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Best Campgrounds in Pennsylvania

3,756 Reviews

Pennsylvania state parks provide a diverse network of cabin camping options throughout the state. Ricketts Glen State Park Campground offers well-maintained cabins nestled among its famous waterfalls and old-growth forests, with sites that accommodate both rustic and modern preferences. Other notable cabin locations include Cook Forest State Park, French Creek State Park, and Promised Land State Park, which feature varying levels of amenities from primitive to full-service cabins. Most park cabins include basic furniture, electricity, and outdoor fire rings.

Road access to cabin sites varies by season, with many parks maintaining plowed roads during winter months. "Stayed at this campsite, taking our pop-up camper on its maiden voyage to the Grand Canyon of PA. The area we selected was not busy. Campsite appeared to have a lot of seasonal campers," noted one visitor about Stony Fork Creek Campground. Pennsylvania's state park cabin rental system typically requires reservations up to 11 months in advance, with peak summer and fall weekends often booking completely within days of opening. Winter cabin camping remains available at several parks including Caledonia, French Creek, and Ohiopyle, though amenities may be reduced during off-season periods.

Cabin campers frequently highlight the cleanliness and maintenance of Pennsylvania's facilities. The cabins at Gifford Pinchot State Park and Hickory Run State Park receive consistently high ratings for their proximity to water activities and hiking trails. Year-round cabin options typically include heat sources for cold-weather camping, though visitors should verify specific amenities when booking. Several reviews note the family-friendly atmosphere at many Pennsylvania cabin campgrounds, with facilities like Codorus State Park offering organized activities during summer months. Most cabin areas feature central bathhouses with showers and flush toilets, though some more remote cabin sites may only have vault toilets nearby.

Best Camping Sites in Pennsylvania (844)

    1. Kentuck Campground — Ohiopyle State Park

    83 Reviews
    Ohiopyle, PA
    Website
    +1 (724) 329-8591

    $20 - $54 / night

    "Ohiopyle is located in a beautiful area of Pennsylvania we've camped there a couple of times and have been able to get last minute tent sites. Lots of outdoor activities nearby."

    "First, I must say, we did not anticipate camping, hiking or rafting in Pennsylvania."

    2. French Creek State Park Campground

    82 Reviews
    Geigertown, PA
    Website
    +1 (610) 582-9680

    $20 - $75 / night

    "We were looking for someplace close to the city but away from the hustle and bustle of our city life, this was the perfect little steal-away; relatively close by, great car camping spots, nice easy hikes"

    "Bathhouse: Pennsylvania state parks get high marks for their modern, clean restrooms and this park (at least the B Loop) was no exception."

    3. Ricketts Glen State Park Campground

    68 Reviews
    Sweet Valley, PA
    Website
    +1 (570) 477-5675

    $20 - $92 / night

    "The biggest draw to this state park (which no one in Pennsylvania I spoke with seemed to know about) is the 22 waterfalls!"

    "Campground is situated very short walk from beach/lake and waterfalls."

    4. Hickory Run State Park Campground

    60 Reviews
    Albrightsville, PA
    Website
    +1 (272) 808-6192

    $20 - $72 / night

    "Great location lots of hiking trails right in the park and many more close by"

    "Hickory Run is in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania. We had a full hook-up site in the back loop, pet friendly part of the campground.   "

    5. Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground

    57 Reviews
    Wellsville, PA
    Website
    +1 (717) 292-4112

    $20 - $89 / night

    "We have a small camper and there are some great sites on the lake side to park it where you can get AMAZING sunset views.  "

    "We had site 108 which is an electric site along the shore and close to the beach, and it was perfect for our needs. "

    6. Cook Forest State Park Campground & Cabins

    51 Reviews
    Cooksburg, PA
    Website
    +1 (814) 744-8407

    $20 - $67 / night

    "Look at the campground map before you book your site if being close to a bathroom is important; ours was across the campsite behind us but we had to step in a rock set in the stream to get to it without"

    "There is a pet trail through the woods that was really great to take our dog rather than walking around the campground."

    7. Raccoon Creek State Park Campground

    49 Reviews
    Clinton, PA
    Website
    +1 (724) 899-2200

    $18 - $128 / night

    "One tip: each loop does not have its own entrance from a main road. To get to C you drive through or past A and B. Same with E and F. Each loop has its own set of flush toilets and showers."

