Camping spots near Newburg, Pennsylvania feature varied terrain with elevations ranging from 600 to 2,500 feet across the region. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer high temperatures typically in the 80s and winter lows frequently below freezing. Central Pennsylvania's camping season generally runs April through October, though some primitive sites may be accessible year-round depending on snow conditions.
What to do
Biking at Seven Points: The Seven Points area features extensive mountain biking trails throughout the Raystown Lake Recreation Area. "The mtb trails begin just above the upper camp loops and provide a full day of fast flowing singletrack," notes a reviewer who appreciated the trail access. The Allegrippis Trail system connects directly to some camping loops.
Fishing at Trough Creek: Trough Creek State Park Campground offers creek fishing opportunities within walking distance of campsites. "Nice small park with gravel drives/roads and plenty of room for big rigs. The trails are nice and very scenic," reports one visitor who enjoyed the natural setting. The park's unique balanced rock formation is accessible via hiking trails.
Creek swimming at Pat's Primitive Place: This smaller, private camping area offers a more secluded experience with direct creek access. "We set up camp right along the creek. There was a mixture of rocks and sand, so we had our tent on the dirt area and the fire pit near the rocks. Right around the corner from our site was a great spot along the river for sitting out in the sun and fishing for trout," shares a visitor who appreciated the natural swimming holes.
What campers like
Waterfront sites at Susquehannock: Susquehannock Campground offers primitive lakefront camping with direct water access. "Very cool camp. Loops for RVs, higher on the hill, waterfront loops on steeper grounds for tents, and some walk-to sites adjacent to parking right at the point which double as boat-in. Some site right on the water, can walk right into the lake," explains one camper who enjoyed the immediate lake access. Note that early morning boat traffic creates wake.
BMX track at Prince Gallitzin: Crooked Run Campground at Prince Gallitzin State Park features unique amenities including a BMX track. "Great place for kids! We love staying at crooked run campground. Has a beach on the lake. Affordable boat rentals. Bmx track for kids," shares a camper who visited with family. The track provides an additional recreation option beyond standard hiking and water activities.
Clean facilities at Raystown Lake KOA: This campground maintains exceptionally clean facilities, particularly the bathrooms and shower areas. "The staff here at Raystown Lake/Saxton KOA are great. They are friendly, willing to help anyway they can, and keep the place spotless. It looks like they have recently remodeled the bathrooms/showers, and the pool has been crystal clear," notes a visitor who appreciated the maintenance standards.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the Newburg camping region. At Trough Creek State Park, "there's absolutely 0 cell service. We have Verizon," reports one camper. Service is limited at many forest and lakeside campgrounds, so download maps and information before arriving.
Tent site terrain challenges: Many campgrounds in the region feature sloped or uneven tent sites due to the mountainous terrain. "The campsites sit on slight inclines but aren't overbearing," explains a Susquehannock camper. At Blue Knob State Park, a visitor noted: "Camp sites are rocky so be sure to bring a mat if tent camping."
Limited waterfront availability: Lakefront sites throughout the region book quickly, especially during summer months. "We wanted a waterfront spot, and although we booked over a month in advance none were available," shares a Susquehannock camper. Many campgrounds implement minimum stay requirements for waterfront sites during peak season.
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Long Acres on Clover Creek provides access to educational outdoor experiences. "Close access to state game lands and nearby hiking trails and fishing spots!" notes a visitor. Multiple campgrounds in the region offer ranger-led programs during summer months, providing structured learning activities.
Bathroom considerations: Facilities vary widely from full-service to primitive. At Prince Gallitzin State Park, a Girl Scout leader noted: "The site was clean, decently level area for tents, accessible to potable water and bathrooms with showers. Rangers were wonderful to work with in setting up teaching opportunities for the girls."
Playground locations: Several campgrounds feature playgrounds, but locations within the campground loops vary significantly. At Seven Points, "each loop has a playground and bathhouse," making it convenient for families with children. Some campgrounds place playgrounds near entrance areas rather than distributed throughout camping loops.
Tips from RVers
Dump station quality: Seven Points features an exceptional dump station setup. "We filled up the fresh water tank at the ultra-cool 4 lane dump station. The signage was very well marked and the fresh water spigot was more like a little tank, super-solid, clean and modern," reports an RVer who appreciated the well-designed facilities.
Site levelness varies: Campgrounds in the region often require leveling equipment due to terrain. At Lake Raystown Resort, "sites barely large (long) enough and all back in's up there. Trees had low branches which isn't good for rigs," warns one RVer about the hillside sites. Check campground maps for relatively flat sites when making reservations.
Electric hookup inconsistencies: Electric service varies across campgrounds and even within individual camping loops. One Crooked Run camper noted: "All sites are paved as are the roads," but hookup types and amperage differ between sites. Most state park campgrounds offer 30-amp service with limited 50-amp availability.
