Searching for the best camping near New Columbia, PA? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.
Boasting 22 named waterfalls amid old-growth forest and deeply-incised canyons, Rickett’s Glen State Park encompasses more than 13,000 acres around a high bluff known as the Allegheny Front. On top of the bluff, several lakes—Lake Jean being the largest—are the source of the many creeks that tumble down the canyons and create the spectacular falls. The area was mostly logged out in the early 1900s by the landowner, R. Bruce Ricketts, before he decided to preserve the woodlands in the falls’ three glens. Following efforts to turn the area into a national park in the 1930s failed, he began selling the land to the state of Pennsylvania, who turned the area into a state park in 1944. The park is now a year-round destination for camping, hiking, fishing, bird-watching, paddling, skiing and ice climbing.
Just an hour’s drive west of Scranton, the campground at Rickett’s Glen offers 120 drive-in campsites in two areas near the shore of Lake Jean. Sites can accommodate trailers and RVs up to 40 feet; some sites are ADA accessible, and a few group camps are available. Hookups are not available, but there is a dump station outside the camping area. Facilities in the campgrounds include restrooms with showers, drinking water, an amphitheater, a trail to the lake’s beach, and a designated dog area. The Big Loop campground also has five deluxe cottages available to rent. In a separate area, there are 10 cabins available, as well as a boat ramp (rentals available) and snack bar. Campsite rates range from $15–$20/night; cabins and cottages range from $60–$115/night.
The most popular activity at Rickett’s Glen is to hike through the three waterfall glens. This can be done via several looping trails ranging from 3.4 miles to 7.2 miles. Two trailheads are located above the falls, from the lakes area, and one is located below the falls, from PA Route 118. Other summer activities in the park include paddling and fishing on Lake Jean, or just soaking up the sun at the beach. An onsite naturalist offers guided walks, nature activities and interpretive programs. There are also limited hunting opportunities. If visiting during the winter season, many of the trails are open for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. Ice fishing is popular, as is ice climbing on the waterfalls. Check the park’s website for off-season services, accessibility, and ice climbing requirements.
$15 - $150 / night
This KOA is tucked into the rolling hills of the beautiful Susquehanna River Valley, yet it is convenient to the interstate. Local attractions include Knoebels Amusement Resort and Clyde Peeling's Reptiland. 50 Max Amp 85' Max Length Wi-Fi Cable TV Pool (5/27 - 9/4) Snack Bar Propane Fishing Mini Golf Firewood Pavilion Bike Rentals KampK9®
Turn your Knoebels visit into a family vacation by staying at the Knoebels Park Campground! After a long day of riding, playing, swimming and eating at Knoebel’s, you’ll be just steps away from the crackling campfire and your pillow. Our family campground is tucked away in a quiet forest setting, so you can get away from it all and awake refreshed and ready for more fun! Pitch your tent, park your RV or camper, or stay in one of our rustic log cabins.
$59 - $160 / night
$25 - $80 / night
Lake Glory is Knoebels second campground, set by a beautiful, secluded lake in Catawissa, PA. It’s just a short drive from the park, with free shuttle bus service available to and from Knoebels Amusement Park. Bring your tent, camper, RV or stay in one of our cozy cabins.
There are no extra charges for large families, restrooms, dumping station, play area or guests. There will be a fee of $5 for use of the dumping station by non-overnight guests.
$50 - $80 / night
Warm showers and flush toilets
This activity or structure is ADA accessible.
A 70-site tent and trailer campground is located along PA 154, one mile east of the park office. Half of the campsites have electric hookups.
Water and shower houses are within a short distance of all sites.
A sanitary dumping station is available for emptying travel trailer holding tanks.
Pets are permitted at designated sites.
The campground is closed in the winter.
The 19 rustic cabins are available for rent year round. Rentals are for one week periods during the summer, and two-night minimum stays in the off-season.
Organized Group Tenting
Qualified, non-profit, organized groups can camp in the rustic group tenting area year-round.
Nestled along the Susquehanna River in Northumberland, Pennsylvania lies Central Pennsylvania’s premier family campground—Splash Magic RV Resort. From our exciting water park and glow-in-the-dark mini-golf course to the premium cabins and RV camping spots, we’re committed to providing the whole family with a memorable experience that you’ll want to relive again and again. At Splash Magic RV Resort, the fun is endless!
