Best Camping near South Mountain, PA

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, South Mountain, PA is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Discover great camping spots near South Mountain, reviewed by campers like you.

Best Camping Sites Near South Mountain, PA (133)

    Camper-submitted photo from Caledonia State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Caledonia State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Caledonia State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Caledonia State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Caledonia State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Caledonia State Park Campground

    1. Caledonia State Park Campground

    33 Reviews
    38 Photos
    181 Saves
    Fayetteville, Pennsylvania

    The 1,125-acre Caledonia State Park is in Adams and Franklin counties, midway between Chambersburg and Gettysburg along the Lincoln Highway, US 30.

    The park is nestled within South Mountain, the northern terminus of the well-known Blue Ridge Mountain of Maryland and Virginia. Within South Mountain there are four state parks and 84,000 acres of state forest land waiting to be explored and enjoyed. The soils on either side of South Mountain are ideal for fruit production, proven by the abundance of orchards in the surrounding area.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Gettysburg / Battlefield KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Gettysburg / Battlefield KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Gettysburg / Battlefield KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Gettysburg / Battlefield KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Gettysburg / Battlefield KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Gettysburg / Battlefield KOA

    2. Gettysburg / Battlefield KOA

    26 Reviews
    87 Photos
    105 Saves
    Fairfield, Pennsylvania

    If you are looking for a fun way to spend time with your family and friends outdoors, you will love everything the Gettysburg/Battlefield KOA has to offer. When you choose to go camping in Gettysburg, you get to enjoy a tranquil nature retreat while learning about one of the most important historical events of the nation's Civil War era. Gettysburg/Battlefield KOA is a campground near downtown Gettysburg that is built for campers of all types and experience levels. Situated just five miles from downtown Gettysburg, Gettysburg/Battlefield KOA gives you access to all the local attractions while ensuring you have a peaceful camping experience.

    You can secure a site for rugged tent camping, luxurious RV glamping or even cabin camping, depending on your party's preferences. Regardless of what type of camping experience you choose, you will have access to many modern amenities and conveniences, including essentials such as Wi-Fi and a laundry room. You can even participate in planned activities at our campground or rent bicycles for a unique way to tour the Gettysburg area.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Greenbrier State Park Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED
    Camper-submitted photo from Greenbrier State Park Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED
    Camper-submitted photo from Greenbrier State Park Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED
    Camper-submitted photo from Greenbrier State Park Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED
    Camper-submitted photo from Greenbrier State Park Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED
    Camper-submitted photo from Greenbrier State Park Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

    3. Greenbrier State Park Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

    41 Reviews
    133 Photos
    306 Saves
    Boonsboro, Maryland

    ​​​​​​Greenbrier State Park will be making improvements to the park entrance and camper registration building during the 2024 season. Effective immediately, the park will not accept new reservations for the Ash and Birch camping loops and the Evergreen youth group camp site, as well as all gazebos, bus reservations, and special events. In addition, the South Parking Lot will be closed to Day Use visitors and the Camper Registration Building will be closed. Campers will register at the Greenbrier Visitor Center. Be advised that the left hand turn lane into and out of the park will be closed from Memorial Day to Labor Day, please utilize Exit 35 if traveling to the park from Interstate 70. The park will not be accessible from westbound Rt. 40, all visitors must enter the park from eastbound Rt. 40. Guests are encouraged to check https://parkreservations.maryland.gov/​ or this page for closure updates. Thank you for your patience as we make these needed improvements.

    Few places on Earth can inspire as much as the diverse landscape found throughout the Appalachian Mountains. Greenbrier State Park is no exception, nestled right on the 42 Acre man-made Greenbrier Lake. Campers that visit will be greeted with white sandy beaches and family-friendly recreation. Camping here is an experience to remember, thanks to the multitude of options available to entertain yourself.

