Tent camping near New Columbia, Pennsylvania centers around several state forests and parks spanning the ridge and valley terrain of central Pennsylvania. The area sits within the Allegheny Mountain section where elevations range from 500-2000 feet, creating diverse microclimates for campers. Winter camping often experiences temperatures below freezing while summer nights typically cool to the 50s even after hot days.
What to do
Creek exploration: At Reeds Gap State Park Campground, Honey Creek runs through the camping area providing opportunities for wading and nature observation. "There's a creek along the outside and a nice easy hiking trail that follows it," notes camper Danielle C.
Hammock camping: The forested settings at most sites provide excellent hammocking opportunities. Regarding the sites at Tiadaghton State Forest, one camper mentions, "There are plenty of trees that are good for hammocking. And in a few sites, you can set them up right by the creek, which is my favorite part."
Geocaching: Multiple caches are hidden near camping areas. "There is a trail head near the entrance of the park for hikers and a geocache showed up close to the trail on a road on my geocache tracker if you are into that," reports a visitor to Reeds Gap.
Digital detox: Many campgrounds have minimal or no cell service. "Put your phone away cuz there's no cell service here! Nice and peaceful with a dozen or so tent only sites," explains a camper about Reeds Gap State Park.
What campers like
Stream sounds: Campsites positioned near creeks offer natural soundscapes. At Ravensburg State Park Campground, "you can set up hammocks right by the creek, which is my favorite part," according to Laura, highlighting the popular creek-side spots.
Midweek solitude: The smaller campgrounds often remain uncrowded, particularly on weekdays. "Stayed here on a Sunday night without a reservation. We were the only ones there," reports Cheryl K. about her experience at Reeds Gap State Park.
Site privacy: Natural vegetation creates separation between campsites. "Nice and shaded! No one there but us in site 6, not even a ranger checked on us," notes Becky about her stay at Ravensburg.
Clean facilities: Despite their rustic nature, many parks maintain well-kept restroom facilities. "A super clean, eco-shower... Timed water, lights (solar?) etc. are spot on for me!" describes Paula L. about Reeds Gap facilities.
What you should know
Navigation challenges: Several campgrounds require careful navigation. At Shikellamy State Park, a visitor warns: "THERE IS NO CAMPGROUND HERE! Repeat....NO CAMPGROUND HERE....NOT ON ONE SIDE OF THE RIVER & NOT ON THE OTHERSIDE." This confusion stems from some mapping services incorrectly showing camping availability.
Access roads: Some forest roads leading to campgrounds require careful driving. "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. Mine did not, and I ended up down a seasonal road," cautions Sarah C. about reaching Ravensburg State Park.
Reservation systems: Many sites operate on first-come, first-served basis with self-registration. "Pay by honor system at the park office," explains a camper about Reeds Gap.
Road noise: Some campsites sit near active roadways. "It's right near a road so you hear car (and horse & buggy!) noise — would try to get a spot further away from the road if possible," advises a KK about Ravensburg State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Reeds Gap State Park offers play facilities near camping areas. "There's a nice creek that runs through it, picnic pavilions and a playground for the kids!" notes Rebecca G.
Pet-friendly options: Most campgrounds accommodate families traveling with dogs. "It's only tents and it's dog and family friendly!" reports Kelly C. about Reeds Gap.
Bathroom proximity: Consider campsite location relative to restrooms when camping with children. "Bathhouses were a little far away," notes John Z. about tent camping at Reeds Gap, an important consideration for families with young children.
Weather planning: Spring camping often encounters wet conditions with muddy sites common after rain. One camper mentions that after heavy rainfall, "this seemed noticeably loud" when referring to the stream noise at Ravensburg, indicating potential high water conditions.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most tent camping areas near New Columbia cannot accommodate large RVs. At Ravensburg State Park, "You will be driving down into the valley, which can feel very steep at times," notes Sarah C., making access challenging for larger vehicles.
Self-contained camping: Several primitive sites lack water hookups and dump facilities. "First come first serve but still had to pay transaction fee! which was annoying for our one night stay," mentions Becky about Ravensburg, noting administrative details RVers should consider.
Road conditions: Forest roads accessing some campgrounds may be difficult for RVs. "The 1000 step trail is fun! Only issue is the campgrounds are close to the road and therefore are loud at night occasionally," explains Andrew G. about Ravensburg State Park, highlighting both recreational opportunities and site limitations.
