Swatara Creek flows through the Lykens Valley region at approximately 800 feet above sea level, creating a network of waterways for recreation near camping areas. The waterways maintain moderate temperatures between 60-70°F during summer months, making them suitable for fishing and light water activities. Central Pennsylvania's mixed hardwood forests provide natural canopy over many campsites.
What to do
Creek exploration: Jonestown/Hershey KOA connects to water activities along Swatara Creek with access points for kayaking and tubing. "The Swatara creek runs right next to it so it is great for kayaking, tubing, etc. Highly recommend," notes Bobby S.
Fishing opportunities: Lake Heron Retreat offers a 10-acre lake stocked with multiple fish species. "This lake was beautiful! A short walk from the campsite. We had the lake to ourself both evening and morning," reports Camille W.
Rail trail biking: Former rail lines converted to multi-use trails connect several campgrounds, creating flat, family-friendly cycling routes. "Campground is connected to the Swatara Rail trial which is great for biking," writes one reviewer about Jonestown KOA.
Mini golf and amusements: Twin Grove RV Resort features activities beyond standard camping. "Nice arcade and mini golf in an area set off to the side with a ferris wheel, merry go round, and other small kiddie rides," mentions Mike J.
What campers like
Water access sites: Creekside and lakefront campsites provide direct water access for fishing and recreation. "We stayed at a Susquehanna river view site with full hookups for 2 nights. Site was level and shaded, but very close to neighbors," notes Robin about Ferryboat Campsites.
Spacious sites: Campers frequently mention site dimensions and separation as important factors. "Lots literally right on top of each other. Felt like everyone there was in the same group but we obviously weren't. Went to front gate and got a much more isolated tent spot," reports Scott B. about Gifford Pinchot State Park.
Clean facilities: Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground maintains well-serviced amenities. "I liked the dish washing sinks outside of the shower houses. The site was nice with the tent pad backing up to the trees," shares Melissa F.
Pool amenities: Several campgrounds feature swimming pools as alternatives to natural water recreation. "Nice pool and great camp store! Unfortunately we weren't able to do much with the pandemic if full effect," writes Ray L. about Hersheypark Camping Resort.
What you should know
Train noise: Several campgrounds experience railroad-related noise disruptions. "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!" warns Kit about Hersheypark Camping Resort.
Highway proximity: Traffic noise affects some camping locations. "Right off the highway with lots of loud trucks and bikes. The campground is very busy with loud activity from other campers at all hours," cautions Tiani P. about Camp A While.
Seasonal residents: Ferryboat Campsites hosts many long-term campers. "Most sites were occupied by permanent or seasonal residents. Bathrooms and grounds were very clean," observes Robin.
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require equipment for leveling RVs and trailers. "The sites are gravel and most are not level. They are not well maintained as the site next to us has weeds a foot high," reports James G. about Thousand Trails Hershey.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Select sites near play areas to allow children independence while maintaining supervision. "It has water access and is right next to a small man made beach and playground," notes SkywaystoHighways.com Y. about Gifford Pinchot State Park.
First-time camping locations: Little Buffalo State Park Campground offers beginner-friendly experiences. "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," shares Julie Y.
Swimming options: Multiple swimming areas accommodate different skill levels. "The pool here is top notch and it's good for fishing but the hiking isn't super great," writes Christopher E. about Little Buffalo State Park.
Weekend crowding: Facilities become significantly more crowded Friday through Sunday. "We arrived on a Thursday night, and pretty much had the whole place to ourselves. We were out and about during the day on Friday, and when we came back in the evening, it was packed," reports Jen V. about Knoebels Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Camp A While requires attention to site specifics. "Only power sites were all gravel. Could use some grass tent sites with power. Other then that this place was very quite, owners helped haul firewood to our campsite so we didn't have to carry it," advises Mike S.
Navigation challenges: Some campgrounds present tight spaces for larger rigs. "The sites on the creek are nice and shady. We will stay there next time. The pull through sites are nice and long, but we were put in a buddy spot and didn't know," shares Angie G. about Jonestown/Hershey KOA.
Overflow parking options: Several campgrounds provide solutions for tow vehicles and extra transportation. "They have an overflow area for those with extra cars and those with tow dollies. This keeps the campground from looking like a junk yard," explains Yamileth K.
Pet-specific amenities: Pet friendly camping near Lykens, Pennsylvania includes dedicated pet facilities. "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," remarks Tiffany S.
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