Best Campgrounds near Pottsville, PA

Campgrounds surrounding Pottsville, Pennsylvania range from state parks to family-oriented private facilities, with most concentrated within a 30-mile radius of the city. Locust Lake State Park Campground in Barnesville offers tent and RV sites with electric hookups in a wooded setting around a scenic lake, operating from mid-April through mid-October. Nearby Tuscarora State Park provides year-round camping with options for tents, RVs, cabins, and even yurts. Several private campgrounds like Blue Rocks Family Campground in Lenhartsville and Knoebels Campground supplement the public options with additional amenities including cabin rentals, glamping accommodations, and full hookup sites for larger recreational vehicles.

Seasonal considerations significantly impact camping experiences in the region, with most campgrounds operating from April through October. "PA is beautiful in the fall. Nice campground with some trails and access to Pottsville - for the best brewery tour ever - Yeungling!" noted one visitor about Locust Lake State Park. Many campgrounds feature varying terrain, with some sites positioned on slopes or rocky ground that can become muddy after rainfall. Campers should check site specifications when booking, as several reviewers mentioned challenges with uneven or small sites. Most state park campgrounds enforce quiet hours from 9 PM to 8 AM and strictly prohibit alcohol consumption. Cell service varies throughout the region, with better coverage near larger towns and limited connectivity in more remote camping areas.

Water features represent a significant draw for campers in the Pottsville area, with several campgrounds situated on or near lakes and streams. Locust Lake and Tuscarora State Parks both offer lakeside camping with fishing opportunities, though swimming may be restricted in some areas. A camper mentioned that "the lake was packed with people fishing throughout the day" during their stay at Locust Lake. Family-friendly amenities are common at private campgrounds, including swimming pools, game rooms, and organized activities. Proximity to attractions like Hershey Park (about 45 minutes away) and the historic Yuengling Brewery in Pottsville makes the area appealing for visitors seeking both outdoor recreation and cultural experiences. Campers interested in hiking can access portions of the Appalachian Trail from certain campgrounds, particularly those in the eastern portion of the region near Blue Rocks Family Campground.

Best Camping Sites Near Pottsville, Pennsylvania (165)

    1. Locust Lake State Park Campground

    30 Reviews
    Mahanoy City, PA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 467-2404

    $20 - $29 / night

    "Nice campground with some trails and access to Pottsville - for the best brewery tour ever - Yeungling! Check out the Jim Thorpe fall fest and Hershey Park."

    "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."

    2. Blue Rocks Family Campground

    25 Reviews
    Lenhartsville, PA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 756-6366

    "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."

    3. Knoebels Campground

    24 Reviews
    Marion Heights, PA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 672-9555

    $59 - $160 / night

    "Knoebels campground is situated next to Knoebels amusement park and offers sites for tent campers and RVs, as well as cabins.

    There is electricity at every site but not water."

    "In addition to the campsites you have access to the campsite bathrooms which also have showers. They’re nothing special but they get the job done and are cleaned daily by staff."

    4. Camp A While

    7 Reviews
    Ravine, PA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 682-8696

    $26 - $44 / night

    "Not to much to do in the area but it is somewhat close to the Appalachian Trail if you’re into that. It seems like the camp ground always has something fun going on."

    "The only reason for not giving five stars is because it’s very close to a freeway. There’s quite a bit of truck and car noise from the freeway."

    5. Tuscarora State Park Campground

    9 Reviews
    Barnesville, PA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 467-2404

    $44 - $47 / night

    "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."

    6. Appalachian Camping Resort

    8 Reviews
    Shartlesville, PA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "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."

    7. Lakewood Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    Barnesville, PA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 285-8026

    $62 - $94 / night

    "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."

    8. Mountain Springs Camping Resort

    6 Reviews
    Shartlesville, PA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 488-6859

    $60 - $73 / night

    "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."

