Tent campsites near Peach Glen, Pennsylvania offer outdoor experiences surrounded by the rolling hills of south-central Pennsylvania, where elevations typically range from 500 to 1,100 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months. Most campsites in this area feature mixed hardwood forests with oak, maple, and hickory trees providing natural shade during warmer months.
What to do
Tubing on Yellow Breeches Creek: Visit Lower Allen Community Park where water recreation is a primary draw. The creek offers gentle currents perfect for casual floating. "The sites sit right along the Yellow Breeches creak so you can put in a few miles up and float down to your site," notes a camper.
Rock climbing at elevation: The 1,700-foot elevation at Annapolis Rock Campground provides opportunities for single-pitch climbing routes. "The best part is the Annapolis Rock cliffs. they offer beautiful views and all kinds of single pitch rock climbing!" reports a visitor who enjoyed the technical routes.
Stargazing in open fields: The minimal light pollution at STAR LEE FARM creates ideal conditions for night sky viewing. One camper shared, "There's a huge field to star gaze as well as taking pictures," making this location particularly appealing for astrophotography enthusiasts.
What campers like
Natural water sources: At Annapolis Rock Campground, the spring water access is appreciated by backpackers. "There's also a really nice spring near the campsites," notes a camper who valued this natural water source during their trek on the Appalachian Trail.
Hot showers after hiking: Dahlgren Backpacker Campground offers shower facilities that hikers particularly appreciate. "It was a welcome relief to get to a spot where I could wash off and have indoor plumbing for a night," writes a through-hiker who stopped at this location.
Riverside privacy: At Antietam Creek Campground, campers enjoy direct water access. "I stayed at Site 11 which had its own path down to the Potomac River," explains a visitor who appreciated the private river access despite noting the path was "quite steep."
Bee observation opportunities: Star Lee Farm offers unique nature engagement with on-site beekeeping. A visitor mentioned, "If you're a bee enthusiast they grow their own honey in the property and you're more than welcome to walk around and look at all the boxes."
What you should know
Park closure timing: Lower Allen Community Park implements strict gate closures. The park "lock[s] the park at dusk," requiring campers to plan accordingly for evening arrivals or departures.
Distance from parking: At Antietam Creek Campground, vehicles must be parked away from campsites. "You have to park on the road and carry all your stuff across a bridge and down the path to your site. Could be a very far walk," advises a camper who recommends planning accordingly.
Limited cell service: Star Lee Farm offers a digital disconnect with spotty connectivity. A visitor noted, "Service is a little sketch but it's perfect for those who want to completely escape the business of modern world."
Restoration restrictions: Camping regulations at Annapolis Rock have changed due to conservation efforts. "Great primitive campsite that has undergone major restorations and preventative measures to reverse the damage from huge camping crowds of the past. No fires," explains a backpacker familiar with the site's history.
Tips for camping with families
Portable toilet considerations: When camping with children at sites with basic facilities, prepare for varying bathroom conditions. At Antietam Creek, a family noted, "When we got there, they were okay, but by the 3rd night they were really gross. We were at the site next to them and could smell them."
Water safety monitoring: Jordan Junction offers river access but requires supervision. "Want to rinse off? Jump into the Potomac for a swim," suggests a camper, though parents should note currents can vary seasonally.
Wildlife awareness: At Annapolis Rock, families should be prepared for encounters with local wildlife. "Be careful for the copperheads that come warm up on the rocky overlook," warns a camper who spotted these snakes during warmer months.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent campsites near Peach Glen are not suitable for larger recreational vehicles. The campgrounds predominantly accommodate tent camping with limited or no hookups, making them best suited for tent campers or very small camper vans under 20 feet.
Parking limitations: For those with small trailers considering Antietam Creek, note the parking situation. "You have to park on the street and walk about 75 feet to your site. Not much traffic on that road," explains a visitor, indicating small trailers would need to be left in designated parking areas rather than at individual sites.
