Loysville camping sites sit within the Ridge and Valley section of the Appalachian Mountains, with elevations ranging from 600 to 1,400 feet. The area experiences warm summers with average July temperatures of 85°F and mild springs and falls ideal for camping. Most campgrounds operate from April through October, with limited winter availability at select locations.
What to do
Tubing adventures: The Juniata River offers popular tubing opportunities at Buttonwood Campground. "Floating down the river is the best part! So much to do!" notes camper Kayla H., who has visited multiple years with her family. The campground provides a shuttle service for tubers included in their activity wristband.
Hiking to viewpoints: The challenging Flat Rock Trail at Colonel Denning State Park offers a rewarding 6-mile round-trip hike with 1,200 feet of elevation gain. "Trail head close to site and was a very difficult hike with amazing views!!" reports Casey L., who rated the park as a favorite of their season.
Explore historic sites: Little Buffalo State Park maintains a historic mill where demonstrations occur. "The historical mill was well worth the trip. By the far the highlight of ours as well. Especially since they engaged the wheel and actually ground corn!" shares Chelsea K., who appreciated this educational experience despite rainy weather during her stay.
What campers like
Privacy options: At Paradise Stream Family Campground, sites range from open areas to wooded retreats. "We had site 20 which we liked! Tucked in the woods but near activities," explains melissa, highlighting the balance between seclusion and convenience that many campers seek.
Clean facilities: Little Buffalo State Park Campground maintains high cleanliness standards. "The bathrooms are clean. It is nice and dark at night!" reports Amanda H., who also noted the park's honor system for late arrivals and straightforward check-in process.
Peaceful settings: Quieter camping experiences can be found at smaller campgrounds. "We love the dog friendly sites near the water, the kids and pups play all day!" explains Casey L. about Colonel Denning State Park, describing it as "very quiet and small" - perfect for those seeking less crowded options.
What you should know
Activity costs: Many campgrounds charge additional fees for amenities. At Buttonwood Campground, "Plan on spending $20 per person for an activity wristband that includes all the extras including mini golf and tubing shuttle," advises Bryan S., who still rated the campground highly despite this additional cost.
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds in the region have limited operating seasons. Free Spirit Campground opens their pool in early June, with one visitor noting, "We stayed here beginning of June and their pool was open, they have pretty good water pressure and heat at the showers."
Water conditions: Creek and lake swimming areas may close temporarily. "The swimming pool is great for the kids in the summer!" mentions Kelly M. about Little Buffalo, which provides a reliable swimming option when natural water bodies experience closures due to bacteria levels.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Little Buffalo State Park offers family-friendly swimming. "They offer a large area that is only 1 foot deep, great for little ones! There is also a splash pad! There are 2 slides for fun!" shares Amanda H., though noting campers still need to pay separately for pool access.
Activity wristbands: Some campgrounds bundle activities under a single fee. "The pool area is nice, safe and clean. There is on site wine and wine slushies to purchase from a local vineyard," notes Heather G. about Buttonwood, where wristbands cover most activities except the pool and playgrounds.
Kid-specific entertainment: Campgrounds often provide multiple recreation options. "My kids enjoyed the bounce pillow, laser tag and peddle cars the most," shares Bryan S., describing Buttonwood as "probably the friendliest campground I've stayed out."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Dogwood Acres Campground provides well-maintained RV sites. "Flat all gravel sites. Clean pool. Pavilion was a nice meeting place. Big pond was pretty," reports Mary C., who appreciated staff going "the extra mile" by texting photos of available sites before her reservation.
Hookup considerations: Electric sites without water hookups are common in state parks. At Pine Grove Furnace State Park, "If traveling in an RV you will need to fill your fresh water tank as each site does not have water hook up," advises Adam P., who still enjoyed the wooded, clean environment despite spotty cell service.
Arrival assistance: Some campgrounds provide setup help. "When you arrive you are met by a staff member on a golf cart that takes you to your campsite. He helped us back in and get level and offered to bring us ice or wood if we needed it," explains Bryan S. about Buttonwood's check-in process that allows campers to settle before completing paperwork.
