Tent camping sites around Saxton, Pennsylvania provide rustic experiences at elevations between 800-1,200 feet in the Appalachian Mountains region. Campers can access multiple locations including primitive boat-in sites at Raystown Lake and secluded forest campgrounds within short driving distance of town. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms, while spring and fall bring cooler temperatures and colorful forest scenery.
What to do
Explore historic tunnels: Visit the Paw Paw Tunnel Campground, located within Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, which offers access to the historic Paw Paw Tunnel. "The tunnel is very fun to travel through. Kids and adults alike enjoy the tunnel. Tunnel is always nice and cool refreshing during a long bike ride or hike on a hot day," notes Jordan B. Bring flashlights for the mile-long tunnel interior.
Fish in local creeks: Long Acres on Clover Creek provides easy access to quality fishing spots. According to Sarah A., "The secluded area combined with the creek nearby made for a great escape from reality... Close access to state game lands and nearby hiking trails and fishing spots!" Local waters contain trout, smallmouth bass and panfish.
Boating adventures: Nancy's Boat To Shore Campground offers a unique boat-in camping experience on Raystown Lake. "These campsites are accessible by boat ONLY! They are in an area of the lake that has a lot of boat traffic," explains Kristen H. The campground provides mooring along both sides for easy boat access.
What campers like
Secluded settings: Penn Roosevelt State Park Campground offers genuine wilderness without crowds. Chuck M. shares, "I arrived on a Wednesday evening. I had my pick of campsites, because I was the only person there!" The park maintains its peaceful atmosphere even during busier periods.
Night sky viewing: Star Lee Farm provides exceptional stargazing opportunities. Tiana S. reports, "There's a huge field to star gaze as well as taking pictures, lots of hiking and if you're a bee enthusiast they grow their own honey in the property and you're more than welcome to walk around and look at all the boxes."
Water features: Multiple campgrounds offer streamside or lakefront sites. At Paw Paw Tunnel Campground, Roger W. notes it offers "Boat Access to the water, but not for boats on trailers." The campground sits between the Potomac River and Paw Paw Tunnel with mountain views.
What you should know
Seasonal water limitations: Some campgrounds have limited water availability during off-season. Chuck M. experienced this at Penn Roosevelt: "The water was off, but I was prepared to wilderness camp later in my trip so, that was no big deal." Bring additional water containers when camping between November and April.
Site proximity variations: Campground layouts vary significantly in the region. At Penn Roosevelt State Park, Denise D. explains it's "a quiet, peaceful campground... It's a bit primitive having only bathrooms and water in several spots in the campground. Some sites are very private."
Limited connectivity: Jordan Junction Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite and other remote locations offer basic amenities. Ant S. describes it as: "Good site, has the necessities. Water, Porta p, fire pit. What else do you really need? Want to rinse off? Jump into the Potomac for a swim."
Tips for camping with families
Bring entertainment: With limited amenities at best tent camping near Saxton, Pennsylvania, families should pack games and activities. Jill R. found Penn Roosevelt Park ideal: "went there for a picnic with the young ones and it was quite a fun evening. there were not many people around so the kids could frolic and be slightly loud without bothering any other people."
Watch for obstacles: Some campgrounds have natural hazards. At Penn Roosevelt, campers encounter abundant black walnuts. Robin notes at Paw Paw: "Bring a rake - I've never seen so many black walnuts on the ground!" Clear your site upon arrival to prevent trips and falls.
Consider noise factors: Cacapon Junction Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite sits near railroad tracks. Ant S. simply states: "Train close by." Similarly, at Paw Paw Tunnel, Roger W. mentions: "Road Noise: Close and loud." Choose sites farther from highways and train tracks for quieter family camping.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions apply: Large RVs face significant challenges on narrow roads to several campgrounds. At Penn Roosevelt State Park, Chuck M. warns: "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!"
Limited hookup options: Most tent camping sites near Saxton offer no amenities for RVs. Paige L. confirms Penn Roosevelt sites are "tent only and pretty close together but some still feel secluded." For RV camping, consider improved campgrounds farther from Saxton.
Weather preparedness: Winter camping requires extra preparation. At Paw Paw Tunnel Campsite, Roger W. experienced temperatures in the "Low 30s" and notes facilities may be reduced: "The Portapotties were in bad shape, but it was winter so hopefully they get serviced more often in season."