    The lake provides a great location for practically any water activities you can think of. While you’re not allowed to put a motorized boat in, you can use a a small electric motor boat, or even paddle boards. There’s areas to rent Canoes, Kayaks, Paddle Boards, and more nearby. In addition, fishing is another extremely popular activity here. If you bring a rod out, you can find Trout, Bass, and Blue Gill. For anyone over 16, a Maryland Angler's License is required, and all Maryland fishing laws apply. There is also a 500 acre hunting area, where general hunting is permitted.

    Perhaps most notable is the various hiking trails found throughout the park. More than 11 miles of trails wind through and twist around the local geography, revealing the various quirks and features of the land. On the eastern edge of the park, Bartman Hill can be found, which is also where part of the Appalachian trail passes through. Aside from hiking, there is also an ADA accessible visitor center. What’s more, there’s even a beach wheelchair!

    Throughout the park, there are 165 campsites available for reservation. 40 of these campsites even have electric hookups. Furthermore, there are bathhouses located throughout with hot-water showers. There’s also a dump station for those planning on staying here in a van or RV. Fires are allowed on all campsites but must be kept within the fire rings. According to the state park website, pets are allowed in the Cedar and Dogwood camp loops with a few conditions. For one, Pets are only allowed on trails outside day-use area. Additionally, pets are allowed in day-use area and lake from the day after Labor Day to the Friday before Memorial Day.

    Nightly rates for campsites start at $21.49. If you choose to reserve a campsite with electric, expect to pay $27.49. Lake Front Gazebos (capable of sheltering 32) are available for day-use rent at $100. Other fees and fares may still apply, so check out the Maryland State Park website for more information before booking.

    There are 165 campsites offering conveniently located bathhouses with hot showers. Forty sites have electric hookups.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $23 - $29 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Owens Creek Campground — Catoctin Mountain Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Owens Creek Campground — Catoctin Mountain Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Owens Creek Campground — Catoctin Mountain Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Owens Creek Campground — Catoctin Mountain Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Owens Creek Campground — Catoctin Mountain Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Owens Creek Campground — Catoctin Mountain Park

    4. Owens Creek Campground — Catoctin Mountain Park

    28 Reviews
    89 Photos
    128 Saves
    Sabillasville, Maryland

    Overview

    Owens Creek Campground offers families and individuals enjoyable primitive tent camping. Located just five miles from Thurmont, Maryland, in the rolling hills of Catoctin Mountain Park.

    Recreation

    As a primitive camping area, Owens Creek encourages visitors to use healthy doses of imagination while surrounded by the natural landscape. Nature hikes and campfire circles are popular activities. The Deerfield Nature Trail connects directly to the campground and is a 1.5 mile loop with a connection to the park's western system of trails. Browns Farm Trail is nearby in the Owens Creek Picnic Area and offers budding archeologists with a peek into the history of the area. This trail is also a youth friendly 'Track Trail'. For more information go to: www.kidsinparks.com. Catoctin Mountain Park boasts 25 miles of trails.

    Natural Features

    The campground is surrounded by a rolling landscape, perfect for hikes of any level from easy to extremely strenuous. Owens Creek flows past the campground providing a peaceful setting beside a bubbling brook. Whether blanketed in snow in winter months, brilliant with color in the fall or blooming with wildflowers in the spring, Owens Creek offers beautiful scenery all year.

    Nearby Attractions

    Other National Park Service units in the area are: Antietam National Battlefield www.nps.gov/ancm/index.htm 26 miles, Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park www.nps.gov/choh/index.htm 28 miles, Eisenhower National Historic Site www.nps.gov/eise/index.htm 20 miles, Gettysburg National Military Park www.nps.gov/gett/index/htm 20 miles, Harpers Ferry National Historical Park www.nps.gov/hafe/index.htm 37 miles, Monocacy National Battlefield www.nps.gov/mono/index.htm 18 miles, Appalachian National Scenic Trail www.nps.gov/appa/index.htm , 8 miles, Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail www.nps.gov/pohe/index.htm , 26 miles. Other Attractions: Catoctin Wildlife Preserve and Zoo www.cwpzoo.com , Cunningham Falls State Park www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/western/cunningham.asp , Tourism Council of Frederick County www.fredericktourism.org , Washington County Hagerstown, MD www.marylandmemories.org/home.html .

