Raystown Lake in central Pennsylvania stretches across 8,300 acres with 118 miles of shoreline at an elevation of 786 feet. The lake sits within a valley surrounded by forested ridges, creating varied camping terrain with significant elevation changes. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during peak camping season, while spring and fall visitors can expect cooler conditions.
What to Do
Mountain biking on Allegrippis Trails: The extensive trail system starts just above the upper camp loops near Ridge Camp. "The trail head is right from the entrance of the camp loop! 40 some sites in the Ridge camp are a mix of shaded and open sites. This upper loop is also the quietest of the loops," notes a review from Seven Points Point Camp.
Fishing in multiple access points: Accessible fishing spots are available at several areas around the lake. "We fished at Tautman Run and Aitch - both were accessible and had lots of bluegill to steal our worms," according to a camper at Raystown Lake / Saxton KOA at Four Seasons.
Explore nearby overlooks: Take a short drive to scenic viewpoints. "We drove into Huntingdon and found signs to two outlooks which had spectacular views. One was Ridenour Overlook and the other Hawn's Overlook which were accessed from the same parking lot. Ridenour overlooked the Raystown dam which led us to see that we could drive to the top of the dam and have another great view."
What Campers Like
Waterfront camping options: Many campers appreciate lakeside sites. "We stayed in the Senoia campground in Seven Points for memorial day this year with our pop up. The lake front sites are beautiful and well maintained, but difficult to book. Bathrooms are decent and clean."
Clean facilities across campgrounds: Shower and bathroom quality varies by location. At Trough Creek State Park Campground, visitors note: "The campsites are beautiful, even though there were a lot of people when we went we felt like we had a lot of privacy from our neighbors... The bathrooms and showers were some of the nicest I've seen at a campground."
Varied terrain for different preferences: From waterfront to more secluded options. "We looked at this campground in early August, but I wasn't too sure about the elevation. I booked our site #6 in Ridge Camp... One backup attempt into the site and it was perfectly level...that was definitely a first for us. The picnic table had a new seat on one side and was in great shape."
What You Should Know
Boat-only accessible camping: For a unique experience, consider Nancy's Boat To Shore Campground. "These campsites are accessible by boat ONLY! They are in an area of the lake that has a lot of boat traffic, the waterfront spots usually book a few weeks in advance and are in a wake zone. There is mooring along both sides of the campground."
Water noise considerations: Boats are a constant presence during summer months. "Beautiful! Loved staying here! Raystown lake is incredible for fishing and swimming and the campsites were nice. Be aware that the speedboats on the lake make quite a lot of noise."
Primitive camping options: Not all sites offer full hookups. At Susquehannock campground, "Don't be alarmed by the fact that some reviews call this 'primitive' camping-- there are restrooms with well-ventilated composting toilets, potable water is available at the entrance station, and our campsite was very flat, clean, and safe."
Tips for Camping with Families
Multiple dog-friendly campgrounds: Raystown Lake offers several pet-welcoming options. "Big spacious sites that make pitching a tent easy with water available just a few sites away no matter where you stay. Nice fire rings and plenty of firewood for sale along route 26 or seven points road... Dogs are allowed."
Playground access varies by loop: Some camping areas offer better play facilities than others. "Ridge camp is the furthest away from the marina and the public swimming area. The bathhouse (one in the loop) was clean with 3 showers. A playground near the sites at the entrance also."
Beach areas for kids: Lake Raystown Resort offers family-friendly swimming. "The lake is so clean and refreshing and we have such beautiful views from our camp site. We went down to the swim beach and our kiddo made sand castles and swam in the clear water."
Tips from RVers
Dump station facilities: Seven Points features excellent facilities. "From the time we arrived and filled up the fresh water tank at the ultra-cool 4 lane dump station, I knew we were in for a great weekend. The signage was very well marked and the fresh water spigot was more like a little tank, super-solid, clean and modern."
Site leveling challenges: Be prepared for varied terrain. "We pulled into Ridge Camp and drove a little bit down a hill to our site. Our pad was limestone and very flat and level, so setting out our rugs was easy and comfortable underneath our feet."
Loop selection matters: Each camping area offers different advantages. "We took a drive around through the other six campgrounds and decided Point was our favorite, but obviously crowded because it is right on the lake. Senoia camp was tied with Ridge, but only the lower portion. Once you go up the hill to sites above #231, it gets very steep and far away from the water."
Scout
