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Best Campgrounds near Pottsville, PA

947 Reviews

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.

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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 - $109 / 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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539 Photos of 165 Pottsville Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Pottsville, PA

947 Reviews of 165 Pottsville Campgrounds

Guide to Pottsville

Camping near Pottsville, Pennsylvania, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails at French Creek State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "Hiking and biking this park is fun. It's a great place to camp and enjoy downtime!"
  • Water Activities: At Ricketts Glen State Park Campground, you can kayak on Lake Jean. A visitor shared, "The lake felt clean and wasn't too cold in July. Lake Jean is nice to kayak and there are quite a few tent sites you can launch your watercraft from."
  • Fishing: Many campgrounds, like Worlds End State Park Campground, offer great fishing spots. One camper noted, "Great hiking and vistas. Beautiful river and great fishing."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A review for Hickory Run State Park Campground stated, "The bathroom facilities were clean, the hiking in the area was gorgeous and pet friendly."
  • Spacious Sites: Many campers enjoy the spaciousness of the sites at Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground. One visitor said, "The bathhouse was fairly close and clean. Though it was rainy and chilly, we had fun hanging out at our site."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Blue Rocks Family Campground are noted for being family-oriented. A reviewer mentioned, "Beautiful campground! Very family-oriented and a great place for a weekend getaway in the woods!"

What you should know:

  • Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds, such as Ricketts Glen State Park Campground, have little to no cell service. One camper remarked, "There is absolutely no cell service, however, and we had to go all the way down the mountain to get texts or make calls."
  • Site Proximity: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A review for Locust Lake State Park Campground noted, "The views are pretty! However, the quality of our site was a little lacking. Very un-level so no great place to put a tent."
  • Seasonal Availability: Check the camping season for each campground. For example, Hickory Run State Park Campground is open from the 2nd Friday in April to the 3rd Sunday in October.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Hersheypark Camping Resort, which has a shuttle to the amusement park. A family shared, "The trolley was a great addition to getting to and from the Hershey attractions."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a mix of activities for kids. One reviewer at Blue Rocks Family Campground said, "The playground was great. Lots of activities."
  • Pack Essentials: Bring along games and outdoor toys to keep kids entertained. A camper at Knoebels Campground mentioned, "This place is awesome for the kids. You camp right at the park."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Levels: Some sites can be unlevel, so it's good to have leveling blocks handy. A review for Locust Lake State Park Campground noted, "Electric only, no water hookups. Small but very pretty lake with clean water."
  • Look for Full Hookups: If you prefer more amenities, consider campgrounds like Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground, which offers full hookups. One visitor shared, "This was our second trip to Gifford Pinchot. This time we stayed in full hook up."
  • Be Prepared for Traffic: Some campgrounds, like Hersheypark Camping Resort, can be busy due to nearby attractions. A camper mentioned, "The sites are tight, but the communal spirit is great."

Camping around Pottsville, Pennsylvania, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RV enthusiast seeking adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Pottsville, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Pottsville, PA offers a wide range of camping options, with 165 campgrounds and RV parks near Pottsville, PA and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Pottsville, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Pottsville, PA is Locust Lake State Park Campground with a 4.1-star rating from 30 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Pottsville, PA?

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

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