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Best Campgrounds near Shartlesville, PA

985 Reviews

Shartlesville, Pennsylvania offers a range of camping experiences within the scenic Pennsylvania Dutch countryside. Mountain Springs Camping Resort provides 292 sites with options for tent camping, RVs, cabins, and glamping accommodations, operating from April through October. Nearby, Appalachian Camping Resort features similar amenities with tent, RV, and cabin options. Blue Rocks Family Campground in neighboring Lenhartsville sits just below the Appalachian Trail, offering a distinctive camping experience with its namesake "river of rocks" formation. Most established campgrounds in the area provide full hookups for RVs, fire rings, picnic tables, and access to shower facilities.

The camping season in the Shartlesville area typically runs from early April through late October or early November, with most campgrounds closing during winter months. Many sites require advance reservations, particularly during summer weekends and holidays when facilities reach capacity. The region's proximity to the Appalachian Trail provides opportunities for hiking, with several campgrounds offering direct trail access. Visitors should be aware of the terrain when selecting sites, as some campgrounds feature sloping landscapes. A camper noted, "The tent sites are pretty spacious. There are also places to buy wood nearby (very economically priced) and the campground sells it also. Worse comes to worse, there is a lot of forage wood on the site as well."

Campers report high satisfaction with the natural surroundings and recreational opportunities in the area. The "Blue Rocks" river of rocks formation at Blue Rocks Family Campground is considered a must-see attraction. Several visitors mentioned the family-friendly atmosphere and amenities like swimming pools, game rooms, and organized activities. The region's location provides convenient access to nearby attractions including Hershey Park, approximately 30 minutes away. A review highlighted the hiking opportunities: "There are plenty of hiking trails, and a 'yellow blaze' trail that leads directly to the Appalachian trail (AT). Take a hike up to 'Pinnacle Rock' on the AT, and you can catch a nice view." Visitors should note that wildlife sightings, including rattlesnakes and copperheads, are possible while hiking in the area.

Map showing campgrounds near Shartlesville, PennsylvaniaExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near Shartlesville, Pennsylvania (167)

    1. Blue Rocks Family Campground

    25 Reviews
    Lenhartsville, PA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 756-6366

    "According to hikers on the AT, this is what they call Pennsylvania, as they hike through this section of the state. And Blue Rocks Campground doesn't dissapoint."

    "Blue Rocks family campground is close to I78 however it is still off the beaten path. It is very peaceful to camp here as you have different types of environments."

    2. Locust Lake State Park Campground

    30 Reviews
    Mahanoy City, PA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 467-2404

    $20 - $29 / night

    "We had lake front access to put kayaks in and fish which was awesome. Great walking path around lake for kids to ride bikes to parks or beach. Beach area was nice."

    "Had a site close to the lake. Many sites (including mine) were not level. The sites sizes were a bit small and i would book during peak season. I would definitely return again off season."

    3. Appalachian Camping Resort

    8 Reviews
    Shartlesville, PA
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "It was a nice size and was in a good location - near the ponds, pool, office, and bathhouse - but was still quiet! There were scheduled activities for kids and adults."

    "We started our trip Friday afternoon, we pulled into the campground and they had a table set up outside to “check in.” We did not wait in a mile long line to park and go into the office."

    4. French Creek State Park Campground

    79 Reviews
    Geigertown, PA
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 582-9680

    $20 - $75 / night

    "We were looking for someplace close to the city but away from the hustle and bustle of our city life, this was the perfect little steal-away; relatively close by, great car camping spots, nice easy hikes"

    "Campground Review: French Creek State Park Campground is located in Elverson, Pennsylvania and sits adjacent to Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site."

    5. Mountain Springs Camping Resort

    6 Reviews
    Shartlesville, PA
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (610) 488-6859

    $60 - $73 / night

    "Close to other stores and camping center."

    "Large size pool for the bigger folks and a walk in pool for the toddlers. Fun activities for all to enjoy. All the campers that were there when we there are super friendly."

    6. Robin Hill Campground

    10 Reviews
    Lenhartsville, PA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "You will get you exercise walking to the pond, pool, capstone or basketball courts. The playground was luckily right across from us up on the hill. They also have a Frisbee golf course on site."

    "This campground had been let go with poor management for many years, HOWEVER the new management and staff have really turned it around!!"

