Camping near Port Clinton, PA

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    Campgrounds near Port Clinton, Pennsylvania span a range of settings from wooded sites along the Appalachian Trail to family-oriented resorts. Blue Rocks Family Campground and French Creek State Park offer diverse accommodation options including tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and glamping facilities. The area's mixed-use campgrounds benefit from proximity to both natural attractions and cultural sites, with several campgrounds situated near the Pennsylvania Dutch countryside and Amish communities. Most developed campgrounds in this region maintain seasonal operations, typically opening from April through October or November, though a few like French Creek State Park remain open year-round.

    Reservations are strongly recommended for the region's established campgrounds, particularly during summer weekends and holiday periods. Many campgrounds feature electric hookups, with full-service sites available at locations like Allentown KOA, Mountain Springs Camping Resort, and Robin Hill Campground. Water access varies across the region, with some campgrounds situated near lakes or rivers. The heavily wooded terrain in areas like Blue Rocks provides natural shade but limits level tent sites in some locations. According to one visitor, "Blue Rocks Campground doesn't disappoint. This campground sits in the woods and rolling hills just below the Appalachian Trail. The RV sites are mainly situated at the bottom section, and the tent camping is pretty much on the upper portion of the site."

    The proximity to the Appalachian Trail represents a significant draw for many campers in the Port Clinton area. Several campers highlight the hiking opportunities, including trails that connect directly to the AT. As noted in one review, "There are plenty of hiking trails, and a 'yellow blaze' trail that leads directly to the Appalachian trail. Take a hike up to 'Pinnacle Rock' on the AT, and you can catch a nice view." Wildlife enthusiasts should be aware of native species in the area, as the same reviewer cautioned: "There are rattlesnakes and Copperheads in the area, so be sure to act like you've got some sense." French Creek State Park receives consistently positive feedback for its 35 miles of hiking trails, modern facilities, and reasonable pricing, making it a popular option for visitors seeking developed campgrounds with natural surroundings.

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    Best Campgrounds near Port Clinton (173)

      1. Blue Rocks Family Campground

      4.4(26)8mi from Port ClintonRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "According to hikers on the AT, this is what they call Pennsylvania, as they hike through this section of the state. And Blue Rocks Campground doesn't dissapoint."

      "Blue Rocks family campground is close to I78 however it is still off the beaten path. It is very peaceful to camp here as you have different types of environments."

      2. Locust Lake State Park Campground

      4.0(31)15mi from Port Clinton279 sitesRVs, Tents

      "We had lake front access to put kayaks in and fish which was awesome. Great walking path around lake for kids to ride bikes to parks or beach. Beach area was nice."

      "Had a site close to the lake. Many sites (including mine) were not level. The sites sizes were a bit small and i would book during peak season. I would definitely return again off season."

      from $20 - $43 / night

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      3. Appalachian Camping Resort

      3.8(8)7mi from Port ClintonRVs, Cabins

      "It was a nice size and was in a good location - near the ponds, pool, office, and bathhouse - but was still quiet! There were scheduled activities for kids and adults."

      "We started our trip Friday afternoon, we pulled into the campground and they had a table set up outside to “check in.” We did not wait in a mile long line to park and go into the office."

      4. Robin Hill Campground

      3.5(10)9mi from Port ClintonRVs, Cabins

      "You will get you exercise walking to the pond, pool, capstone or basketball courts. The playground was luckily right across from us up on the hill. They also have a Frisbee golf course on site."

      "This campground had been let go with poor management for many years, HOWEVER the new management and staff have really turned it around!!"

      5. French Creek State Park Campground

      4.2(83)29mi from Port Clinton227 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "We were looking for someplace close to the city but away from the hustle and bustle of our city life, this was the perfect little steal-away; relatively close by, great car camping spots, nice easy hikes"

      "Campground Review: French Creek State Park Campground is located in Elverson, Pennsylvania and sits adjacent to Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site."

      from $20 - $75 / night

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      6. Mountain Springs Camping Resort

      3.3(6)5mi from Port ClintonRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "Close to other stores and camping center."

      "Large size pool for the bigger folks and a walk in pool for the toddlers. Fun activities for all to enjoy. All the campers that were there when we there are super friendly."

      from $60 - $73 / night

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      7. Allentown KOA

      4.2(15)18mi from Port ClintonRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "This campground is nestled in rhe mountains of Pennsylvania. This campgound is family oriented, it has a pool, a store, a game room. They also do things for different holidays."

      "We chose this campground mainly because it was close to home and we could camp and not miss my daughter's soccer practice/game.  We were pleasantly surprised by the campground. "

      8. Tuscarora State Park Campground

      4.4(9)16mi from Port Clinton10 sitesRVs, Cabins, Glamping

      "Good hiking trails were just a short walk away from our campsite. Would definitely go back again."

