Campgrounds near Reed, Pennsylvania offer diverse overnight options within driving distance of major Pennsylvania attractions. The region sits at elevations ranging from 400-700 feet with a humid continental climate producing four distinct seasons. Winter temperatures average 20-35°F while summer months typically reach 75-85°F with occasional afternoon thunderstorms.
What to do
Explore Amish country: Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country in Manheim puts visitors in proximity to authentic Amish experiences. "Not much for amenities, but I loved the surrounding dutch/Amish towns! It was pretty cool to seemingly step back in time," notes Jill R. The campground serves as a central base for exploring this unique cultural area.
Visit historic Gettysburg: Drummer Boy Camping Resort in Gettysburg provides convenient access to Civil War historical sites. "It's literally like a mile from downtown Gettysburg, which also has a lot of different things to do," explains David G. The location makes it perfect for history enthusiasts wanting to explore battlefields and museums.
Fish at nearby ponds: Several campgrounds feature fishing opportunities without leaving the property. At Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm, Anna H. mentions it's a "Great place to go fishing!" while another camper notes, "Nature decided to reclaim the area and the fish have an abundance of kel to live in. It is a wonderful fishing and boating area."
What campers like
Farm animal interactions: Gettysburg Farm offers unique animal experiences not common at standard rv sites near Reed, Pennsylvania. "We arrived too early for the pool to be open but they do have an indoor hot tub for those 16 years and older that is open," notes Yamileth K., adding "We chose a non-sewage site, the loop is quiet and large and they have the honey wagon 3x a week (free sewage dump service)."
Miniature golf: Thousand Trails Circle M provides recreational activities beyond standard camping. "Putt putt is still open and fun, so is playground. Arcade was open. There is an indoor pool and spa (spa closed due to Covid)," writes Kasey M. Free or low-cost mini golf appears at multiple campgrounds in the region.
Swimming pools: Most campgrounds in the region maintain swimming facilities. Melissa Y. from Pinch Pond notes: "If I have one and only complaint it's the pool, it could use an upgrade and I wish they had actual lounge chairs rather than just plastic chairs to sit. However, unlike most campgrounds, the pool stayed open pretty late so that was a huge bonus for me."
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the area have uneven terrain requiring extra equipment. At Pinch Pond Family Campground & RV Park, Stuart K. warns: "You will discover that no matter where you look on this property, you will have to contend with sloping land as this campground appears to be situated right on the side of a heavily wooded hill."
Seasonal closures: Most camping options near Reed, Pennsylvania operate on limited schedules. Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country runs from April 14 to October 29, while Circle M operates April 7 to November 26. Western Village RV Park remains one of the few open year-round.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby roads or activities. "The biggest downside to this particular campground is its very close proximity to the PA Turnpike, which while convenient, might detract a bit from the peace & quiet," notes a reviewer at Pinch Pond, while another mentions a "shooting range near the property."
Tips for camping with families
Animal activities: Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm offers unique farm animal interactions. "We came amidst COVID-19, so the many activities and events this location usually holds are down, BUT there is still fun to be had here! We've enjoyed mini-golf, feeding the animals, 'hiking' through the cornfield, fishing, and campfires," shares Kasey M. Animal feeding sessions occur at scheduled times daily.
Halloween events: Circle M hosts special seasonal activities during October. "They had Halloween ever at every weekend of October and we spent Halloween weekend here. The kids loved it!!" reports Kasey M. Many campgrounds in the region offer decorated sites and trick-or-treating for seasonal campers.
Playground access: When selecting rv sites near Reed, Pennsylvania with children, check playground availability and condition. "In my opinion as a mom of small kids maybe the worst part was that there was only 1 playground, it was all the way at the front of the campground (we had to drive to it) and it was very junky and run down," notes Chelsea about Drummer Boy Camping Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Thousand Trails Hershey, timing affects site quality. "The first thing to know is that Thousand Trails sites are a first come, first serve. Meaning you have to arrive early in order to get the best spots. They don't reserve sites for you. For everyone complaining about driving around and not finding spots, if you get there early enough around 1 pm, you won't have a problem," advises Yamileth K.
Water pressure variations: Multiple RVers report inconsistent water pressure at campgrounds in the region. At Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country, Nick E. notes: "Water pressure is pretty low and the sewer pipe is a little high but all around a really solid experience," while others mention similar issues at different parks.
Utility placement issues: RV parking can be complicated by utility hookup locations. "The biggest complaint about our site was that the sewer hookup was inconveniently placed about six inches above the ground which meant that it would not drain properly (even with a slinky placed under it)," reports Nancy W. from Drummer Boy Camping Resort.
