Tent camping near Shippensburg, Pennsylvania offers opportunities in varied terrain from mountain ridges to riverside settings. Most tent-specific sites in the region sit at elevations between 500-1,700 feet with temperatures averaging 5-10°F cooler than surrounding valleys during summer months. While state parks provide established amenities, many of the region's best tent camping spots require hike-in or boat-in access.
What to do
Potomac River paddling: Access the river directly from Antietam Creek Campground where tent sites sit adjacent to the water. "Beautiful walk-in sites along river and C&O canal," notes camper Mike V. The location makes it ideal for paddlers looking to combine camping with water activities.
Geocaching: Reeds Gap State Park offers dedicated tent camping with nearby geocaching opportunities. According to Paula L., "There is a trail head near the entrance of the park for hikers and a geocache showed up close to the trail on a road on my geocache tracker if you are into that."
Rock climbing: The tent sites at Annapolis Rock Campground provide direct access to climbing routes. "The best part is the Annapolis Rock cliffs. They offer beautiful views and all kinds of single pitch rock climbing! There are also two bear poles," explains camper Cory D.
What campers like
Natural water features: Warm Springs Camp offers tent campers access to natural springs. While reviews are limited, the camp's location near natural warm water sources makes it unique among tent camping options in the region.
No-service escapes: Tent campers appreciate the disconnected nature of several campgrounds. At Reeds Gap State Park Campground, camper Danielle C. advises: "Put your phone away cuz there's no cell service here! Nice and peaceful with a dozen or so tent only sites."
Trail access: Proximity to hiking trails ranks high for tent campers. Bob S. notes about Dahlgren Backpacker Campground, "Backpacker campground with bathrooms and showers. Close to the South Mountain Inn, a hiker friendly restaurant. Big field."
What you should know
Train noise: Several riverside tent sites experience railroad disruptions. At Antietam Creek Campground, Casey L. warns: "This campground is not for those looking for silence and solitude. All the sites are very open and run along the multi-use trail. People are constantly walking, running, and biking by."
Wildlife awareness: Tent campers should prepare for wildlife encounters at higher elevation sites. According to Sy A. at Annapolis Rock: "The view is great but you can't have a campfire due to restorations. Also, be careful for the copperheads that come warm up on the rocky overlook."
Limited bathroom facilities: STAR LEE FARM offers beautiful tent sites but minimal facilities. Tiana S. reports: "There's no electricity there but the owner is working on that but there is power in the shower house. Service is a little sketch but it's perfect for those who want to completely escape the business of modern world."
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom proximity: Choose tent sites closest to facilities when camping with children. Kelly C. notes about Reeds Gap: "The only reason it isn't 5 stars is because the bathrooms were down during our trip making night time potty visits a little unpleasant."
Creek activities: Seek out campgrounds with safe water play areas. Rebecca G. says, "This campground is beautiful! It's so peaceful and serene. There's a nice creek that runs through it, picnic pavilions and a playground for the kids!"
Walk-in considerations: Families should note gear-hauling distances at sites like Lower Allen Community Park. Joann shares: "Cute site in a local township park that not many people know about. There actually three total. You just need to call the township to reserve. The sites sit right along the Yellow Breeches creak."
Tips from RVers
Boat-access camping: For RVers with boats, Nancy's Boat To Shore Campground offers unique tent camping options. Kristen H. explains: "These campsites are accessible by boat ONLY! They are in an area of the lake that has a lot of boat traffic, the waterfront spots usually book a few weeks in advance and are in a wake zone."
Weekend planning: Book tent sites well in advance for summer weekends. According to John H., "This campground is accessed by boat only. But it has a maintenance road and is patrolled by college kids with summer jobs. Follow the rules and you will have a wonderful time."
Pack-in water: Many of the best tent camping sites near Shippensburg require bringing all water supplies. While some have natural springs or pumps, others like Antietam Creek have limitations. Nick C. advises: "Nice place to camp for a night or two next to the river. There aren't many sites and no 'park' or ranger station."
