Best Campgrounds near Sunbury, PA

Camping options near Sunbury, Pennsylvania range from established campgrounds with full amenities to more primitive sites across the region's varied terrain. Fantasy Island Campground, located in Sunbury itself, provides tent sites, RV hookups and cabin rentals with a camping season from April 15 to October 1. Nearby options include Splash Magic RV Resort in Northumberland, Knoebels Campground with its amusement park proximity, and Shikellamy State Park Campground which offers more basic tent camping with toilets but no hookups. Most campgrounds in the area feature fire rings, picnic tables, and drinking water, with many also providing electric hookups for RVs.

Seasonal operation is common throughout the region, with most campgrounds open from April through October. Camping areas like Lake Glory Campground operate from April 15 to October 15, while Williamsport South-Nittany Mountain KOA runs from April 1 to November 1. A visitor noted, "The park rangers were very strict. I didn't see any issues with them and I felt that their presence was similar to all the other state parks we have visited." Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend stays during summer months when waterfront sites fill quickly. Campers should be prepared for varying levels of privacy between sites, as some campgrounds offer spacious, shaded lots while others feature more compact arrangements. Cell service can be limited in some areas, particularly in more remote campgrounds.

Water features are prominent attractions at many campgrounds in the Sunbury area. Lake Jean at Ricketts Glen State Park provides opportunities for boating, swimming, and fishing, with some campsites allowing direct lake access. "The lake is stocked very well. We got a ton of fish in all parts of the lake," reported one camper. Proximity to creeks and rivers is another highlight for many campgrounds, offering scenic views and recreational activities. Families will appreciate campgrounds with additional amenities like swimming pools, playgrounds, and game rooms. Noise levels vary significantly between locations, with some campgrounds experiencing periodic train noise or road traffic, while others provide more secluded environments. Most developed campgrounds offer clean shower facilities and restrooms, though availability of full hookups differs between locations.

Best Camping Sites Near Sunbury, Pennsylvania (163)

    1. Knoebels Campground

    24 Reviews
    Marion Heights, PA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 672-9555

    $59 - $160 / night

    "Knoebels campground is situated next to Knoebels amusement park and offers sites for tent campers and RVs, as well as cabins. There is electricity at every site but not water."

    "In addition to the campsites you have access to the campsite bathrooms which also have showers. They’re nothing special but they get the job done and are cleaned daily by staff."

    2. Splash Magic RV Resort

    8 Reviews
    Sunbury, PA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (412) 730-2341

    "We immediately told the front office and they acted immediately and took the proper steps to ensure everyone's safety."

    3. Williamsport South-Nittany Mountain KOA

    13 Reviews
    New Columbia, PA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 568-5541

    "We decided to stay here based on it's close proximity to Bucknell University. The staff is friendly, clientele is calm. Lots of well maintained seasonal sites."

    "We were only there as an overnight stop, but walked around the park and found so many fun family activities!"

    4. Little Mexico Campground

    6 Reviews
    Vicksburg, PA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 374-9742

    $30 - $65 / night

    "Little Mexico is a nice campground with lots of activities in the summer, situated on Penn’s Creek about 15 minutes from Lewisburg, PA. We camped there twice this summer and had enjoyable visits."

    5. Lake Glory Campground

    15 Reviews
    Catawissa, PA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 356-7392

    $50 - $80 / night

    "This campground is only minutes away from Knobels Amusement Park. The campground itself was clean but not a lot of amenities being it’s part of the amusement park."

    "It’s a nice spacious campground next to the park."

    6. Fantasy Island Campground

    5 Reviews
    Sunbury, PA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 286-1307

    7. Penn Avon Campground

    2 Reviews
    Selinsgrove, PA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 374-9468

    8. Jellystone Park Camp-Resort at Milton

    2 Reviews
    Lewisburg, PA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 524-5461

    $50 - $75 / night

    "They have a ton of activities for kids, fishing ponds, and plenty of spark to keep this place around for years to come!"

    9. Shikellamy State Park Campground

    3 Reviews
    Sunbury, PA
    2 miles
    Website

    "Had a great time walking the trails and enjoying a picnic at the cliff-side pavilion."

    10. Indian Head Campground

    10 Reviews
    Catawissa, PA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 441-8628

    "Not much to do at the campground but it is 20 minutes away from Knoebles. The fees are fairly cheap."

    "Good location, right on the river. The campground overall is very pretty. A few old, junk trailers around the property need to be hauled off."

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Recent Reviews near Sunbury, PA

633 Reviews of 163 Sunbury Campgrounds


  • Marc P.
    Nov. 3, 2025

    Hersheypark Camping Resort

    Great campground if you pick the right site.

