Camping options near Tower City provide diverse accommodations in Pennsylvania's coal region, where elevations range from 700 to 1,500 feet across the landscape. The area features both commercial campgrounds and state parks within reasonable driving distance, with seasonal availability typically running April through October due to the region's distinct four-season climate.
What to do
Creek access: The Swatara Creek at Jonestown/Hershey KOA offers excellent water recreation options. "Love this place. Staff is helpful and friendly. They nice level sites with great atmosphere. Campground is connected to the Swatara Rail trial which is great for biking. The Swatara creek runs right next to it so it is great for kayaking, tubing, etc," notes Bobby S.
Fishing opportunities: Locust Lake State Park Campground provides multiple fishing areas around its namesake lake. "Me and my 10yo visisted Locust Lake on our road trip for my Northeast speaking tour. We both loved it! We're both really big water rats and couldn't wait to get the kayaks into the water," shares DrDavid P. The lake is regularly stocked and features accessible shoreline areas.
Theme park access: Lake Glory Campground serves as a convenient base for visiting Knoebels Amusement Park. "Plenty of tent, rv spots and cabins too. The lake is stocked and the fish are always hungry. 10 minutes to Knoebels with the mighty Phoenix. The best wooden coaster on the planet," explains Vince L. The campground provides free shuttle service to the amusement park.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently praise the maintenance standards at Echo Valley Campground. "The pool is big and no one in it. It had a zero entry which is nice for us older people. There was a playground, volleyball and basketball," notes B M. The campground also features spacious pull-through sites with full hookups.
Activities for children: Families appreciate the range of options at Camp Swatara, one of the most child-friendly campgrounds near Tower City. "Great campground for a fun, family weekend. Lots for kids to do. Boating, swimming, fishing, splash pad, mini golf etc. Fun camp store too," says Kaylene H. The campground includes both organized activities and natural play areas.
Quiet atmosphere: Some campgrounds offer a more peaceful setting. "5 miles from I-81, quiet and clean! Wait for breakfast at the restaurant," shares Michael J. about Twin Grove RV Resort. This distance from major highways creates a buffer from traffic noise while maintaining accessibility.
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Some campgrounds have nearby rail lines that create noise issues. At Hersheypark Camping Resort, "Nice camp ground but super loud bc of the trains. Bath houses are nice and clean. I would suggest making sure you aren't close to the tracks bc the trains run all night long!" advises Kit.
Highway proximity: Certain campgrounds are positioned close to major roadways. "This spot is great! Super friendly folks there. Not to much to do in the area but it is somewhat close to the Appalachian Trail if you're into that," notes Jonathan F. about Camp A While. The proximity creates convenience but may affect noise levels.
Tick awareness: Wooded sites across the region can harbor ticks during warm months. At Locust Lake, the combination of woods and water creates ideal conditions for ticks, particularly in densely wooded tent sites. Wearing appropriate clothing and performing regular tick checks is advisable.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playgrounds: Family campers benefit from the recreational options at Twin Grove RV Resort. "We come here once a year to take our grandkids on an annual camping trip with us. Lots to do! Playgrounds, special events, crafts. Very nice sites and shower houses are very clean," shares Shirley M.
Water recreation: Children often enjoy the various water features available. "Decent spaces between sites, with a smaller section for tents than RVs. Tent sites also have raised pads/beds for the tents to be set up and have options near the creek for both tents and RVs," explains Marlaina M. about Jonestown/Hershey KOA.
Pet-friendly options: Many campgrounds accommodate family pets. Several pet-friendly campgrounds near Tower City provide designated off-leash areas. "This is an amazing campground! There are 2 dog parks right next to each other, which is great for your furry friend to be able to run around and play off leash," notes Tiffany S.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers should research site specifics before booking. "We loved it here. It accommodates a large family reunion with plenty of space. The campground was well populated but we didn't feel cramped at all," shares Chris G. about Twin Grove RV Resort.
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds present leveling difficulties. "Beware: these sites are not travel trailer friendly. We booked two nights but upon arriving, we realized that there was no way to fit our trailer (only 25 ft). Trees were growing up in all the sites," warns Chelsea B. about Locust Lake State Park Campground.
Hookup availability: Full-service sites can be limited at certain campgrounds. "Great place. No water hook up. No sewer hook up. Just electric at certain sites," notes Brandon W. RVers requiring full hookups should confirm availability when booking.
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