    Charges & Cancellations

    Important Information on Late Cancellations A cancellation is considered late if it occurs the day before or the day of arrival. Customers will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Gettysburg Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gettysburg Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gettysburg Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gettysburg Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gettysburg Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gettysburg Campground

    5. Gettysburg Campground

    25 Reviews
    56 Photos
    155 Saves
    Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

    Located just 3 miles West of the center of town, our Gettysburg Campground is bordered by beautiful Marsh Creek, with both shady or sunny RV sites, and a primitive tent area along the creek. We offer 260 sites, accommodating everything from a tent to literally any size RV. Gettysburg Campground is also the only campground in Gettysburg with an on-site RV repair facility. We also have rustic cabins and full-facility cottages

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Grove Furnace State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Grove Furnace State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Grove Furnace State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Grove Furnace State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Grove Furnace State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Grove Furnace State Park Campground

    6. Pine Grove Furnace State Park Campground

    25 Reviews
    49 Photos
    276 Saves
    Peach Glen, Pennsylvania

    Flush toilets, warm showers, some electric hook-ups

    This activity or structure is ADA accessible.

    Seventy tent and trailer sites are available from late March to mid-December.

    Each campsite has a picnic table and fire ring. A sanitary dump station is near the campground entrance.

    A seasonal camp store is one quarter-mile from the campground.

    Pets are permitted on designated campsites for a fee.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Houck - Cunningham Falls State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Houck - Cunningham Falls State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Houck - Cunningham Falls State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Houck - Cunningham Falls State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Houck - Cunningham Falls State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Houck - Cunningham Falls State Park

    7. Houck - Cunningham Falls State Park

    24 Reviews
    78 Photos
    202 Saves
    Thurmont, Maryland
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $21 - $65 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Michaux State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Michaux State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Michaux State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Michaux State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Michaux State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Michaux State Forest

    8. Michaux State Forest

    21 Reviews
    58 Photos
    300 Saves
    Shippensburg, Pennsylvania

    Accessibility is not guaranteed, always scout ahead before driving down dirt roads.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $10 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground

    9. Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground

    55 Reviews
    149 Photos
    260 Saves
    Wellsville, Pennsylvania
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $15 - $130 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Artillery Ridge Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Artillery Ridge Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Artillery Ridge Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Artillery Ridge Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Artillery Ridge Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Artillery Ridge Campground

    10. Artillery Ridge Campground

    20 Reviews
    109 Photos
    120 Saves
    Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

    Welcome to Artillery Ridge Campground! Located upon the very grounds of the Union Artillery Reserve, we are conveniently located within walking distance to Gettysburg Battlefield trails, museums, & monuments. We offer a variety of full hook up RV sites and tent camping. No gear, no problem! Relax in one of our themed cabins. We are also the only campground in Gettysburg, PA with overnight accommodations for horses. Known for our long-standing relationships with camping tourists, families and groups, come see why it’s going to be a great time camping with us!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
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Showing results 1-10 of 133 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near South Mountain

Recent Reviews in South Mountain

969 Reviews of 133 South Mountain Campgrounds


  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Olive Green Cabin
    Oct. 28, 2024

    Olive Green Cabin

    Lovely cabin stay

    Perfect rustic cabin in the woods. It gives the illusion of being secluded even though the road is just on the other side of some trees. You'll get some car sounds for sure, but mostly quiet after dark.

    The loft really only slept 2 unless you are ok sleeping on the floor. No running water or electricity. You'll need to bring plenty of flashlights and lanterns as well as water. Everything was clean and nice, including the outhouse.

    The porch of the cabin was our main hangout and cooking station as it does get very dark inside. There were still a few nice, late-season pears left under the tree that we very much enjoyed.