    Beautiful clean campground. Super friendly staff. Was here on Halloween weekend. The main part of the grounds the sites are tight and packed in like sardines. The Lazy River section in far away from the noise of the super close train tracks. The pioneer section you are literally feet away from the tracks but the playground area is there. The shuttle to Hershey park is very convenient but we didn’t use it. Plan return during the summer season next year

  • christian G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 19, 2025

    Hartman Center Campground

    Nice, quiet, & clean

    Clean and well taken care of, pretty quiet. Would definitely stay here again but a few things to keep in mind.

    For kids the play grounds are run down. Also no real “dog run”. All in all if your a couple wanting to go relax its great, but if you have pets and or younger kids there isn’t much on the grounds.

  • Chelsea B.
    Oct. 10, 2025

    Locust Lake State Park Campground

    Edit: 1 star- Scout sites before paying!

    Beware: these sites are not travel trailer friendly.

    We booked two nights but upon arriving, we realized that there was no way to fit our trailer (only 25 ft). Trees were growing up in all the sites that were available and most of the ones without trees in the way were pointing in the wrong direction for backing into and NONE were level. Called the office, they told us what other sites were available and we tried every one. Only one was remotely suitable for a travel trailer and we had to drive the wrong way through the loop to be at the right angle to even try backing it in. No luck. I’m honestly shocked that they label some of these sites as RV friendly because wow. We left and had to find other accommodations. Trying to get a refund and currently navigating their phone system/trying to get a refund. Three phone conversations later and I’ll have to call another number on Monday to get the right person to issue the refund. We’ve never stayed at PA parks before but if they’re all like this, then it makes it really hard to plan when some sites are fine for trailers and some aren’t even close. Just heads up.

    UPDATE: Called back during business hours and got the “park manager.” Could only give a partial refund for one of the two nights. I said that they weren’t clear on the condition of the sites and he said there was nothing he could do about it.

  • tThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 5, 2025

    Stoevers Dam Park

    Park is closed. We were kicked out.

    LThe park is a beautiful city park. There are 7 small, level, back-in sites with electric, a picnic table and fire pit. We arrived in a Sunday and you have to call for a permit, but the office is only open on M-F during working hours. At 8 pm, a police officer told us the park was closed because of a bear, but that they had not gotten around to putting up signs. Wound up in a Walmart instead.

  • Stephen W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 7, 2025

    Hersheypark Camping Resort

    Very clean campground friendly staff

    We stay here once a year in September. Stone surface. Not to bad for leveling. Our site was spacious.

  • Jennifer H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 16, 2025

    Riverside Campground & Riverside Roadhouse

    Great location & proximity to Williamsport

    Came thru for a night and wanted to catch a game at the Little League World Series. Stayed here one night and caught an uber to the museum and game. Got the last site for the night. Did a few loads of laundry, ate a good dinner at the restaurant, kids enjoyed the pool and swam in the river. Big huge park and tons of grassy areas. Really lovely. Nice staff.

  • MacKenzi G.
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Pioneer Campground

    Beautiful Campground

    Me and my husband stayed here it was beautiful and has a very nice pool. Seems family friendly and very clean. Staff were friendly as well.

  • Jennifer G.
    Aug. 4, 2025

    Lakewood Park Campground

    Beautiful and Fun

    Beautiful and fun. Kind staff. Hoping for a dog park in the future.


Guide to Sunbury

Camping sites near Sunbury, Pennsylvania range from riverfront locations to woodland settings across the Central Pennsylvania landscape. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures typically ranging from 70-85°F and winter temperatures averaging 20-40°F. Most local campgrounds feature grassy or gravel sites with varying degrees of shade from mature trees.

What to do

Creek access for tubing: Little Mexico Campground offers tubing on Penn's Creek, with many guests enjoying the water activities. "The creek was amazing and the kids loved it," shares Paula R. "We used our own bathroom so I can't say how clean the public bathroom was."

Fishing opportunities: Williamsport South-Nittany Mountain KOA includes a fishing pond that's well-stocked for family angling. "Fishing pond and great store and ice cream shop. Would definitely go back here!" notes Brandon W. The campground also offers a petting zoo that children particularly enjoy.

Amusement park access: Lake Glory Campground provides free shuttle service to Knoebels Amusement Park, making it a convenient base for park visitors. "10 minutes to Knoebels with the mighty Phoenix. The best wooden coaster on the planet. Always a great time at Lake Glory," says Vince L. He adds, "Also, don't miss The Old Mill Ice Cream. The best Ice Cream on the planet!"

