Best Campgrounds near Shartlesville, PA
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.
