The Picture Rocks region offers RV and tent camping in the Endless Mountains area of Pennsylvania, with elevations ranging from 600 to 1,200 feet. Camping options span three counties—Lycoming, Sullivan, and Columbia—with campgrounds situated near waterways, state forests, and amusement parks. Cell reception varies significantly throughout the region with valleys often creating dead zones.
What to do
Waterfall hiking at Ricketts Glen: The Falls Trail at Ricketts Glen State Park Campground features 22 named waterfalls with drops ranging from 9 to 94 feet. "Excellent views and the ability to explore and experience the waterfalls areas. Beach and lake activities are available as well," notes Gary O. The trail is considered moderate to difficult, requiring proper footwear on often wet and slippery surfaces.
Amusement park visits: Family-friendly Knoebels Amusement Resort has free admission with pay-per-ride options, located minutes from several campgrounds. "Knoebels theme park. The campground itself is very clean except around the actual lake because of the geese nothing you can do about that," shares Joshua W. from Lake Glory Campground, which offers a free shuttle to the park.
Riverside recreation: Fishing and water activities are available along the Susquehanna River. "We went to riverside and the weather was perfect! The bands were great both nights. We all took the kayaks out on the Susquehanna River that runs behind the property for a sunny paddle," reports Amanda + Will at Riverside Campground. Most waterfront sites are designed for day use rather than camping directly on the riverbank.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Tree coverage varies significantly between campgrounds and even between sites within the same facility. "The sites are spaced a decent amount apart and are generous in size. The pet-designated sites are close to the road (154), although there was not a lot of traffic. Each site has a large picnic table and fire ring," notes Lee D. about Worlds End State Park Campground.
Evening entertainment options: Several campgrounds host regular live music events on weekends. "The bands were great both nights. We all took the kayaks out on the Susquehanna River that runs behind the property for a sunny paddle. Came back and went to a wine fest, in the park that is right next to the campground," shares Amanda + Will from Riverside Campground.
Escape from connectivity: Limited cell service provides a true disconnect for those seeking to unplug. "No cell service, which is refreshing. The sound of the creek nearby is really soothing," writes Katy R. about Worlds End State Park. Many campgrounds do not offer WiFi, and those that do often have limited bandwidth due to the mountainous terrain.
What you should know
Road condition challenges: Many campgrounds require navigating steep, winding roads with limited signage. "SUGGESTION: some GPS (like mine) might take you off the beaten track to get here!" warns Ralph L. about Indian Head Campground. Some roads feature elevation changes of 500+ feet over short distances.
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds operate from April through October with limited or no winter access. "This place is for those seeking to be at peace for the weekend. Tent spaces are nicely spaced apart. Some have shade and some do not," notes Luis B. about Indian Head Campground. Fall foliage weekends fill quickly with reservations often required 6+ months in advance.
Varying site conditions: Site quality differs significantly across campgrounds and even within the same facility. "Sites are SUPER tight. We were packed in like sardines. We had a site right on the river which was absolutely beautiful," writes Debbie W. about Splash Magic RV Resort. Electric service at some locations may run below standard voltage during peak usage periods.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas and water features. "The pool was great, the kids loved the water slides. The mini golf when we went in 2019 was in a little rough shape but it was still fun. They may have fixed that by now," shares Traci F. from Splash Magic RV Resort. Several campgrounds include game rooms or scheduled activities during summer weekends.
Halloween weekends: Fall camping includes special themed weekends with trick-or-treating and decorations. "This has become a new tradition for our family and friends. We started with a trip in the summer because of their candy bar hunt and heated swimming pool," explains Gayle B. about Pioneer Campground, which offers multiple Halloween events during October.
Bathroom proximity: Consider site location relative to facilities when camping with small children. "We were right next to the bath house, which was great for being able to send our 6 year-old by herself, but pretty obnoxious as far as foot traffic was concerned," mentions Jen V. about Knoebels Campground. Most facilities clean bathrooms daily but often have limited numbers of showers.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Bring additional leveling equipment for many locations. "Our full hookup site was large with table and fire ring, and required some leveling," notes James S. about Ricketts Glen. Mountain terrain creates naturally uneven sites at most campgrounds in the region.
Reservation timing: Book well in advance for summer weekends and fall foliage season. "Book early....these sites fill fast!" advises Eiron S. about Lake Glory Campground. Holiday weekends often require 6-12 month advance reservations.
Campground store options: On-site stores vary widely in inventory. "They have a dog park which my dog loved. They also have a reasonably priced store for general purpose items and Campground apparel," mentions Sean B. from Splash Magic. Most campground stores carry basic necessities but may have limited hours during off-peak season.
