Campgrounds near Ravine, Pennsylvania sit within the ridge-and-valley section of the Appalachian Mountains at elevations between 800-1,500 feet. The region's mixed hardwood forests provide natural buffers between campsites at many locations. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-85°F during daytime hours with evening temperatures dropping 15-20 degrees, making campfires practical even during summer months.
What to do
Hiking on the Appalachian Trail: The Jonestown/Hershey KOA provides direct access to the Appalachian Trail for day hikers. "The campground is connected to the Swatara Rail trial which is great for biking. The Swatara creek runs right next to it so it is great for kayaking, tubing, etc," notes Bobby S., highlighting multiple outdoor activity options available from a single location.
Fishing opportunities: Locust Lake State Park Campground offers lakefront access for anglers. "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," explains Dan N., detailing the fishing setup at this state park.
Amusement park access: Knoebels Campground provides walking-distance access to rides and attractions. "Always fun at Knoebels, even if you don't make it into the park. Great for groups, both tents and RVs, with hookups available. The amusement park is free and you only pay for what you want to do," explains Marlaina M., pointing out the pay-as-you-go structure.
What campers like
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Camp Swatara receives high marks for cleanliness. "Family camping has nice camp sites with mature trees. There's lots to do for the whole family: hiking to the rock pile, fishing and boating in the lake, swimming, mini golf, a splash pad, ball fields, and creeks to play in," says Christopher E., emphasizing the variety of recreational options.
Large sites with privacy: Twin Grove RV Resort offers spacious campsites that accommodate various camping styles. "Spotless. Plenty of room for whatever size tent or RV you have. Always lots of activities. Nice arcade and mini golf in an area set off to the side with a ferris wheel, merry go round, and other small kiddie rides," reports Mike J., highlighting the entertainment options.
Family-friendly activities: Camp A While provides organized events throughout camping weekends. "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. It seems like the camp ground always has something fun going on," states Jonathan F., noting the consistent programming at this location.
What you should know
Highway noise concerns: Several campgrounds near major roads experience traffic noise. "The campground is beautifully laid out with a stream running between the tent and RV camping. There is a pool and rec room that looks fun for all ages. The only reason for not giving five stars is because it's very close to a freeway," explains Jen from Camp A While, giving perspective on the noise level trade-offs.
Train disruptions: Hersheypark Camping Resort sites near railroad tracks experience nighttime train noise. "Nice camp ground but super loud bc of the trains. Bath houses are nice and clean. I would suggest making sure you aren't close to the tracks bc the trains run all night long!" warns Kit, providing specific guidance on site selection.
Site leveling challenges: Several campgrounds in the region have uneven terrain. "The site was plenty spacious for our pup and TV, but was not level at all. In fact, none of the surrounding sites looked very level," notes Jen V. about Jonestown/Hershey KOA, highlighting a common issue when camping in this mountainous area.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Twin Grove RV Resort maintains a large swimming pool with family-friendly rules. "This is one of my favorite campgrounds I've gone too. Very well kept, bathrooms are clean, showers are hot. Sites are spacious and clean. Great staff, overall great campground!! Nothing bad to say. Also has best pool I've seen at a campground," shares Adam F., emphasizing water recreation options.
Playground proximity: When camping with children, request sites near playground areas for convenience. "We come here once a year to take our grandkids on an annual camping trip with us. Lots to do! Playgrounds, special events, crafts. Very nice sites and shower houses are very clean," says Shirley M. about Twin Grove, pointing out the family infrastructure.
Bathroom accessibility: For families with young children, sites near restroom facilities provide practical advantages. "Clean and friendly. We were long term stay. Calvin was great and the yearly campers were fun and enjoyable," remarks Dee W., noting the community atmosphere that develops among campers.
Tips for RVers
Pull-through site availability: Appalachian Camping Resort offers pull-through sites beneficial for larger rigs. "We stayed at Appalachian to visit a friend who has a seasonal site. Our site was full hook up. It was a nice size and was in a good location - near the ponds, pool, office, and bathhouse - but was still quiet!" Becca U. explains, highlighting the quieter locations despite ease of access.
Site width considerations: Many pet-friendly camping locations near Ravine have varying site widths affecting slide-out use. "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 and that left us very uneven," shares Melissa Y. from Appalachian, detailing potential site configuration issues.
Check-in efficiency: Arrival procedures vary significantly between campgrounds. "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. There was no rv backup of people trying to get through," notes Melissa Y., describing efficient arrival processes that save time.
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