Summit Station, Pennsylvania sits in the Appalachian Mountain region where dense forests dominate the landscape at elevations ranging from 400-1,200 feet. The area experiences four distinct seasons with particularly vibrant fall colors from mid-October through early November. Winter camping requires additional preparation as overnight temperatures regularly drop below freezing from December through February.
What to do
Hiking trails year-round: French Creek State Park offers miles of trails for all skill levels. "We loved our stay at this park, and plan to return. There is lots of hiking, the lake is beautiful, at least two playgrounds (perfect for our kids), the bathrooms were well maintained," notes Katie M. who visited French Creek State Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple bodies of water near Summit Station provide fishing access. "There are two lakes, Scotts Run Lake and Hopewell Lake that you can fish at, kayak, canoe or just relax by. There are several warm water fish in the lakes including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish," mentions Jen R. about French Creek State Park.
Winter activities: While summer brings traditional camping options, winter transforms the region. "Ice fishing is also allowed at both lakes and the ice thickness is monitored," according to Jen R., providing year-round recreational options near Summit Station.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer secluded spots. "Overall the sites were large, with trees between, providing additional privacy. Except for the Plateau sites, which have the amazing view, the rest of the campground had a great tree cover," reports Craig F. about Starlite Camping Resort.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained campgrounds. "Bathrooms were very nice and clean with large showers. Nice area to wash dishes. Very nice playground area and clean," says Jen R. about her stay at French Creek State Park Campground.
Diverse accommodation options: The region offers various lodging possibilities. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other," notes another visitor, highlighting the camping infrastructure available near Summit Station.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Some campgrounds operate limited schedules. "This campground is only open on the weekends, in season. Sites can be reserved online, by phone, or by 'first come, first served' self-registration," explains Jennifer S. about Hibernia County Park.
Alcohol regulations: Rules vary by campground ownership. "This is a State Park so there is no alcohol allowed. The Park Rangers drive by regularly which is nice in case you are having any problems or just have general questions about the park," mentions a visitor at French Creek State Park Campground.
Cell phone coverage: Connectivity varies significantly. "No cell service at all unless you drive up to the top of the mountain. It is free to camp at one of the spots but you must call the respective ranger station ahead of time and let them know your car name etc and they issue you a permit free of charge," reports Zoltan P. about Tuscarora State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature family amenities. "There is a very nice playground situated conveniently between the loops of the campground. It had some slides, a bridge, lots of monkey bars, ladders to climb on and the best feature was the zip line. All kids and adults agreed it was the most fun!" shares Jen R.
Swimming options: Water activities enhance family trips. "My kids are age 3-12. Very quiet at night. The park ranger this weekend was the nicest and very helpful with directions to walk to the playground and indoor restrooms. The lake is about a 3 minute hike down the clearly marked trails," notes Anna about Hibernia County Park.
Educational opportunities: The region offers learning experiences. "There is also a small goat petting zoo, with very friendly pigmy goats and the camp is extremely pet friendly as long as they are on a leash," mentions Avery M. about Ferryboat Campsites.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: RVers should research site dimensions. "If you have a large camper or 5th wheel you may need to double check what sites can accommodate your RV to ensure you have enough room. It was nice to just be able to back up our camper and have it mostly level already," advises Jen R.
Power requirements: Terrain impacts vehicle performance. "This is a great family run campground. The store is nice, bathhouses are clean and private. Owners are super nice. There is also a great view of the surrounding countryside because it's up on a big hill. If you're hauling a big camper you'll need power for the hills," explains Chris G. about Starlite Camping Resort.
Hookup variations: RV sites offer different amenities. "We had two sites this trip with water and electric, but they do have quite a few full hook-up sites. Water pressure and electric were both great throughout the stay," reports Craig F. about his experience at Starlite Camping Resort.
Legend
