Tent camping near Richfield, Pennsylvania offers primitive experiences in the Ridge and Valley Province of the Appalachian Mountains, with elevations ranging from 600 to 2,100 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Most campgrounds in this area don't provide electricity at tent sites, requiring campers to plan for self-sufficient stays.
What to do
Creekside hiking: At Ravensburg State Park Campground, multiple trails follow the creek with swimming holes deep enough for a refreshing dip. One camper noted, "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."
Digital detox: Reeds Gap State Park Campground offers a true disconnect from technology. A camper advised, "Put your phone away cuz there's no cell service here! Nice and peaceful with a dozen or so tent only sites. We got a nice one tucked back in the trees."
Kayak-in camping: For a unique water-based experience, Lower Allen Community Park provides creek-side sites accessible by kayak. "You can put in a few miles up and float down to your site. The park is in the suburbs so it's close to lots of things."
Mountain views: The overlook at Shikellamy State Park provides vistas over the river confluence. A visitor shared, "Had a great time walking the trails and enjoying a picnic at the cliff-side pavilion."
What campers like
Secluded sites: Ravensburg State Park Campground offers privacy between campsites. "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."
Natural hammock spots: Creek-adjacent hammocking spots are particularly appreciated. "There are plenty of trees that are good for hammocking. And in a few sites, you can set them up right by the creek, which is my favorite part."
Self-registration simplicity: Many area campgrounds feature convenient self-registration. One camper at Ravensburg noted, "Pretty clean bathroom, easy self-registration process, and not too many folks!"
Eco-friendly facilities: Penn Roosevelt State Park Campground provides basic but well-maintained amenities. A camper described it as "A quiet, peaceful campground. The area has lots of hikes to offer including the Alan Seeger State Forest, Midstate Trail and several others."
What you should know
Road access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult approaches. At Penn Roosevelt, a camper warned, "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!"
Seasonal facilities: Water availability varies by season and location. One camper at Penn Roosevelt noted, "The water was off, but I was prepared to wilderness camp later in my trip so, that was no big deal."
Road noise factors: Sites closer to roads experience vehicle sounds. At Ravensburg, a camper mentioned, "It's right near a road so you hear car (and horse & buggy!) noise — would try to get a spot further away from the road if possible."
Variable water availability: Most campgrounds don't offer water at individual sites. Reeds Gap campers noted, "Water is near the picnic pavilion," requiring campers to fill containers at central locations.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Reeds Gap offers family-friendly amenities. A visitor shared, "It's so peaceful and serene. There's a nice creek that runs through it, picnic pavilions and a playground for the kids!"
Spacious group sites: Ravensburg State Park accommodates larger family gatherings. "It's good for large groups (you can get sites in a row) or just you."
Tent pad considerations: Families with larger tents should check site specifications. "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."
Bathroom distance planning: Some campgrounds have widely-spaced facilities. As one camper at Reeds Gap noted, "Bathhouses were a little far away," which may require planning for nighttime bathroom trips with children.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most campgrounds in the immediate Richfield area accommodate tents primarily, with few amenities for RVs. The nearest full-service RV options require driving 25-30 miles from Richfield.
Tent-only restrictions: Several parks explicitly prohibit RVs. As one reviewer at Penn Roosevelt stated, "Beautiful primitive campground (tent only). Get a site on the outside towards the water. They are spaced out and peaceful."
Honor system payment: Some less-developed campgrounds use self-registration. At Reeds Gap State Park, a camper noted, "Stayed here on a Sunday night without a reservation. We were the only ones there. Pay by honor system at the park office."