    7. Lake-In-Wood Campground

    22 Reviews
    Narvon, PA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 445-5525

    $40 - $60 / night

    "It rained the entire time I was there so we didn’t go in the pool but the campground is walkable, I was able to go running, there are things for kids to do, some animals to go visit on our walks, obviously"

    "You must try the family style restaurants in the area, delicious and close by as well. Overall a great experience and I would go again for sure :-)"

    8. Jonestown/Hershey KOA

    16 Reviews
    Jonestown, PA
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 865-6411

    "Love the close proximity to the highway and gas. We didn’t eat there but they had a restaurant! Lots of activities for the kids. Wooded sites and very clean bathrooms."

    "Pet friendly and you can access the Appalachian trail from campground. Lots of great food and places to go in the area. They have a river that is great for kayaking or tubing."

    9. Hickory Run Family Camping Resort

    9 Reviews
    Reinholds, PA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 336-5564

    "All of the sites are full electric and more than a few have very little space for a family size tent to be safely away from the fire ring. Ours had adequate distance but we got lucky tbh."

    "Streams are close by, hiking trails are numerous and Hawk Falls was a high point of the park. Peaceful, crisp air and beautiful Surroundings."

    10. Shambala at Mystic Hollow

    1 Review
    Leesport, PA
    7 miles
    +1 (484) 706-2092

    $40 / night

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Recent Camping Photos near Shartlesville, PA

546 Photos of 167 Shartlesville Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Shartlesville, PA

985 Reviews of 167 Shartlesville Campgrounds

  • Peyton S.
    Sep. 8, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Wonderful, Easy, Quick trip from Philly

    It’s about an hour away from Philadelphia. We tent camped in loop B. The site was wonderful. Just know it is a gravel site, not grass. The fire pit has a grill attachment and wood was easy to find. Water and bathrooms were close. We hiked around the lake and there were plenty of trails and even rentable kayaks and paddle boards! Would definitely recommend if looking for a quick overnight stay outside of the city.

  • Stephen W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 7, 2025

    Hersheypark Camping Resort

    Very clean campground friendly staff

    We stay here once a year in September. Stone surface. Not to bad for leveling. Our site was spacious.

  • Werner S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Old Mill Stream Campground

    In Amish area, next to an amusement park

    Our kids where happy with the small playground and with a few dollars they could have some fun in the small arcade/gameroom. In the area you have Lancaster, Amish area and an amusement park (that is a bit outdated). The camping has a bit over 100 spots. They are just oké.

  • Scott J.
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Sun Valley Campground

    My Happy Place

    My wife and I have been seasonal camper for 4 years and love it. We had visited numerous campgrounds and found Sun Valley to be the atmosphere there beyond our expectations. The minute you walk into the office you get that" aha" moment. The office greets you with a smile and " Welcome to Sun Valley, how can I help you ". That alone told us these folks are here to make your stay enjoyable. They go above and beyond any campground we have ever been to. The activities go above and beyond. The Saturday night bands are concert worthy. We have enjoyed our stay more than you ever imagined. For the past 4 years it has been our "Happy Place"

  • Stephen W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Fantastic PA state park for activities and camping.

    Third year staying over the Labor Day weekend. Campground full but still a very peaceful relaxing stay. Our site was very spacious and open. Tree lined and site was almost level. Paved sites on this loop.

  • Connie R.
    Aug. 25, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Pretty park but needs upkeep and maintenance

    Only stayed one night (8/23/25).  Had an electric site on B 45.  After pulling in and starting to unload, we were getting swarmed with yellow jackets.  There were several entry holes in the ground they were using to enter and exit.  I have never experienced anything like this anywhere.   I would have left but since it was close to dusk, I knew they would all retrieve and go underground.  The smoke with the fire helped but it impacted our stay.  They were everywhere.  I will not be going back anytime during the summer

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 19, 2025

    Old Mill Stream Campground

    Good stay

    The entrance in off the main road turns you into the theme park. Fear not. Turn in and follow the road to the right and into the campground. We stayed on site 123 with a 40 ft Allegro Bus. Plenty of room to maneuver a big rig. All gravel sites and we had full hookup with 50 Amp.

