Camping near Porters Sideling, Pennsylvania offers access to campgrounds primarily in the south-central Pennsylvania region, with most sites experiencing moderate summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months. The terrain around Porters Sideling features gentle rolling hills with elevations ranging from 500-700 feet above sea level, creating natural drainage that helps campsites dry quickly after rain.
What to do
Horseback battlefield tours: At Artillery Ridge Campground, visitors can experience Gettysburg from a unique perspective. "The camp store has everything that any camper could need, and the game room is really nice. The whole campground is approximately a 3 minute drive from everything in the town of Gettysburg. The battefields are very close as well," notes Dave B.
Fishing opportunities: Many campgrounds feature stocked fishing areas for guests. "We had site 114. It has water access and is right next to a small man made beach and playground," writes SkywaystoHighways.com Y. about their experience at Gifford Pinchot State Park. Another camper mentioned, "Cedar Creek was amazing and clean. Staff was friendly and courteous. The lake is nice and they stock it with trout."
Mini golf and recreation: Family-friendly activities are readily available at most campgrounds. "The resort had great amenities for all ages. We stayed in October so there was plenty of activities for kids from crafts, games, dancing, to trick or treating," shares Michael R. about their stay at Gettysburg.
What campers like
Wooded privacy: Many campers appreciate the natural setting of campgrounds in the Porters Sideling region. At Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground, one reviewer noted, "Sites were of ample size and well spaced. Sites were separated from our neighbors site with nice foliage."
Clean facilities: Consistently mentioned in reviews is the cleanliness of campground facilities. "Paved sites, modern, clean bathrooms," reports Mike C. about Codorus State Park. Another camper at Gettysburg Campground stated, "Whenever we go to Gettysburg which is usually once a year we always stay here. Really nice place. Recommend a site by the creek. Cool laid back staff and clean bathrooms."
Historical proximity: The location near historical sites is a major draw. "We camped at Artillery Ridge Campground, which served as an artillery storage/staging area for the Union during the battle. Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded," explains MJ B.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: The camping season in this region is limited at many state parks. Codorus State Park operates "2nd Friday April to November 1" while Gifford Pinchot State Park runs from "2nd Fri April to October 31," making advance planning essential for spring and fall visits.
Site variations: Campgrounds near Porters Sideling offer different site configurations and privacy levels. "We were in the primitive tent loop which is right on the lake. It can get a little busy on the weekends since there is a boat lauch at the end of the primitive lane, but some of the sites are secluded/set back enough to be private," explains Catherine H.
Reservation needs: During peak season, securing spots can be challenging. "Crowded Tent area and chiggers. When I arrived, someone was in my spot. After working it out and came back I noticed just how crowded it was," warns Scott B. about his experience, highlighting the importance of confirming reservations.
Tips for camping with families
Animal encounters: Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm offers unique farm experiences. "Got a kick out of the children playing with the kids (baby goats) pigs, goats, chickens, horses and even lamas. Plenty to see and learn. Prefect campground for the family," shares Robert M. Another visitor mentioned, "We've enjoyed mini-golf, feeding the animals, 'hiking' through the cornfield, fishing, and campfires."
Playground access: Consider site proximity to play areas. "We were in site 86,85,89 for a month long stay... The only complain we had was people walking through our sites due us being close to the playground and the noise level on the playground," notes Lakota M. from Artillery Ridge Campground.
Bathroom proximity: With children, location relative to facilities matters. At Gettysburg Battlefield KOA, "The bathroom/showers were very clean as well, and individual units for privacy." The campground earned praise as "a very clean and wooded campground. They have plenty of activities for the kids from swimming, mini golf, and a scavenger hunt!"
Tips from RVers
Site leveling needs: Many campgrounds require preparation for uneven terrain. "Make sure to bring your leveling blocks, some sites do have a slope to them of 3-4"," advises Gregory L. about Gettysburg Battlefield Resort. Another RVer mentioned, "Our site was pretty level and an okay side. Our site was separated from our neighbors site with nice foliage."
Utility placement: Sewer connections at some campgrounds present challenges. "The sewer hookup was inconveniently placed about six inches above the ground which meant that it would not drain properly (even with a slinky placed under it)," notes one camper at Drummer Boy Camping Resort.
Navigation difficulties: Larger RVs might face challenges at some locations. "We stayed in site 55. Big site but hard to get into. There are a couple of pull thru sites that are much easier," shares Bill B. about their experience at Gettysburg Battlefield KOA, adding "We will stay again" despite the access challenges.
