Best Campgrounds near Mount Holly Springs, PA
The South Mountain region surrounding Mount Holly Springs, Pennsylvania features a diverse range of camping options within the Cumberland Valley. Pine Grove Furnace State Park, located just 8 miles southwest of Mount Holly Springs, serves as a popular destination for campers seeking access to the Appalachian Trail, which passes through the park at its midpoint. Mountain Creek Campground in nearby Gardners provides both RV and tent sites with hookups in a wooded setting. State parks dominate the public camping landscape, with Gifford Pinchot State Park offering lakeside camping about 30 minutes northeast. Private campgrounds near Gettysburg, approximately 20 miles south, provide additional options for those interested in historical sites.
Seasonal considerations significantly impact camping availability in the region. Most campgrounds operate from April through October, with Pine Grove Furnace State Park extending its season from March to mid-December. Winter camping options are limited, with only Caledonia State Park and Western Village RV Park open year-round. As one camper noted, "It's at the midpoint of the Appalachian Trail so there are lots of great hikes as well as a nice path between the two lakes." Cell service can be spotty in the mountainous areas, particularly in more remote campgrounds. Reservations are strongly recommended during summer weekends and fall foliage season when sites fill quickly.
Shaded campsites receive consistently positive reviews from visitors to the area. Many campgrounds feature wooded settings that provide natural privacy between sites. At Pine Grove Furnace State Park, campers appreciate the electric sites and updated bathrooms. The proximity to lakes and swimming areas makes many locations family-friendly during summer months. Weekend crowding can be an issue at popular state parks, with one reviewer noting, "The beach by the lake is PACKED every weekend with day trippers." Facilities vary widely between campgrounds, with state parks generally offering basic but well-maintained amenities, while private campgrounds near Gettysburg and Hershey provide more extensive hookups and recreational facilities.