Found on Aspen Lane just off of US-11, you won’t miss our beautiful campsite down the road from Pineknotter and Shikellamy State Park along the Susquehanna River. Splash Magic RV Resort is a short drive away from the towns of Riverside, Winfield, College Park, Sunbury, and Selinsgrove. Continue reading for more information about the available lodging options and fantastic features found at our park, or give us a call to check on campsite availability today!
Camp along Penns Creek in central Pennsylvania at Little Mexico Campground. Open to both RVs and tent campers, Little Mexico is open year round.
Amenities include:
Largest Above Ground Pool in U.S. • Playgrounds • Fishing in Ponds Tubing, Canoeing and Kayaking on Penns Creek Volleyball and Badminton • Mini Golf • Horseshoes Planned Activities • Bathroom and Shower Facilities • Dump Stations Big Rig Friendly • Seasonal Sites • Cabins • Full Hook Up, Full Hook Up Creek, Basic, Basic Creek Sites Pull Thru and Back In, Shaded and Open, 30 and 50 amp Pavilions • Propane • Game Room • Laundry Facility • Pet-Friendly Camp Store for Supplies and Ice (hours posted at store) Limited Wi-Fi • Cable • Softball Field • New Full Basketball Court Firewood • Nearby RV Services • Honey Wagon Service (fees apply)
$30 - $65 / night
Location... Located on approximately 35 acres at the confluence of Fishing Creek, and the Susquehanna River, Indian Head Campground offers grass covered, tree shaded sites for both RV's and tents, or more open sites if you prefer no trees. Tent sites are normally situated under trees, on grass, and have a table and fire ring. Water is close by, and our most popular tenting area is across from the restroom and shower building. The small pavilion is located there for tenters to use. There are more isolated tent sites near our boat ramp, and others may be found at various places around the campground. A very nice large, somewhat isolated and spacious area for group tent camping is available upon request.
Camping Sites... Our RV sites have a table and fire ring, 30 amp electric hookup, along with water. The RV unit will park on a gravel base, and is surrounded with grass and trees. We have a more open area that is popular with camping clubs. It has 30 amp electric and water, but no individual table or fire ring. A covered large pavilion is conveniently close by with a fireplace, tables, electric lights, and water for clubs to gather for meetings and meals.
The River... Our concrete boat launch at the mouth of Fishing Creek, places your boat just a lures throw from the Susquehanna River, an American treasure that originates in Cooperstown, New York, and empties into the Chesapeake Bay at Havre de Grace, Maryland. An ambitious plan is underway to map the river for boat or canoe trips with access points, boat launches, camping, historic points, hazards, waypoints, and other things of interest for a boating day trip, or more ambitious trips that you may wish to plan. Maps and guides will soon be available for purchase. Also underway is a project to utilize abandoned railroad lines, along with some private property, and create bicycling and hiking paths, allowing easy access from the campground onto the path.
Campground Store... We have a well stocked camp store that contains souvenirs, RV supplies, some limited food items that you may have forgotten, and some ice cream. We sell firewood for your campfires, and we have WiFi available for a charge.
Boasting 22 named waterfalls amid old-growth forest and deeply-incised canyons, Rickett’s Glen State Park encompasses more than 13,000 acres around a high bluff known as the Allegheny Front. On top of the bluff, several lakes—Lake Jean being the largest—are the source of the many creeks that tumble down the canyons and create the spectacular falls. The area was mostly logged out in the early 1900s by the landowner, R. Bruce Ricketts, before he decided to preserve the woodlands in the falls’ three glens. Following efforts to turn the area into a national park in the 1930s failed, he began selling the land to the state of Pennsylvania, who turned the area into a state park in 1944. The park is now a year-round destination for camping, hiking, fishing, bird-watching, paddling, skiing and ice climbing.
