Tent camping sites at Reeds Gap State Park cluster around Honey Creek, with 14 spots in a secluded area of the Bald Eagle State Forest. The park sits at 1,300 feet elevation within Pennsylvania's central ridge and valley region, where summer temperatures typically remain 5-10 degrees cooler than surrounding valleys. Winter camping at nearby Penn Roosevelt State Park allows visitors to experience the forest under snow cover when most other campgrounds have closed for the season.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: Penn Roosevelt State Park offers immediate access to the Mid-State Trail and several connecting paths. "Beautiful primitive campground (tent only). Get a site on the outside towards the water. They are spaced out and peaceful. Has restrooms (no shower), picnic table, and fire pit at each site. Short walk to creek and beautiful pond," reports Joann&WellsThePup I. from Penn Roosevelt State Park Campground.
Tubing on Juniata River: Buttonwood Campground provides river access with tubing as a popular warm-weather activity. "This campground is very fun. Campground is clean and very well maintained. Staff is friendly and knowledgeable. Tubing down the river is so fun and the highlight of a stay here," notes Heather G., who visited in August.
Fishing opportunities: Many campers bring fishing gear to take advantage of the stocked and native trout waters. "I grew up camping here and it's a great place to stay! Penn's Creek runs beside it...it's a lot of fun to float the creek. Great fishing too! No cell service," shares Rebecca G. about Poe Paddy State Park Campground.
What campers like
Quiet, secluded atmosphere: The remote locations of these campgrounds consistently earn praise. "Put your phone away cuz there's no cell service here! Nice and peaceful with a dozen or so tent only sites. We got a nice one tucked back in the trees, but a few of them are pretty close to the road - not like it's terribly busy," says Danielle C. about her stay at Reeds Gap State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Many reviews note well-maintained bathhouses and amenities. "The bath house is extremely clean and they have warm showers which was nice. We didn't realize there would be no service so I didn't research hikes before we left," reports Taylor V. about Poe Valley State Park Campground.
Family-friendly activities: Campers appreciate the range of outdoor recreation options. "Stayed here on a Sunday night without a reservation. We were the only ones there. Pay by honor system at the park office. Campground was quiet and lovely. Only 14 sites. Bathroom with hot showers is nearby. One shower stall in each bathroom and the showers had a large dressing area," notes Cheryl K. about Reeds Gap.
What you should know
No cell service: Nearly all campgrounds in the region lack phone coverage. "This was an awesome campground! There are two sides to the campground with a street that divides the two sides. One is along the River and the other is situated near the camp store, playground and pool. Very well taken care of campground," explains Ray L. about Buttonwood Campground.
Limited water access at primitive sites: Some campgrounds have minimal facilities. "Our first experience was spectacular- we had a site set back from the road surrounded by mountain laurel and ferns. The second site we tried was a tad too close to the road, hence the 4-stars," explains Kassie F. about camping in Bald Eagle State Forest.
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "It's a great small campground that has basic amenities. The experience is likely highly site dependent, as there are a few distinct areas to stay depending on your needs and luck. There are a couple of water pumps, several well-maintained pit toilets, and an emergency phone," shares Joanna H. about Poe Paddy State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with swimming options: Several parks offer swimming areas for children. "We visited Greenwood Furnace 2 weeks ago! It is one of the most peaceful state parks we have been to in PA. The park is great for kids. Paved roads so they can ride their bikes. There is a nice park for the kids to play," recommends Amanda H. from Greenwood Furnace State Park Campground.
Pack entertainment for no-tech time: Without cell service, bring alternative activities. "Don't bring your electronics you won't need them here! No cell phone reception unless you drive a few miles down the road to a cute little store called Couch's! Great food if you don't feel like cooking on the fire one night, but who doesn't love food on the fire!" continues Amanda H. about Greenwood Furnace.
Check site locations relative to bathrooms: Some campgrounds have limited facilities. "Reeds Gap State Park is everything anyone who really just wants to relax needs. It's only tents and it's dog and family friendly! I'm from Philly and we don't get to camp much but boy was this decision a winner!" shares Kelly C.
Tips for RVers
Select appropriate sites for your rig size: Many campgrounds have limited access for larger vehicles. "Clean campground. Quiet. Some hiking. Lake nearby but weather didn't permit the use of the lake," notes Cathy about Greenwood Furnace State Park.
Verify hookup availability: Not all campgrounds offer full services. "Driving in I got a little worried I was getting lost, but I drove on. I arrived on a Wednesday evening. I had my pick of campsites, because I was the only person there! 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!" warns Chuck M. about Penn Roosevelt.
Plan for uneven terrain: Many sites require significant leveling. "Lovely area with many shaded spots. Electric hookup but no sewer or water hookups. The beach was nice, not crowded, soft sand, and warm water. It's a great lake to kayak or paddle board on," describes Taylor V. about Poe Valley.
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