Central Pennsylvania camping near Millersburg offers diverse experiences along the Susquehanna River and surrounding foothills. The region's mixed hardwood forests provide natural shade for many sites, with elevations ranging from 400 to 1,200 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-90°F with moderate humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder conditions in the 60-70°F range.
What to do
Waterfront activities: Ferryboat Campsites in Liverpool provides direct access to the Susquehanna River for fishing and boating. "Lots to do very close to water and many things to do in and around camp ground. Stayed for a few days would go back," notes one visitor. The campground features a historic ferry that has operated for over 100 years.
Hiking trails: Little Buffalo State Park Campground offers multiple trail options for all experience levels. "Its an amazing little quite camping ground. Super clean. Lots of easy hiking trails and tons of fishing," reports one camper. The park also maintains wildlife observation areas where eagles can sometimes be spotted.
Seasonal attractions: Twin Grove RV Resort provides unique evening entertainment options. "At night they have a merry go round, train, giant slide and ferries wheel you can ride," explains a visitor. The resort regularly hosts Saturday evening concerts and maintains two swimming pools with water slides for daytime recreation.
What campers like
Private waterfront spots: Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground offers lake-adjacent sites for a more secluded experience. "We had site 108 which is an electric site along the shore and close to the beach, and it was perfect for our needs," shares one visitor. The park's 8.5-mile Lakeside Trail allows campers to experience the water from multiple vantage points.
Peaceful surroundings: Camp Hebron provides a quieter camping experience with significant tree cover. "This place is a must if you like the outdoors when camping! The sites have lots of tree cover and they are private," states a reviewer. The campground maintains reliable utilities with good water pressure and dependable electric service.
Convenient facilities: Jonestown/Hershey KOA maintains exceptionally clean facilities. "We were impressed by how clean the bathrooms were kept in addition to the grounds," notes one camper. The campground also offers practical services like discounted Hershey Park tickets that include shuttle transportation, saving visitors both money and the hassle of parking.
What you should know
Site topography: Many campgrounds in the region feature varied terrain. At Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground, "The Quaker Race course is built into the side of the hill leading into the QR day use area, so it is a lot more wooded and hillier." This variation affects site selection depending on your equipment.
Reservation systems: Several campgrounds offer streamlined check-in procedures. At Little Buffalo State Park, "You can book your site on line and go straight to your site! No check in required. If you are passing through and there are sites you can sign in by the honor envelops!"
Seasonal patterns: Lake Heron Retreat provides year-round access to its 10-acre lake. "This lake was beautiful! A short walk from the campsite. We had the lake to ourself both evening and morning," reports a visitor. The 240-acre property maintains woodland habitat that supports diverse wildlife viewing opportunities throughout different seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Little Buffalo State Park offers family-friendly swimming facilities. "There is a pool! The pool is very nice! They offer a large area that is only 1 foot deep, great for little ones! There is also a splash pad! There are 2 slides for fun!" explains a camper. Note that pool access requires an additional fee even for campers.
Kid-friendly activities: Buttonwood Campground organizes regular events for younger campers. "This campground has many amenities and theme weekends for their customers. In addition to the pool and playground there is mini-golf, laser tag, giant bounce pillow, and go-carts to name a few," writes a visitor. The campground also offers free transportation to Port Royal Speedway on Saturday nights.
Wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds maintain animal observation areas. At Ferryboat Campsites, "There is a small goat petting zoo, with very friendly pigmy goats and the camp is extremely pet friendly as long as they are on a leash." This provides educational opportunities for children to interact with animals in a controlled setting.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Twin Grove RV Resort offers well-maintained RV sites with strategic positioning. "The RV spots are really nice and well kept," notes one RVer. The campground features multiple dog parks allowing pets to exercise off-leash after long travel days.
Utility reliability: Most campgrounds in the region provide reliable hookups. At Buttonwood Campground, "We found the sites to be spacious, well maintained (gravel pads) and very level. Our site was along the river, which provided us with a great view." Staff members assist with backing in and setting up equipment upon arrival.
Sound considerations: Several campgrounds have nearby train tracks. At Jonestown/Hershey KOA, campers should "Beware of the close proximity to the highway and gas." However, the convenient location makes this ideal for overnight stays during longer journeys or as a base camp for regional exploration.