  • Heather The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lazy A Campground
    Oct. 28, 2024

    Lazy A Campground

    Pretty WV countryside

    This campground is small but the sites are spacious- the ones by the creek are. The bathouse is quite a ways from the sites by the creek but they provide a port-a-potty, which was quite full when I was there- thank goodness the days weren’t hot. The bathhouse needs updating- stalls are small and water from the showers go everywhere. Only saw a worker once and I’m not sure he was a worker? It was a weird stay.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Buchanan State Forest
    Oct. 27, 2024

    Buchanan State Forest

    Interesting and Rustic

    This was my first experience camping with no hookups. The park is very large, with interesting trails to explore. I had not been aware of the abandoned PA turnpike that runs through the park; very interesting and haunting. It’s extremely quiet, with not a whole lot to do, but very peaceful. A terrific place to see the stars. And while it’s not free, it’s only $10/night.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Seven Points (PA)
    Oct. 27, 2024

    Seven Points (PA)

    Beautiful Spot

    I’ve camped here twice, two years ago in a Kodiak tent and this year in my Airstream GT24. Such a lovely spot! It’s spotless, and Raystown Lake is gorgeous.

  • mThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Gettysburg
    Oct. 25, 2024

    Gettysburg

    Great location

    The resort had great amenities for all ages. We stayed in October so there was plenty of activities for kids from crafts, games, dancing, to trick or treating. The resort ensured safety for the kids during trick or treating and closed all vehicle traffic for 2 hours. The location also had golf cars to rent to explore the sites. All employees were easy to talk to, always had a smile and personable.

  • Jackson B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground
    Oct. 16, 2024

    Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground

    Great Spot for Newer Campers

    Decently spaced out campsites for the most part, good service connection (Verizon), and pretty solid bathrooms make it a great spot for families or newer campers. Wish there were some more hikes/things to do at the state park itself, especially with the lake having toxic algae in it right now.

  • Jason L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Gettysburg Campground
    Oct. 15, 2024

    Gettysburg Campground

    Nothing to complain about

    Arrived, quickly showed how to get to our site. We setup without issue and spent 3 nights without anyone bothering us on our tent site. The place was quiet by about 11:10, not sure if it was enforced or happened naturally. The out houses could have been cleaned a bit more regularly as it was a busy long weekend. Overall it was a great experience.

  • Snezana H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Cacapon
    Oct. 7, 2024

    Camp Cacapon

    One of the best camps ever!

    We chose Sullivan’s Camp Cacapon for our first “glamping” trip, and we are so glad we did that! The camp is quiet and immaculately maintained, and it is situated in a lovely area along the river. We stayed in two brand new, enormous glamping tents. Each tent had two comfy queen-size beds, a heater, a fan, and two lamps with USB ports (a touch of luxury). The wi-fi in the camp worked very well for us, and we used it to exchange photos taken while hiking in the nearby Cacapon Resort State Park. The owners thought of everything—they even provided carts to transport your belongings to the site. The pavilion was nice and spacious, and it protected us from rain during dinner. The camp hosts were warm and friendly. We highly recommend this camp, and will be returning for sure!

  • Ioan P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Falling Waters Campsite
    Oct. 4, 2024

    Falling Waters Campsite

    Very nice and clean

    This campground is nice, convenient for one 🌙 night, but is very tight and almost no privacy . The staff here are very friendly and nice.

  • Andrea N.
    Camper-submitted photo from Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground

    Nice campground, needs updating

    The campground had a good feel to it. We had a nice view of the lake. We booked a non electric site for our tent camping. The bath houses need updated though. The only negative I can say is that our site did not have a great spot for the tent except by the parking spot and not down by the fire ring.

  • Rob  O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Owens Creek Campground — Catoctin Mountain Park
    Sep. 20, 2024

    Owens Creek Campground — Catoctin Mountain Park

    So peaceful, free split firewood, close to Gettysburg

    Reservations are made through the National parks service "recreation.gov" website. Arrived for tent camping for 2 nights and found a pleasantly prepared raised bed area to pitch my tent on. My stay was quiet and the bathrooms were clean and well stocked. This is a great base camp for getting out to the Gettysburg National park and battlefield. town is less than 10 miles away that has a grocery store and restaurants. FREE split firewood. So quiet i swear i heard a squirrel burp.

