Circle S Farm Camping
Chris G.
Starlite Camping Resort
Jen R.
Cocalico Creek Campground
Adam F.
Twin Grove RV Resort
Heidi R.
Hershey Road Campground
Ashley J.
Hickory Run Family Camping Resort
Ray L.
Hersheypark Camping Resort
Recent Reviews near Lebanon, PA
983 Reviews of 153 Lebanon Campgrounds
Nicole S.
LegendLake-In-Wood Campground
Sun Retreats Lancaster County - Easter Weekend
Like always we like to begin our camping season with a Easter Weekend Trip, my husband's family is partial to the Lancaster Area, so we headed there to Sun Retreats Lancaster. As we drove up I loved the look and location of the campground. You could see there was a indoor pool setup, arcade, playground, store, ice cream, mini-golf and a huge lake and that was everything we saw from the truck. We pulled up to a gate and a guy came out of the shed next to it to check us in.
The campground looked well maintained, the sports were on both sides of the lake and they offered many different options like woods or open, pull through or back up. We choose a really wooded site. It was tight getting in but I can't complain I don't drive the truck. It seemed like there was a fair amount of seasonal sites but they didn't overwhelm the place. I could see also a lot of cabins there were some shaped like teepees, a frontier cabin, and a caboose. They had a fair amount of open grass to play and enjoy. You can bring your own golfcart or they have on site rentals also.
They had an activity list that would help keep everyone busy, they had a mini golf course that was in great shape, an arcade which was definitely lacking in the game department, I think there was 4 pinball machines, 2 Skee ball, 3 racing games, and the play to you win machine. The playground x2 were both in great condition with a lot to keep kids playing on. I can only comment on the indoor pool which at the time was said to be under construction however still open, the water was on the colder side and the hot tube the same temp as the pool, the ceiling had been ripped off so the iron rusting beams were exposed and rust falling down. The kids still went in the pool unfortunately the air from the open window made them too cold so we didn't stay long. I am hoping it will be finished because the concept of the indoor-outdoor pool area looks so fun.
The staff was extremely helpful and super friendly. The store was fully stocked with everything you could want. The bathrooms were all kept so clean and in working order with hot water. We enjoyed the area we ventured out to see the Choo Choo barn, the green dragon flea market, and kitchen kettle village which are a must if your in the area. We also choose to hike the Welsh Preserve and Money Rock. The lake had a path you could walk completely around and you could choose to fish if that's your thing.
I would definitely return to this campground again, we had 8 sites in total and we all really thought it was a wonderful place and really enjoyed our holiday weekend there. It was very busy but the staff was present but not overbearing. People were very respectful and friendly.
Stuart K.LegendThousand Trails PA Dutch Country
Amish Country Charm with a Resort Twist
Tucked into the rolling, wooded hills of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country RV Resort offers a unique blend of peaceful countryside and activity-packed camping, all just a stone’s throw from the PA Turnpike.
While my review from a few years ago provides a ton of detail, I thought I would follow up that review with a topline of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS along with a smattering of new photos.
HIGHLIGHTS:(1) Expansive campground with 250+ sites offering full hookups, giving plenty of options for both short stays and longer visits;(2) Resort-style amenities including pool, mini golf, clubhouse, playgrounds, and organized activities that keep families engaged throughout the day;(3) Beautiful wooded setting with dense tree coverage that creates a surprisingly secluded feel despite proximity to major highways;(4) Ideal location for exploring Pennsylvania Dutch Country, with scenic farmland, covered bridges, and charming nearby towns just minutes away; and(5) Strong sense of community with events like bingo, crafts, and family activities that give it that classic ‘summer camp” vibe.
LOWLIGHTS:(1) Sloped terrain throughout much of the campground can make leveling a bit tricky depending on your site;(2) Close proximity to the PA Turnpike may be a concern for some, even though tree coverage helps reduce both noise and visibility;(3) Wi-Fi is not complimentary and can be an added cost, which feels a bit dated for a“resort” experience;(4) Membership requirement through Thousand Trails can be a barrier for first-time or casual campers; and(5) Limited tent site availability compared to the large number of RV sites, making it less flexible for non-RV travelers
Happy Camping!
- Stuart K.Legend
Pinch Pond Family Campground & RV Park
Amenity-Packed Campground in PA Dutch Country
Set just off I-76 in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch country, Pinch Pond Family Campground& RV Park is a large, all-in-one, family-focused campground with a layout that feels more like a small neighborhood than a traditional woods-only campsite. While its proximity to the highway makes access easy, the property itself is gated, organized into distinct camping zones and packed with amenities that clearly cater to longer stays and families looking for built-in entertainment.
