Tent camping near Reed, Pennsylvania offers primitive tent sites along waterways and in densely wooded areas. The region features elevations ranging from 400 to 2,000 feet with a mix of hardwood forests and stream valleys. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during day and 50-65°F at night, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms from June through August.
What to do
Creek floating access: Lower Allen Community Park provides tent sites along Yellow Breeches Creek. "Cute site in a local township park that not many people know about. There actually three total. You just need to call the township to reserve. The sites sit right along the Yellow Breeches creak so you can put in a few miles up and float down to your site," reports one camper.
Hiking mid-state trails: Penn Roosevelt State Park Campground connects to several trail systems including the Midstate Trail. "The area has lots of hikes to offer including the Alan Seeger State Forest, Midstate Trail and several others. It's a bit primitive having only bathrooms and water in several spots in the campground," notes one visitor.
1000 Steps Trail: Ravensburg State Park offers access to this challenging trail with elevation gain. "The 1000 step trail is fun! Only issue is the campgrounds are close to the road and therefore are loud at night occasionally," mentions a camper who enjoyed this feature.
What campers like
Stream-side tent pads: Campers appreciate Ravensburg State Park Campground sites with creek access. "There are few hiking trails; short and long that take you to beautiful views along the creek with a couple of places deep enough to swim. And in a few sites, you can set them up right by the creek, which is my favorite part."
Complete solitude: The best tent camping near Reed, Pennsylvania often means finding sites with few neighbors. "I had my pick of campsites, because I was the only person there! It was so secluded, I heard nothing but nature for over an hour before a plane flew over," describes a Penn Roosevelt visitor.
Natural cooling: Mill Creek Camping Area provides temperature relief through stream proximity. "Campsite for where we stayed is down by the creek making for a cooler camping experience and love the sound of water flowing at night," notes one camper who appreciated this natural feature.
What you should know
First-come camping: Several campgrounds operate without reservations. "This state park is beautiful and I consider it a semi-hidden gem. It's our favorite place to tent camp. It's rarely busy and it's first come first serve," explains a Ravensburg visitor.
Trail traffic issues: Be prepared for hikers near some campsites. "Hikers take any trail instead of marked trails regardless of families camping in a private areas. When I made the reservation it was noted that hikers were not allowed on campsites," warns a Mill Creek Camping Area visitor.
Water services vary: Reeds Gap State Park Campground offers timed showers for conservation. "What I like the best about exploring different State Parks is the hunt to find the pearl... For me, the pearl is a super clean, eco-shower. Yep that's right, the shower! Timed water, lights (solar?)etc. are spot on for me!"
Road noise considerations: Some sites experience traffic noise. "The road that park is on is busier than one would think, not bad at night, but busy in the morning," notes a Ravensburg camper who still rated their experience highly.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Reeds Gap offers family-friendly features. "It's so peaceful and serene. There's a nice creek that runs through it, picnic pavilions and a playground for the kids! They used to have a swimming pool but they removed it a few years ago."
Hammock opportunities: Lancaster County Mill Creek Camping Area provides trees suitable for hammock camping. "There are plenty of trees that are good for hammocking. And in a few sites, you can set them up right by the creek," mentions a visitor who enjoys this family-friendly feature.
Site spacing: Consider privacy between sites when camping with children. "There are bushes and trees between the sites and it feels very private. Sometimes it can feel too secluded but the park ranger drives through a number of times. They are always very friendly."
Tips from RVers
Tight turns warning: Large vehicles face challenges at some campgrounds. "If you have a trailer, I do not recommend this spot. There is a very tight hairpin turn on the way in. My six foot long trailer barely made the turn!" warns a Shikellamy State Park Campground visitor.
Tent-only restrictions: Many Reed area campgrounds prohibit RVs entirely. "This campground is beautiful! It's only tents and it's dog and family friendly! I'm from Philly and we don't get to camp much but boy was this decision a winner!" explains a Reeds Gap visitor who appreciated the tent-focused atmosphere.
Directional challenges: Follow GPS coordinates rather than addresses. "Park is easily accessible from I-80, just be aware of your directions and make sure they're taking you to the park via Rocky Road. Mine did not, and I ended up down a seasonal road that did not end at the park entrance."
