Camping options near Seven Valleys, Pennsylvania include a range of sites across state parks and private facilities within a 20-mile radius. The area sits in the rolling hills of southern Pennsylvania where the terrain varies from 400 to 700 feet in elevation. Fall camping typically features moderate temperatures between 45-65°F with colorful foliage, while spring brings variable conditions with occasional rain that can affect site conditions.
What to do
Hiking trails: 8.5 miles of lakeside paths at Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground offer varied terrain for all skill levels. "I took an early morning hike on the 8.5 mile Lakeside Trail that goes around the lake and it was really awesome to see the lake from all different angles," reports one camper who enjoyed the views and wildlife.
Fishing: Stock up on bait before arrival as several lakes offer good catches. "We caught a handful of bass and an absurd amount of bluegill from shore," notes a visitor to Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground.
Historic sites: Visit battlefields within minutes from Artillery Ridge Campground which provides direct access to key locations. "The campground is right next to the battlefields. Clean facilities. If you are into horses, this is the place for you!" writes a camper who appreciated the close proximity to Gettysburg's historic sites.
Creek exploration: Wade through shallow waters during summer months when water levels permit. "We were surprised to find this nice little spot next to the creek right outside of town," shares a visitor who found an unexpected water feature at Indian Rock Campgrounds.
What campers like
Large private sites: Extra room between neighbors at several campgrounds allows for a more secluded experience. "The sites were of ample size and well spaced. Bathrooms were in good shape," notes a visitor to Otter Creek Campground.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses receive consistent praise from campers at multiple locations. "The bath house was clean and very nice. The pool was nice, but being that it was the end of June, the water was freezing!" observes a camper at Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA.
Farm animals: Interactive experiences for all ages make Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm stand out from other options. "Great park and probably still one of our kids favorites after being on the road for over a year this one easily stands out as a must stop!" reports an enthusiastic visitor who enjoyed the unique farm setting.
Lake access: Water activities within walking distance provide recreation options without driving. "Nice sized spots, wooded, paved roads beautiful lake," summarizes a camper at Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Most state parks operate limited schedules from April through October with specific opening/closing dates. "We stayed here for 2 nights in July 2017. The site we originally picked was advertised as 'partially shaded' but when we got there we found one small tree per site in a grass field," explains a camper who learned the importance of site selection at Gifford Pinchot.
Road noise: Some sites experience traffic sounds that may affect light sleepers. "The road noise is kind of annoying but the area is beautiful," notes a visitor to Indian Rock Campgrounds.
Cash policies: Bring paper money as some private campgrounds maintain traditional payment systems. "One of the complaints was they work on cash. Yeah, I knows it's not popular because most of us live in a plastic dominated world. I read it in advance and I just made sure we had some with us," advises a camper at Merry Meadows Recreation Farm.
Pet restrictions: Verify animal policies before booking as rules vary significantly. "Nice quiet campground. A little pricey and strict for visitors, they need to leave by 10 and can't bring their pets," cautions a camper at Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Request sites near play areas for easier supervision without constant walking. "We had site 114. It has water access and is right next to a small man made beach and playground," recommends a visitor to Gifford Pinchot.
Animal interaction: Schedule morning feeding times at Cedar Lake Family Campground to engage children. "Roads are narrow, but the sites are large and level. The lake is nice and they stock it with trout. The animal area could stand a good cleaning, but my little one enjoyed them," shares a parent who found multiple activities for their child.
Activity planning: Check event schedules as many campgrounds host weekend programs. "Plenty to see and learn. Perfect campground for the family," states a visitor to Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm who appreciated the educational opportunities.
Swimming options: Bring pool toys during summer when swimming is a primary activity. "There is no swimming allowed in the lake but there is a pool located at the park, there is no extra cost to use the pool if you are at the campground," explains a camper at Codorus State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Request specific site numbers based on size requirements and hookup needs. "Large and easy to enter/exit sites. Wifi was pretty good. (It helped that the antenna was right beside our site!) Cable TV, too!" reports an RV camper at Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA.
Electrical service: Check amperage options before arrival as not all sites offer 50-amp service. "We were in a back in site #4. The patio was concrete stone, very pretty. Nice chairs, fire pit, and picnic table," notes a visitor who appreciated the well-designed RV site.
Dump station access: Plan ahead for waste disposal if booking sites without sewer connections. "When I went to leave on Sunday, as I was driving up an incline my trailer became unhitched from my tow vehicle. The whole hitch came off and the trailer was dragging by the chains! The owners husband kindly helped me get it jacked up," shares a camper at Merry Meadows Recreation Farm who experienced unexpected assistance during a mishap.
Leveling requirements: Bring extra blocks for sites on uneven terrain. "This campground was really nice. Large and easy to enter/exit sites," confirms an RVer who found the setup process straightforward.
