Raystown Lake sits at around 760 feet above sea level in central Pennsylvania, with the surrounding campgrounds nestled in the Appalachian foothills. The hilly terrain makes for variable campsite conditions, with many RV parks situated on uneven ground requiring leveling equipment. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing from November through March, with occasional snowfall affecting winter camping options.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Raystown Lake offers multiple access points for anglers, with bluegill abundant at locations like Tautman Run and Aitch. "Raystown Lake has multiple access areas that are probably 15-20 minutes away - we fished at Tautman Run and Aitch - both were accessible and had lots of bluegill to steal our worms," notes a camper at Raystown Lake/Saxton KOA at Four Seasons.
Weekend events: Many rv campgrounds near Todd, Pennsylvania schedule regular activities for campers. "We stayed during Bigfoot weekend. It was super fun as our family likes bigfoot fun. We started out Friday night getting the offered $12 bbq plate that included pork burnt ends, beans and potato salad," shares a visitor at Timber Run Campground.
Miniature golf: Several campgrounds maintain on-site courses. At Friendship Village Campground & RV Park, families can enjoy "mini golf, fishing, and special events on weekends," according to one reviewer who mentioned these activities were available even during off-season visits.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Bathroom quality varies significantly between campgrounds. "Beautiful location! Excellent service, really nice owners that are very helpful and friendly. Clean and luxurious bathrooms and restrooms," writes a visitor at Honey Bear Campground.
Jumping pillow: This popular feature at select campgrounds provides entertainment for children. "For tent campers I recommend staying in the area of sites 5-25 as there is a very nice bathhouse very close by. The best sites if you have kids are sites 145-171 as those are right beside the jumping pillow, playground and gaga ball pit," suggests a Friendship Village camper.
Movie nights: Campground entertainment includes outdoor films. "The property had a movie showing in their barn on Saturday night (Despicable Me) and they also seem to schedule a lot of live entertainment, mostly Bluegrass," notes one visitor to Friendship Village Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal changes: Most rv parks in Todd, Pennsylvania area have different amenities available depending on when you visit. "We went camping here for the first time this weekend. Although it was the off season there was still tons to do," explains a camper at Friendship Village who visited during cooler months.
Site leveling challenges: The mountainous terrain creates uneven camping surfaces. At James Creek RV Resort by Rjourney, sites may require additional equipment for proper RV setup, with water and electric hookups available but no sewer connections at individual sites.
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds that might affect light sleepers. "Nice campground, clean and plenty of activities for the kids. The only thing we didn't like was all of the road noise. This campground is located by 2 major highways and truck traffic and Jake brake are constant all night long," warns one Friendship Village visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Pool schedules: Swimming areas typically have specific operating hours. "The pool hours are a little later than most campgrounds as they open at 11 through the week and 12 on Sunday," notes a visitor to Friendship Village, adding "Neither pool has provided seating so you will need to bring your own camp chairs or towels."
Educational programs: Some parks offer structured learning activities. A visitor at Timber Run Campground shared, "On Sunday we had pancakes and later a visit from RayCEP which is an education program that PA DNCR provides talking about various outdoorsy type things. This is primarily for kids, but we sat and listened too."
Playground locations: Consider site proximity to play areas based on family needs. "There are many playgrounds spread out across the property as well as a jumping pillow and a very well-built gaga ball pit," mentions a Friendship Village reviewer who stayed at site 41.
Tips from RVers
Alternative travel routes: Local knowledge can save significant driving time. "One last tip: if traveling from the Altoona area, go out through Martinsburg over Cove Mountain Rd - it saves you 30 minutes to an hour," advises a camper at Timber Run Campground.
RV site selection: At Friendship Village, "For big rig campers, you need to stay at the upper portion of the campground at sites 200-500," recommends a visitor who found the campground well-suited for larger vehicles.
Utility access: Water connections may be shared between sites at some campgrounds. "We shared 1 water source with 2 other campers. In order to hook anything up, you had to be in your neighbor's space," warns a visitor to Western Village RV Park, indicating the need to verify hookup arrangements before arrival.
