Camping options near Manheim, Pennsylvania provide access to the rolling hills of central Pennsylvania at elevations around 400-500 feet above sea level. The region experiences four distinct seasons, with summer camping temperatures typically ranging from 70-85°F during the day and 55-65°F at night. Most campgrounds in the area offer a mix of wooded and open sites within a 30-minute drive of Lancaster County's Amish attractions and Hershey's entertainment options.
What to do
Tube on the river: At Thousand Trails Circle M, campers can enjoy water activities on the river that curves around the property. According to Karla R., "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!"
Visit Nockamixon State Park: Located east of Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country, the park offers water recreation options. Stuart K. notes, "Should you be towing your canoe or kayak with you and are eager to get the beak of your waterbird wet, then head on over due east of Quakertown Campground to Nockamixon SP where there's a sizeable, yet skinny lake just begging for you to navigate it."
Explore historical sites: The surrounding area offers opportunities to learn about unique cultures. The region's historical attractions are accessible from Starlite Camping Resort, where Elizabeth L. mentions, "The campground is in a great location with easy access to Lancaster, Hershey and many other places to explore."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campgrounds throughout the region maintain high cleanliness standards. At Country Acres Campground, Stephanie S. was impressed: "This campground is probably the most well maintained campground we have ever stayed at. The grounds are beautiful, facilities above and beyond the expected."
Family-friendly atmosphere: Many campsites cater to families with activities for all ages. Leanne B. commented about Circle M: "Lots of events to keep the kids busy. We happened to be there on the weekend a magician came, my kids loved it. They have an indoor and outdoor pool. Nice playground. We were down by the river and had a lot of room on our site."
Variety of accommodation options: Beyond traditional camping, luxury glamping in Manheim, Pennsylvania and surrounding areas offers comfortable alternatives. At Pinch Pond Family Campground, Stuart K. observed the range of options: "Whether you're hauling a 5th wheel, driving an RV or looking to pitch a tent, Pinch Pond has you covered, figuratively – as they offer virtually any type of camping, from RV and 5th Wheel to tent/primitive as well as cottage rentals."
What you should know
Site selection matters: Choose sites carefully based on your preferences and needs. At Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country, Sammii D. warns about terrain challenges: "Campground loses a start because the sites are pretty uneven. Not just the one we're on but others as well. The campground is pretty hilly and they don't seem to want to level out the sites."
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby attractions or highways. At Hersheypark Camping Resort, Kit notes: "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!"
Weather preparation: The area can experience seasonal flooding or drainage issues. Kasey M. shared this experience at Circle M: "We first had a 2 point site near the river, but when it rains the sites get flooded with runoff from the campground."
Tips for camping with families
Pool options: Several campgrounds offer swimming facilities for children. At Old Mill Stream Campground, Megan T. recommends: "The pool is new and has a sloped entrance so my two year old could play by himself and loved it. The new bathhouse has better restrooms than my own home! Everything is clean and well managed."
Playground access: Look for sites near play areas for convenience. Edison L. observed at Country Acres: "Amenities are super clean and modern. Clean bathroom, laundry room, pool area for the kids, and a well stocked store. The only critique I have is that you can hear the distant sound of cars on the road."
Cultural experiences: Many upscale glamping accommodations in Manheim serve as convenient bases for educational outings. William W. notes about Old Mill Stream Campground: "Clean campground with great access to Dutch Wonderland, outlets and other Lancaster County tourist attractions. Nice creek to fish in but other than a small playground (with broken equipment) not much else in other amenities."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: RVers should prepare for uneven terrain at many area campgrounds. Tara N. advises about Pinch Pond: "This campground has nice large sites, shade and sunny, full hookups, clean pool, playground, super clean laundry room and bathrooms."
Best location selection: For privacy and convenience, choose sites strategically. Stuart K. suggests at PA Dutch Country: "If you are an RVer or 5th Wheeler, the best sites IMHO are those that back up to the periphery and are northernmost up the slight embankment as you'll have greater privacy and less noise being furthest away from all of the action."
Pull-through availability: Some campgrounds offer easier access sites for larger rigs. Jack B. shared his experience at Country Acres: "Inaugural trip with travel trailer. Pull-Thru site will all hookups in good working order. Site felt spacious with a nice grass strip. Bath house was immaculate."
