RV camping near Pine Grove Mills, Pennsylvania offers diverse terrains from mountain forests to riverside locations. The area sits within the Appalachian Mountain range with elevations ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 feet, creating dramatic temperature variations between seasons. Fall camping season typically runs from September through mid-November with overnight temperatures dropping into the 40s.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Honey Bear Campground, campers can access Raystown Lake year-round. "Can paddle and hike year round and camp in the spring, summer and fall. Amazing camp sites and several have beautiful lookouts over the lake," notes Elizabeth K.
Drive-in movie entertainment: River's Edge RV Park provides unique evening entertainment options. "The campground is literally right next door to a drive-in movie theater!" reports Jenn D., who visited after the campground opened in spring 2020.
Educational programs: Timber Run Campground offers organized educational activities. "Sunday we had pancakes and later a visit from RayCEP which is an education program that PA DNCR provides talking about various outdoorsy type things," shares Paul B., adding that his "17 year old helped out with the craft."
What campers like
Riverfront sites: At Waterside Campground and RV Park, waterfront locations are highly recommended. Matthew S. advises, "Absolutely beautiful if you are riverside. Staff was friendly and helpful. Typical overall, but clean and pretty. Stay on the waterside! Sites 48-53. Stayed at 49, it was absolutely perfection!"
Heated pool: Waterside offers amenities that extend swimming season. Michael L. notes, "Water is easy access, pool is heated. Rates are reasonable, store is basic. Come here every year, worth the trip."
Campground hospitality: Many campgrounds feature exceptionally friendly staff. Tricia C. from Honey Bear Campground shares, "Danielle stated no problem, glad we could help and that they were also waiting for one more person. She took us to our site and asked if there was anything more she could do. Five minutes later her husband Terri arrived and was very helpful."
What you should know
Mountain driving considerations: Mountain roads in the area require preparation. Paul B. advises, "If traveling from the Altoona area, go out through Martinsburg over Cove Mountain Rd - it saves you 30 minutes to an hour."
Site leveling requirements: At The Bellefonte Campground, be prepared for uneven terrain. Clean Slate D. reports, "Sites are sloped a bit as most are in the mountains. We were able to decently level our motorhome with blocks."
Seasonal activities: Campgrounds often schedule themed events during peak season. Paul B. shares, "We stayed during Bigfoot weekend. It was super fun as our family likes bigfoot fun. We started out Friday night getting the offered $12 bbq plate that included pork burnt ends, beans and potato salad."
Tips for camping with families
Cabin options: Seven Mountains Campground offers well-equipped cabins with family-friendly amenities. J K. describes, "Bunk room had 2 bunk beds, each with a full size mattress AND room to move, plus good natural light. Living/dining area is large with a wall-mounted tv, rustic wood dining set, storage room and hooks/hangers."
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. Jenn D. notes that River's Edge RV Park has "a nice children's playground" while Paul B. mentions Timber Run includes "the pool, dog park, bounce pillow, playground."
Weekday vs. weekend considerations: Activity levels vary significantly based on timing. Paul B. observes, "After the weekend though, all the activity slows down. There are seasonal campers that stay around, and they're constantly working on improving and fixing up sites during the week. Expect lots of quiet time just relaxing during the week."
Tips from RVers
Water and sewer access: Temporary arrangements exist at newer facilities. Jenn D. explains River's Edge "currently has 40 sites but is adding 40 more for 2021. There are water and electric hookups with sewer to be added (currently, a honey wagon comes through to pump out anyone who needs it on Saturdays)."
Site spacing considerations: Raystown Lake / Saxton KOA at Four Seasons offers varying site configurations. Chuck M. notes, "The site fees are a little pricey and some of them are a little closer together than we would prefer but otherwise, a great place to visit."
Site selection strategy: Pay attention to location within campgrounds. Jonathan F. observed at Raystown Lake KOA, "The only drawback was that the sites were tight and not the most level but we made do."
