Glamping options close to Ono, Pennsylvania complement the area's 840-foot elevation and predominantly wooded terrain. The region experiences four distinct seasons with peak camping months from May through October when temperatures average 75-85°F during summer days and 55-65°F at night. Most campgrounds in this area sit within Pennsylvania's Ridge and Valley region, characterized by parallel mountain ridges with campgrounds nestled in the valleys.
What to do
Water activities at Pinch Pond: Located 15 miles from Ono, this family campground offers fishing in a small pond on the property. "The pond is okay, could be nicer," notes a visitor, though many families enjoy relaxing by the water after exploring nearby attractions.
Disc golf courses: Gifford Pinchot State Park has two 18-hole disc golf courses about 40 minutes from Ono. One visitor mentioned, "Both areas have their own 18 hole disc golf course, but I will say: BEWARE of poison ivy!! We played the first 10 holes around the Conewago day use area and I was shocked at how much poison ivy we had to dodge."
Exploring Amish country: Take a 25-minute drive to experience Pennsylvania Dutch culture. A visitor to Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country shared, "Not much for amenities, but I loved the surrounding dutch/Amish towns! It was pretty cool to seemingly step back in time."
Historic sites exploration: Visit nearby Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site, just 45 minutes from Ono. According to a camper at French Creek State Park, "French Creek State Park Campground is located in Elverson, Pennsylvania and sits adjacent to Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site," providing easy access to this important ironmaking plantation.
What campers like
Wooded privacy: Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA offers secluded sites despite being a popular campground. A visitor noted, "I was pleasantly surprised by the amount of trees and separation between many sites. If you're looking for trees and privacy, stick to the sites at the bottom of the hill."
Evening entertainment: Many campgrounds host regular activities after dark. A camper at Twin Grove RV Resort shared, "On Saturday nights they usually have a band playing on the stage which is really neat. There is also a ice cream place to get a nice cold treat."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the Ono area maintain good hygiene standards. At Starlite Camping Resort, a visitor commented, "Loved the cleanliness and atmosphere as well!" Another guest praised the "spotless" conditions.
Lake access: Multiple campgrounds offer lake activities. A camper at Gifford Pinchot State Park mentioned, "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."
What you should know
Shooting range noise: Some campgrounds are located near shooting facilities. A visitor to Pinch Pond Family Campground warned, "The only thing that is negative is that there is a shooting range right next door. It is pretty consistent from lunch to dinner. If you're out and about, it won't be an issue."
Highway proximity: Several campgrounds in the area sit near major roads. A camper at Camp A While noted, "The trucks at night were troublesome the first night…but I have found that sleeping in a tent you will hear cars from very far away anyway. Grab some ear plugs."
Seasonal availability: Most luxury glamping accommodations in the Ono area operate from April through October. Winter options are limited, though some parks remain open year-round with reduced amenities.
Terrain challenges: Many campgrounds feature hilly landscapes. A visitor to Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country observed, "Sites are very close together. Unlevel is an understatement we were in E row and every camper there had front end 4 foot off the ground."
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly activities: Choose campgrounds with dedicated children's facilities. A visitor to Hersheypark Camping Resort recalled, "Used to take the shuttle bus to Hershey park," highlighting the convenient access to nearby attractions.
Consider weekend entertainment options: Many campgrounds schedule activities specifically for families. At Twin Grove RV Resort, a camper shared, "We come here once a year to take our grandkids on an annual camping trip with us. Lots to do! Playgrounds, special events, crafts."
Book early for holiday weekends: Regional campgrounds fill quickly during summer holidays and weekends. Sites with the best amenities often book 6-9 months in advance, especially for premium glamping accommodations.
Check bathroom proximity: When glamping with young children, site location matters. At French Creek State Park, a camper noted, "We stayed in Loop C, which is the only dog friendly loop in the campground, on sites 35, 37, 39,& 40. Thankfully, a short walk to the bathroom facilities for us tent campers."
Tips from RVers
Prepare for uneven sites: Many campgrounds in the hills around Ono require leveling equipment. At Starlite Camping Resort, a visitor noted, "Yes, it is quite hilly throughout the campground, but the individual sites are very level to park the camper with almost no blocks needed."
Consider site privacy when booking: RV parks vary widely in site spacing. At Pinch Pond, a camper observed, "Sites are large and well maintained," while others mentioned tight quarters at different campgrounds.
Check amperage availability: Most RV sites near Ono offer 30/50 amp service, but availability varies. A visitor to Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA mentioned, "Large and easy to enter/exit sites. Wifi was pretty good. Cable TV, too!"
Verify water pressure: Some campgrounds report issues with water systems. A visitor at Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country reported, "Water was rusty in our row came out brown at first then was tan after running through our filter for the entire stay."