    "All and All great place to camp, good things; 1) lots of deer, turkeys, racoons, owls etc. 2) close to a farmer's market Jankowski's great place to get fresh food, 3) once you have level camp, all good"

    8. Codorus State Park Campground

    40 Reviews
    Porters Sideling, PA
    Website
    +1 (717) 637-2816

    $20 - $195 / night

    "The trails from Campground are ok for a short walk, not much of a lake view but mostly shaded trail.  The pool is conveniently located maybe even walking distance for some.  "

    "Older State Park just outside of Hanover, PA. Used it as a home base to explore Gettysburg and the surrounding area."

    9. Caledonia State Park Campground

    36 Reviews
    Fayetteville, PA
    Website
    +1 (717) 352-2161

    $20 - $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."

    10. Pickerel Point Campground — Promised Land State Park

    33 Reviews
    Skytop, PA
    Website
    +1 (570) 676-3428

    $20 - $44 / night

    "Pros: beautiful new bathrooms -private lakeside walk-in sites -beavers! Far away but exciting nonetheless -the Conservation Walk on the island is short, easy, and beautiful. Well-marked."

    "Some sites are right on the lake, just put the kayak on the shore, and you're ready for an early morning paddle."

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Recent Reviews in Pennsylvania

3756 Reviews of 844 Pennsylvania Campgrounds

  • Patrick H.
    May. 24, 2026

    Hosack Run

    Great park, not so great camp site

    We stayed at site #146 in Hosack Run. The campground itself is a small, pet friendly loop and has very nice bathrooms/showers that were very clean and appeared fairly brand new. There is a very small playground in the loop (just swings and seesaws) and Caledonia State Park itself has lots of nice hiking and history. It sits about 20 minutes outside of Gettysburg National Battlefield. The campsite itself (#146) was pretty abysmal. It is extremely small and looks like it was once the parking lot for the restrooms. You can still see the remnants of the painted yellow parking lines on the asphalt. Our small, 12 foot pop-up barely fit with just enough room for our tow vehicle. Also, your neighbor (site #144) sits right on top of you. Lastly, we stayed during a rainy Memorial Day weekend and learned that our former parking space of a campsite sits inside of a bowl in which all other campsites drains into creating a small lake around our firepit. The one plus side was that it is extremely close to the facilities. There are lots of other nice camp sites in this loop, but this was not one of them. I would choose this site again if I was extremely desperate to camp here and no other sites were available. 5 stars for the park, trails, and locale. 1 star for the campsite.

  • Charles S.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 24, 2026

    Two Mile Run County Park

    Beautiful Forrested Camping

    What a hidden gem this place is! Located deep in a county park in the forested rolling hills of PA. Every site is huge and mostly private. Combination of paved main roads and gravel dirt camp loops. Most of the sites look relatively flat. The whole park is spotless clean, no trash anywhere! Bathrooms and showers are clean and maintained regularly. There is no camp store! Stock up before arrival. Firewood and ice. Can be outside the park at a bait shop and local farm about 2 miles away. Or just stop in Oil City first. You can grab a site online .....site unseen and be happy on arrival. Definitely on my must return list. Happy camping!

  • Charles S.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 23, 2026

    Kibbes Island Park Campground

    1st non 5 star review.

    Kibbes campground is a old family business located on an island on the Allegheny River. Great spot for fisherman!!!! Park roads are tore up and very muddy. Bathrooms aren't the cleanest and run down. Shower house doesnt work. But they do have a nice indoor recreation room with darts, slot machines, pool tables, and nice seating. While it wouldn't be my pick of destinations, I am glad I found it. It has a old school charm and the owners are super nice!

  • b
    May. 23, 2026

    Tobyhanna State Park Campground

    really clean and easy to get around, kinda crammed :/

    we loved both of our stays here! it was mine and my partner’s first time camping and we had a great experience. the layout was really nice, and easy to get to. the bathrooms were really close to walk to and VERY clean! the only issue we faced was the closeness of the other campsites. we went during off season and during the week, so it didn’t really affect us but i can see how this place can get crowded and a little noisy during peak season. with all the being said, it was WONDERFUL!! we LOVED the late checkout (3pm) and loved the peaceful atmosphere! i would definitely recommend this place for beginner campers!