  • Germ E.
    Camper-submitted photo from Evergreen Point Village
    Sep. 20, 2024

    Evergreen Point Village

    Great

    Beyond aesthetics, hiring professionals also addresses health and safety concerns. Many paints emit volatile organic compounds(VOCs ) this link, which can be harmful if inhaled in large quantities. Professional painters often use low-VOC or no-VOC options that are safer for both you and the environment. Additionally, they adhere to safety protocols during the painting process, minimizing the risk of accidents or exposure to hazardous materials.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Granite Hill Camping Resort
    Sep. 17, 2024

    Granite Hill Camping Resort

    Family Campground

    Nice family campground that offers alot. Its very big, only 1 central bathhouse for very large area. Female restrooms has 6 toilets and 6 showers (push button, luke warm water). COME PREPARED WITH LEVELING BLOCKS!!!! Our site was very slanting!!

  • N
    Camper-submitted photo from Codorus State Park Campground
    Sep. 15, 2024

    Codorus State Park Campground

    Convenient escape!

    I've stayed at Cordorus a number of times as it's not too far away for a weekend getaway.  Last time was in Sept. 2023 when some tropical storm poured rain for three days. I'm booked for next weekend now in Sept. 2024, so I hope it's a dry one.  I pulled up The Dyrt to see if anything has changed, but I see it's still the great place it always is.

    I usually end up in a dry site as I book late and the electric sites are all filled.

  • K
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Bennett Campground
    Sep. 15, 2024

    Little Bennett Campground

    Great for families

    Fun weekend trip very close to DC. Well kept park with lots of activities for kids - jumping pillow, laser tag, pedal carts, arts and crafts. Nice little game room and some outdoor games at the activity center as well. Full hookup spots in the D loop were pretty nice. The spots in the first half of the loop felt a little close together for my taste, but our spot (D61) was nice as we didn’t have any neighbors on one side. Only complaint is that it’s pricey and has a two night minimum on weekends, but felt worth it with all the activities that were available.

  • B
    Camper-submitted photo from Cowans Gap State Park Campground
    Sep. 13, 2024

    Cowans Gap State Park Campground

    Our favorite close spot from Baltimore area

    We've stayed here at least a half-dozen times with a popup. The smaller B loop is nicer, but no electricity. Pets allowed only on a certain portion of the A loop. The bathrooms are clean, the lake is small but pretty, and the hikes around the lake, and up the mountain on the ridge, are as easy or as challenging as you want. Cell service is pretty much nonexistent so you definitely get unplugged.

  • Adam and Suzanne B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lazy A Campground
    Sep. 13, 2024

    Lazy A Campground

    Quiet campground

    This is a really nice campground. Large grassy sites. Easy to maneuver. Lots of open space. Clean bath house. Helpful owners. The only reason it lost a star is that the water has sulfur. It smells and it stained our brand-new toilet and we had to replace all our water filters after one weekend.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Brunswick Family Campground
    Sep. 12, 2024

    Brunswick Family Campground

    Nice campground

    The campground is adjacent to a very large, very busy train yard. It’s not bothered me but you should be aware.

    The campground is also right on the Potomac, easy to get to, reasonably priced, and the sites are spacious. The loops are small, each containing a dozen or fewer spaces. Many sites share a power pole and water faucet, but they are well situated.

    There is a small camp store, but the campground is convenient to ample grocery stores, convenience stores, and restaurants as well as many local historic attractions.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Harpers Ferry Campground - River Riders
    Sep. 10, 2024

    Harpers Ferry Campground - River Riders

    Loud with trains and car horns

    Busiest train corridor I’ve ever experienced, with several every hour all night. To add to the noise, there is a one-way tunnel a few feet from the campground. The practice is for cars to stop, blow their horn to announce their presence, then proceed into the tunnel.

