Tent camping near Snow Shoe, Pennsylvania provides access to the Appalachian mountain region at elevations between 1,800-2,200 feet above sea level. Most campgrounds in this area are situated within state forest systems that receive 45-50 inches of annual precipitation. Camping conditions vary seasonally with summer temperatures ranging from 50-85°F while nighttime temperatures can drop significantly even during warmer months.
What to do
Stargazing opportunities: At STAR LEE FARM, campers find ideal conditions for night sky viewing. "There's a huge field to star gaze as well as taking pictures...it's perfect for those who want to completely escape the business of modern world," notes Tiana S.
Creek exploration: Several campgrounds offer water access with varying activities. "Short walk to creek and beautiful pond" describes Joann at Penn Roosevelt State Park, while Fernando V. mentions Patterson has "a really nice water well with a manual pump."
Trail connections: Patterson State Park Campground provides direct access to regional trail systems. "The STS trail system runs right through it. On one side of the road (they must allow horse back riding on that section of the trail as we saw trailers of horses pull in to trail ride)," shares Paula L. Hikers can access multiple interconnected routes from a single starting point.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Ravensburg State Park Campground offers natural separation between campsites. "There are bushes and trees between the sites and it feels very private. Sometimes it can feel too secluded but the park ranger drives through a number of times," explains Traci F.
Raised tent platforms: Practical design features enhance camping comfort at Ravensburg. "They have tent pads which are nice but we have a 10x20 tent so we pick a site that the pad is flush with the surrounding ground," explains Traci F.
Quiet atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the solitude available at smaller campgrounds. Chuck M. describes his experience at Penn Roosevelt: "I arrived on a Wednesday evening. I had my pick of campsites, because I was the only person there! It was so secluded, I heard nothing but nature for over an hour before a plane flew over."
What you should know
Limited services: Most primitive sites have basic amenities only. At Reeds Gap State Park Campground, "Put your phone away cuz there's no cell service here! Nice and peaceful with a dozen or so tent only sites," warns Danielle C.
Access challenges: Some locations have difficult approaches. Chuck M. cautions about Penn Roosevelt: "If you have a trailer, I do not recommend this spot. There is a very tight hairpin turn on the way in. My six foot long trailer barely made the turn!"
Seasonal variations: Facilities may change throughout the year. Paige L. notes: "Stayed during the winter so the park wasn't very busy but there was one other group of campers. The sites are tent only and pretty close together but some still feel secluded."
Tips for camping with families
Road noise considerations: Select sites away from traffic when possible. At Patterson State Park, Fernando V. advises, "It is just next to the road, so its noisy at night when cars pass."
Playground accessibility: Some campgrounds offer recreation facilities for children. Rebecca G. notes about Reeds Gap State Park: "It's so peaceful and serene. There's a nice creek that runs through it, picnic pavilions and a playground for the kids!"
Space for activities: Certain campgrounds provide more room for children to play. Paula L. highlights Patterson State Park's advantage: "One of the best features and why we will definitely be back is that at any given time you may have the whole park to yourself. If you are camping with children this can be a plus! They will have plenty of room to play."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Larger vehicles face limitations at most tent camping areas near Snow Shoe. Sarah C. notes about Ravensburg State Park: "Park is easily accessible from I-80, just be aware of your directions and make sure they're taking you to the park via Rocky Road. Mine did not, and I ended up down a seasonal road that did not end at the park entrance."
Limited hookups: Most campgrounds prioritize tent camping with minimal RV services. Cheryl K. explains Reeds Gap options: "Only 14 sites. Bathroom with hot showers is nearby. One shower stall in each bathroom and the showers had a large dressing area. Water is near the picnic pavilion."
Navigation challenges: Some camping areas require careful route planning. At Nancy's Boat To Shore Campground, Kristen H. explains the unique access requirements: "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."
