Tent campsites near Milton, Pennsylvania range from primitive sites in state forests to more developed facilities in state parks. The region sits within the Ridge and Valley Province of the Appalachian Mountains, with camping options spread across several watersheds including Penns Creek and White Deer Creek. Most forest camping locations operate year-round, while state park campgrounds typically close during winter months when temperatures frequently drop below freezing.
What to do
Creek exploration: Ravensburg State Park Campground offers multiple spots where campers can access flowing water. As one visitor notes, "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."
Geocaching opportunities: The area around Reeds Gap State Park Campground has several geocaching locations. A reviewer mentioned, "There is a trail head near the entrance of the park for hikers and a geocache showed up close to the trail on a road on my geocache tracker if you are into that."
Digital detox: Cell service is limited or nonexistent at many campsites. According to one Reeds Gap camper, "Put your phone away cuz there's no cell service here! Nice and peaceful with a dozen or so tent only sites."
What campers like
Natural buffers between sites: Many campers appreciate the privacy at tent sites. A visitor to Ravensburg State Park noted, "There are bushes and trees between the sites and it feels very private. Sometimes it can feel too secluded but the park ranger drives through a number of times."
Creek-side hammocking: Several campgrounds allow hammock setups near water. One Ravensburg camper shared, "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."
Self-registration convenience: Most primitive sites use a simple honor system. A Reeds Gap visitor explained, "Stayed here on a Sunday night without a reservation. We were the only ones there. Pay by honor system at the park office."
What you should know
Navigation challenges: GPS directions may lead to incorrect locations. One Shikellamy State Park visitor cautioned, "THERE IS NO CAMPGROUND HERE! Repeat....NO CAMPGROUND HERE....NOT ON ONE SIDE OF THE RIVER & NOT ON THE OTHERSIDE."
Road noise factors: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds. A reviewer at Ravensburg noted, "The road that park is on is busier than one would think, not bad at night, but busy in the morning."
Seasonal bathroom availability: Facilities may close during shoulder seasons. A Reeds Gap camper mentioned, "The only reason it isn't 5 stars is because the bathrooms were down during our trip making night time potty visits a little unpleasant."
Site selection strategy: Consider your tent size when choosing sites. A Ravensburg camper advised, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer play areas for children. One Elimsport CCC Campground visitor mentioned, "There's a nice creek that runs through it, picnic pavilions and a playground for the kids!"
Low-traffic weekdays: For quieter family experiences, camp Sunday through Thursday. A Ravensburg visitor shared, "This state park is beautiful and I consider it a semi-hidden gem. It's our favorite place to tent camp. It's rarely busy."
Easy hiking options: Most parks offer beginner-friendly trails suitable for children. According to a Reeds Gap camper, "There's a creek along the outside and a nice easy hiking trail that follows it."
Limited supplies: Stock up before arrival as stores are not nearby. At most campgrounds, especially those in state forests like Eastville Roadside Campsites, visitors must bring all necessary supplies including drinking water.
Tips from RVers
Access road caution: Several campgrounds have steep entrance roads. A Ravensburg visitor warned, "Park is easily accessible from I-80, just be aware of your directions and make sure they're taking you to the park via Rocky Road. You will be driving down into the valley, which can feel very steep at times."
Site location considerations: For RVs, avoid sites near roads. One camper at Ravensburg suggested, "As other reviewers mention, 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."
Self-contained requirements: Most primitive sites in Tiadaghton State Forest lack amenities. While electric hookups may be available at some sites, RVers should be prepared with filled water tanks and empty waste tanks before arrival.