    I have a 14’ trailer, and it wouldn’t fit into my site perpendicular to the road. I had to pull past then back in so that I was parallel to the road. Ordinarily no big deal, except that the road isn’t a loop. It’s a single lane straight road in. No place to turn around, no way out except to back all the way out.

  • Wailym C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Codorus State Park Campground
    Sep. 8, 2024

    Codorus State Park Campground

    Enjoyable & comfortable

    Codorus state campground provided a comfortable and quiet stay.  The trailer sites in loop C are spacious enough with plenty of shades and trees. The open field pet friendly sites are also large but provide no shade and it gets hot!  You can feel the difference between these sites and the interior loop sites.  No cross winds, no breeze, just hot!  The trails from

    Campground are ok for a short walk, not much of a lake view but mostly shaded trail.  The pool is conveniently located maybe even walking distance for some.  But be advised, this is a public pool open to everyone and folks start showing up at 7am, separate entrance road and entry fee was around $10 pp. The lake is great!  Lovely areas to relax and explore.  No swimming allowed anywhere but you can find places to sneak a dip 😉 just look past marina near state park public recreation area.  The park staff won’t give you a hard time they just ask that you don’t go further than waist deep. It is a very large lake.  We highly recommend that you rent a pontoon boat to head out and explore!  Very worth it!  All grounds and areas are clean and kept in great condition.

  • Casey L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Cowans Gap State Park Campground
    Sep. 2, 2024

    Cowans Gap State Park Campground

    Camping Area B -Quiet and Nice

    We stayed in the smaller camping area B, which we enjoyed. Even on Labor Day weekend, it didn’t feel busy because of how few sites are in this section. Our site was level and sizable. The bathroom was clean and there was access to the very pleasant hiking trail going around the lake. We had no cell service with Cricket or Verizon.

  • Paul B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Raystown Lake / Saxton KOA at Four Seasons
    Aug. 8, 2024

    Raystown Lake / Saxton KOA at Four Seasons

    It's now Timber Run Campground

    We stayed during Bigfoot weekend. It was super fun as our family likes bigfoot fun. We started out Friday night getting the offered $12 bbq plate that included pork burnt ends, beans and potato salad that were "oh it's so good". On Saturday was rock painting and then bingo and ended the night with a DJ dance party. The pavilion where all those activities happened were right next to our site (22 with the doggie den). Then Sunday we had pancakes and later a visit from RayCEP which is an education program that PA DNCR provides talking about various outdoorsy type things. This is primarily for kids, but we sat and listened too and our 17 year old helped out with the craft.

    After the weekend though, all the activity slows down. There are seasonal campers that stay around, and they're constantly working on improving and fixing up sites during the week. Expect lots of quiet time just relaxing during the week. There's the pool, dog park, bounce pillow, playground, but not tons to do which if you're looking for is great. Raystown Lake has multiple access areas that are probably 15-20 minutes away - we fished at Tautman Run and Aitch - both were accessible and had lots of bluegill to steal our worms.

    Now to the site description: Site 22 is a deluxe patio back in site with a patio, 4 nice Adirondack chairs, a double glider, a weber propane grill and built in fire pit AND a dog fence just for that site that was maybe 6 ft x 6ft. it was big enough for our 2 labs to fit into when we fed them. The site wasn't hard to level our RV but overall the sites are hilly and in fact the whole park is on a hill.

    The owners and workers were friendly and great hosts! We love what they're doing there.

    One last tip: if traveling from the Altoona area, go out through Martinsburg over Cove Mountain Rd - it saves you 30 minutes to an hour.

  • PThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Cacapon
    Aug. 7, 2024

    Camp Cacapon

    Fantastic Hidden Gem!!!

