Camping near McConnellsburg, Pennsylvania offers diverse options in the Appalachian foothills where elevations range from 800-2,000 feet throughout Fulton County. Summer temperatures typically average 75-85°F during peak camping season, with cooler mountain evenings dropping into the 60s. The area's extensive public lands provide numerous spots for traditional camping while luxury glamping close to McConnellsburg, Pennsylvania has emerged as a growing alternative for those seeking comfort without sacrificing natural surroundings.
What to do
Creek exploration: Try wading and small watercraft at Twin Bridge Campground where the shallow stream provides perfect conditions for kids to play. "Our kids love the creek and playing in and around it," reports one camper, highlighting the simple pleasure of natural water features.
Historic sites: Visit nearby Bedford County gristmill: At Ye Olde Mill Campground, you can explore a preserved mill structure dating back to the early 1800s. "Superb campground with water and electricity hookups! Playground for children and creek access for fishing!" notes one visitor about this historically significant location.
Lake activities: Rent watercraft on Lake Raystown: The 8,300-acre lake offers extensive boating options including rentals. "There is a boat hire place located on the grounds that hires pontoon boats and jet skis in season," mentions a reviewer about Lake Raystown Resort, adding that "the lake is beautiful and sunsets from the campground are stunning."
Mountain biking: Access Allegrippis Trails system: These IMBA-standard trails remain open year-round regardless of weather, with trailheads located near camping areas. "The mtb trails begin just above the upper camp loops and provide a full day of fast flowing singletrack," explains a visitor about the extensive trail network.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Find room to spread out at Seven Points where many sites offer generous dimensions. "The sites are paved so you can't hammer stakes into the ground," explains one tent camper, while another notes that "big spacious sites make pitching a tent easy with water available just a few sites away."
Clean facilities: Reliable bathhouses and amenities: Multiple campgrounds maintain high standards for bathhouses and common areas. At Shawnee State Park Campground, "Bathroom and showers were clean, bright, and there is a dish washing sink outside. Showers were push button but pressure was great and the water was hot."
Kid-friendly activities: Find family entertainment options: Beyond standard playgrounds, several locations offer specialized attractions. "They have a great water park, playground and bounce pad feature," writes one camper about Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, while another mentions "a great little hiking trail within the campground."
Fall colors: Experience autumn camping at its best: The region transforms with vibrant foliage in September and October. "Absolutely amazing fall color on the lake and great drives surrounding. Bathrooms are clean and hot showers," reports a Cowans Gap visitor describing the seasonal appeal.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Research before booking: Many campgrounds have varied terrain affecting site quality. At Rocky Gap State Park Campground, a camper advises, "Can't believe how much space is between each site. You're close enough to see other campers but far enough away to feel you have your own sections of woods."
Limited services: Prepare for basics at state parks: Most state-operated campgrounds provide fewer amenities than private operations. "No place to buy bags of ice, extra batteries, lighters, or any other supplies that people usually need when camping. And this campground is in the middle of nowhere," warns a camper about supply availability.
Noise considerations: Check proximity to highways: Some otherwise peaceful campgrounds experience road noise. One reviewer noted about Shawnee State Park, "We were able to hear a small bit of traffic from the highway, but nothing that disturbed us," while others report more significant noise at other locations.
Reservation timing: Book early for premium sites: Waterfront and specialty glamping sites near McConnellsburg book months in advance, particularly for summer weekends. "We wanted a waterfront site but even trying to reserve the first day we could for this weekend, they were all taken," explains a Seven Points visitor, highlighting competition for premium locations.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playground options: Choose campgrounds with varied play areas: Friendship Village Campground offers "3 play grounds all different and all well kept," according to one reviewer, providing entertainment for different age groups in different sections of the facility.
Swimming options: Consider both pool and natural water: Facilities range from developed pools to natural beaches. "The lower pool is right beside the main office which also includes an arcade and a very nice miniature golf course. The upper pool is larger and also well maintained," explains a visitor describing the comprehensive water options.
Activity schedules: Plan around organized events: Many campgrounds offer structured activities throughout the week. "They held a farmers market on Saturday and had a HUGE community yard sale which we thought was very cool!" shares a camper about the additional entertainment value beyond standard facilities.
Budget planning: Factor in activity costs: While camping rates may seem reasonable, additional fees for activities can add up. One camper notes about Jellystone Park, "It was a nice place to stay for kids, lots to do for them. But very expensive for tent camping. I still paid nearly 100 a night."
Tips from RVers
Dump station quality: Check for modern facilities: Seven Points receives praise for its "ultra-cool 4 lane dump station" where "the dump station, as noted above had wide lanes and made the experience an easy and clean one," showing how quality infrastructure impacts the overall experience.
Site leveling challenges: Be prepared at state parks: At Shawnee State Park, "as we drove through the rest of the RV park area we noted that many of the sites had very awkward back-in approaches that did not provide sufficient area to maneuver a large rig into them," highlighting the importance of site research.
Electrical service: Verify amperage availability: Sites at state parks often offer limited electrical service. "There is a 20 amp plug and 30 amp service at this site," mentions a camper at Shawnee State Park, providing crucial information for those with specific power requirements.
Seasonal considerations: Check operating schedules: Upscale glamping options near McConnellsburg typically operate from April through October, with limited wintertime operations. Most amenities and activities run at full capacity during summer months only, with shoulder seasons offering quieter experiences but fewer services.