Just an hour’s drive west of Scranton, the campground at Rickett’s Glen offers 120 drive-in campsites in two areas near the shore of Lake Jean. Sites can accommodate trailers and RVs up to 40 feet; some sites are ADA accessible, and a few group camps are available. Hookups are not available, but there is a dump station outside the camping area. Facilities in the campgrounds include restrooms with showers, drinking water, an amphitheater, a trail to the lake’s beach, and a designated dog area. The Big Loop campground also has five deluxe cottages available to rent. In a separate area, there are 10 cabins available, as well as a boat ramp (rentals available) and snack bar. Campsite rates range from $15–$20/night; cabins and cottages range from $60–$115/night.
The most popular activity at Rickett’s Glen is to hike through the three waterfall glens. This can be done via several looping trails ranging from 3.4 miles to 7.2 miles. Two trailheads are located above the falls, from the lakes area, and one is located below the falls, from PA Route 118. Other summer activities in the park include paddling and fishing on Lake Jean, or just soaking up the sun at the beach. An onsite naturalist offers guided walks, nature activities and interpretive programs. There are also limited hunting opportunities. If visiting during the winter season, many of the trails are open for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. Ice fishing is popular, as is ice climbing on the waterfalls. Check the park’s website for off-season services, accessibility, and ice climbing requirements.
$15 - $150 / night
This KOA is tucked into the rolling hills of the beautiful Susquehanna River Valley, yet it is convenient to the interstate. Local attractions include Knoebels Amusement Resort and Clyde Peeling's Reptiland. 50 Max Amp 85' Max Length Wi-Fi Cable TV Pool (5/27 - 9/4) Snack Bar Propane Fishing Mini Golf Firewood Pavilion Bike Rentals KampK9®
Turn your Knoebels visit into a family vacation by staying at the Knoebels Park Campground! After a long day of riding, playing, swimming and eating at Knoebel’s, you’ll be just steps away from the crackling campfire and your pillow. Our family campground is tucked away in a quiet forest setting, so you can get away from it all and awake refreshed and ready for more fun! Pitch your tent, park your RV or camper, or stay in one of our rustic log cabins.
$59 - $160 / night
$25 - $80 / night
Lake Glory is Knoebels second campground, set by a beautiful, secluded lake in Catawissa, PA. It’s just a short drive from the park, with free shuttle bus service available to and from Knoebels Amusement Park. Bring your tent, camper, RV or stay in one of our cozy cabins.
There are no extra charges for large families, restrooms, dumping station, play area or guests. There will be a fee of $5 for use of the dumping station by non-overnight guests.
$50 - $80 / night
5 miles from I-81, quiet and clean! Wait for breakfast at the restaurant
very nice
Campground it a little outdated. The back seasonal area has some sketchy looking campers that look abandoned. The locals using the pavilion stayed up making noise way past the 10 pm quiet time. The owners are still relatively new and making visible improvements and were very nice. The layout of the sites was odd and mostly not marked off very well and looked like a free for all in some areas.
Facilities are disgusting and you’re right on top of neighbors. The lake is great so I would just do a day trip. If you want quiet and relaxation don’t come here to camp.
Beautiful state park. The campground is clean and well kept. The beach area is clean, there's a big playground on it as well as a concession stand and store (open during the summer). Spots 57 and 18 offer the most privacy. There are spots that have little creek side access but they are closer together. There are showers in the campground too. DCNR patrols it like a hawk though...so beware any visiting cars to your spot must be moved or pay $5. Borderline harassment from the DCNR guy for my friend visiting for an hour. It is a state park so no alcohol if that's your thing. Beautiful hiking trails and bike trails. 10/10 recommend
This is a nice clean quiet campground. It's a great stop if you're doing rails to trails or swimming at the beach up the road. (Note to get to both places you'll need to drive). We went on a weekday and it wasn't crowded but I've heard on the weekends it gets packed. There are two sets of swings and one slide. The bathrooms have showers and were clean. Some of the spots are smaller and right next to each other (down by the creek and up around top). But spots 68,69,70 are prime. We were in spot 75 right next to the bridge and not ideal
We booked this campground because it was waterfront camping. Upon arriving to the site, we saw that it was not in fact waterfront camping. When we talked to the office, they just told us to take the other side, which also was not waterfront like advertised. Luckily, before we decided to check that side out, the owners son told her that someone else was coming to that section, “which they were also confused as to why the camping wasn’t waterfront”. The water that was accessible was a small launch area where other people in the campground hung out at most of the time. The map of the campground they gave us was completely different than the one online. The sites weren’t marked either.