    We recently stayed at Sullivan's Camp Cacapon and were truly impressed by the experience. The campsite is extremely well-maintained and offers a great mix of nature and comfort. We appreciated the cleanliness of the camp and the friendly owners who greeted us upon our arrival and even took us on an ATV ride down the river! Waking down to the Cacapon River was a highlight, providing a peaceful and refreshing start and end to each day. It's an ideal spot for anyone looking to escape day-to-day life and enjoy some quality time outdoors. We highly recommend for both new and seasoned campers!

  • Justin W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Cacapon
    Aug. 7, 2024

    Camp Cacapon

    Best decision you’ll make

    I’ve done a lot of camping over the years in a variety of places across the US. Sullivan was unequivocally one of the best places I’ve been and it’s second only to the hospitality of the owners and even the janitorial staff, who do a phenomenal job by the way. If you’re looking for a quiet place away from the world, this is it. Don’t be concerned by the reviews of no signal, yes they are true, but isn’t that part of the appeal?

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    Camper-submitted photo from Woy Bridge Campground & Cabins
    Aug. 6, 2024

    Woy Bridge Campground & Cabins

    Secluded and peaceful!

    Stayed with family over the weekend. Very quiet, secluded and peaceful. The bathrooms are a bit of a walk if you're tent camping but they were clean and well stocked. The shower is a little tricky washing all your bits because the shower head doesn't tilt enough and the water is a bit warm (not adjustable) but when you're camping in August clean water and soap is all that matters lol.



Guide to South Mountain

Camping near South Mountain, Pennsylvania, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are several campgrounds that cater to different needs and preferences.

What to do:

  • Hiking: There are numerous trails around the area. For instance, at Caledonia State Park Campground, one reviewer mentioned, "The Appalachian trail runs right by it," making it a great spot for hiking enthusiasts.
  • Fishing and Boating: Many campgrounds, like Cowans Gap State Park Campground, offer access to lakes for fishing and kayaking. A visitor shared, "We brought our kayaks and had a nice day paddling around the lake."
  • Exploring History: The area is rich in history, especially around Gettysburg. Campers at Gettysburg Campground appreciate its proximity to historical sites, with one saying, "Was very easy to access from the campground."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers often mention the cleanliness of the campgrounds. For example, at Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground, a reviewer noted, "The restrooms... are clean and pretty much in good order."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many enjoy the peaceful environment. One camper at Codorus State Park Campground said, "Codorus state campground provided a comfortable and quiet stay."
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Campgrounds like Greenbrier State Park Campground are noted for their family-friendly amenities. A visitor remarked, "There is one dog-friendly loop... and easy trails from the camping loops to the lake."

What you should know:

  • No Cell Service: Many campgrounds, such as Cowans Gap State Park Campground, have little to no cell service. One camper humorously noted, "If you were planning on going out to do stuff off the state park, there's nothing nearby."
  • Crowded on Weekends: Popular spots can get busy, especially during holidays. A visitor at Cunningham Falls State Park mentioned, "The campsites were relatively small, and close together."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have extensive amenities. A camper at Owens Creek Campground pointed out, "The sites are very clean but close to each other."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. At Gettysburg / Battlefield KOA, one parent said, "They have plenty of activities for the kids from swimming, mini golf, and a scavenger hunt!"
  • Plan for Crowds: If you're camping during peak times, arrive early to secure a good spot. A visitor at Cunningham Falls State Park noted, "The parking fills up pretty early in the morning."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having food on hand can save you trips to the store. One camper at Pine Grove Furnace State Park Campground mentioned, "The store is really just a small carry out with a few things, so bring everything you are planning to have in with you."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure the site can accommodate your RV. A reviewer at Caledonia State Park Campground advised, "I would give my site an 8. It would be a 10 if the utilities were closer to the back of the site."
  • Be Prepared for Limited Hookups: Some campgrounds may not have full hookups. A camper at Owens Creek Campground noted, "No electric hookups, but fires allowed."
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Since some campgrounds are remote, stock up on essentials before arriving. A visitor at Pine Grove Furnace State Park Campground mentioned, "It's a pretty decent piece out to civilization."

Camping near South Mountain, Pennsylvania, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions