Campsites surrounding Orrstown, Pennsylvania are nestled within the northern terminus of the Blue Ridge Mountains where elevations reach modest foothills compared to more southern sections. The forests consist primarily of young mixed deciduous and coniferous trees with occasional meadow sections. Winter camping options remain available at designated parking lot sites within Michaux State Forest when most other facilities close for the season.
What to do
Hiking the Appalachian Trail midpoint: The halfway point of the Appalachian Trail passes through Pine Grove Furnace State Park Campground, creating opportunities for day hikers to experience this famous trail. "You may even bump into a through hiker excited to chat! Stop by the campstore for some Hershey's Ice cream!!! Make sure you hear the store about the first through hikers," notes a camper.
Swimming in mountain lakes: Multiple swimming areas provide relief during summer months. Cowans Gap State Park Campground offers a lake with a sand beach. "Nice small lake within walking distance along with a beach. There is also a few hiking trails near the campground," writes one visitor. Another mentions, "A walking trail wraps around the whole lake. There's lots of hiking trails, a real sand beach and swimming area, pedal boat and canoe rentals."
Trail exploration beyond maintained paths: For more remote experiences, venture onto lesser-known trails. "Every January for the last few years some friends and I have gone and camped along the Appalachian Trail. It's you can park at Pine Grove State Park and then hike your way into locations or park at other trail heads. Water is easily found and views like Sunset Rocks are simply gorgeous," reports one winter camper at Michaux State Forest.
What campers like
Creek access for cooling off: Many campers highlight stream and creek access as key features. At Twin Bridge Campground, one visitor notes, "Our favorite campground. The most relaxing setting. Our kids love the creek and playing in and around it." Another mentions, "We spent the weekend participating in their MANY activities as well as fishing and swimming in the creek."
Firefly displays: Summer visitors often witness remarkable firefly activity. At Pine Grove Furnace State Park Campground, campers observe synchronous firefly displays: "This park is one of my favorite places to camp! The campsites are spacious! If you are on a site around the perimeter you can turn your chair and your back to the campground and look out into the forest!"
Historical sites: The region's historical significance draws many visitors. Gettysburg / Battlefield KOA provides access to Civil War history. "We stayed in a lovely cabin here while I was in town for work. My husband enjoyed the pool with the kids during the day and when I was there we enjoyed shuffleboard, mini golf and hiking together," reports one visitor. The campground is approximately 5 minutes from downtown Gettysburg.
What you should know
Permit requirements: State forest camping requires different permits depending on site type. At North Michaux State Forest Campsites, "Primitive site in Michaux. Has a fire pit and that's it, but FREE. You need to go online and get a permit." Sites range from parking-adjacent to walk-in locations requiring more planning.
Water access limitations: Many state forest sites lack potable water. "No water at this site, that's the only downside. Do yourself a favor and hike around Long Pine Reservoir while you are there," advises a North Michaux State Forest visitor. At Fowlers Hollow State Park Campground, water resources are more accessible: "Nestled between a hillside and a stream with a great sound of running water."
Fire restrictions: Seasonal fire bans affect camping plans. Michaux State Forest enforces complete fire bans from March 1 to May 25 regardless of conditions, and additional bans during high fire danger periods. This affects primitive camping experiences that rely heavily on campfires for cooking and warmth.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly campgrounds: Certain campgrounds specifically cater to families with organized activities. At Dogwood Acres Campground, "Nice playground with a small basketball court. We were visiting friends in the area and they were able to visit for a small fee. They were then able to utilize the facilities so the kids could swim and play together."
Site selection for group camping: When camping with multiple families, site location matters. "Our site was a premium site that included a gas grill. Luckily, no one booked the cabins behind us that weekend or it would have been rather loud as the sites were close together even for a premium site," advises a Dogwood Acres Campground visitor.
Swimming areas for children: Families often prioritize safe swimming options. At Gettysburg Campground, visitors appreciate the creek access: "We were in tent sites which felt bigger than most and were right by river. not far to go anywhere walking. porta potties were cleanest I have ever seen even with a ton of recent rain."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions and maneuverability: RV campers should research specific site details before booking. At Gettysburg Battlefield KOA, "We stayed in site 55. Big site but hard to get into. There are a couple of pull thru sites that are much easier. Friendly staff. Lots of trees. Mini golf and pool. We will stay again."
Water and electric hookups: While state parks provide some hookup options, facilities vary. At Caledonia State Park Campground, visitors note the available hookups but advise: "If traveling in an RV you will need to fill your fresh water tank as each site does not have water hook up. The cell service is 'spotty' as they state on their website, but hey you are camping."
Dump station access: RVers should plan waste management carefully. Twin Bridge Campground offers a practical solution as noted by a camper: "Big spacious sites, and a honeywagon to make things easier (there weren't any full hookup sites the I saw besides the long term spaces). Would definitely stay here again."
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