Tent camping in the Millersburg region of Pennsylvania offers campers access to the Appalachian Mountain ridges and valleys with elevations ranging from 400 to 2,000 feet. The area sits at the junction of three distinct Pennsylvania landforms: the Ridge and Valley Province, the Appalachian Plateau, and the Great Valley. Most campgrounds remain open from April through October, though Penn Roosevelt State Park provides year-round tent camping options.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Ravensburg State Park Campground features Fishing Creek where visitors can enjoy trout fishing. "There are few hiking trails; short and long that take you to beautiful views along the creek with a couple of places deep enough to swim," notes camper Laura.
Creek exploration: At Penn Roosevelt State Park Campground, campers can access both creek and pond areas. A reviewer mentions, "Short walk to creek and beautiful pond," making it ideal for water-based recreation without needing to drive elsewhere.
Complete disconnection: Reeds Gap State Park offers a true escape from technology. As Danielle C. explains: "Put your phone away cuz there's no cell service here! Nice and peaceful with a dozen or so tent only sites."
Hiking network: The surrounding state forests contain extensive trail systems connecting many campsites. At Penn Roosevelt, "the park has some good trails" according to reviewer Paige L., allowing hikers to explore directly from their campsite without driving.
What campers like
Secluded atmosphere: Many tent sites at Ravensburg State Park Campground offer privacy through natural landscaping. One camper notes, "There are bushes and trees between the sites and it feels very private," highlighting the natural separation between camping areas.
Hammocking spots: Several campgrounds feature ideal hammock setups. Laura mentioned about Ravensburg: "There are plenty of trees that are good for hammocking. And in a few sites, you can set them up right by the creek, which is my favorite part."
Weekday solitude: Off-peak camping provides exceptional seclusion at many locations. Chuck M. describes his Penn Roosevelt experience: "I had my pick of campsites, because I was the only person there!"
Reliable bathroom facilities: Despite the rustic setting, most tent camping areas maintain clean facilities. At Reeds Gap State Park Campground, the shower facilities receive specific praise: "Bathroom with hot showers is nearby. One shower stall in each bathroom and the showers had a large dressing area," according to Cheryl K.
What you should know
Water availability varies: Some campgrounds have inconsistent water service. At Penn Roosevelt, a camper reports: "The water was off, but I was prepared to wilderness camp later in my trip so, that was no big deal."
Road noise considerations: Some campsites lie closer to roads than expected. At Ravensburg State Park Campground, KK advises: "it's right near a road so you hear car (and horse & buggy!) noise — would try to get a spot further away from the road if possible."
First-come, first-served options: Several campgrounds don't require advance planning. Cheryl K. shares about Reeds Gap: "Stayed here on a Sunday night without a reservation. We were the only ones there. Pay by honor system at the park office."
Limited supplies nearby: The best tent camping near Millersburg requires bringing all necessities. Denise D. advises about Penn Roosevelt: "Make sure you bring everything you need as there isn't a store nearby."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer play equipment for children. Rebecca G. mentions Reeds Gap has "picnic pavilions and a playground for the kids!"
Easy hiking for children: Look for campgrounds with beginner-friendly trails. At Lower Allen Community Park, "There is some nice hiking here and lots of nature to explore," making it suitable for families with younger children.
Group camping options: Larger family gatherings work well at certain locations. One camper notes about Ravensburg: "It's good for large groups (you can get sites in a row) or just you."
Swimming spots: Natural water features provide entertainment for kids. Ravensburg offers what Laura describes as "places deep enough to swim" along the creek, giving children cooling-off options during warmer months.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Most tent camping areas near Millersburg have restrictions for larger vehicles. At Hickernell Roadside Campsites in Bald Eagle State Forest, the narrow access roads aren't suitable for big rigs despite having some hookup options.
Tight turns on forest roads: Even smaller trailers face challenges on some access routes. Chuck M. warns about Penn Roosevelt: "If you have a trailer, I do not recommend this spot. There is a very tight hairpin turn on the way in. My six foot long trailer barely made the turn!"
Tent pad limitations: RVers who also tent camp should note sizing constraints. Traci F. explains: "They have tent pads which are nice but we have a 10x20 tent so we pick a site that the pad is flush with the surrounding ground."
