Camping near Orrstown, Pennsylvania sits in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, with elevations ranging from 600 to 2,100 feet. The area experiences distinct seasons with colorful fall foliage and moderate summer temperatures typically in the 70-85°F range. Mountain terrain creates variable weather patterns, with afternoon thunderstorms common in summer months across the region's coniferous and deciduous forest landscapes.
What to Do
Hike to scenic viewpoints: Pine Grove Furnace State Park offers excellent hiking opportunities, including the challenging trail to Pole Steeple. As camper Amanda H. notes, "Make sure you take a hike on the AT and then up to Pole Steeple for a great view! You may even bump into a through hiker excited to chat!" The park marks the halfway point of the Appalachian Trail.
Mountain biking on forest trails: North Michaux State Forest Campsites provides access to multiple trail systems for biking enthusiasts. According to Tommy S., "The Camps trail starts at this campsite's back door. We hiked part of this gorgeous trail, which enters many different types of forests... mountain bikers love this trail." Many trails feature moderate technical difficulty with roots and occasional rocky sections.
Visit historical landmarks: Several campgrounds provide convenient access to Gettysburg National Military Park, approximately 20 miles from Orrstown. A visitor to Gettysburg noted, "This park is located in a quiet, mountain setting in south-central PA; feels like you're out in the country, but it's also not far off the turnpike, so pretty accessible."
What Campers Like
Creek access for hot days: Twin Bridge Campground offers popular stream access that draws families during summer months. One camper shared, "Our favorite campground. The most relaxing setting. Our kids love the creek and playing in and around it." The creek remains cool even during July and August heat.
Synchronized firefly displays: Caledonia State Park Campground provides remarkable natural light shows in early summer. As Stephanie S. observed, "We chose this park for the nice pool (short walk from campsites) but loved the synchronous firefly show we saw in July!" These displays typically occur for approximately two weeks in late June to early July.
Pet-friendly primitive camping options: Primitive camping in designated state forest sites allows pets with minimal restrictions. One visitor to Michaux State Forest explained, "Pets are allowed as long as they are under control at all times and are not disturbing others. If your dog's recall is anything but perfect, they haven't earned the privilege."
What You Should Know
Seasonal facility limitations: Winter camping requires additional preparation. One camper at Pine Grove Furnace State Park warned, "Cell service is pretty much nonexistent in the campground, so keep this in mind if you can't be out of touch (we had Verizon)."
Campsite proximity varies significantly: Gettysburg Campground has closely spaced sites in some areas. Jim G. noted, "The two drawbacks are that the sites are quite packed together and the noise of traffic—at least in the frontmost sites—can get rather loud at night. However, the proximity to Gettysburg National Park can't be beat."
Limited supplies in remote locations: Forest camping requires advance planning. A visitor to Pine Grove Furnace advised, "Make sure you pack in your food and all supplies or you will have a 20-30 minute drive back to a major store!" Most rural stores close by 8pm, with limited Sunday hours.
Tips for Camping with Families
Look for campgrounds with water recreation: Cowans Gap State Park Campground offers swimming and boating opportunities that children enjoy. Beth C. enthusiastically shared, "One of our favorites! Campground sits right on a gorgeous lake. Lots of fishing options including boats you can rent. A walking trail wraps around the whole lake. There's lots of hiking trails, a real sand beach and swimming area, pedal boat and canoe rentals."
Consider off-peak timing for quieter experience: Weekday camping provides more space and solitude. One camper noted, "We stayed here mid-week in September so it was very quiet," allowing families to enjoy facilities without crowds.
Check for pet-friendly campground sections: Many campgrounds designate specific areas for pets. According to Amber at Fowlers Hollow, "There is a pet section and a non pet section in this campground. There is also showers and clean bathrooms here." Pet-friendly camping near Orrstown, Pennsylvania often requires keeping dogs on 6-foot leashes.
Tips from RVers
Water access limitations: Many state forest sites lack hookups. At Pine Grove Furnace, an RVer advised, "If traveling in an RV you will need to fill your fresh water tank as each site does not have water hook up." Water fill stations may be limited to campground entrances.
Site selection for larger rigs: Dogwood Acres Campground accommodates bigger RVs with level sites. Mary C. observed, "Flat all gravel sites. Clean pool. Pavilion was a nice meeting place. Big pond was pretty. Friendly staff... Some [trees] made pulling in/backing in a bit challenging." Sites are typically 30-50 feet in length.
Consider honey wagon services: Some campgrounds without full hookups offer pumping services. As one camper at Twin Bridge noted, "The honey wagon makes the E/W sites no problem!" These services typically cost $15-25 per visit with scheduled service days.
