Campsite options near Swengel, Pennsylvania typically operate from spring through fall, with closures during winter months when temperatures drop below freezing. The region sits within the Ridge and Valley section of the Appalachian Mountains, with elevations ranging from 500 to 2,200 feet. Most camping areas in central Pennsylvania have limited or no cell service, particularly in state forest locations.
What to do
Stargazing opportunities: Raymond B. Winter State Park Campground offers exceptional night sky viewing due to minimal light pollution. "The night skies were beautiful (starry starry night w/little light pollution) and trails galore leading directly from the campground," notes one visitor. Another camper adds, "A great place to camp and spend time with family and friends, you can enjoy lots of trails and explore the woods, and also a great place to enjoy the night sky, see the stars and the Milky Way in the summer months."
Creek exploration: Poe Paddy State Park Campground features direct access to Penn's Creek. "The creek and river are perfect for curious little ones to explore. Great fishing spot. The walk to the tunnel is quick and easy for all ages," one reviewer explains. The creek serves as a focal point for campers of all ages, with sites offering private water access.
Tubing: Little Mexico Campground provides tubing access on Penn's Creek. "We enjoy tubing down the river right to the campground," shares one regular visitor. The creek's gentle current makes it suitable for families and groups seeking water recreation during summer months.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer secluded sites with natural barriers. At Raymond B. Winter State Park Campground, visitors appreciate that "camp sites all over and very secluded and private. 10/10." Sites with creek access may be closer together, while others offer more isolation.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds maintain swimming areas during summer months. "The beach area is clean, there's a big playground on it as well as a concession stand and store (open during the summer)," notes a camper at Raymond B. Winter. Another visitor describes the water as "super cold and clean water, as it is fed by two mountains streams. The beach is amazing. Tons and tons of clean sand, no rocks, and lots of space to play and swim."
Rustic camping experience: Bald Eagle State Forest provides primitive sites for those seeking minimal development. "If you're looking to escape the noise and crowds of state parks in PA the state forests are the way to go," explains one camper. Sites here are described as "primitive and spread out, but absolutely free if you have a permit."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds in the area have poor or non-existent connectivity. At Penns Creek Campground, one visitor notes, "We pulled in to camp for the weekend, nice location right on the creek. I work online so service is a must. Initial thoughts were, clean quiet, not very secluded, if we didn't need phone service it would have been perfect place to camp."
Reservation requirements: Campgrounds require advance booking during peak season. At Poe Paddy State Park, visitors should understand "there are a few distinct areas to stay depending on your needs and luck. There is NO cell service and park rangers do 'rounds' but aren't stationed at the site."
Access road challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult access roads. At Bald Eagle State Forest, campers caution that "the road getting here involved a hairpin turn (from Long Run Rd. onto Ransaires Rd.) that large set ups would not be able to make." Motorized sites may have unexpected barriers, with one visitor reporting "there were two giant boulders blocking the pathway to the actual site."
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Williamsport South-Nittany Mountain KOA offers extensive child-friendly amenities. "The playground was fantastic and looked to be new, and there was a jumping pillow and a pool," reports one visitor. Another family mentions, "My daughter loves the pools, gem mining, and slushies. The farm animals are adorable."
Kid-friendly activities: Scheduled events keep children entertained at several campgrounds. At Williamsport South KOA, one camper notes there are "activities, play facilities, animals to feed and pet, pond. Wonderful Camp store." Another visitor adds, "Hayride or firetruck ride in evening. Movie at night. Crafts to do with kids too."
Swimming beaches: Several locations maintain designated swimming areas. One camper at Raymond B. Winter State Park Campground describes "a lake a beach to swim in, it has a lot to offer and gives off good vibes all around." Poe Paddy campers note they can "go to Poe Valley park to the beach at the like in about 20 min."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Poe Paddy State Park Campground has limitations for larger vehicles. "I wouldn't recommend big campers as most of the spots would be a pain to back into," advises one RVer. The campground features only two sites with electric hookups, making it better suited for smaller setups.
Campground amenities: RV sites vary significantly in hook-up options. Little Mexico Campground receives mixed reviews, with one camper noting, "Our site was big. The pool is nice. That's about it. It had rained but there were so many mud puddles everywhere. They really need to fill in pot holes with some stones."
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds close during winter months. At Williamsport South-Nittany Mountain KOA, campers can expect full amenities during peak season. "Pay attention to the Theme Weekend Events– they will be crowded and there could be an additional fee. We were charged $20 for the Care Camp Weekend," shares one RVer.
