Temple, Pennsylvania sits at the northeastern edge of the Appalachian Mountains with elevations between 400-600 feet. The region experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. Most campgrounds in the area are situated among wooded terrain with mixed hardwood forests that provide natural shade for summer campers.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At French Creek State Park Campground, anglers can access both Hopewell and Scott's Run lakes. "There are several warm water fish in the lakes including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish. Ice fishing is also allowed at both lakes and the ice thickness is monitored," notes Ellen C.
Boulder field exploration: The signature feature at Blue Rocks Family Campground is its vast glacial rock formation. "Our children loved to climb all over the rocks, that is where they spent most of the time," says Terri S. The boulder field provides a unique geological attraction not commonly found at other regional campgrounds.
Trail access: Many campgrounds near Temple connect directly to established hiking networks. "It's right at the base of one of the most popular hiking trail, The Pinnacle. It's nestled in the woods and is very rustic," explains Darrien K. about Blue Rocks Family Campground. The Pinnacle Trail offers moderate difficulty hikes with elevation gains under 1,000 feet.
Disc golf: French Creek State Park features a wooded disc golf course that adds challenge to the game. "There is also a frisbee golf course in the woods to make it even more interesting and competitive. The trees definitely make it harder!" mentions Jen R. The 18-hole course winds through the forest with varied terrain.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the layout at Hickory Run Family Camping Resort. "Large campground with RV sites and Tent only. Wooded area lots of activities. Surprise find was the 'camp store'. Amazing variety aisles full of any and everything you could possibly need," reports Doreen S. Sites in the 140-160 loop are frequently mentioned as having better spacing.
Year-round availability: Several campgrounds remain operational through winter. "Stayed over for one night in early December. Showers and bathrooms were great! The honor system of payment at the office makes it really easy to come in late and leave early," notes Galit P. about French Creek State Park Campground.
Specialized dog areas: For campers with reactive dogs, Rolling Hills Retreats provides a solution. "Her boyfriend and I wanted to plan an outdoor camping trip but we're completely over having no privacy, worrying about my reactive dog, feeling like we had to follow ridiculous rules when going camping," shares Jillian P., who found the private camping experience accommodating for pets who need space from other campers.
Clean facilities: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Temple maintain high standards for bathhouses. "Bathrooms were very nice and clean with large showers. Nice area to wash dishes," notes Jen R. about French Creek State Park. Most campgrounds offer shower houses with hot water, though some charge quarter fees for usage.
What you should know
Site selection matters: At Appalachian Camping Resort, knowing which areas to request can impact your experience. "Campground almost empty and they pack you all in one area," notes Mark M. For a better experience, Melissa Y. advises: "The row starting with 310 on the map is all buddy sites. We have already booked our next trip and made sure we were not on another buddy site."
Weather considerations: The area receives significant rainfall in spring and summer. "We liked camping here. My kids went fishing and every cast they caught a fish, some were small... but hey the kids had fun. The sites are smaller and you definitely want to be on the top of the hill or right below the country store. The people from Sites 100-116 we mad, it rained and the water ran down hill," explains Michelle E. about Hickory Run.
Check-in procedures vary: Some campgrounds have streamlined arrival processes. "We pulled into the campground and they had a table set up outside to 'check in.' We did not wait in a mile long line to park and go into the office," reports Melissa Y. about Appalachian Camping Resort.
Pet loop limitations: French Creek State Park designates specific areas for pets. "We have never stayed in Loop C before. This is the only loop that allows pets," notes Jen R. Other pet friendly campgrounds near Temple may have similar restrictions, so checking pet policies before booking is essential.
Tips for camping with families
Pool facilities: Lake-In-Wood Campground offers both indoor and outdoor swimming options. "Huge pond for fishing, miniature gold, nice indoor and outdoor pool and a kiddie pool. Goats to pet and watch," says Jen R. The kiddie pool provides a safer option for younger children with water depths under 1 foot.
Playground access: Many campgrounds feature play areas for children. "There is a huge lake where you can rent canoes and kayaks. A huge pool that has a beautiful view overlooking the lake. There are trails for mountain biking or hiking, a frisbee golf course, playground at the campground and at the lake," notes Jen R. about French Creek State Park.
Site terrain: Be aware that some sites may present challenges for tent setup. "Our site was a little rocky so be prepared with a good mat/mattress if tent camping," advises Maggie H. about Blue Rocks Family Campground. Many campgrounds in the region have rocky soil typical of the Appalachian foothills.
Special events: Campgrounds frequently host family-focused activities. "The campground had numerous activities set up all throughout the day and there was something for everyone. I find that a lot of campground activities tend to be centered around small children and with my kids being 13 and 12, they're usually left out of the fun. There was bingo, crafts, a vendor craft show, hot dog eating contest for adults and kids, candy scramble in the dark for adults and kids," shares Melissa Y. about Appalachian Camping Resort.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Several campgrounds require attention to site selection for RVs. "The buddy site was very narrow and since our buddy arrived first we had no choice but to park farther down on the site to avoid our awnings touching and that left us very uneven. It was a hill and no matter how many times we adjusted, we just could not get leveled," reports Melissa Y. about Appalachian Camping Resort.
Hookup availability: Sun Valley Campground offers full-service sites but with limited amenities. "Cable does not work. No internet. 2 bars LTE on T-Mobile. We stayed in loop 700 - very nice, new and well-maintained area with mature trees and lovely fall colors," notes Lori. Most RV sites in the area offer 30-amp service with some locations providing 50-amp hookups.
Site dimensions: French Creek State Park provides level pads for RVs. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other," mentions Jen R. However, size restrictions apply at many locations: "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."