  • Barbara P.
    Aug. 19, 2025

    Spring Gulch Resort Campground

    BED BUGS in Cabin

    I believe Cabin 1409 is infested with BED BUGS! After a short stay in this cabin(7/28-7/30) I came home with 80+ bug bites that I'm certain were from BED BUGS. A dozen of them were on my eyelid! My dermatologist gave me a high strength dosage of prednisone to combat the swelling and itching. We promptly advised the property manager, who was sympathetic, but once our claim for damages(mostly items we had to throw out due to contamination) reached the insurance company, the process stalled. It's been 19 days and now the insurance adjuster is out of the office for another week- having provided no updates or feedback on our claim. I wish I had posted this earlier, as I wonder if the cabin that Michael M complained about in his Aug. 4 YELP review was the very same cabin. I had hoped our conversations with the property manager would have prevented additional folks from the same fate. I also wish I had read a few earlier reviews that warned of BED BUGS. I continue to fear an infestation in my home, in the event we brought home nymphs or eggs or the bugs themselves. I'm constantly vacuuming and looking under seat cushions and my mattress. I now dry all my laundry on high for 60 minutes, knowing it's damaging my clothes, but also knowing it's the best way to kill the bugs and their eggs- which can go dormant and survive for a year without biting again. Zero stars. Choose to stay elsewhere!

  • Edison L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Country Acres Campground

    So Nice It’s Almost Not Camping

    We stayed at one of the primitive tent sites with no hookups adjacent to the farm field. Watching a horse drawn equipment cutting grass while we cooked dinner was a joy. Amenities are super clean and modern. Clean bathroom, laundry room, pool area for the kids, and a well stocked store. The only critique I have is that you can hear the distant sound of cars on the road. But this is by no means a nuisance. Just helping you make an informed decision. I would definitely go back.

Guide to Shartlesville

Camping near Shartlesville, Pennsylvania, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails at French Creek State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "The state park has numerous hiking and biking opportunities," making it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Visit Amusement Parks: If you're up for some thrills, Lake Glory Campground is just minutes away from Knoebels Amusement Park. A camper shared, "Took my family for the weekend so we could go to Knoebels," highlighting the convenience of this location.
  • Fishing and Relaxing: Enjoy some quiet time by the water at Locust Lake State Park Campground. One reviewer noted, "The lake was very clean," perfect for a relaxing day of fishing.

What campers like:

  • Spacious Sites: Campers appreciate the roomy sites at French Creek State Park Campground. A visitor remarked, "Very spacious sites," which is great for families or groups.
  • Clean Facilities: Many campers enjoy the cleanliness of the facilities. One reviewer at Lake Glory Campground said, "Bathrooms are very clean," which is always a plus when camping.
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Hersheypark Camping Resort are known for being family-oriented. A camper mentioned, "We had a great experience... close to area attractions," making it easy to keep the kids entertained.

What you should know:

  • Tight Spots: Some campgrounds, like Knoebels Campground, have close-knit sites. A visitor noted, "The only knock on it is how tight the sites are," so be prepared for a cozy setup.
  • Limited Amenities: Campgrounds like Locust Lake State Park Campground may have fewer amenities. One camper advised, "If you want quiet and relaxation, don’t come here to camp," suggesting it might not be for everyone.
  • Seasonal Availability: Many campgrounds, such as Lake-In-Wood Campground, have specific open seasons. A visitor mentioned, "Was on the more expensive side but was worth every penny," indicating that prices can vary based on the season.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Kid-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Hersheypark Camping Resort, which has activities for kids. One parent said, "The campground had two pools and a child’s pool," making it a hit with families.
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. A camper at Blue Rocks Family Campground shared, "Lots of activities," which can keep the little ones busy.
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having snacks on hand can save you trips to the camp store. A visitor at Lake Glory Campground mentioned, "The camp store had what we needed," but it's always good to be prepared.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Levels: Many RVers recommend checking the level of your site before setting up. A camper at Circle M RV and Camping Resort noted, "Must have leveling blocks," which can save you a lot of hassle.
  • Be Ready for Tight Spaces: If you're bringing a big rig, be aware that some campgrounds have tight spots. One visitor at Knoebels Campground said, "The sites were very close together," so plan accordingly.
  • Utilize Amenities: Take advantage of campground amenities. A reviewer at Thousand Trails Hershey mentioned, "The bathhouse was clean," which can make your stay more comfortable.

Camping near Shartlesville, Pennsylvania, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Shartlesville, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Shartlesville, PA offers a wide range of camping options, with 167 campgrounds and RV parks near Shartlesville, PA and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Shartlesville, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Shartlesville, PA is Blue Rocks Family Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 25 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Shartlesville, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Shartlesville, PA.

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