Why does it cost about the same as renting a cabin out as compared to bringing your own camper make no damn sense .
We arrived on Saturday and departed the following Friday. The campground was exceptionally maintained, bathrooms and showers virtually spotless and the pool was clearly and consistently maintained at all times. Plenty of space to spread out and walk. All of the roads were paved and sites were very large.
Bellefonte-State College KOA is a top destination for campers looking for a relaxing and enjoyable experience. Nestled in a beautiful setting, it offers amenities like swimming pools, playgrounds, and hiking trails, making it perfect for families and nature enthusiasts. With friendly staff and clean facilities, your stay will be comfortable and memorable. For students working on their academic projects, learning how to write a case study analysis can be essential. Check out this helpful guide on https://papersowl.com/blog/how-to-write-a-case-study-analysis to enhance your research and writing skills.
This is one of the best camping experiences we've had. This state park has so much to offer and the campground is very nice. The campsites are really good, most of them fairly private and level. There are some pull through sites for big rigs but those don't have trees and are not private. We had a site with power for our small trailer and it was fantastic. The bathrooms were kept very clean and they had 4 showers so we never had to wait. There is absolutely no cell service, however, and we had to go all the way down the mountain to get texts or make calls. The trails are very well maintained. If you want to do the Falls Trail ( 21 beautiful waterfalls), it is quite challenging. We were glad to have trecking poles and hiking boots. It took us over 4 hours to do the entire hike. There is a nice beach for swimming, the lake felt clean and wasn't too cold in July. Lake Jean is nice to kayak and there are quite a few tent sites you can launch your watercraft from, as well as 2 public launch sites. I was worried about the weather because it was 98 degrees in NJ but as the park is up in elevation, we did not get over the mid 80's the whole time we were there and the mornings were quite cool. I definitely recommend this park. It does get very busy on weekends so if you can stay during the week it's much nicer.
Nice quiet sites, good wifi, clean bathrooms, drinking water and power at all sites. Hosts are very friendly
We stayed at Lakewood Park Campground in Barnesville, PA, for a few days for R&R. And we got it!
THINGS I LIKED:
This place has the best of an old-fashioned campground with a great layout. But it offers modern amenities and utilities in a natural setting.
Family owned and operated by folks who take great pride in offering a really nice place to stay.
About 30-minutes to Jim Thorpe, PA, or Lehigh Valley Zoo.
The place is filled with mature shade trees which offer some protection from the sun and a beautiful setting. But they take great care to remove problem trees and branches from the sites and roads.
Fun activities during our stay included bingo and a food truck.
Our site(#74) was plenty big enough for our 45’ motorhome and Jeep plus lots of room to spread out.
The park is relatively new. Everything is clean and in great working order. All kinds of maintenance was going on throughout each day, and it shows.
I contacted the campground by email after 11pm to inquire about availability to arrive a day early. I sent an email rather than a phone call as I had no expectation of a response until at least the next day. They replied within minutes, adjusted my reservation, sent a revised confirmation email, and didn’t ask for payment until I arrived for check-in. Wow, that’s top-notch service!
THINGS I DIDN’T LIKE SO MUCH:
WOULD WE COME BACK?
The campground is beautifully kept. Bathrooms and sites were nice. Some sites are alittle closer personally esp in the dog area. It was extremely buggy when we went. Our dogs wouldn't come out of the camper because there was no relief. It was the height of rattle snake season. A site near ours and very close to the playground had a rattler under their camper. Alittle too close for comfort. Otherwise, campers, rangers and hosts were nice to deal!
The campground is mostly rustic with no hookups, but there are some electric and full hookup sites. Best ones don't have hookups. Have to do the Falls Hike. It's a fairly challenging hike and gets very busy on weekends and past noon, but its a must do.
Uunder new ownership & management many upgrades , including updated bathhouse and new friendly staff
Sad place multiple no functional area basketball court with no balls, floating ride "missing parts" no coffee at the store, no milk either, some staff nasty and rude. No cable no wifi this place has extra fees and charges for everything river front is tiny slippery maybe 8ft wide walk. Pictures are a stretch from reality.
