Camping near Pottsville, Pennsylvania offers diverse options across varying terrains, with elevations ranging from 450 to 1,700 feet throughout Schuylkill County. The region experiences distinct seasons with humid summers averaging 80°F and winters dropping to 20°F, making spring and fall particularly popular for camping. Most campgrounds in the area operate from April through October, though several offer year-round accommodations with heated facilities.
What to do
Explore boulder fields: Blue Rocks Family Campground provides access to a unique geological feature where visitors can climb among massive rock formations. "This place really has something for everyone! Classic cars, huge playground, lots of activities, friendly staff. The best part was hiking in the boulder field!" notes Gayle B., who visited the Blue Rocks Family Campground.
Kayak calm waters: Multiple lakes and streams offer paddling opportunities without needing whitewater skills. "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," shares Dawn R. about her experience at Locust Lake State Park Campground.
Visit Knoebels Amusement Park: Located within walking distance of some campgrounds or via shuttle from others. "Connected to the park, a great way to visit! If you're an early to bed kinda person it'll be tough, the roller coasters are right there! I loved it though," explains Joe B. who stayed at Knoebels Campground.
Mushroom hunting: The forested areas provide excellent opportunities for amateur mycologists. "Really nice park! Great hiking trails! Lots of mushrooms! Nice walk-in sites for camping," reports Annette M. after visiting Tuscarora State Park.
What campers like
Quiet creek-side sites: Many campers appreciate waterfront access at several campgrounds. "We stay at lake glory every year while visiting Knoebels. It's so much quieter than Knoebels campground and so much more room. We love the creek side sites! Kids can wade in the water to cool off while parents are chatting and cooking just few feet away," explains Eiron S. from Lake Glory Campground.
Clean facilities: Modern bathhouses receive consistent praise at several locations. "The park is relatively new. Everything is clean and in great working order. All kinds of maintenance was going on throughout each day, and it shows," notes Matt S. about Lakewood Park Campground.
Fall foliage viewing: Autumn transforms the landscape with vibrant colors, making it a prime season. "PA is beautiful in the fall. 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," recommends Melanie Z. who camped at Locust Lake State Park.
Pet-friendly atmosphere: Many campgrounds welcome dogs with specific amenities. "We camp at lake glory every year. Free shuttle to Knoebels. Very good price," mentions Jason P., highlighting the convenience for pet owners wanting to visit attractions while camping.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the region have uneven terrain requiring preparation. "Our site was very rocky and on an incline so hard to get the camper level. It was a 'pop up/tent' site and we were in a small travel trailer so it's understandable," reports Marc P. about his experience at Blue Rocks Family Campground.
Highway noise: Some campgrounds are located near major roads, affecting the wilderness experience. "Not so peaceful. 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," cautions Tiani P. about Camp A While.
Weather considerations: Rain can significantly impact the camping experience in this region. "We had 3 families and sites (2 campers & 1 tent) all sites were decent sizes. 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. Only downside to our trip was poured every night and one whole day," reports Dawn R. about Locust Lake State Park.
Limited cell service: Many forest campgrounds have poor or no connectivity. "I absolutely love camping here! If you want to be disconnected, literally because there is no cell service, then this is the place for you," explains Jen R. about Tuscarora State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Consider shower facilities: Not all campgrounds offer modern bathhouses. "Great place. No water hook up. No sewer hook up. Just electric at certain sites. Convenient paved walking path all around the lake, swimming lake with beach, nice playground for kids. Lake is Good for fishing and canoe/kayak rides. Bathrooms are absolutely horrendous - Really terrible," warns Brandon W. about Locust Lake State Park.
Book early for holiday weekends: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially those near attractions. "Book early as they sell out fast!" advises Joshua W. about Knoebels area campgrounds.
Look for activity schedules: Many campgrounds offer organized events for children. "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 his experiences.
Check buddy site arrangements: Some campgrounds use shared-space configurations. "We were unaware that our site was a buddy site. Now it was Labor Day weekend, the campground was completely full and we booked late. The site we got was the only one available for the size of our camper. The buddy site was very narrow and since our buddy arrived first we had no choice but to park farther down on the site to avoid our awnings touching," explains Melissa Y. about Appalachian Camping Resort.
Tips from RVers
Call ahead about site suitability: Some campgrounds advertise RV sites that may not accommodate larger trailers. "Beware: these sites are not travel trailer friendly. We booked two nights but upon arriving, we realized that there was no way to fit our trailer (only 25 ft). 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 Locust Lake State Park.
Consider seasonal options: Many campgrounds offer long-term stays with additional benefits. "Our site(#74) was plenty big enough for our 45' motorhome and Jeep plus lots of room to spread out," reports Matt S. about Lakewood Park Campground.
Look for full hookup availability: Hookup options vary significantly between campgrounds. "Checkin was quick and no fuss. Friendly staff, grounds look well taken care of. The pond is a very nice amenity. Convenient FHU off interstate 81. Reasonably priced," shares Paul B. about Lakewood Park.
Check for pet-friendly arrangements: Many campgrounds near Pottsville welcome pets with specific designated areas. "Staff are friendly and knowledgeable about the area. Pet friendly and you can access the Appalachian trail from campground. Lots of great food and places to go in the area," explains Lisa B. about Jonestown/Hershey KOA, which offers year-round pet-friendly camping near Pottsville, Pennsylvania.