What campers like

Clean facilities: Jellystone Park Camp-Resort at Milton receives praise for its maintenance standards. "The facilities are immaculate and the customer service is spot on! Everything is well kept and it's centered in a beautiful valley with a creek running through," reports Brittany V.

Large sites: Many campers appreciate the roomier sites at certain campgrounds. At Indian Head Campground, "Pull thru sites are large and have plenty of space. Location is crucial venues to I-80 but no traffic noise. Friendly staff," according to Melissa F.

Waterfront camping: Splash Magic RV Resort offers riverfront sites that campers frequently mention. "Our site was right along the river, the view was amazing and the site was huge," notes Traci F. The campground also features water slides and a swimming pool that families enjoy.

What you should know

Site dimensions vary widely: At many local campgrounds, site size can be a concern. At Fantasy Island Campground, one camper reported, "Very tight parking, I told them my trailer was 35 feet long, they put me in a site that was impossible to back into. 4 different sites had to move their vehicles and I still couldn't do it."

Temperature fluctuations: The area experiences significant temperature changes, even during summer months. At Knoebels Campground, "We went in late august and although it was pool weather during the day time the temperatures dropped somewhat dramatically into the evening hours so bring clothes for both 70-80 degree weather and 40-50 degree weather overnight," advises Derek W.

Off-season limitations: Many campgrounds in the region have limited availability from November through March. Penn Avon Campground operates from April 1 to October 31, while others like Lake Glory Campground run from April 15 to October 15.

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: Williamsport South-Nittany Mountain KOA features extensive play facilities. "The playground was fantastic and looked to be new, and there was a jumping pillow and a pool," writes Jessica N.

Scheduled activities: Jellystone Park Camp-Resort at Milton provides organized events for children. "This place was awesome! My children had so much fun. They had the entire weekend planned for us. My wife and I don't like to so having a busy weekend for the kiddos was a great thing," explains Brian C.

Cabin options: Several campgrounds offer cabin rentals as alternatives to tent camping. At Knoebels Campground, "We have camped in our pop up but we have also rented the cabins here too. Single cabins have three double beds with two up top in the loft and one down below," notes Jen R., who adds a practical tip: "I would suggest bringing an air mattress to sleep on as the mats are old and used."

Tips from RVers

Site leveling challenges: RVers should prepare for uneven sites at several campgrounds. One camper at Knoebels Campground reported, "The site was plenty spacious for our pup and TV, but was not level at all. In fact, none of the surrounding sites looked very level."

Hook-up availability: Full hook-up sites are available at numerous camping areas near Sunbury, but availability varies. At Indian Head Campground, "The sites were all FHU. There seem to be many semi-permanent residents but plenty of room for transients like us passing through," according to Ralph L.

Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds can be challenging. When visiting Indian Head Campground, one reviewer cautions, "Some GPS (like mine) might take you off the beaten track to get here!"

Frequently Asked Questions

What campgrounds are available in Sunbury, PA?

Several campgrounds are available in and around Sunbury, PA. Fantasy Island Campground is located directly in Sunbury, offering reservable sites with water, toilets, and big-rig-friendly accommodations. For those willing to travel a short distance, Shady Oak Campground offers both full hookup gravel sites and more natural grassy sites without sewer connections, creating a camping park feel. The campground features clean bathrooms with hot water and extremely friendly staff. Other nearby options include Splash Magic RV Resort near Northumberland and Penn Avon Campground near Selinsgrove, both providing easy access to the Sunbury area while offering standard camping amenities.

Are there wooded camping options near Sunbury, PA?

Yes, there are several wooded camping options near Sunbury. Worlds End State Park Campground offers heavily wooded sites with beautiful trails, amazing views, and access to Loyalsock Creek. The park provides a true forest immersion experience, though some sites are closer to the main road than others. Another excellent wooded option is Hemlock Acres Camp Ground, which provides peaceful, quiet sites nestled in Pennsylvania's forests. Both locations offer a genuine woodland camping experience with plenty of trees providing shade and privacy between most campsites. For the best wooded experience, try to reserve sites away from main roads and request more secluded options when making reservations.

Can I find tent camping facilities around Sunbury?

Yes, there are several tent camping facilities around Sunbury. Little Pine State Park Campground offers beautiful tent sites along a stream with mountain views. This park provides electric hookups with convenient water fill-up locations, a dump station, and access to the Mid State hiking trail. Another option is Russell P Letterman Campground — Bald Eagle State Park, which features private sites with grassy areas perfect for tent setup. The campground offers asphalt parking pads with large gravel areas that include firepits. For a more rustic experience, Shikellamy State Park Campground provides hike-in tent sites with basic amenities like water and toilets.