Pet friendly camping near Peach Glen, Pennsylvania offers numerous options within Michaux State Forest, where elevations reach up to 2,100 feet above sea level. The Cumberland Valley region experiences four distinct seasons with warm summers averaging 80°F and winters dropping below freezing. Most campgrounds in the area sit on forested terrain with rocky Appalachian soil that can create uneven tent pads at some sites.
What to do
Appalachian Trail hiking: Access points to the AT are available at Pine Grove Furnace State Park Campground, which marks the halfway point of the famous trail. "Great camping...has an area for swimming on a lake. the Appalachian trail runs right through it and is said to be the middle point of the trail. so you know there is great hiking," notes Danielle W.
Fishing opportunities: The region offers multiple fishing spots at local lakes and streams. At Codorus State Park Campground, "You can bring your own boat (gas allowed) or rent one from their marina. There is no swimming allowed in the lake but there is a pool located at the park," according to Catherine H.
Historical exploration: The area's proximity to Gettysburg makes it ideal for history enthusiasts. "Gettysburg is close enough for a day trip as well as Antetium," mentions Amber from Caledonia State Park. Civil War sites are within 30-45 minutes of most campgrounds.
What campers like
Shaded camping sites: Many campgrounds in the region feature wooded areas that provide natural cooling. "The campgrounds have plenty of shade to keep you cool even when it gets hot," explains Jeffrey H. at Pine Grove Furnace, while the "full shade sites were amazing" at Codorus according to Sarah L.
Creek access: Water features enhance the camping experience at Mountain Creek Camp Ground. "The kids had a blast, tubing in the creek, swimming pool and an excellent camp store," says Jim C. This allows both pets and kids to cool off during summer months.
Well-stocked camp stores: Several campgrounds maintain stores with camping essentials. "Camp store has everything. Including hand dipped ice cream," reports Emily about Mountain Creek Camp Ground, making it convenient to purchase forgotten items without leaving the campgrounds.
What you should know
Bathhouse locations: At many campgrounds, shower facilities may require planning ahead. At Gettysburg Campground, "porta potties were cleanest I have ever seen even with a ton of recent rain," according to Kelly J., while Mountain Creek has limited facilities as "Bathrooms and activities can be a hike. Some areas flood when it rains hard."
Site privacy concerns: Many campgrounds in the region have sites situated close together. At Caledonia State Park Campground, "Sites are very close to each other, there's no privacy, and you can hear everyone and everything," reports Kyle J., though "the sites were of ample size and well spaced" at Gifford Pinchot according to SkywaystoHighways.com Y.
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally. "We stayed here in December so it was pretty closed down," shares Sarah C. about Caledonia State Park. Many campgrounds close entirely during winter months or significantly reduce services.
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities: Swimming options make hot weather camping more enjoyable. "There is a wide variety of sites so finding one that you like should not be difficult," notes J K. at Codorus State Park, where "the pool is decent but a bit far of a walk from the camp sites."
Playground proximity: At Granite Hill Camping Resort, families appreciate the play areas. "We stayed in the 'C' row site. Great shade and access to the playground. You can let the kids play all day while sitting at your campsite cooking and just hanging. It's only 15 yards for the play set," recommends Larry N.
Weekend activities: Many campgrounds organize special events for families. "Granite Hill has great facilities; free showers, a playground, mini golf and two small ponds for fishing. Plus they plan lots of weekend events," shares Cindy P., making these locations ideal for families seeking structured entertainment.
Tips from RVers
Hookup considerations: RVers should note varying hookup arrangements. At Gettysburg Battlefield KOA, "the campground maintains clean facilities with daily bathroom cleaning" but "The campground is about a 5 minute drive to downtown Gettysburg," according to Dave B.
Big rig access: Some campgrounds accommodate larger RVs better than others. "We stayed in site 55. Big site but hard to get into. There are a couple of pull thru sites that are much easier," advises Bill B. about Gettysburg Battlefield KOA, suggesting careful site selection for larger vehicles.
Site leveling: The region's hilly terrain can create leveling challenges. At Granite Hill, "it took 2 hours to get our camper set up because of the very uneven stone lot, thankfully we had enough wood to get the jack up without having to over extend it," reports Priscilla M., highlighting the need to bring additional leveling equipment.
