RV camping near Shrewsbury, Pennsylvania provides access to the historically significant Gettysburg region and Pennsylvania Dutch countryside. Most campgrounds in this area sit on rolling terrain at elevations between 400-800 feet above sea level, with summer temperatures averaging 85°F during peak season. The region experiences moderate rainfall year-round, creating lush landscapes but occasionally challenging camping conditions on unpaved sites.
What to Do
Historic exploration: 25 minutes to Gettysburg Battlefield from Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm in Dover. "We haven't traveled into historic Gettysburg yet, but it's not too far from here," notes camper Kasey M. The battlefield audio tour is a popular activity, with Dave R. recommending "Battlefield audio tour, Nighttime walking ghost tour, and visiting shops around the square."
Farm animal interactions: Children particularly enjoy the animals at Gettysburg Farm. "We've enjoyed mini-golf, feeding the animals, 'hiking' through the cornfield, fishing, and campfires," shares one camper. Another visitor highlights that "the kids LOVED the animals and we fed them at the allotted time every morning and went to visit at other times."
Covered bridge tours: Explore the Pennsylvania Dutch countryside surrounding Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country in Manheim. "In the event that you need to replenish any of your supplies, rest assured as in nearby Quakertown, there's a Giant & Aldi's grocery store as well as a local Target, Walmart, TJMaxx, Kohl's and Link Beverages," advises Stuart K. The surrounding area features authentic Amish communities and historic covered bridges.
What Campers Like
Swimming pools: Spring Gulch Resort Campground offers superior aquatic amenities. "Heated spa/pool in upper area are a bonus. Lots of sports gear available for free to use within park," mentions Beth B. Pool access varies by season and day of the week, with some facilities closing at 5 PM on weekdays.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain excellent bathroom facilities. At Pinch Pond Family Campground, "ENTIRE campground was extremely clean and tidy. The office and grounds keeping staff were super friendly and helpful," according to Melissa Y. Tara N. agrees: "super clean laundry room and bathrooms."
Live entertainment: Several campgrounds organize weekend activities. Sun Valley Campground offers exceptional musical performances, with one camper noting "The Saturday night bands are concert worthy." At Thousand Trails Circle M, many visitors appreciate the themed weekends, including "Halloween ever at every weekend of October" which one family mentioned "The kids loved it!!"
What You Should Know
Shooting range proximity: Several campgrounds are located near shooting ranges. At Pinch Pond, "there is a shooting range right next door. It is pretty consistent from lunch to dinner. If you're out and about, it won't be an issue. However if you enjoy sitting outside of your camper and relaxing this might be nerve wracking," warns Tara N.
Seasonal occupancy: Many RV parks have high percentages of permanent or seasonal residents. At Sun Valley Campground, "90% of the people here are full time," according to Alan. Jim C. notes it's a "Well wooded campground with friendly staff and guests. The only minor complaint is that the camp store was sparsely supplied."
Site leveling challenges: Bring adequate leveling equipment. At PA Dutch Country, "Unlevel is an understatement we were in E row and every camper there had front end 4 foot off the ground. Many other sites were the same," explains Justin B. This topography is common throughout the region with many campgrounds situated on hillsides.
Tips for Camping with Families
Mini golf and arcade options: Thousand Trails Circle M offers extensive family activities. "Putt putt is still open and fun, so is playground. Arcade was open. There is an indoor pool and spa," reports Kasey M. Some campgrounds charge additional fees for mini golf, while others include it with your stay.
Animal experiences: Farm-themed campgrounds provide unique opportunities for children. At Gettysburg Farm, one visitor shares: "We came in early fall with 3 kids. They LOVED the animals and we fed them at the allotted time every morning." The campground features goats, pigs, chickens, horses and llamas.
Swimming ponds vs pools: Consider water quality when choosing a campground. At Round Top Campground, one reviewer mentioned "The pool was shut down do to the pump breaking." Other campgrounds like Drummer Boy feature multiple water options, with one visitor noting "The pool with the slide was very clean."
Tips from RVers
Tight spacing at certain parks: Several campgrounds have minimal distance between sites. At Round Top Campground, "Wife and I decided to use this campground as our 'maiden voyage' in our new TT... the site was shaded, it was also on a significant hill and had NO view of anything but other seasonal campers." Another visitor noted sites are "small and tight and some are at strange angles."
Sewer connection positioning: Many campgrounds have awkwardly placed sewer connections. At Drummer Boy, "The biggest complaint about our site was that the sewer hookup was inconveniently placed about six inches above the ground which meant that it would not drain properly (even with a slinky placed under it)." Consider bringing sewer hose supports or extensions.
Campground navigation challenges: Some properties are difficult to navigate in larger rigs. At Drummer Boy, "The roads are very confusing and difficult to navigate. Many of the sites are on annoying slope where the table/fire pit is not level to the camper." Arrive during daylight hours when possible for easier setup.
