Camping options in the rural terrain surrounding Mercersburg, Pennsylvania range across elevations from 500 to 2,000 feet, creating varied camping experiences in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. The region experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 80-85°F and winter dropping to 25-30°F. Fall camping remains popular through late October when changing foliage peaks across the hilly landscape.
What to do
Explore Gettysburg history: Just 30 minutes from Mercersburg, Gettysburg National Military Park offers numerous hiking trails and historical sites. A visitor to Gettysburg Campground noted, "It is a wonderful place to have Kids. tons of things for them to do. we were in tent sites which felt bigger than most and were right by river. not far to go anywhere walking."
Fish in stocked ponds: Several campgrounds maintain fishing ponds that don't require licenses. At Friendship Village Campground, "There are multiple ponds on the property however only one of them can be fished in. No license is required for fishing here," according to one camper who rated their experience highly.
River activities: The Potomac River watershed offers water recreation opportunities. At Harpers Ferry Campground, one visitor explained, "It is right on the river so you can go swimming right from your campsite! The camp ground is part of river riders which offers lazy tubing, white water tubing, zip lining, and great kayaking down the river."
What campers like
Proximity to attractions: Location near historical sites ranks high with campers. A guest at Drummer Boy Camping Resort mentioned, "It's literally like a mile from downtown Gettysburg, which also has a lot of different things to do. Overall I would def recommend this campground to someone and I would also go back myself."
Creekside camping: Water features consistently earn positive reviews. One camper at Twin Bridge Campground wrote, "The most relaxing setting. Our kids love the creek and playing in and around it. Some activities, playground, mini golf etc. but more of a relaxing campground."
Fall foliage shuttles: Special seasonal services add value. A reviewer at Friendship Village Campground appreciated that "they provide a shuttle for Bedford's annual Fall Foliage festival, which is a bonus."
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Campgrounds near rail lines may experience noise disruption. At Harpers Ferry Campground, a reviewer warned, "What a lovely spot for relaxation and some time in nature. Too bad the Marc train runs right above your head all night. If you are looking for a relaxing camp experience make sure to bring your noise cancelling headphones."
Water system quality: Some campers report concerns with water systems. One visitor at Round Top Campground noted there were "definitely issues with the water" among other concerns about the facilities.
Site spacing varies significantly: Campground layouts differ in privacy levels. One camper at Western Village RV Park stated, "The sites are so small that my truck was either parked over the firering or blocking our door. Our slideout is 3" from the neighbor site's picnic table."
Tips for camping with families
Jumping pillow activities: Several RV parks near Mercersburg, Pennsylvania feature unique play equipment. A visitor to Friendship Village Campground recommended, "For big rig campers, you need to stay at the upper portion of the campground at sites 200-500. In my opinion, the best sites to stay at if you have kids are sites 145–171 as those are right beside the jumping pillow, playground and gaga ball pit."
Multiple pool options: Some larger campgrounds offer multiple swimming facilities. At Friendship Village Campground, "There are two pools at each end of the campground and they are very well-maintained and have lifeguard supervision. The pool hours or a little later than most campgrounds as they open at 11 through the week and 12 on Sunday."
Mini golf availability: Family-friendly activities on-site save travel time. A camper at Raystown Lake / Saxton KOA shared, "It is still a small family run and family friendly campground, it still has a pool the is as clean as they come (they may have added a new liner, not sure) and they still maintain it like it is being inspected the next day."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. A visitor to Round Top Campground reported, "Site was unlevel and poorly maintained. The sewer consisted of a storage tank less than 10 ft from our picnic table. It stunk."
Sewer connection locations: RVers should check hookup placements before arrival. One camper mentioned, "The biggest complaint about our site was that the sewer hookup was inconveniently placed about six inches above the ground which meant that it would not drain properly."
Honey wagon service: Several campgrounds without full hookups offer pumping services. At Twin Bridge Campground, a fifth-wheel owner appreciated, "Big spacious sites, and a honeywagon to make things easier (there weren't any full hookup sites the I saw besides the long term spaces)."
