Tent campsites near Newport, Pennsylvania are nestled within the Appalachian Mountain region, offering access to several state forests including Bald Eagle and surrounding parklands. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with humidity, while fall brings cooler camping weather and colorful foliage. Winter camping opportunities exist at select locations that remain open year-round, though water service is typically unavailable during freezing months.
What to do
Creek exploration and fishing: The Yellow Breeches Creek at Lower Allen Community Park offers excellent kayak access. "Cute site in a local township park that not many people know about. You can put in a few miles up and float down to your site," notes Joann&WellsThePup I.
Stream swimming: During summer months, Ravensburg State Park offers several swimming holes. "There are few hiking trails; short and long that take you to beautiful views along the creek with a couple of places deep enough to swim," according to Laura.
Wildlife observation: Early morning is best for spotting local wildlife. Ravensburg State Park Campground campers report seeing deer and various bird species. "There is some nice hiking here and lots of nature to explore," shares Traci F.
Hammocking by water: Set up hammocks along creeksides at certain sites. "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," says Laura about Ravensburg.
What campers like
Digital disconnection: Reeds Gap State Park Campground offers an electronics-free experience. "Put your phone away cuz there's no cell service here! Nice and peaceful with a dozen or so tent only sites," mentions Danielle C.
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer well-spaced sites for privacy. "There are bushes and trees between the sites and it feels very private," notes Traci F. about Ravensburg State Park.
Clean eco-friendly facilities: Environmentally conscious campers appreciate the facilities at certain parks. "For me, the pearl is a super clean, eco-shower. Timed water, lights (solar?)etc. are spot on for me!" shares Paula L. about Reeds Gap.
First-come availability: Many sites operate without reservations. Penn Roosevelt State Park Campground is first-come, first-served. "I arrived on a Wednesday evening. I had my pick of campsites, because I was the only person there!" reports Chuck M.
What you should know
Access challenges: Some parks have difficult access roads. "Driving in I got a little worried I was getting lost, but I drove on... If you have a trailer, I do not recommend this spot. There is a very tight hairpin turn on the way in," warns Chuck M. about Penn Roosevelt.
Road noise: Proximity to roads affects some campsites. "The road that park is on is busier than one would think, not bad at night, but busy in the morning," Sarah C. notes about Ravensburg State Park Campground.
Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds close during winter months. Reeds Gap operates from "2nd Friday in April to 2nd Sunday in October" while Ravensburg runs from "1st Friday in May to last Sunday in September."
Self-registration: Many parks use honor systems for payment. "Pay by honor system at the park office," mentions Cheryl K. about Reeds Gap. "Easy self-registration process," confirms KK about Ravensburg.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some parks offer playground facilities for children. "There's a nice creek that runs through it, picnic pavilions and a playground for the kids!" shares Rebecca G. about Reeds Gap.
Multi-site reservations: Ravensburg State Park Campground works well for larger family groups. "It's good for large groups (you can get sites in a row) or just you," Laura points out.
Pet-friendly options: Many sites welcome dogs, allowing full family camping trips. "They are dog friendly. You don't need a reservation," notes Laura about Ravensburg.
Supply preparation: Bring all necessities as stores are distant from most campgrounds. "Make sure you bring everything you need as there isn't a store nearby," advises Denise D. about Penn Roosevelt.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Large RVs aren't suitable for most tent-focused campgrounds in the region. At Penn Roosevelt, Chuck M. warns, "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!"
Limited hookups: Reeds Gap State Park Campground offers some electric hookups but minimal RV amenities. Most sites in the region are described as "tent only" with limited RV accommodation.
Tent pad adaptations: Some RVers with smaller rigs utilize tent pad sites. "They have nice raised tent pads," notes Becky about Ravensburg, which can work for small camper vans.
