Camping options near New Columbia, Pennsylvania range from riverside settings to woodland retreats across central Pennsylvania's ridge and valley terrain. Most campgrounds operate from early spring through fall, with the peak season running May through September when daytime temperatures average 75-85°F. Weather patterns can change quickly in this region, with afternoon thunderstorms common during summer months and occasional flooding along riverfront properties.
What to do
Water activities on the Susquehanna River: At Riverside Campground & Riverside Roadhouse, campers can enjoy direct river access. "We dropped in at Montgomery boat club instead of Muncy. Took about 3 hours with a lunch stop on island. Nice spots right next to river where we set up lawn chairs in river and let the kids play," reports Shannon C.
Miniature golf and water slides: Splash Magic RV Resort features multiple recreational amenities. According to Marc A., the campground has "lots to do for kidos and family," though he notes it "is a very tight campground." The resort includes bumper boats and mini-golf courses that require additional fees.
Hiking forested trails: Explore numerous woodland paths at Raymond B. Winter State Park Campground, where trails connect directly to campsites. Kassie F. notes, "Only was able to spend one night here but I'm excited to return ASAP! The night skies were beautiful (starry starry night w/little light pollution) and trails galore leading directly from the campground."
What campers like
Quiet woodland settings: Many campers prefer the secluded environment at Raymond B. Winter State Park. Ethan describes the campground as having "camp sites all over and very secluded and private. 10/10." The park's natural setting contrasts with more developed facilities elsewhere.
Swimming opportunities: Williamsport South-Nittany Mountain KOA provides pool access that campers consistently rate highly. Brandon W. highlights the "nice newer pool" as part of what makes this "a great family campground" with "awesome playground and other kid stuff."
Entertainment options: Live music is available at Riverside Campground on weekends. Rick C. explains, "They offer a lot of entertainment (live music until 10PM on Friday and Saturday) and daily specials during the week. The locals were friendly... Give it a try."
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: Many campgrounds in the region have tightly spaced sites, especially those with full hookups. At Ricketts Glen State Park Campground, T K. notes, "Site was pretty nice, but there is very little privacy as the sites are so close to each other. Also no service (Verizon)."
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds experience seasonal water issues. Lee D. reports about Ricketts Glen: "The water had been tested earlier in the season and unsafe levels of manganese were detected. All water spigots were shut off and covered but we were told it was safe to wash our dishes and brush our teeth."
Flooding risk: Campgrounds along waterways may experience flooding after heavy rains. Amanda + Will shared that at Riverside Campground, "We unfortunately got stuck in infamous Northeast PA weather but we made the best of it. There were thunderstorms and campsite was a little flooded but we were still able to camp."
Tips for camping with families
Pet-friendly options: Not all campgrounds welcome pets in every section. At Ricketts Glen State Park, only certain loops allow pets. Lee D. explains, "There were many tent campers in this loop, which does not allow pets (the other, smaller loop does allow pets)."
Kid-focused amenities: Little Mexico Campground offers creek access popular with families. Amy G. reports, "My husband and our three sons usually camp here at least two times a summer. We always get a site by the creek and have a great time. The sites are always clean and the staff is great."
Consider noise levels: Some parks have noise sources that might disturb light sleepers. Williamsport South-Nittany Mountain KOA offers quieter sites away from common areas. Traci F. notes, "Our site was along the main road and we expected a lot of traffic, but it was actually pretty quiet."
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions carefully: Many best places to camp near New Columbia have tight turning radiuses or short sites. At Fantasy Island Campground, Joe B. warned, "Very tight parking, I told them my trailer was 35 feet long, they put me in a site that was impossible to back into. 4 different sites had to move their vehicles and I still couldn't do it."
Limited full hookup availability: Certain campgrounds offer limited full-service sites that book quickly. At Ricketts Glen, according to James S., "Our full hookup site was large with table and fire ring, and required some leveling. Not much shade in the full hookup loop, so was happy to have electricity for A/C."
Electrical issues during peak usage: During hot weekends when air conditioners run constantly, electrical systems can be strained. Debbie W. observed at Splash Magic that "Electric ran below 110 volts the entire weekend" during a particularly hot period when "everyone had their air running."