      "No water but directly across from facilities with basin sinks outside for cleaning dishes, etc. Each yurt has a huge deck, 2 picnic tables and fire pit."

      from $44 - $47 / night

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      9. Lakewood Park Campground

      5.0(6)16mi from Port Clinton4 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "They are in the process of adding lots more sites up away from the lake in the woods plus 2 bath houses. The sites along the lake are great, but be aware most of them are seasonal."

      "You’re not allowed to swim in the lake although you’re allowed to use floats. The area has not much to do unless you would like the state park, which is close by."

      from $62 - $114 / night

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      10. Shambala at Mystic Hollow

      5.0(1)8mi from Port Clinton15 sitesTents

      from $40 / night

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    Recent Reviews near Port Clinton, PA

    955 Reviews of 173 Port Clinton Campgrounds


    • Dan S.
      Jun. 11, 2026

      Lazy-K Campground

      No idea. Was not allowed in since we couldn't arrive before 4pm.

      Choose another campground unless you are certain you can arrive before 4pm. Otherwise, you'll not be allowed in.  Owner is belligerent on this point, and from other comments, belligerent on other issues also.  

      We strongly recommend the nearby French Creek State Park campground.

    • MThe Dyrt PRO User
      Jun. 10, 2026

      Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA

      It's rustic, well maintained and quiet

      We've stayed here annually for 7 years and it's one of our favorite campgrounds. There are enough trees and green spaces that it feels like a park despite the number of RVs it accommodates.

      The sites are level, large, and well maintained. If you need to contend with a tree blocking your satellite dish the sites are large enough that you can usually just move up or back a bit so that you are not blocked.

      The pool is nice and clean. Has water fountains, etc. for kids to play in in addition to a kiddie pool. I do wish it was open a bit later into the evening. The camp store is a bit small but is well stocked with camping items in addition to souvenirs and impulse purchase items.

      Since the pandemic what they offer has varied. Sometimes hot food like taco Tuesday, ice cream sundaes, burgers and dogs in their activity center at certain times and days. Sometimes ceramic, arts and crafts, etc.. Sometimes their activity center remains closed during our entire stay.

    • Paul E. R.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jun. 8, 2026

      Hersheypark Camping Resort

      This is the greatest place to enjoy all the activities your family desires

      Enjoy an amazing experience staying at Hershey Park camp site 😄😄

    • AThe Dyrt PRO User
      Jun. 6, 2026

      100 Mile View Camping

      Gorgeous Views for 100 miles

      Thought it was super cool that the owner of the campsite came through to see if anyone needed anything and make sure everything was going okay, I also thought the 5 gallon jug of water was a nice touch. The site was nicely laid out and had a great view of the gorge. Loved that we were back in the trees for a little more privacy. My dogs had a great time as well.

    • F
      Jun. 6, 2026

      Thousand Trails Hershey

      Nice park but the site not so much

      The park is very nice however the site H2 was the site assigned to us. The distance between our Coach and the fence was 7 feet and the bathhouse was blocking the view. I do not recommend this site.

    • BD Funny W.
      May. 27, 2026

      French Creek State Park Campground

      It was beautiful

      The camp site was amazing. Everything is neat and clean and really beautiful place so quiet.

    • ZThe Dyrt PRO User
      May. 26, 2026

      Indian Head Campground

      Good but could be better

      A lot of people recommended this campground. We were late to book for Memorial Day weekend and Indian Head had plenty of spots open so we gave it a chance. Upon arriving, they gave us a map to our spot, we drove to the area and it was essentially a big open field with no spots marked, no numbers, no direction to really pull in. We had to ask the owner where our spot was because there was nothing to show where it was in the fielded grass area. I understand they are putting work into the campground to improve it, it seems, but seemed Alittle messy just from the store, entrance and overall upkeep of the campground. Overall, if we had the chance to camp here again, we probably wouldn’t. I would reccomend J&D or Lake Glory that’s in the same area if able to be booked.

    • James B.The Dyrt PRO User
      May. 9, 2026

      Hershey Road Campground

      An alternative to Hershey Park Campground. A little cheapwr but sites are better here.

      Great location a updated grounds, sites and restrooms n bath houses. Local to hershey but out of the traffic.

      Great vaction site for RVs n longer stays. Quiet n comfortable RV living!

    • Stephen W.The Dyrt PRO User
      Apr. 12, 2026

      Mill Bridge Village & Camp Resort

      Great olacevto camp in Lancaster County

      We camp here several times thru out the year. Always an enjoyable stay. Staff is very friendly and accommodating.


