Best Campgrounds 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, Pennsylvania (136)

    1. Caledonia State Park Campground

    33 Reviews
    Fayetteville, PA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 352-2161

    $10 - $92 / night

    "Stayed here two nights while visiting Gettysburg (short 20mi drive between the two). Stayed on Chinquapin Hill, each site has picnic table and fire ring and good space for camp."

    "It’s a fantastic state park with great picnic areas next to the creek. You can also drive up the road to the dam where there’s a beautiful lake with fishing, kayaking, etc."

    2. Gettysburg / Battlefield KOA

    26 Reviews
    Fairfield, PA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 642-5713

    "Spent 2 nights at Gettysburg KOA in July while touring Pennsylvania with granddaughter. Very convenient to historical stuff. Large sites, separated by rocks and trees. Quiet and private."

    "Our site was very spacious, beautifully landscaped and wooded, but right next to the road. There was a buffer of trees, but unfortunately that didn’t make much of a difference with regard to noise."

    3. Gettysburg Campground

    25 Reviews
    Gettysburg, PA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 642-5713

    "I always appreciate the near solitude experience of this campground as 90% of the sites are RV sites, that are kept away from the tenting area."

    "If you’re looking for a backwoods, off-the-beaten-path type of campground, this isn’t it."

    4. Owens Creek Campground — Catoctin Mountain Park

    28 Reviews
    Sabillasville, MD
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (301) 663-9388

    $30 / night

    "We stayed at site 28 which is right next to the little bridge over the creek for easy access to the trails and near the bathrooms."

    "Our campsite was quiet with the creek right behind us and had lots of privacy. This place is a great campground to go during summer as it's tucked in the mountains with lots of tree coverage."

    5. Granite Hill Camping Resort

    15 Reviews
    Fairfield, PA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 642-8749

    "Great shade and access to the playground. You can let the kids play all day while sitting at your campsite cooking and just hanging. It’s only 15 yards for the play set."

    "Nice place to camp me and the wife was there July 4th weekend close to the pool"

    6. Houck - Cunningham Falls State Park

    24 Reviews
    Thurmont, MD
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (301) 271-7574

    $21 - $65 / night

    "Camp next to the president."

    "There are a few vineyards and breweries nearby. Gettysburg, PA is close as is Frederick, MD. Our site was level and had a good view of the woods. Family was staying in site next to us, site 12."

    7. Artillery Ridge Campground

    22 Reviews
    Gettysburg, PA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 334-1288

    "This park is a perfect location if you want to explore Gettysburg National Historical Site as you can literally walk across the street and be in the park or venture½ mile up the road and you come to the"

    "Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded."

    8. Pine Grove Furnace State Park Campground

    25 Reviews
    Peach Glen, PA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 486-7174

    $10 - $70 / night

    "It’s at the midpoint of the Appalachian Trail so there are lots of great hikes as well as a nice path between the two lakes. Our new favorite in Pennsylvania!"

    "We were right at the intersection near the campground entrance and one of the other loops, but it wasn't noisy at all. The drinking water was right next to our site, which was handy."

    9. Michaux State Forest

    12 Reviews
    Shippensburg, PA
    10 miles
    Website

    $10 / night

    "No water close by so you’ll have to bring it. Short walk from car to site. Lots of trails and a golf course close by. Free permit required but you can now get it online"

    "Walk in tent site. No amenities, dispersed camping only. Next to a water source that runs well in Spring/Early summer. Midsummer and early Fall can be iffy, so bring a backup."

    10. Greenbrier State Park Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

    41 Reviews
    Boonsboro, MD
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 432-2267

    $23 - $29 / night

    "Positives

    * Big, immaculately groomed tent pads

    * Mostly tent campers!"

    "Our site was private and kind of faced away from most other sites. There was a hiking trail behind us that led to the lake."

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Recent Reviews near South Mountain, PA

967 Reviews of 136 South Mountain Campgrounds



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

What camping is available near South Mountain, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, South Mountain, PA offers a wide range of camping options, with 136 campgrounds and RV parks near South Mountain, PA and 1 free dispersed camping spot.

Which is the most popular campground near South Mountain, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near South Mountain, PA is Caledonia State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 33 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near South Mountain, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near South Mountain, PA.

What parks are near South Mountain, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 19 parks near South Mountain, PA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.