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 22, 2026

    Clarion River Campground

    Quiet Memorial Day Weekend

    We arrived mid week for Memorial Day camping. No hookups obviously but beautiful large site with room for probably up to 30’ RV. The sites are WAY further apart than you think they are. Like spread more than 10 miles.

  • Charles S.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 22, 2026

    Red Bridge Campground

    Hidden Treasure

    Medium sized campground. All the sites are large and private ish. Not a bad or uneven site anywhere. Showers and bathrooms are clean. Ice and firewood available at the host. Easy access to the shoreline for fishing or boating. Their are 2 trading posts 1.6 miles outside the campground going towards Kane, PA. They are well stocked and have everything you forgot plus live bait.

  • michael R.
    May. 22, 2026

    Edgemere Roadside Campsites — Delaware State Forest

    A Hidden Gem in the Woods: Edgemere Flag Ridge Site 11 Review

    Pulling into Site 11 at Edgemere Flag Ridge feels like discovering a hidden campsite that most people pass right by. The site sits comfortably off the beaten path, giving it a secluded feel without being difficult to reach. Access was easy and any standard vehicle should have no trouble getting in. Traffic on the adjoining road was minimal, which added to the quiet atmosphere.

    Amenities are basic, consisting of a picnic table and fire ring, so do not expect much beyond the essentials. That said, the surrounding woods made up for it with plenty of easy to gather firewood nearby, which was a refreshing change from some other public sites.

    At night, the sky opened up nicely for stargazing and made for a peaceful camping experience. Cell service was intermittent, enough to occasionally check in if needed but spotty enough to still feel disconnected. If you are looking for a quiet, simple campsite with a sense of seclusion and easy access, this one is worth considering.

  • michael R.
    May. 22, 2026

    Cherry Springs State Park Campground

    Great Stars, Better Campsites Elsewhere

    The campground was decent enough, but I would probably skip it next time and stay in the state forest instead. The campsites are not especially private and while they are not directly on top of each other, you are definitely aware of nearby campers. That said, it is a great location for stargazing and the pit toilets are convenient if you prefer at least some amenities.

    The biggest downside was the lack of firewood. None was available on site and there was little opportunity to gather any from the surrounding woods. After one night, I felt like I had gotten the experience. For my money, I would rather camp nearby in Susquehannock State Forest where you can find far more private and secluded spots for less cost. You give up amenities like toilets, but if privacy and a quieter camping experience matter more, the state forest feels like the better option while still keeping you close enough to enjoy the dark skies near Cherry Springs State Park.

    One nearby spot that is absolutely worth the short drive is the Water Tank Vista overlook. The view alone makes the trip worthwhile, especially around sunset or on a clear day. If you are camping in the area, it is one of those places that feels like a hidden gem and adds a lot to the overall experience.

  • MsTrailBlazer 🏔.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 22, 2026

    Colonel Denning State Park Campground

    Snakes! 🐍 🥰

    Great park, alittle close together than I like. I wish I had picked 1-12 sites by the creek, but I don’t think I had much choice when I booked anyway.

Guide to Pennsylvania

Camping in Pennsylvania offers a mix of beautiful landscapes, family-friendly activities, and unique experiences. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there's something for everyone in the Keystone State.

What to do

  • Hiking and Nature Walks: Many campgrounds, like Cook Forest State Park Campground, have trails that wind through stunning forests. One camper noted, “If you're into hiking, there's lots to see here.”
  • Stargazing: For those who love the night sky, Cherry Springs State Park Campground is a must-visit. A reviewer said, “Great place for stargazing and astronomy!”
  • Water Activities: Campgrounds near lakes, like Seven Points, offer swimming, kayaking, and fishing. One visitor shared, “The lake is a great place to kayak, paddleboard, or just relax and enjoy the view.”

What campers like

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. A review from Lyman Run State Park Campground mentions, “This has to be the best campground I’ve ever been to. From the beautiful lake to the stunning views of the vistas, you are always feeling at peace.”
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds pride themselves on cleanliness. A camper at Black Moshannon State Park Campground said, “The bathhouse was pristine, and the shower was clean with plentiful hot water.”
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Crooked Run Campground — Prince Gallitzin State Park are great for families. One reviewer stated, “This is a great campground. Private beach on the lake for campground guest use only as well as a playground.”