HIGHLIGHTS:(1) Full-service resort-style amenities including pool, playground, arcade, laundry, propane refills, dump stations, sports field, picnic tables and in-ground fire rings throughout the property;(2) Wide variety of lodging options including RV sites with 30/50 amp hookups, water, sewer and cable, primitive tent sites, and multiple on-site cottages for non-campers;(3) Gated entrance and very welcoming, helpful staff at check-in with a well-stocked camp store offering snacks, ice cream, sundries and souvenirs;(4) Strong family appeal with fishing pond, barn, open play areas and space for kids to roam safely; and(5) Excellent location for regional attractions including Hershey Park, Chocolate World, Amish countryside tours and the nearby wolf sanctuary with guided educational tours.
LOWLIGHTS:(1) Immediate proximity to I-76 means persistent highway noise day and night with no real sound buffer;(2) Access is oddly indirect despite being next to the turnpike, requiring a several-mile loop through countryside roads to reach the entrance;(3) Overall layout is wide open with limited natural privacy between many RV sites;(4) Nearby shooting range produces frequent target practice noise, especially noticeable during early morning hours; and(5) Pricing for primitive tent sites feels disproportionately high compared to full-hookup RV rates.
Happy Camping!
- RRandy L.
ScoutFrench Creek State Park Campground
French Creek State Park
This is our 3rd time at this park, it is one of our favorites. Well maintained, very quiet. We stay in Loop A (full hookup) pet friendly. Sites are spacious, generally large but they are all back-in sites.
- EEileen D.Guide
Echo Valley Campground
Nice park
Owners are very friendly and helpful. Sites are large and roomy.
Jenni D.ScoutHidden Acres Camping Grounds
Hidden gem
Small family owed for 50 plus years. They care about their guests and treat everyone like they are part of the family. The only thing about this campground is that it doesn't allow tents. Only RVs and pull behind.
Etzer D.GuideGifford Pinchot State Park Campground
Excellent
We had a beautiful spot at a stones throw from the beach area. The water was great and clean and a good temperature at this time of year. Our camping site was huge. We had some people come over and hang out with us and they did not feel cramped. The kids had a fantastic time and definitely wanna come back.
- Stephen W.Guide
Dutch Cousin Campground
Nice quiet fall get-a-way place
Lots of seasonal parked campers and only a few campers here. Nice peaceful quiet stay. Our site was very spacious. Level side to side. Gravel site with plenty of room for our truck n trailer.
Guide to Lebanon
Camping spots near Lebanon, Pennsylvania offer convenient access to Dutch Country, Amish communities, and popular attractions like Hershey Park. The region sits at approximately 500 feet elevation with a temperate climate that allows for camping from early spring through late fall. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F, making pool facilities at campgrounds particularly valuable during July and August.
What to Do
Explore the fishing pond: Pinch Pond Family Campground & RV Park has a small fishing pond where kids can experience remarkable success. "My kids went fishing and every cast they caught a fish, some were small... but hey the kids had fun," reports Michelle E. from Pinch Pond Family Campground & RV Park.
Visit the Renaissance Faire: The Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire draws many campers to the area, particularly in fall. "Stayed here 3x each time in October as they are very close to the PA Renaissance Fair. Easy to get to and beautiful setting, gorgeous trees and feels very woodsy," notes Michelle D. about her experience.
Take advantage of shuttle services: Several campgrounds offer transportation to major attractions. "BUY YOUR PARK TICKETS AT THE CAMPGROUND, there is a discount and also a free shuttle to and from all the Hershey locations," advises Sarah L., highlighting a money-saving opportunity for visitors.
Access nearby hiking trails: The region offers several trail options within minutes of campgrounds. "The Swatara creek runs right next to it so it is great for kayaking, tubing, etc. Campground is connected to the Swatara Rail trial which is great for biking," shares Bobby S. from Jonestown/Hershey KOA.
What Campers Like
Clean bathhouse facilities: Campers consistently praise the maintenance of restroom facilities. "Amazing....staff is friendly...BATHROOMS CLEAN!!!!! Is there really anything else? Lol!" exclaims Anna M. about her stay at Thousand Trails Hershey.
Pool amenities: Swimming pools rank high on camper satisfaction lists, especially during hot summer months. "The bath houses were nice and clean. The pool was nice, but being that it was the end of June, the water was freezing! I couldn't get in!" shares Cat R. from Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA.
Creekside camping options: Water-adjacent sites provide both recreation and relaxation opportunities. "One of our favorite places we have visited! Friendly staff, very quant, laundry onsite, splash pad, play grounds, very clean restrooms/showers, provides shuttle to Hersheypark, some creekside sites along with access to creek from your campite!" raves Amber R.