    9. Lake Glory Campground

    15 Reviews
    Catawissa, PA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 356-7392

    $50 - $80 / night

    "This campground is only minutes away from Knobels Amusement Park. The campground itself was clean but not a lot of amenities being it’s part of the amusement park."

    "It’s a nice spacious campground next to the park."

    10. Jonestown/Hershey KOA

    16 Reviews
    Jonestown, PA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 865-6411

    "Love the close proximity to the highway and gas. We didn’t eat there but they had a restaurant! Lots of activities for the kids. Wooded sites and very clean bathrooms."

    "Pet friendly and you can access the Appalachian trail from campground. Lots of great food and places to go in the area. They have a river that is great for kayaking or tubing."

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Recent Reviews near Pottsville, PA

952 Reviews of 165 Pottsville Campgrounds


  • Peyton S.
    Sep. 8, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Wonderful, Easy, Quick trip from Philly

    It’s about an hour away from Philadelphia. We tent camped in loop B. The site was wonderful. Just know it is a gravel site, not grass. The fire pit has a grill attachment and wood was easy to find. Water and bathrooms were close. We hiked around the lake and there were plenty of trails and even rentable kayaks and paddle boards! Would definitely recommend if looking for a quick overnight stay outside of the city.

  • Stephen W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 7, 2025

    Hersheypark Camping Resort

    Very clean campground friendly staff

    We stay here once a year in September. Stone surface. Not to bad for leveling. Our site was spacious.

  • Werner S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Old Mill Stream Campground

    In Amish area, next to an amusement park

    Our kids where happy with the small playground and with a few dollars they could have some fun in the small arcade/gameroom. In the area you have Lancaster, Amish area and an amusement park (that is a bit outdated). The camping has a bit over 100 spots. They are just oké.

  • Scott J.
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Sun Valley Campground

    My Happy Place

    My wife and I have been seasonal camper for 4 years and love it. We had visited numerous campgrounds and found Sun Valley to be the atmosphere there beyond our expectations. The minute you walk into the office you get that" aha" moment. The office greets you with a smile and " Welcome to Sun Valley, how can I help you ". That alone told us these folks are here to make your stay enjoyable. They go above and beyond any campground we have ever been to. The activities go above and beyond. The Saturday night bands are concert worthy. We have enjoyed our stay more than you ever imagined. For the past 4 years it has been our "Happy Place"

  • Stephen W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Fantastic PA state park for activities and camping.

    Third year staying over the Labor Day weekend. Campground full but still a very peaceful relaxing stay. Our site was very spacious and open. Tree lined and site was almost level. Paved sites on this loop.

  • Connie R.
    Aug. 25, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Pretty park but needs upkeep and maintenance

    Only stayed one night (8/23/25).  Had an electric site on B 45.  After pulling in and starting to unload, we were getting swarmed with yellow jackets.  There were several entry holes in the ground they were using to enter and exit.  I have never experienced anything like this anywhere.   I would have left but since it was close to dusk, I knew they would all retrieve and go underground.  The smoke with the fire helped but it impacted our stay.  They were everywhere.  I will not be going back anytime during the summer

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 19, 2025

    Old Mill Stream Campground

    Good stay

    The entrance in off the main road turns you into the theme park. Fear not. Turn in and follow the road to the right and into the campground. We stayed on site 123 with a 40 ft Allegro Bus. Plenty of room to maneuver a big rig. All gravel sites and we had full hookup with 50 Amp.

