Codorus State Park offers multiple glamping options beyond what traditional camping provides, with comfortable climate-controlled accommodations that balance comfort and outdoor connection. Tent campsites provide more direct contact with nature, situated on level pads that maintain good drainage during Pennsylvania's variable weather conditions. Several campgrounds near Shrewsbury, Pennsylvania provide convenient bases for exploring the region's mix of natural areas and historical attractions in all seasons except deep winter.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground provides easy lake access for anglers. "We caught a handful of bass and an absurd amount of bluegill from shore," writes one visitor. The park stocks its fishing areas regularly, making it suitable for beginners and experienced fishers alike.
Horseback battlefield tours: Artillery Ridge Campground places visitors directly next to Gettysburg's historical sites. "Amazing location surrounded by the national park. The grounds are nice and shaded, and you don't feel crowded," notes one camper. The campground features a horse rescue operation where visitors can take guided battlefield tours on horseback.
Water recreation: Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground maintains a large swimming beach with special fencing to keep geese away from the swimming area. "The LARGE beach area in the QR day use area is one of the nicest I've ever seen at a PA state park, with tons of picnic tables with grills, a playground, a volleyball court," explains a reviewer.
Disc golf courses: Gifford Pinchot offers two complete 18-hole disc golf courses, one in the Conewago day use area and another in the Quaker Race area. A visitor warns: "BEWARE of poison ivy!! We played the first 10 holes around the Conewago day use area and I was shocked at how much poison ivy we had to dodge."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Tucquan Park Family Campground maintains well-kept bathhouses and common areas. "Clean bathhouses! Fun activities planned through the season," notes one regular visitor. Several reviewers specifically mention the cleanliness of the bathrooms compared to other campgrounds in the region.
Spacious sites: Merry Meadows Recreation Farm provides good site separation, particularly in wooded areas. "We stayed in one of the cabins, which had 2 beds and a bunk bed, sink and toilet, refrigerator, microwave, dining table and sofa. There was also a front porch with picnic table and fire pit," describes one camper. The layout provides privacy while maintaining access to amenities.
Off-season quiet: Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA offers particularly peaceful camping during fall months. "It's a koa but it's great, no one was there when we went in October. We had the whole place to ourselves," reports a fall visitor. The campground maintains full services during shoulder seasons with fewer crowds.
Organized activities: Glamping near Shrewsbury, Pennsylvania often includes scheduled entertainment. "Lots of events for everyone of all ages. The sites were a little close together but still plenty of room," notes a visitor to Tucquan Park. Many campgrounds run seasonal themed weekends throughout their operating season.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most upscale glamping options close during winter months. Codorus State Park Campground operates from "2nd Friday April to November 1" according to their official listing, which matches most other glamping facilities in the region.
Site selection matters: Gettysburg Campground offers varied site experiences depending on location. "It is a wonderful place to have Kids. tons of things for them to do. we were in tent sites which felt bigger than most and were right by river," shares a tent camper. Sites near water tend to be more popular and book quickly.
Wildlife concerns: Tree cover provides shade but potential hazards too. "One of the drawbacks of this campground is that a lot of the trees are black walnut trees and the squirrels do not shy away from dropping the walnuts like bombs on your head, car, or table when you're preparing breakfast," warns a Gettysburg Campground visitor.
Advance reservations required: Cedar Lake Family Campground fills quickly during peak season. Sites with particular features (waterfront, electric hookups, cabin amenities) often book months in advance, especially for holiday weekends and summer.
Tips for camping with families
Look for designated kids' areas: Thousand Trails Circle M offers specific family-focused amenities. "We happened to be there on the weekend a magician came, my kids loved it. They have an indoor and outdoor pool. Nice playground," notes a parent. The campground provides scheduled entertainment focused specifically on children.
Pool availability: Cedar Lake Family Campground maintains swimming facilities popular with younger visitors. "We camped at Codorus State Park for the first time a few years ago while out east. We really love this Campground!" shares one family, noting the variety of recreation options available for different age groups.
Educational opportunities: Gettysburg Campground provides historical learning combined with outdoor recreation. "It is a nice, family oriented campground. Easy walk to the lake with a small beach," explains a parent who visited with a 3-year-old. The proximity to historical sites creates opportunities for educational activities between outdoor recreation.
Consider noise levels: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park offers extensive kid-focused activities that create a lively atmosphere. "Super clean, beautiful campground. So many activities to entertain kids, we couldn't fit it all in!" writes an enthusiastic parent. Families seeking quiet should book sites farther from main activity areas.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Merry Meadows Recreation Farm offers full-service RV sites with reliable utilities. "The RV sites are comfortable with all the amenities. And the customer service is impeccable," notes one reviewer. The campground provides water, electric and sewer connections at premium sites.
Site leveling considerations: Thousand Trails Circle M requires careful attention to site selection. "As with all thousand trails, this campground is first come best site. While the top part of the campground seemed more communal, we chose the lower, Riverside sites and we're glad we did!" explains an RV camper. Site conditions vary significantly within the same campground.
Road access limitations: Artillery Ridge Campground provides historical proximity but some access challenges. "The roads are narrow, but the sites are large and and level," notes one visitor to Cedar Lake. RVs over 35 feet may find navigation difficult in some sections of the older campgrounds.
Seasonal site availability: Seasonal RV options exist for longer-term stays. "Stayed here for a few days for a quick getaway. Our 3 young kids enjoyed the playground the most — there were lots of fun things for the kids on the playground," explains a visitor to Tucquan Park, which accommodates both short-term and seasonal RVers.
