Shamokin, Pennsylvania camping options combine forested mountain terrain with accessible waterways throughout the Coal Region. Most campgrounds sit at elevations between 400-1,200 feet with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F during peak camping season. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop below freezing, with many facilities closing from late October through April.
What to do
Fishing access: Locust Lake State Park Campground offers direct lake fishing where campers report good catches. According to Dan N., "Some camp sites are along the lake or along the small creek, all are very wooded. They sell ice cream (and firewood, etc.) on site in the summer but it's bring your own boat."
Amusement park visits: Many campers use Lake Glory Campground as their base for Knoebels trips. Vince L. notes, "10 minutes to Knoebels with the mighty Phoenix. The best wooden coaster on the planet. Always a great time at Lake Glory. Also, don't miss The Old Mill Ice Cream. The best Ice Cream on the planet!"
Trail exploration: For hiking enthusiasts, Trailhead Campground connects directly to extensive trail systems. Jason explains, "Amazing place, can ride all your toys straight into thousands of acres of family fun, we try to get down here twice a year. Sites are spacious and most are shady."
Water activities: Camping near rivers allows for kayaking and tubing. Eiron S. from Lake Glory Campground says, "We love the creek side sites! Kids can wade in the water to cool off while parents are chatting and cooking just few feet away."
What campers like
Bathroom facilities: Many Shamokin area campgrounds maintain clean facilities. Joshua W. from Knoebels Campground mentions, "The staff is super helpful, the showers are warm and plentiful. Book early as they sell out fast!"
Seasonal rates: Off-season camping offers reduced crowds and rates. Derek W. from Knoebels notes, "We went in late August and although it was pool weather during the day time the temperatures dropped somewhat dramatically into the evening hours so bring clothes for both 70-80 degree weather and 40-50 degree weather overnight."
Park access: Proximity to attractions drives campground selection for many. Joe B. explains, "Connected to the park, a great way to visit! If you're an early to bed kinda person it'll be tough, the roller coasters are right there! I loved it though."
Spacious sites: Camp A While offers larger camping spaces. MsTrailBlazer notes, "This was my first camping trip, campground ever. I was very spoiled by these owners! Pool was great, camping store had everything and did not gauge prices."
What you should know
Site selection matters: Campground layouts vary significantly. Dawn T. states, "My family likes to camp here for the convenience of being able to walk to the amusement park. Very nice campground and park. I will say the bottom part of the campground they squeeze them in tight. We always try to get a site at the top."
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise. Tiani P. from Camp A While comments, "Right off the highway with lots of loud trucks and bikes. The campground is very busy with loud activity from other campers at all hours."
Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds operate from April through October. Lake Glory Campground runs from "April 15 to October 15" according to their listing information.
Booking windows: Popular weekends require advance planning. Jen V. notes, "This campground was huge, and very crowded on the weekends. We arrived on a Thursday night, and pretty much had the whole place to ourselves."
Tips for camping with families
Weather preparation: Pack for temperature fluctuations. According to Derek W., "We went in late August and although it was pool weather during the day time the temperatures dropped somewhat dramatically into the evening hours."
Activity planning: Splash Magic RV Resort offers numerous on-site activities. Traci F. recommends, "We should have looked into a pass to do more because the extras can get expensive. But everything is right there and you never have to leave so it's worth it in my opinion. The pool was great, the kids loved the water slides."
Cabin options: For families not interested in tent camping, cabins provide comfortable alternatives. Jen R. advises, "Single cabins have three double beds with two up top in the loft and one down below. I would suggest bringing an air mattress to sleep on as the mats are old and used."
Pet friendly options: Multiple campgrounds accommodate pets. Ashley L. from Camp A While mentions, "Great family campground very laid back with check in and out times without giving you crap about it!"
Tips from RVers
Access roads: Some campgrounds have challenging approach roads. Annette H. from Trailhead Campground warns, "The road coming in is ROUGH, if you towing or driving a MH, be prepared."
Site leveling: Indian Head Campground offers mixed site quality. Ralph L. notes, "The pull through site was grass/gravel and level. It was a little muddy due to several days of rain before we arrived. The sites were all FHU."
Seasonal differences: RV camping experiences vary by season. Marc P. observes, "The layout of the sites was odd and mostly not marked off very well and looked like a free for all in some areas."
Electrical considerations: Power availability varies. Debbie W. reports, "Electric ran below 110 volts the entire weekend and the water had a brownish tint to it. It was a VERY hot weekend so I should mention that everyone had their air running."
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