Camping near Cogan Station, Pennsylvania provides access to the diverse Appalachian Mountain terrain at elevations ranging from 500 to 2,000 feet. The region experiences significant seasonal variations with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F while winter often drops below freezing with occasional snowfall. Spring campers should prepare for mud season conditions from March through mid-May when many unpaved roads and trails become difficult to navigate.
What to do
Kayaking local waterways: At Riverside Campground & Riverside Roadhouse, visitors can access the Susquehanna River directly. One camper reported, "We all took the kayaks out on the Susquehanna River that runs behind the property for a sunny paddle." Some paddlers drop in at Montgomery boat club instead of Muncy for an easier float.
Waterfall hiking: The region features numerous cascades within short drives from Cogan Station. At Ricketts Glen State Park Campground, hikers can access 22 named waterfalls. A visitor explained, "We saw 18 of them on a four-mile moderate hike, but if you want to see the additional four, you could make it a seven-mile hike. The trails are very well marked."
Winter exploration: While many campgrounds close seasonally, some facilities remain open year-round. A visitor to Worlds End noted, "In the colder months, they even have cabins you can rent out... I usually come in the fall in October/early November. It's my favorite time to come because it's not extremely packed with campers and the leaves are beautiful."
What campers like
Secluded mountain settings: Little Pine State Park Campground draws campers seeking quiet mountain experiences. One visitor described it as "Beautiful setting for camping along a stream and the mountains. The Mid State hiking trail comes right through the Campground and there are numerous other trails within the park."
Star viewing opportunities: Several campsites offer excellent night sky viewing due to minimal light pollution. At Raymond B. Winter State Park Campground, one camper shared, "The night skies were beautiful (starry starry night w/little light pollution) and trails galore leading directly from the campground."
Clean facilities: Pennsylvania state parks consistently receive praise for maintenance standards. A camper at Ravensburg State Park mentioned, "Tent camped here one night, perfect for a quick little stopover. As other reviewers mention, it's right near a road so you hear car (and horse & buggy!) noise — would try to get a spot further away from the road if possible. Pretty clean bathroom, easy self-registration process."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies dramatically throughout the region with some campgrounds offering WiFi near offices but most lacking reliable coverage. As one camper at Worlds End State Park Campground noted, "No cell service, which is refreshing. The sound of the creek nearby is really soothing."
Water quality concerns: Occasionally campgrounds experience water issues. At Ricketts Glen, "The water had been tested earlier in the season and unsafe levels of manganese were detected. All water spigots were shut off and covered but we were told it was safe to wash our dishes and brush our teeth."
Weekend crowds: The most popular sites fill quickly, especially during summer months. A visitor at Worlds End advised, "I'd recommend the higher loop if you can. However, some of the sites on the lower loop are close to the road but the road noise isn't too bad."
Tips for camping with families
Animal encounters: Williamsport South-Nittany Mountain KOA offers unique children's activities including a petting zoo. A visitor mentioned, "The playground was fantastic and looked to be new, and there was a jumping pillow and a pool. There is a well stocked camp store where we were able to get some fresh eggs and delicious ice cream by the scoop."
Swimming options: Multiple campgrounds feature swimming areas, important for summer visits. At Little Pine, a camper noted, "There is a lake for swimming, kayaking and fishing. Minutes away from Big Pine Creek and additional swimming, boating and fishing opportunity."
Playground access: When selecting sites, consider proximity to play areas. At Ravensburg, a visitor reported, "There is some nice hiking here and lots of nature to explore. There are bushes and trees between the sites and it feels very private."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Several campgrounds require preparation for uneven terrain. At Squarewood Acres Campground, a visitor found "Nice quiet sites, good wifi, clean bathrooms, drinking water and power at all sites. Hosts are very friendly."
Off-season value: Shoulder seasons offer better availability and quieter experiences. An RVer at Ricketts Glen stated, "We stayed in the large loop, which is a peninsula on Lake Jean. Many of the sites have lake views. The bathhouse was clean but not adequate for 73 sites."
Hook-up limitations: Water and electric services vary significantly between locations. At Riverside Campground, a camper advised, "We had campsite 19 - pull through with full hookups (50amp, cable, water, sewer). The site was nice and long. Even though they have had a lot of rain in this area, our jacks did not sink into the ground and the site was pretty level."
