Camping options near Shermans Dale, Pennsylvania range from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV facilities with varying levels of seclusion. The region sits within the Ridge and Valley section of the Appalachian Mountains, with elevations between 400-1,200 feet and a humid continental climate. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-85°F during peak camping season, while spring and fall camping brings cooler nights that often require additional layers.
What to do
Hiking trails: At Pine Grove Furnace State Park Campground, the Appalachian Trail runs directly through the property. One camper noted, "Make sure you take a hike on the AT and then up to Pole Steeple for a great view! You may even bump into a through hiker excited to chat!" The park marks the halfway point of the 2,190-mile trail.
Swimming options: Multiple lakes provide swimming opportunities in the region. Little Buffalo State Park Campground maintains a large pool with specialized areas. According to a visitor, "They offer a large area that is only 1 foot deep, great for little ones! There is also a splash pad! There are 2 slides for fun!"
Fishing access: Most campgrounds near Shermans Dale offer fishing opportunities. At Colonel Denning State Park Campground, you can access stream fishing directly behind many campsites. A camper observed, "Dog friendly and great stream right behind the sites."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain exceptionally clean bathrooms and showers. A visitor to Paradise Stream Family Campground reported, "This campground doesn't cut corners and the attention to details makes all the difference. The store is well stocked and also has a variety of sweet treats!"
River access: Several campgrounds feature direct river or stream access. At Buttonwood Campground, one camper explained, "Large grassy sites right on the Juniata River. Tubing, canoeing, swimming. Nice pool. GORGEOUS landscaping. Very friendly."
Quiet environment: Most state parks enforce quiet hours, creating peaceful camping experiences. A Colonel Denning State Park visitor mentioned, "Very quiet and small campground. We love the dog friendly sites near the water, the kids and pups play all day!"
What you should know
Site specifications: Campsite sizes and layouts vary significantly across facilities. At Deer Run Campgrounds, a camper observed, "Some sites are close together or have tree that make it hard to get certain rigs in. A lot of seasonal sites."
Environmental factors: Wildlife encounters are common in the region. Depending on the season, campers should prepare for insects. One Gifford Pinchot State Park visitor warned, "I came for a hike and quick one night tent escape. Then I left and woke up with a serious case of chigger bites."
Reservation requirements: During peak season (May-September), campsites fill quickly, especially for weekend stays. Most campgrounds accept reservations 6-12 months in advance, with holiday weekends booking earliest.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Many campgrounds offer organized children's activities. A Paradise Stream visitor reported, "My kids enjoyed the beautiful Mini golf course, splashing in the creek, the pool and the pedal carts."
Beach areas: Several lakes have designated swimming beaches with varying amenities. Little Buffalo State Park provides multiple water features as noted by one camper: "The pool is very nice! They offer a large area that is only 1 foot deep, great for little ones! There is also a splash pad!"
Educational opportunities: Ranger-led programs provide learning experiences. At Pine Grove Furnace State Park, "The park rangers had an owl program on Friday night and ended up calling in several screech owls. Very cool to hear their eerie cries in the woods."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Many campgrounds offer electric but limited full-hookup sites. A Hershey Campground visitor mentioned, "Sites were a bit close where we were but they had other sites that were more spread out."
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have tight turns or narrow roads. One Paradise Stream Family Campground reviewer noted, "The dump was up on the other side so had to pull a U turn, luckily our camper was small enough to make the turn."
Site selection: RV campers should carefully review site maps before booking. A Deer Run camper advised, "Site 88 where we were appeared to be the largest non-seasonal site in the park which was nice."
Guide
