Tent camping near New Bloomfield, Pennsylvania offers multiple options for primitive experiences in the dense forests of central Pennsylvania's ridge and valley region. The area sits within the Appalachian Mountain range at elevations between 400-1,500 feet, creating varied camping terrain from creek bottoms to forested ridges. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, with summer highs typically reaching the 80s.
What to do
Stargazing at open fields: Star Lee Farm provides exceptional night sky viewing opportunities away from light pollution. "Place was very pretty and secluded... There's a huge field to star gaze as well as taking pictures," reports camper Tiana S.
Creek exploration and swimming: Ravensburg State Park offers refreshing water activities during summer months. "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 Laura.
Hiking without cell service: At Reeds Gap State Park Campground, trails connect directly to camping areas. "Put your phone away cuz there's no cell service here! Nice and peaceful with a dozen or so tent only sites... There's a creek along the outside and a nice easy hiking trail that follows it," shares Danielle C.
Bee observation: Star Lee Farm welcomes visitors to explore their honey production. "If you're a bee enthusiast they grow their own honey in the property and you're more than welcome to walk around and look at all the boxes," mentions Tiana S.
What campers like
Riverside camping: At Lower Allen Community Park, waterside sites provide direct access to Yellow Breeches Creek. "The sites sit right along the Yellow Breeches creek so you can put in a few miles up and float down to your site. There is parking right there," explains Joann.
Complete seclusion: Many campers appreciate the isolation at Ravensburg State Park. "It's rarely busy and it's first come first serve. They have tent pads which are nice... There are bushes and trees between the sites and it feels very private," writes Traci F.
Winter camping options: Penn Roosevelt State Park Campground remains open year-round. "Stayed during the winter so the park wasn't very busy but there was one other group of campers. The sites are tent only and pretty close together but some still feel secluded," reports Paige L.
Raised tent platforms: Several campgrounds feature elevated tent pads that improve drainage. "They have nice raised tent pads. It's very humid so many picnic tables have green moss," notes Becky about Ravensburg State Park.
What you should know
Water availability varies seasonally: Penn Roosevelt offers limited facilities. "The water was off, but I was prepared to wilderness camp later in my trip so, that was no big deal," mentions Chuck M.
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds sit near active roads. "The road that park is on is busier than one would think, not bad at night, but busy in the morning," notes Sarah C. about Ravensburg State Park Campground.
Self-registration process: Many campgrounds use honor systems for payment. "Stayed here on a Sunday night without a reservation. We were the only ones there. Pay by honor system at the park office," explains Cheryl K. about Reeds Gap.
Narrow access roads: Large trailers face challenges at some locations. "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.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Reeds Gap offers facilities for children. "The bathrooms were a little far away. Quite camping and hiking," notes John Z.
Environmental education: Penn Roosevelt State Park provides nature immersion opportunities. "A quiet, peaceful campground. The area has lots of hikes to offer including the Alan Seeger State Forest, Midstate Trail and several others," shares Denise D.
Bathroom considerations: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. "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! 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," explains Kelly C.
Urban-adjacent options: Some sites offer proximity to conveniences. "The park is in the suburbs so it's close to lots of things. They do lock the park at dusk though. They have portapotties, fire pits, and picnic tables," says Joann about Lower Allen Community Park.
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Most primitive campgrounds near New Bloomfield limit RV size. "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," advises Sarah C.
Supply preparedness: Limited services mean bringing everything needed. "It's a bit primitive having only bathrooms and water in several spots in the campground. Make sure you bring everything you need as the isn't a store nearby," explains Denise D.
