Best Campgrounds near Summerdale, PA
Summerdale, Pennsylvania provides multiple established campgrounds within a short drive of Harrisburg, the state capital. The area features several developed camping options including Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground, Hersheypark Camping Resort, and Little Buffalo State Park Campground. These facilities accommodate various camping preferences with tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and even glamping opportunities. Most campgrounds in the region maintain well-developed infrastructure with electric hookups, water access, and shower facilities, making them suitable for campers seeking more comfortable outdoor experiences.
The camping season typically runs from April through October, with most campgrounds closing for winter. According to one visitor, "The sites have lots of tree cover and they are private. This place does not have many amenities as far as crafts and 'drop off the kids' activities. It is a hang out as a family and tromp around the woods kind of place." Travelers should verify operational dates when planning trips, as several campgrounds like Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA specifically advertise seasonal availability. Most developed campgrounds require reservations, particularly during summer weekends and holiday periods. Weather conditions remain moderate throughout the camping season, though occasional rainfall may affect comfort at tent sites without proper drainage.
Campground amenities vary significantly across the region, with noise levels representing a common concern among reviewers. Several visitors noted the impact of trains near Hersheypark Camping Resort, with one review stating, "Nice camp ground but super loud bc of the trains. Bath houses are nice and clean. I would suggest making sure you aren't close to the tracks bc the trains run all night long!" Riverfront camping options exist along the Susquehanna River, providing water-based recreation opportunities. Most developed campgrounds permit pets with certain restrictions, and many feature picnic tables and fire rings at individual sites. Family-friendly facilities predominate in the region, with swimming pools, hiking trails, and proximity to attractions like Hershey Park serving as major draws for campers visiting the area.
