Seasonal camping near Lewisberry, Pennsylvania spans across rolling hills and wooded terrain in the heart of central PA. Located in York County with elevations ranging from 400 to 700 feet, this region experiences distinct seasons with humid summers averaging 85°F and moderate winters with occasional snowfall. Campgrounds in this area feature varying terrain from riverside locations to forested settings with differing soil conditions affecting site drainage.
What to Do
Farm animal interactions: At Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm, campers can engage with a variety of farm animals. "The kids LOVED the animals and we fed them at the allotted time every morning and went to visit at other times," notes melissa, who camped with three children.
Historic battlefields: Visit the Gettysburg National Military Park, located approximately 25 miles from many Lewisberry area rv parks. "The campground is about ten minutes away and definitely worth visiting," shares Nancy W., who stayed at Round Top Campground while exploring the area.
Dutch countryside exploration: Experience Pennsylvania Dutch culture during your stay. "If you've never visited an Amish community, you should definitely take advantage of this very unique location by exploring Lancaster County where you can find a number of horse & buggies," suggests Stuart K. from Pinch Pond Family Campground & RV Park.
Water activities: Several camping areas near Lewisberry offer river access. "The campground sits in the center of a horseshoe curve of the river, bring tubes and kayaks! We didn't know but went and bought a tube and spent the day on the river!" shares Karla R. who camped at Thousand Trails Circle M.
What Campers Like
Farm setting: The working farm environment at Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm receives consistent praise. "We've enjoyed mini-golf, feeding the animals, 'hiking' through the cornfield, fishing, and campfires," reports Kasey M., highlighting multiple activities available on the property.
Pool facilities: Many campgrounds in the Lewisberry area maintain swimming pools for summer visitors. "The pool was great, especially camping with younger kids," writes Ruth about her family's stay at Gettysburg Farm, noting it was particularly valuable with children.
Activity options: Campgrounds with multiple recreation options appeal to families. "Tons of amenities for families including mini golf, an arcade, pools, fishing ponds, etc. Not to mention live music on the weekends!" writes Paulina B. about Spring Gulch Resort Campground, highlighting the variety available.
Indoor options: Camping facilities with indoor recreation provide options during inclement weather. "There is an indoor pool and spa (spa closed due to Covid). Putt putt is still open and fun, so is playground. Arcade was open," notes Kasey M. who stayed at Circle M during October.
What You Should Know
Site levelness varies: Many campsites throughout the region require leveling equipment. "Sites are very close together. Fire rings are very close to campers. Unlevel is an understatement we were in E row and every camper there had front end 4 foot off the ground," reports Justin B. about their experience at Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country.
Seasonal differences: Operating schedules and amenities change significantly across seasons. "We first had a 2 point site near the river, but when it rains the sites get flooded with runoff from the campground," explains Kasey M. about Circle M, highlighting weather-related considerations.
Shooting range proximity: Some campgrounds are located near shooting ranges. "The biggest complaint about our site was that there is a shooting range right next door. It is pretty consistent from lunch to dinner," advises Tara N. at Pinch Pond, noting this might affect those wanting quiet afternoons.
Early arrival benefits: First-come, first-served policies at some parks reward early arrival. "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," explains Yamileth K. who camped at Hershey.
Tips for Camping with Families
Holiday planning: Holiday weekends require special consideration at popular campgrounds. "We were there around Halloween and they had decorated the park so nicely. The sounds of the farm animals all around was fun and amusing for us," shares Mary H. about Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm, describing their themed experience.
Theme weekends: Many rv parks near Lewisberry schedule special weekend events. "They had Halloween ever at every weekend of October and we spent Halloween weekend here. The kids loved it!!" exclaims Kasey M. about their stay at Circle M during the fall season.
Swimming options: When temperatures rise, pools become important amenities. "The bathrooms were heated, and okay. I didn't care for the shower curtain system it seems less private. Laundry is quaint and coin operated. Playground was open and great for the kids, so was mini golf," notes Kasey M. who stayed at PA Dutch Country.
Noise considerations: Be aware of ambient noise sources when choosing sites for families. "The sounds of the farm animals all around was fun and amusing for us. It was an easy hike as suggested on the map to circle around and through the cornfield," reports Mary H., noting how farm sounds enhanced their experience.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Spring Gulch Resort Campground, RVers recommend specific areas. "The Prime Sites are very spacious. Fishing pond is a joke and near by Gun Range can be annoying and tough on pets. But, over all, this place is pretty nice," advises Steve R., suggesting premium sites provide better spacing.
Hookup placement challenges: RV campers should check utility placement before setting up. "Water pressure is pretty low and the sewer pipe is a little high but all around a really solid experience," notes Nick E. about PA Dutch Country, pointing out infrastructure considerations for comfortable stays.
Navigation challenges: Some campgrounds require careful maneuvering. "The roads through the park are fairly narrow with potholes. Some roads are one-way but people don't pay much attention to that and went whichever way they wanted, especially those in golf carts," warns Nancy W. about road conditions at Drummer Boy.
Connectivity variations: Cell service and WiFi availability differ across campgrounds. "Excellent cell and gateway service. Cell is AT&T and our gateway is T-Mobile," reports Nick E. about their stay at Circle M, noting strong connectivity for digital needs.