    Guide to Port Clinton

    Camping sites near Port Clinton, Pennsylvania span across the northern edge of Berks County at approximately 600 feet elevation, characterized by rocky terrain and mixed hardwood forests. Winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing, with summer daytime temperatures averaging 75-85°F. Most campgrounds in this region feature hilly, occasionally rocky terrain that can present challenges for tent placement and RV leveling, particularly after periods of heavy rainfall.

    What to do

    Hiking to Pinnacle Trail: Access this popular trail directly from Blue Rocks Family Campground, where campers can follow connector paths to the Appalachian Trail. "It's right at the base of one of the most popular hiking trail, The Pinnacle. It's nestled in the woods and is very rustic. Really gives you that camping feel!" notes Darrien K.

    Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer pond or lake fishing within walking distance of campsites. At Lakewood Park Campground, "The lake is was nice and had a small dock perfect for fishing," according to Scott H. Though catch rates vary seasonally, most ponds contain bass, panfish, and occasionally northern pike or pickerel.

    Paddle sports: Several campgrounds rent kayaks or allow campers to bring their own. "We spent Saturday afternoon fishing but not catching anything at Scott's Run. It's a beautiful location and it was still a fun way to spend the day with the kids away from the site," shares one visitor to French Creek State Park.

    What campers like

    Boulder fields and rock formations: The unique geological features draw many campers to the area. "Our children loved to climb all over the rocks, that is where they spent most of the time. primitive but fun!" reports Terri S. about Blue Rocks Family Campground.

    Lake access and recreational opportunities: Campers appreciate waterfront sites and recreational amenities. "We had lake front access to put kayaks in and fish which was awesome. Great walking path around lake for kids to ride bikes to parks or beach. Beach area was nice," writes Dawn R. about Locust Lake.

    Private wooded sites: Many campgrounds offer good separation between campsites. "The campground is laid out well. There is a lot of shade and the campground is laid out well. There are three separate loops to camp at, Loop C is the only loop that allows pets, plus an area for large group camping which can accommodate anywhere from 30 to 60 people," explains Jen R. about French Creek State Park Campground.

    What you should know

    Bathroom facilities vary widely: Quality and maintenance of facilities differs significantly between campgrounds. At Locust Lake State Park Campground, "Bathrooms are absolutely horrendous - Really terrible," according to Brandon W., while others note cleaner facilities at newer campgrounds.

    Site selection matters: Many campgrounds have significant terrain variations. "Sites were not on top of each other. Bathrooms were very nice and clean with large showers. Nice area to wash dishes. Very nice playground area and clean," notes Jen R. about French Creek State Park's sites.

    Off-season camping available: While many campgrounds close for winter, some remain open year-round. "Stayed over for one night in early December. Showers and bathrooms were great! If you're traveling through, there are many places to eat nearby," writes Galit P. about winter camping options at French Creek State Park.

    Tips for camping with families

    Playground access: Look for campgrounds with maintained play equipment. "Blue rocks is the best family campground within 5 hours of philadelphia. Hands down. They have everything you need from primitive sites to cabins to rent. The staff is always friendly and it's always great time," shares Nick M. about Robin Hill Campground.

    Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer swimming facilities for summer visits. "Nice pool, playground for children, lake for fishing and canoe/kayak rides," describes one visitor at Locust Lake State Park, though operating hours vary by season and staffing levels.

    Weather considerations: The region experiences frequent summer afternoon thunderstorms. "We had 3 families and sites (2 campers & 1 tent) all sites were decent sizes. Only downside to our trip was poured every night and one whole day," reports Dawn R., highlighting the importance of proper rain gear and tarps.

    Tips from RVers

    Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain that requires preparation. "Trees were growing up in all the sites that were available and most of the ones without trees in the way were pointing in the wrong direction for backing into and NONE were level," cautions Chelsea B. about Allentown KOA.

    Check hookup quality: Electric service can vary between sites. "Low voltage throughout the campground," reports Mike J. about Robin Hill Campground, suggesting bringing a voltage monitor if running sensitive equipment.

    Site spacing varies significantly: RV sites range from spacious to extremely tight. "The gravel site was level, so I didn't even have to unhook from my truck," notes Corby M. about Allentown KOA, while others mention much tighter configurations at different campgrounds.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What camping is available near Port Clinton, PA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Port Clinton, PA offers a wide range of camping options, with 173 campgrounds and RV parks near Port Clinton, PA and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

    Which is the most popular campground near Port Clinton, PA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Port Clinton, PA is Blue Rocks Family Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 26 reviews.

    Where can I find free dispersed camping near Port Clinton, PA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Port Clinton, PA.