Situated in southern Pennsylvania's rolling countryside, Hanover stands at an elevation of approximately 600 feet above sea level. Camping near Hanover provides access to both the historic Gettysburg region and Pennsylvania's Dutch country with several weather-friendly camping seasons. Fall camping is particularly popular due to cooler temperatures and colorful foliage changes across the region's wooded areas.
What to do
Farm animal interactions: At Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm, families can experience a working farm environment while camping. "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. It was an easy hike as suggested on the map to circle around and through the cornfield," notes one visitor.
Local Amish culture exploration: The RV campgrounds near Hanover, Pennsylvania offer excellent access to Pennsylvania Dutch Country. "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 to take a trip in," reports a camper who stayed at Pinch Pond Family Campground.
Historical battlefield tours: Many campers use these campgrounds as a base for exploring Gettysburg National Military Park, just 10-15 minutes from several RV parks. "It was pretty close to Gettysburg so there is alot to do, nice playground and open fields," says a visitor at Drummer Boy Camping Resort.
What campers like
Well-maintained pool facilities: Most campgrounds in the area maintain swimming pools that operate from May through September. At Pinch Pond Family Campground, "The pool is awesome. Nice owners," according to a review. Another camper notes that "unlike most campgrounds, the pool stayed open pretty late so that was a huge bonus."
Family-oriented activities: Scheduled events keep children entertained throughout camping seasons. "We happened to be there on the weekend a magician came, my kids loved it. They have an indoor and outdoor pool. Nice playground," shares a visitor at Thousand Trails Circle M.
Rural setting with farm views: The agricultural landscape provides a peaceful backdrop for camping. "Grounds are well-kept, and aside from the 8pm Saturday night golf cart parade that was beyond loud, it's been really quiet and peaceful," notes a Circle M camper, highlighting the generally tranquil atmosphere most campgrounds maintain throughout the week.
What you should know
Seasonal campground operations: Most RV parks in the Hanover region operate from April through October. "We came amidst COVID-19, so the many activities and events this location usually holds are down, BUT there is still fun to be had here! We chose a non-sewage site, the loop is quiet and large and they have the honey wagon 3x a week (free sewage dump service)," reports a Gettysburg Farm visitor.
Site variations and terrain: Many campgrounds feature sloping terrain that can affect site leveling. At Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country, "Campground loses a star 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," explains one camper.
Off-season limitations: Facilities available outside peak season may differ substantially. "Off-season so not crowded. Pool was clean and quite good sized, had it to ourselves due to season. Did laundry while here, ample laundry room," notes a Round Top Campground visitor, indicating the trade-off between crowds and amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Plan around weekday visits: School-year weekends see highest occupancy rates at most campgrounds. "It gets very full on the weekends here," warns a Circle M camper, while another notes that weekdays offer "quiet and peaceful" experiences compared to busy weekend periods.
Mini-golf offerings: Many local campgrounds maintain mini-golf courses as family activities. At Round Top Campground, "Golf course setup for spooky time of year," mentions one visitor during October, highlighting seasonal theming at recreation facilities.
Playground accessibility: Consider proximity to playground facilities when selecting sites with young children. "The best thing about this Thousand Trails campground is it's proximity to Gettysburg and all attractions! The Campground is old and a bit rundown. Sites are small and tight and some are at strange angles," notes a Round Top visitor, indicating the importance of requesting sites near amenities.
Tips from RVers
Water and sewer placement: Several campgrounds have unusual utility connections that require planning. At Western Village RV Park, "The sewer is in odd locations all around our campsite I'm excited as well as sharing the water source with up to 5 other RVs," explains one camper, indicating the need for longer hoses and utility equipment.
Level site selection: Due to the rolling terrain around Hanover, many RV sites require significant leveling. "We were in E row and every camper there had front end 4 foot off the ground. Many other sites were the same," notes a PA Dutch Country visitor, highlighting the importance of carrying sufficient leveling blocks.
RV size restrictions: Larger motorhomes face limited site options at some campgrounds. "Depending on your rig size you're only available certain sites. They won't give you a 50 amp site unless your 50 amp or 40', they save them for larger campers," explains a PA Dutch Country camper about reservation policies.