What you should know

  • Site Proximity: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A visitor at Parker Dam State Park Campground mentioned, “The individual camp sites are all right on top of each other.”
  • Limited Cell Service: Many areas have poor cell reception. A camper at Black Moshannon State Park Campground noted, “Verizon and AT&T cell service were basically non-existent.”
  • Reservations Recommended: Popular spots fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A camper at Clear Creek State Park Campground said, “It is often challenging to reserve a site unless done far in advance.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and activities. A reviewer at Crooked Run Campground said, “There is a nice little lake area where you can rent kayaks and paddle boards.”
  • Pack Snacks and Meals: Some campgrounds don’t have stores nearby. A camper at Cook Forest State Park Campground mentioned, “There’s no camp store in the campground, which is something they could improve upon.”
  • Plan for Quiet Time: Many campgrounds have quiet hours. A visitor at Parker Dam State Park Campground noted, “Folks were very friendly, but nighttime was silent.”

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Some sites may not accommodate larger RVs. A camper at Seven Points said, “The sites here are some of the nicest we have ever seen. They are all big and private.”
  • Utilize Dump Stations: Make sure to empty your tanks before heading to your site. A reviewer at Red Bridge Recreation Area mentioned, “Each loop has a pit potty on it. Shower facility in the park, very very hot water.”
  • Bring Extra Water: Some campgrounds may not have water hookups. A camper at Bald Eagle State Park Primitive Campsite noted, “No water on site but available.”

Camping in Pennsylvania offers a unique blend of nature, family fun, and adventure. With so many options, you're bound to find the perfect spot for your next getaway!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the top waterfront camping sites in Pennsylvania?

Seven Points (PA) stands out with over 200 sites along beautiful Lake Raystown, offering prime waterfront locations and activities like swimming, fishing, and kayaking. Linesville Campground — Pymatuning State Park sits on the Pennsylvania-Ohio border beside a large lake, making it a fishing paradise with electric and non-electric sites available. Other excellent waterfront options include Ricketts Glen State Park with lakeside camping and spectacular waterfalls, and Gifford Pinchot State Park featuring shoreline camping on Pinchot Lake. For river enthusiasts, Clear Creek State Park offers sites along the Clarion River with excellent kayaking opportunities.

What are the best Pennsylvania state parks for camping?

Cook Forest State Park Campground & Cabins is a top choice with spacious sites featuring picnic tables and fire rings with grills, though bathroom facilities could use updating. Leonard Harrison State Park Campground offers an incredible experience adjacent to the stunning "Pennsylvania Grand Canyon" with beautiful views and exploration opportunities. Other excellent options include Worlds End State Park with amazing trail views and beach access along Loyalsock Creek, Lyman Run State Park with nearby Cherry Springs Dark Park for stargazing, and Hickory Run State Park featuring the famous Boulder Field. Most Pennsylvania state parks offer a mix of electric and non-electric sites, clean facilities, and abundant recreational activities.

What are the best campgrounds in Pennsylvania for families?

Pennsylvania offers excellent family-friendly campgrounds with activities for all ages. Pinch Pond Family Campground & RV Park features spacious sites, organized activities like music bingo, and convenient access to nearby attractions. Double Rainbow Farm provides a unique experience with friendly farm animals, swimming in the pond, and hiking opportunities in the adjacent National Forest. Families also enjoy Pequea Creek Campground for its picturesque setting, large sites with plenty of trees, and proximity to Lancaster's attractions, including covered bridges and river tubing. Look for campgrounds with amenities like playgrounds, swimming areas, and scheduled activities to keep children entertained throughout your stay.

What should I know about tent camping in Pennsylvania?

When tent camping in Pennsylvania, site selection is crucial. At Clear Creek State Park Campground, you'll find excellent tent sites, though RVers should avoid non-power sites due to uneven terrain. Lyman Run State Park Campground offers ideal tent camping with convenient amenities and incredible stargazing opportunities at nearby Cherry Springs Dark Park. Pennsylvania's seasonal weather requires preparation—pack for temperature variations even in summer, and be prepared for rain. Most state parks offer tent-specific areas with level pads, picnic tables, and fire rings. Always check reservation requirements as popular parks fill quickly during peak season (May-October). Consider elevating your tent with a footprint to manage occasional dampness, and be aware that many parks enforce quiet hours starting at 10 PM.

Keep Exploring

  5. View all Pennsylvania cities for camping