Camping sites in the Pennsylvania Furnace region range in elevation from 900 to 2,300 feet, creating varied microclimates throughout the camping season. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during the day, dropping to 50-60°F at night, while spring and fall campers should prepare for overnight lows potentially reaching the 30s. Campgrounds in this area feature predominantly oak-hickory and maple forests, creating distinctive seasonal camping experiences from spring wildflowers to autumn color displays.
What to do
Mountain biking at Raystown Lake: The Allegrippis Trails begin just above the upper camp loops at Seven Points and provide "a full day of fast flowing singletrack." One camper notes that "with the many bike trails in Seven Points, there were a lot of adult mountain bike riders" making this an excellent destination for cycling enthusiasts.
Fishing in unique waters: The water at Black Moshannon State Park Campground has distinctive coloration due to local minerals. As one camper explains, "The Iron Ore mines from the past have left the creek water stained red which is why its called the Red Mo with the locals." This creates a unique fishing environment in the 250-acre lake.
Swimming beaches: Several campgrounds offer swimming opportunities. At Bald Eagle State Park, "The beach is beautiful, very calm, warm water for early July, soft sand and nice large trees for shade." Sites are available across multiple price points, from primitive camping to full-service options.
Historical exploration: Visit blacksmith demonstrations and industrial history sites. As one visitor to Greenwood Furnace noted, "The blacksmith shop was very educational! Great trails to hike! You can pick up a compass at the ranger station and complete a compass course!"
What campers like
Night sky viewing: The minimal light pollution at Greenwood Furnace State Park Campground provides exceptional stargazing. A camper mentioned, "We saw the Milky Way!" and another enjoyed "hearing screech owls at night." Many campers note the peacefulness of evening hours in this area.
Clean facilities: Campers frequently praise the maintenance of bathrooms and facilities. At Crooked Run Campground, reviewers noted "Clean showerhouses and bathrooms. Big Lake and a few miles of hiking and biking trails right from the campground." Sites typically include fire rings, picnic tables, and level pads for tents.
Site privacy: Many campgrounds offer secluded options. At Penn Roosevelt State Park, "The sites are tent only and pretty close together but some still feel secluded." Another camper noted that "it was so secluded, I heard nothing but nature for over an hour before a plane flew over."
Activity variety: Campgrounds offer diverse programming. At Prince Gallitzin, they participated in "the Outdoors for Everyone event. Rangers were wonderful to work with in setting up teaching opportunities."
What you should know
Reservation timing is critical: For the best camping spots, plan months in advance. At Susquehannock, "We have been coming here for a decade and have camped our way around the waterfront," but another noted, "We haven't been able to get a site in Susquehannock since the pandemic."
Cell service limitations: Service varies dramatically by carrier and location. One Greenwood Furnace camper reported "No phone service, no problem! This campground helped me finally convince my fiance that not all 'campgrounds' are actually waterpark/family fun/RV parking lots."
Site terrain varies: Many campgrounds have significant grade changes. At Susquehannock, "Most of the campsites are on a slight slope but they're still bearable." This affects site selection for both tents and RVs.
Weather preparedness: Weather changes quickly in the Pennsylvania mountains. A camper at Greenwood Furnace advised, "We came here in mid June so it was a bit chilly at night and warm during the day - bring layers + raincoats as the PA mountain weather can be iffy!"
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Bald Eagle State Park Primitive Campsite offers varied terrain for exploration. A family camper shares, "Our kids loved the freedom of riding their bike and exploring the park with other kids who were camping." The large beach area provides ample space for children to play.
Education options: Several parks offer educational programs. At Prince Gallitzin, "We used the group tent sites for our Girl Scout weekend. It was a fun weekend. The Park has tent only, electric and full hookup sites."
Playgrounds and recreation: Many campgrounds include dedicated play areas. At Seven Points, "Each loop has a playground and bathhouse. The visitors center has a great educational area inside and a nature trail outside. Across from the visitors center is a mountain bike park."
Beach access: Families appreciate the swimming areas. At Prince Gallitzin, one camper noted it's "perfect for families. Good trails, kayak rentals, and a private beach for the campgrounds make it a nice vacation spot."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Bellefonte-State College KOA, "The section in the front of the park is open with spotty trees; whereas, sites in the back of the park are tucked in the woods and are a lot more private. Roads in the back section are narrow and the sites are not very long and suitable for small campers."
Leveling challenges: Many sites require equipment for proper setup. A KOA visitor noted, "Make sure you have leveling tools as the sites are not very level side-to-side. The sites are also small and tightly packed."
Utility considerations: Water pressure varies significantly between campgrounds. One RVer at Bellefonte KOA reported, "Then there was the water pressure… or lack of water pressure. Saying it trickled out would be generous." Check in advance about electrical hookups, as amperage options differ between sites.
Access roads: Some campgrounds have challenging entrance roads. At Seven Points, "Some pull-thru sites have a very steep short hill to go up which made for some RV's scraping bottom." Research your route thoroughly before arrival.