  • Barbara P.
    Aug. 19, 2025

    Spring Gulch Resort Campground

    BED BUGS in Cabin

    I believe Cabin 1409 is infested with BED BUGS! After a short stay in this cabin(7/28-7/30) I came home with 80+ bug bites that I'm certain were from BED BUGS. A dozen of them were on my eyelid! My dermatologist gave me a high strength dosage of prednisone to combat the swelling and itching. We promptly advised the property manager, who was sympathetic, but once our claim for damages(mostly items we had to throw out due to contamination) reached the insurance company, the process stalled. It's been 19 days and now the insurance adjuster is out of the office for another week- having provided no updates or feedback on our claim. I wish I had posted this earlier, as I wonder if the cabin that Michael M complained about in his Aug. 4 YELP review was the very same cabin. I had hoped our conversations with the property manager would have prevented additional folks from the same fate. I also wish I had read a few earlier reviews that warned of BED BUGS. I continue to fear an infestation in my home, in the event we brought home nymphs or eggs or the bugs themselves. I'm constantly vacuuming and looking under seat cushions and my mattress. I now dry all my laundry on high for 60 minutes, knowing it's damaging my clothes, but also knowing it's the best way to kill the bugs and their eggs- which can go dormant and survive for a year without biting again. Zero stars. Choose to stay elsewhere!

  • Edison L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Country Acres Campground

    So Nice It’s Almost Not Camping

    We stayed at one of the primitive tent sites with no hookups adjacent to the farm field. Watching a horse drawn equipment cutting grass while we cooked dinner was a joy. Amenities are super clean and modern. Clean bathroom, laundry room, pool area for the kids, and a well stocked store. The only critique I have is that you can hear the distant sound of cars on the road. But this is by no means a nuisance. Just helping you make an informed decision. I would definitely go back.


Guide to Pottsville

Camping sites near Pottsville, Pennsylvania range in elevation from 400 to 1,200 feet, situated in the ridge and valley section of the Appalachian Mountains. The region experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Most campgrounds in the area feature tree cover that provides natural shade but can create challenges for larger RVs navigating internal roads.

What to do

Fishing opportunities: At Lakewood Park Campground, anglers can take advantage of the stocked pond with convenient dock access. "The lake is stocked with fish and had a small dock perfect for fishing," notes Scott H. The campground offers a serene setting for both casual and dedicated fishing enthusiasts.

Boulder exploration: Blue Rocks Family Campground features a unique glacier rock field that provides an unusual natural attraction. "Our campsite had a great view of the glacier rock field and the corn field," shares Jen R. who visited with her family. "There is a pool, playground, arcade, fishing pond, glacier rock field to explore and hiking trials."

Amusement park visits: Knoebels Campground offers direct access to Knoebels Amusement Park, which features free admission and pay-per-ride ticketing. As Derek W. explains, "It's an excellent way to spend your time at the park. If you are looking for wilderness camping this is not the place to go." The campground's proximity to the park makes it convenient for families wanting to combine outdoor stays with amusement park entertainment.

What campers like

Private wooded sites: Locust Lake State Park Campground provides secluded camping spots with natural screening. "Some camp sites are along the lake or along the small creek, all are very wooded. They sell ice cream (and firewood, etc.) on site in the summer but it's bring your own boat," mentions Dan N. The park's layout creates a sense of privacy despite being a public facility.

Creek access: Jonestown/Hershey KOA offers sites adjacent to the Swatara Creek, providing water recreation opportunities. "The Swatara creek runs right next to it so it is great for kayaking, tubing, etc," explains Bobby S. The campground also connects to the Swatara Rail trail, which is "great for biking" according to the same reviewer.

Quiet environment: Camp A While provides a peaceful setting despite its proximity to transportation routes. Jonathan F. notes, "This spot is great! Super friendly folks there. Not to much to do in the area but it is somewhat close to the Appalachian Trail if you're into that." The campground regularly schedules activities to complement the natural surroundings.

What you should know

Bathroom conditions: Facilities vary significantly between campgrounds in the area. At Locust Lake State Park, Brandon W. reports, "Bathrooms are absolutely horrendous - Really terrible." In contrast, Jonestown/Hershey KOA maintains "very clean bathrooms" according to visitor Bob W.

