Central Pennsylvania's Tuscarora Mountain region ranges in elevation from 700 to 2,100 feet, creating diverse camping microclimates near New Germantown. Seasonal temperature variations can be significant, with summer highs averaging 85°F and overnight lows sometimes dropping below 50°F even in July. The area receives approximately 42 inches of rainfall annually, making waterproof gear essential for campers.
What to do
Creek exploration: Expect shallow, clear waters perfect for kids. At Paradise Stream Family Campground, the waterways are ideal for cooling off during summer months. As visitor Lisa J. mentions, "This is our third trip here and supposed to return again in September. One of our favorites!!" The stream areas feature natural rock formations and small pools where children can safely wade.
Mini golf: Available at multiple campgrounds for $5-7 per player. Buttonwood Campground includes mini golf with their activity wristband system. One camper noted, "You can purchase a wrist band that gets you unlimited access for $20." The courses are typically open from 9am-8pm during peak season, with equipment provided.
Hiking: Trails range from 0.5 to 8.5 miles with varying difficulty levels. At Cowans Gap State Park Campground, numerous hiking options exist. A visitor shared, "There's a beach and swimming area. There's a little viewing area/dock with information on the bald eagles and osprey that live there." Most trails are well-marked with color-coded blazes and estimated completion times posted at trailheads.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Most campground bathhouses are cleaned twice daily. Campers at Little Buffalo State Park Campground frequently mention the well-maintained facilities. One reviewer stated, "The bathrooms are clean. It is nice and dark at night!" Many locations offer shower houses with hot water, though some operate on push-button timers that limit water flow to 20-30 seconds per press.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple stocked lakes and streams within 15-minute drives. Paradise Stream Family Campground provides fishing access directly from campsites. A camper shared, "This campground is great and our go to if we want to stay closer to home. The sites are a good size and there is plenty to do (swimming, fishing, hiking, escape room, and weekend activities for everyone)." Most water bodies contain bass, bluegill, and stocked trout.
Spacious sites: Many locations offer 50+ feet between camping spots. Visitors appreciate the room to spread out, especially at Cowans Gap. One camper noted, "Great park. Clean bath houses," while another added, "We went to Cowans gap last full for a Halloween weekend and the children loved it." Sites typically include a fire ring, picnic table, and parking for at least one vehicle.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds have spotty coverage. At Seven Points (PA), connectivity varies by carrier. A visitor mentioned, "Cell service is okay. No WiFi." T-Mobile users report the most reliable signals, while Verizon works best near entrance areas. Many campgrounds have emergency phones at ranger stations.
Reservation requirements: Book 3-6 months ahead for summer weekends. Buttonwood Campground fills quickly, particularly waterfront sites. A camper advised, "We stayed at buttonwood for the first time and definitely won't be my last. It all starts when you first pull up. There are people on golf carts to take you to your site." Most locations accept reservations through their websites or Recreation.gov.
Weather variability: Afternoon thunderstorms common June-August. Seven Points campers note rapid weather changes. One stated, "With the slope, however be aware of the kids and adults riding around on bicycles and skateboards." Rain can create slippery conditions, and some tent sites become waterlogged during heavy precipitation.
Tips for camping with families
Pedal cart rentals: Available for $5-10/hour at select campgrounds. Mountain Creek Camp Ground offers various recreational equipment. A visitor shared, "Loved camping here. The store has everything. Including hand dipped ice cream. Pool. Mini golf. A creek to fish or splash in." Carts provide fun transportation around larger campgrounds, particularly for families with young children.
Playground access: Most facilities have updated equipment near bathhouses. Buttonwood Campground includes play areas near camping loops. As one camper noted, "This campground is very fun. Campground is clean and very well maintained. Staff is friendly and knowledgeable." Most playgrounds feature swing sets, slides, and climbing structures suitable for ages 2-12.
Activity scheduling: Weekend events typically run May-September. Mountain Creek Camp Ground hosts regular family programs. A reviewer mentioned, "Family friendly campground, lots of weekend activities, great pool, well stocked campstore, playground." Activities often include crafts, nature walks, and organized games, generally free with camping registration.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric service ranges from 30-50 amp depending on loop. Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground offers various utility connections. A camper reported, "We camped here over Columbus Day weekend. We wanted a quiet escape. We had one of the few full hook up sites." Reservation systems typically specify which hookups are available at each site.
Dump station access: Most facilities have 1-4 lanes with varied wait times. Seven Points provides efficient waste disposal. One RVer explained, "From the time we arrived and filled up the fresh water tank at the ultra-cool 4 lane dump station, I knew we were in for a great weekend." Dump stations typically operate 7am-9pm, with peak usage Sunday mornings.
Site leveling: Request information about site grade when booking. Seven Points campers frequently mention site conditions. As one noted, "One backup attempt into the site and (according to our LevelMatePRO app) it was perfectly level...that was definitely a first for us." Some campgrounds provide leveling blocks at their camp stores, typically costing $15-20 per set.