Proximity to local attractions: The central location between multiple tourist destinations makes Lebanon area camping particularly appealing. "The campground is very safe at night, no noise disturbances at night and we had no problems having our kids wander around by themselves," notes Yamileth K., describing the family-friendly atmosphere.
What You Should Know
Shooting range noise: Be prepared for potential noise disruption at certain campgrounds. "The only thing that is negative is that there is a shooting range right next door. It is pretty consistent from lunch to dinner," warns Tara N. from Pinch Pond Family Campground & RV Park.
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the region feature uneven terrain. "Sites are a bit close, no trees or anything to separate spots. We're used to that now haha. It had really nice bathrooms and showers," reports AdventureStang from Hersheypark Camping Resort.
Train noise considerations: Railroad proximity affects some campgrounds. "Nice camp ground but super loud bc of the trains. Bath houses are nice and clean. I would suggest making sure you aren't close to the tracks bc the trains run all night long!" advises Kit.
Water quality issues: Some campgrounds experience water problems, especially during busy periods. "Water was rusty in our row came out brown at first then was tan after running through our filter for the entire stay. The site on either side was the same rusty," reports Justin B., highlighting infrastructure challenges.
Tips for Camping with Families
Look for campgrounds with dedicated activities: Many locations offer scheduled programming for children. "We come here once a year to take our grandkids on an annual camping trip with us. Lots to do! Playgrounds, special events, crafts," shares Shirley M. from Twin Grove RV Resort.
Consider campgrounds with amusement options: Some facilities provide carnival-type attractions. "At night they have a merry go round, train, giant slide and ferries wheel you can ride. The bathrooms are always clean and staff is friendly," reports Dawn T., highlighting unique on-site entertainment options.
Check for dog-friendly accommodations: Pet areas enhance family camping experiences. "This is an amazing campground! There are 2 dog parks right next to each other, which is great for your furry friend to be able to run around and play off leash," explains Tiffany S.
Research visitor policies: Campgrounds vary in their approach to non-registered guests. "Nice quiet campground. A little pricey and strict for vistors, they need to leave by 10 and can't bring their pets," notes Chris M., identifying potential limitations for extended family visits.
Tips from RVers
Site selection recommendations: Choosing the right location within a campground significantly impacts experience. "If you are an RVer or 5th Wheeler, the best sites are those that back up to the periphery and are northernmost up the slight embankment as you'll have greater privacy and less noise," advises Stuart K. from Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country.
Be prepared for peak season constraints: Busy periods impact services and availability. "The campground is part of Hershey and as such offers good discounts to Hersheypark. While it offers nice amenities and a shuttle to Hersheypark, the campground itself is very tight, cramped, and hard to navigate," cautions Rick B.
Check site dimensions carefully: RV site specifications vary significantly between campgrounds. "It is a nice camp ground but the lower drive threw spots are packed together. Our 32' with slides just fit the sight and we had zero room for the truck," warns Mike J. about tight quarters at some locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do campgrounds near Lebanon cost?
How much do campgrounds near Lebanon cost?
Campground costs near Lebanon vary widely. Pinch Pond Family Campground & RV Park offers affordable rates for overnight stays, making it a convenient option for travelers on a budget. For those seeking economical options, The Home Depot — Lower Paxton provides free overnight parking. State parks like French Creek typically charge between $15-30 per night for basic sites, while private campgrounds with full hookups generally range from $35-60 per night. Prices increase during peak season (summer) and on weekends, with premium amenities like pool access or waterfront sites commanding higher rates.
Are there pet friendly campgrounds in Lebanon, Maine?
Are there pet friendly campgrounds in Lebanon, Maine?
Maine's Lebanon area offers several pet-friendly camping options. While specific Lebanon, Maine campgrounds weren't mentioned in reviews, nearby options welcome four-legged campers. Most Maine campgrounds allow pets with standard restrictions—leashes required, proof of vaccinations, and cleaning up after your pet. State parks typically permit pets in camping areas but restrict them from beaches, playgrounds, and buildings. Private campgrounds often provide pet-specific amenities like dog walking areas. Always check each campground's specific pet policies before booking, as some may have breed restrictions or limit the number of pets per site.
What are the best campgrounds in Lebanon, PA?
What are the best campgrounds in Lebanon, PA?
Lebanon, PA and its surrounding area offer excellent camping options. Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country stands out for its Amish country experience and resort-like amenities. Pequea Creek Campground offers beautiful picturesque sites with large spots and plenty of trees, plus convenient access to river tubing and covered bridges. Nature enthusiasts should consider Campground Island, a peaceful retreat completely surrounded by creek waters with great fishing opportunities. For those visiting Hershey attractions, Jonestown/Hershey KOA provides convenient access. These campgrounds offer various amenities from full hookups to swimming facilities, with most being family-friendly and well-maintained.
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