Tent camping opportunities near Mount Holly Springs, Pennsylvania include established sites and primitive locations across south-central Pennsylvania's varied terrain. Several campgrounds lie within a 15-30 mile radius of Mount Holly Springs, offering access to creeks, forests, and fields at elevations ranging from 450 to 1,700 feet. The region's moderate summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F, making May through October the primary camping season.
What to do
Creek exploration and fishing: Mill Creek Camping Area provides direct access to cool, flowing water. According to a camper, "Campsite for where we stayed is down by the creek making for a cooler camping experience and love the sound of water flowing at night." Sites along streams offer natural cooling during hot summer days.
Stargazing in open fields: STAR LEE Farm features expansive open areas ideal for night sky viewing. A visitor notes, "There's a huge field to star gaze as well as taking pictures, lots of hiking and if you're a bee enthusiast they grow their own honey in the property."
Rock climbing at higher elevations: Annapolis Rock Campground provides access to quality rock faces. A reviewer explains, "The best part is the Annapolis Rock cliffs. they offer beautiful views and all kinds of single pitch rock climbing! There are also two bear poles."
What campers like
Natural springs for water: Primitive campsites often feature natural water sources. At Dahlgren Backpacker Campground, "There is a basic, but clean, bathroom with showers. There is also a year-round water source (the bathroom closes in winter)."
Privacy and seclusion: Several tent sites provide isolation from crowds. One STAR LEE Farm visitor appreciated that the "Place was very pretty and secluded... it's perfect for those who want to completely escape the business of modern world."
Moderate hiking trails: Reeds Gap State Park Campground offers accessible paths along water features. A camper shared, "There's a creek along the outside and a nice easy hiking trail that follows it. I'd definitely go back again!"
What you should know
Reservation requirements vary: Some campgrounds require advance booking while others use honor systems. At Reeds Gap, a visitor reported, "Stayed here on a Sunday night without a reservation. We were the only ones there. Pay by honor system at the park office."
Limited cell service: Expect communication challenges in more remote areas. A camper at Reeds Gap State Park Campground advised, "Put your phone away cuz there's no cell service here!"
Fire restrictions: Regulations differ significantly between sites. At Annapolis Rock Campground, "no fires allowed" due to restoration efforts, while most other area campgrounds permit fires in designated rings.
Trail access considerations: Some camping areas intersect with public hiking trails. At Mill Creek Campground, a camper warned, "Hikers take any trail instead of marked trails regardless of families camping in a private areas."
Tips for camping with families
Look for playground access: Family-friendly sites often include recreation areas. A visitor at Reeds Gap noted, "There's a nice creek that runs through it, picnic pavilions and a playground for the kids!"
Consider bathroom proximity: Comfort facilities vary widely in accessibility. At Reeds Gap State Park Campground, a camper mentioned, "Bathhouses were a little far away," while another appreciated the "eco-shower" with "Timed water, lights (solar?)etc. are spot on for me!"
Check for educational opportunities: Some locations offer unique learning experiences. At STAR LEE Farm, beekeeping operations allow families to "walk around and look at all the boxes" where they produce honey on the property.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations for vehicles: Most tent-focused campgrounds near Mount Holly Springs have restricted access for larger vehicles. At Lower Allen Community Park, sites require "walk-in" access, making them unsuitable for RVs.
Alternative parking options: Some sites offer separate parking areas near tent camping. A Lower Allen visitor noted, "There is parking right there. The park is in the suburbs so it's close to lots of things. They do lock the park at dusk though."
Consider hybrid camping approaches: Combining kayaking with camping creates unique access options. According to one camper, Lower Allen's sites "sit right along the Yellow Breeches creak so you can put in a few miles up and float down to your site."
