Best Campgrounds near Shamokin, PA
The rolling hills and wooded valleys surrounding Shamokin, Pennsylvania feature a mix of family-oriented campgrounds and recreational facilities within a 30-mile radius. Knoebels Campground stands out as a popular destination with its adjacent amusement park, offering electricity at every site, wooden platforms for tent campers, and clean bath houses. Lake Glory Campground in nearby Catawissa provides lakeside camping with full hookups, operating from April through October. The camping landscape includes everything from primitive tent sites to full-service RV resorts with 50-amp electrical service, as well as cabin rentals and glamping options for those seeking more comfort in the Pennsylvania countryside.
Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from April through October, with limited year-round options. Reservations are strongly recommended during summer weekends and holiday periods when facilities reach capacity. As one camper noted, "Put your phone away because there's no cell service here!" - a common situation in the more remote camping areas. Pennsylvania state parks in the region enforce strict quiet hours (typically 9pm to 8am) and many prohibit alcohol consumption. Weather considerations include potential heavy rainfall that can create muddy conditions at some sites, particularly those without gravel pads. One reviewer warned that after rain, "sites became extremely muddy, so be prepared if rain is in the forecast."
Visitors consistently praise the region's clean facilities and natural attractions. State park campgrounds receive high marks for bathhouse cleanliness, with one camper noting they "get an A+ for the bathhouses. Very clean, heated, and the showers appear to be in good condition." Fishing opportunities abound at lakes and streams near many campgrounds, with several sites offering direct water access. Site spacing varies considerably between facilities - private RV parks tend to place units closer together, while state park campgrounds generally provide more separation between sites. Families appreciate the recreational amenities at places like Knoebels, where a free shuttle connects the campground to the amusement park. The surrounding countryside offers scenic hiking trails, with the Appalachian Trail accessible from some nearby campgrounds.