Highway noise: Some campgrounds near Pottsville experience traffic noise due to proximity to major roads. Jen observed at Camp A While, "Between the cars rushing by, the sound of the stream is peaceful and serene." Another camper, Tiani P., was more critical: "Right off the highway with lots of loud trucks and bikes. The campground is very busy with loud activity from other campers at all hours."

Site leveling challenges: Many camping areas around Pottsville feature uneven terrain. At Mountain Springs Camping Resort, Jim C. found, "Decent campground, we had a large, fairly shaded, not to horribly out of level site." Hannah noted more significant issues: "Some campsites are unlevel. A lot of people seen to have permanent campsites here."

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: Tuscarora State Park Campground offers family-friendly amenities including play areas. "Beautiful lake surrounded by trails and includes beach area and playground," notes Mandy F. The park also features yurts with modern conveniences that appeal to families seeking alternatives to traditional tent camping.

Activity scheduling: Appalachian Camping Resort provides organized events for various age groups. Melissa Y. shares, "The campground had numerous activities set up all throughout the day and there was something for everyone. I find that a lot of campground activities tend to be centered around small children and with my kids being 13 and 12, they're usually left out of the fun."

Swimming options: Several campgrounds feature swimming facilities for children. At Locust Lake State Park, Dawn R. comments, "Great walking path around lake for kids to ride bikes to parks or beach. Beach area was nice." The campground's layout allows families to maintain supervision while children enjoy water activities.

Tips from RVers

Site selection: At Jonestown/Hershey KOA, site configuration can significantly impact experience. Angie G. advises, "The pull through sites are nice and long, but we were put in a buddy spot and didn't know. We were happy we made friends with our neighbors, but I'd check that first. The spaces on the creek are nice and shady."

Hookup availability: Campgrounds near Pottsville offer varying levels of service connections. At Locust Lake State Park, Brandon W. notes, "No water hook up. No sewer hook up. Just electric at certain sites." RVers requiring full hookups should verify availability when booking.

Internal road conditions: Some campgrounds present navigation challenges for larger vehicles. At Mountain Springs Camping Resort, Hannah observed, "Drives are very narrow." This can create difficulties when maneuvering into sites, particularly for big rigs during busy periods when the campground is at full capacity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What campgrounds are available near Pottsville, PA?

Several quality campgrounds are available within driving distance of Pottsville. Tuscarora State Park Campground near Barnesville is one of the closest options, offering drive-in sites with basic amenities including toilets. Blue Rocks Family Campground provides a unique setting in the woods and rolling hills just below the Appalachian Trail, living up to Pennsylvania's hiker nickname "Rocksylvania." Other options within reasonable driving distance include Camp A While near Hegins, French Creek State Park, and Ricketts Glen State Park, known for its impressive 22 waterfalls. For those wanting urban conveniences, campgrounds near Hershey and Harrisburg are within an hour's drive.

What amenities do Pottsville camping sites typically offer?

Camping sites near Pottsville typically offer electric hookups, clean restroom facilities, and access to water. Shady Oak Campground provides full hookup sites on gravel, as well as grassy sites without sewer that offer more of a natural camping feel. They maintain clean bathrooms with hot water and a convenient dump station for sites without sewer connections. At Locust Lake State Park Campground, campers can enjoy hiking trails and scenic natural surroundings. Many area campgrounds also feature fire rings, picnic tables, and access to recreational activities such as fishing and swimming, though amenities vary by location.

Are there family-friendly camping options close to Pottsville?

Families camping near Pottsville have several excellent options that cater specifically to children and family activities. Knoebels Campground is situated next to Knoebels amusement park, offering sites for both tent campers and RVs, as well as cabins with electricity at every site. Hersheypark Camping Resort provides diverse camping experiences from full hookup sites to quiet spots by the river, with the added benefit of proximity to Hersheypark attractions. Both locations offer dedicated facilities and recreation options designed with families in mind. These campgrounds provide the perfect base for day trips to Pottsville while keeping children entertained with dedicated amenities and nearby attractions.