Tent campsites near Reedsville, Pennsylvania sit within the Ridge and Valley province of the Appalachian Mountains, with elevations ranging from 600 to 2,300 feet. The region averages 42 inches of annual precipitation, creating lush forests dominated by oak, maple, and pine trees. Most primitive camping areas in this region remain open year-round, though water systems typically shut down from mid-October through April when overnight temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
What to do
Hiking along waterways: Ravensburg State Park Campground offers access to creek-side trails where campers can find swimming holes during summer months. "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," notes Laura in her review of the park.
Stargazing in open fields: Star Lee Farm provides exceptional night sky viewing opportunities away from light pollution. "There's a huge field to star gaze as well as taking pictures," explains Tiana S., adding that it's "perfect for those who want to completely escape the business of modern world."
Fishing for native trout: Reeds Gap State Park contains Honey Creek with both native and stocked trout populations. As Paula L. mentions, "The beautiful stream (Honey Creek) running through it might be the pearl for a fisherman (It has native and stocked trout)."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Ravensburg State Park Campground offers natural buffers between camping spots. Traci F. explains, "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."
Absence of crowds: Many tent campsites near Reedsville remain relatively undiscovered compared to more popular destinations. Cheryl K. describes her experience at Reeds Gap State Park: "Stayed here on a Sunday night without a reservation. We were the only ones there. Pay by honor system at the park office. Campground was quiet and lovely."
Clean facilities: Despite their rustic nature, campgrounds maintain functional amenities. At Reeds Gap, Paula L. praises the "super clean, eco-shower" noting that it features "Timed water, lights (solar?)etc. are spot on for me!"
What you should know
Seasonal road conditions: Forest roads accessing camping areas may become difficult during winter and spring thaw. Sarah C. warns about Ravensburg State Park: "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."
Limited cell service: Most camping areas have minimal to no connectivity. Danielle C. advises Reeds Gap campers to "Put your phone away cuz there's no cell service here!"
First-come availability: Most smaller campgrounds operate without reservations outside peak season. Traci F. notes that Ravensburg "is rarely busy and it's first come first serve."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Reeds Gap State Park Campground offers play areas for children near camping areas. Rebecca G. mentions, "There's a nice creek that runs through it, picnic pavilions and a playground for the kids!"
Tent pad size considerations: Some campgrounds have specific tent platforms that limit larger family tents. Traci F. explains her strategy at Ravensburg: "They have tent pads which are nice but we have a 10x20 tent so we pick a site that the pad is flush with the surrounding ground."
Road noise awareness: When camping with light sleepers, select sites farther from roadways. Andrew G. notes about Ravensburg: "Only issue is the campgrounds are close to the road and therefore are loud at night occasionally."
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Penn Roosevelt State Park Campground has challenging road access for larger vehicles. Chuck M. cautions, "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!"
Boating alternatives: For those with boats, consider water-access sites like Nancy's Boat To Shore Campground. Kristen H. explains, "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."
Weather preparedness: The region's high humidity affects camping equipment. Becky notes about Ravensburg, "It's very humid so many picnic tables have green moss," suggesting campers should bring tarps or covers for equipment.
