Camping opportunities abound within a 25-mile radius of Lebanon, Pennsylvania, a region characterized by rolling hills and deciduous forests at elevations ranging from 400-800 feet. This central Pennsylvania location experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F, creating ideal conditions for warm-weather glamping and traditional camping from May through October. Most campgrounds in the area are situated near lakes or creeks, providing water recreation options during the humid summer months.
What to Do
Disc golf courses at Gifford Pinchot: Play the 18-hole courses at Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground, located 45 minutes from Lebanon. "I took an early morning hike on the 8.5 mile Lakeside Trail that goes around the lake and it was really awesome to see the lake from all different angles. I also hiked/jogged the Quaker Race Trail," shares one visitor.
Renaissance Faire excursions: Plan your glamping trip during the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire, a major regional event. Campers at Pinch Pond Family Campground frequently mention this connection: "Nice location for PA Renaissance Fair goers. Lots of activities in the campground. Pool is awesome," reports Pamela W.
Amish countryside exploration: Use your camping base to explore authentic Amish communities. One visitor to Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country notes: "Today, the Pennsylvania Dutch countryside is a combination of rolling hills in a plush countryside punctuated by massive rolled bays of hay in the surrounding fields, covered wooden bridges and the occasional quaint New England well-preserved charming towns."
Kayaking and fishing access: Many Lebanon area campgrounds offer direct water access. At Twin Grove RV Resort, visitors appreciate "a pond to fish from, a dog park for your furry friend to play at and a few playgrounds for the kids." The fishing opportunities vary by season, with spring and fall typically offering better catches.
What Campers Like
Privacy between sites: Unlike crowded commercial campgrounds, many Lebanon area sites provide separation. At Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA, campers note: "We were in the wooded area farthest from the central 'hub.' Our site was level, shaded and quite large. Almost every site in this section was similarly large and wooded, with an impressive amount of space between sites for a KOA."
Clean, updated facilities: Bathroom quality matters to campers, with Twin Grove earning high marks: "Spotless. Plenty of room for whatever size tent or RV you have. Always lots of activities. Nice arcade and mini golf in an area set off to the side with a ferris wheel, merry go round, and other small kiddie rides."
Natural surroundings: The wooded settings enhance the camping experience. At French Creek State Park Campground, visitors appreciate: "As long as you don't stay right across from the bath houses you will find ample shade at your site. There are so many trees and brush in between most sites you can't even really see your neighbors."
On-site entertainment options: Beyond natural attractions, organized activities matter. "Starlite offers a wide variety of amenities such as a community pool, general store, snack bar, playground area, toilets, indoor shower stalls, daily activities, pets permitted, water/electric utilities and laundry units," notes one reviewer of Starlite Camping Resort.
What You Should Know
Seasonal weather considerations: The Lebanon region experiences variable conditions through the camping season. "We camped right up against the lazy River, the campground was pretty open because it was a weekday," notes a visitor to Hersheypark Camping Resort, highlighting the importance of timing your visit.
Train noise at some locations: Several campgrounds experience railway disturbances. "Bath houses are nice and clean. I would suggest making sure you aren't close to the tracks bc the trains run all night long!" warns Kit about Hersheypark Camping Resort.
Site selection matters: Not all sites at Lebanon area campgrounds are created equal. At Pinch Pond, a visitor advises: "IMHO the best campsite locations are actually the ones designated for primitive tents as they are all located in the rear of the property and therefore quieter and more removed from the rest of the somewhat crowded campground."
Shooting range proximity: Some campgrounds have unexpected noise sources. A Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country camper notes: "The only thing that is negative is that there is a shooting range right next door. It is pretty consistent from lunch to dinner. If your out and about, it won't be an issue. However if you enjoy sitting outside of your camper and relaxing this might be nerve wracking."
Tips for Camping with Families
Splash parks and pools: Water features keep kids entertained during hot months. "Great place for the family. The splash park is a lot of fun for both the kids and adults. The RV sites are spacious," shares a visitor to Adventure Bound Camping Resort at Eagles Peak.
Playgrounds and activities: Look for campgrounds with multiple play areas. At Twin Grove RV Resort, one camper reports: "My family has been going here for the last 3 years. We love camping here. They have a pool and fun activities though the day. At night they have a merry go round, train, giant slide and ferries wheel you can ride."
Fishing opportunities for kids: Many Lebanon area lakes are stocked for easy catches. "We liked camping here. My kids went fishing and every cast they caught a fish, some were small... but hey the kids had fun," shares a parent about Hickory Run Family Camping Resort.
Ice cream and treats: On-site ice cream shops are common at glamping resorts near Lebanon. "The camp store is well stocked and also serves hand-dipped ice cream," notes a visitor to Starlite Camping Resort, a feature particularly appreciated by families with children.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness variations: Prepare for uneven terrain at some locations. At Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country, one RVer warns: "Unlevel is an understatement we were in E row and every camper there had front end 4 foot off the ground. Many other sites were the same."
Full hookup options: For extended glamping stays, full service sites provide more comfort. "We had two sites this trip with water and electric, but they do have quite a few full hook-up sites. Overall the sites were large, with trees between, providing additional privacy," notes an RVer at Starlite Camping Resort.
Site access considerations: The approach to sites varies considerably. "Sites are a decent size, but you're really on top of one another here. We were lucky to find a spot that had empty sites on both sides," observes a camper at Hickory Run, highlighting the importance of arrival timing.
Campground navigation: Some properties have challenging layouts. At Starlite, a visitor notes: "Yes, it is quite hilly throughout the campground, but the individual sites are very level to park the camper with almost no blocks needed." Proper research before arrival helps RVers avoid difficult driving situations.