First the good: Big, level sites Nice camp host Great prices
Now the bad: The road coming in is ROUGH, if you towing or driving a MH, be prepared. The grounds are unkept, no mowing, weeds as tall as I am. So. Many. Rules! I understand rules are necessary and I always abide, but to tell me where and how I can park my personal vehicle WITHIN MY SITE because“they are busy now”(with more than half the sites empty).
Not staying here again.
Would go back here again! Very primitive, only 2 sites with electric and no playground (but 4 swings), however the creek is beautiful and the kids were so happy to play in it. We had site 108 and had a site path right to the creek. I wouldn't recommend big campers as most of the spots would be a pain to back into. But if you're looking for a quiet campground in the woods, this is it!
Stayed at this campsite, taking our pop-up camper on its maiden voyage to the Grand Canyon of PA. Was able to choose a location that worked best for us. The area we selected was not busy. Campsite appeared to have a lot of seasonal campers. My husband does not like staying in crowded campgrounds with people surrounding you and up all night screaming and singing. We go camping to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet. Not to listen to people pretending to relive their college days....lol. Area is open, not offering a lot of privacy, but we had shade and woods behind us, and the ground was grassy and level. The pool was nice and the rec center had a lot of activities for kids. The pond offered fishing and pedal boat rentals. We chose this campsite due to its proximity to the Leonard Harrison State Park. We had no issues here and would recommend.
Spent Memorial Day weekend at this campground and found it bustling with activity yet still retaining a serene charm. Despite the crowd, we snagged a spot by the stream, which added an extra layer of tranquility to our stay. As the holiday wound down, so did the crowd, leaving behind a peaceful ambiance. Its proximity to the PA Grand Canyon made it an ideal base for exploration. While the WiFi was a bit spotty, offering only two bars in certain areas, it encouraged us to disconnect and fully immerse ourselves in nature, especially during the mesmerizing stargazing nights. Although there were plenty of annual RV residents, the atmosphere remained quaint and inviting. Overall, a delightful spot for a camping getaway.
This is one of the best campgrounds we've ever stayed at. Beautifully maintained and landscaped, and the sites are level. Our site was literally on the river, we even saw an eagle. Their bathrooms are so clean I almost swept from joy. Keep in mind you need quarters for a hot shower but I only needed 2 quarters for 6 minutes, plenty of time. What I love most is how accessible the biking trail and river are. The staff will even shuttle you to the kayak drop off site for a fee, and then you just pull in right to the campground. We have been coming to this area for years and this is the first time we were lucky to snag a site for a Holiday weekend. We won't stay anywhere else from now on.
I really enjoy this app. It was really helpful when we visit Arizona, and of course my local area. I recommended to the beginner camper or to the Pro campers.
Driving in I got a little worried I was getting lost, but I drove on. I arrived on a Wednesday evening. I had my pick of campsites, because I was the only person there!
The water was off, but I was prepared to wilderness camp later in my trip so, that was no big deal.
It was so secluded, I heard nothing but nature for over an hour before a plane flew over.
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!
My family loves it up here. The reservation staff are over accommodating and very helpful, we had to call them a few times. Great place for hiking, fishing, letting kids have fun and be kids. A nice quiet place to relax by the fire while the kids sleep.
The sites are just pull offs along the road. the road isn't heavily traveled so it's not too bad. The problem was the night that I stayed there it had been raining non stop for several day and the whole campsite. was several inches of mud. there wasn't any grassy areas to park near. All in all not a bad place in dry conditions. it was reported to be free with a permit but the permit was about $15
Camping near New Columbia, Pennsylvania, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From scenic trails to family-friendly campgrounds, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region.
Camping near New Columbia, Pennsylvania, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. Whether you’re hiking, swimming, or just relaxing, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near New Columbia, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, New Columbia, PA offers a wide range of camping options, with 105 campgrounds and RV parks near New Columbia, PA and 1 free dispersed camping spot.
Which is the most popular campground near New Columbia, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near New Columbia, PA is Ricketts Glen State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 65 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near New Columbia, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near New Columbia, PA.
What parks are near New Columbia, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 18 parks near New Columbia, PA that allow camping, notably Tioga-Hammond Lakes and Blue Marsh Lake.
