Glamping accommodations near New Freedom, Pennsylvania provide a variety of overnight options within an hour's drive of the Maryland border. Most premium glamping sites in this area require advance bookings during peak summer months, with weekends often filling 8-10 weeks ahead. Winter options remain limited, with most glamping operations closing from November through March due to the region's average winter temperatures of 25-35°F.
What to do
Hiking at Codorus State Park: Approximately 15 miles from New Freedom, this park offers multiple trail systems that vary in difficulty. "Nice campground. Very clean facilities. We typically stay in the primitive tent loop which is right on the lake. It can get a little busy on the weekends since there is a boat launch at the end of the primitive lane, but some of the sites are secluded/set back enough to be private," notes Catherine H. of Codorus State Park Campground.
Fishing at Pinchot Lake: Located about 25 miles north of New Freedom, the lake provides year-round fishing opportunities with specific trout stocking dates in spring. "We had site 114. It has water access and is right next to a small man made beach and playground. Bathrooms were in good shape. Sites were of ample size and well spaced," reports SkywaystoHighways.com Y. from Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground.
Historical tours near Gettysburg: Less than an hour's drive from New Freedom, these tours cover battlefield sites with specific historical context. "Site and bathrooms clean. Activities provided free each day. Food trucks in park. Close to museum and battleground sites," writes paula M. about her stay at Artillery Ridge Campground.
What campers like
Family-focused activities: Many campgrounds schedule regular weekend events from May through September. "We stayed here this past Easter and they had plenty of activities for kids and adults. Easter egg hunts for kids, adult scavenger hunts for alcohol. Wonderful experience for the whole family," shares Melissa E. about Merry Meadows Recreation Farm.
Waterfront camping options: Several parks offer sites directly adjacent to lakes or streams, though these typically require booking 3-4 months in advance. "We were in tent sites which felt bigger than most and were right by river. Not far to go anywhere walking. Porta potties were cleanest I have ever seen even with a ton of recent rain," says Kelly J. about her experience at Gettysburg Campground.
Clean facilities: Most campgrounds in the New Freedom area maintain bathroom facilities with regular cleaning schedules. "The bath house was clean. Not a lot to do at the park. The lake is beautiful and the trail around the lake is nice. Staff was friendly. A nice park to go to if you just want to rest around the camp fire," notes Dawn T. about her Codorus State Park visit.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most glamping sites near New Freedom require deposits ranging from $50-100, with full payment due 14-30 days before arrival. "We stayed in one of the glamping cabins which had comfortable beds, a refrigerator, microwave, and front porch with picnic table and fire pit," explains a camper about their experience.
Seasonal availability: Most premium glamping operations close from November through early April due to weather conditions. "Very nice park. The bath house was clean. Not a lot to do at the park. The lake is beautiful and the trail around the lake is nice," explains a visitor describing the off-season experience.
Pet policies vary: Some glamping sites restrict pets entirely while others charge additional fees of $10-25 per night. "Super clean, beautiful campground. So many activities to entertain kids, we couldn't fit it all in!" reports Karla R. from Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Quarryville.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Several parks maintain dedicated swimming areas with specific hours, typically 10am-6pm during summer months. "The pool through RV sites are in the centerfield and kind of exposed to the elements but you are right across from the pool and right across from an amazing playground," notes Brian S. about Merry Meadows Recreation Farm.
Playgrounds and recreation: Many campgrounds feature multiple play areas designed for different age groups. "The kids enjoyed the indoor pool. Looking forward to coming back in the summer," says Davie Q. about facilities at Thousand Trails Circle M.
Budget-friendly options: Tent sites typically cost 30-50% less than glamping accommodations while still providing access to the same amenities. "Large, fire ring with grate, and nice picnic table. We fit all 4 tents on the site (mine was a little slanted though)," shares Sarah L. about site spaciousness at Codorus State Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most glamping sites near New Freedom offer electric service, but water and sewer connections vary by location. "Paved sites, modern, clean bathrooms," reports Mike C. about the Codorus State Park facilities.
Site spacing considerations: Premium RV sites typically provide more separation than standard sites. "The sites were very clean, no trash, and pretty level. The staff, Glenda, were very helpful. Clean restrooms. Nice little fishing pond," explains Greg W. about Artillery Ridge Campground.
Seasonal deals: Several campgrounds offer significant discounts (20-30% off) for midweek stays between September and October. "Nice and quiet campground. A little pricey and strict for visitors, they need to leave by 10 and can't bring their pets," advises Chris M. about policies at Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA.
