The Trout Run area occupies a unique position within Pennsylvania's Endless Mountains region at elevations ranging from 700 to 1,800 feet. This location in Lycoming County features dense forests, rolling hills, and numerous waterways including Lycoming Creek which runs directly through Trout Run. Camping options include state parks, private campgrounds, and primitive sites with seasonal operations typically running from April through October.
What to do
Hiking through waterfalls: Ricketts Glen State Park Campground offers access to 22 named waterfalls along well-marked trails. A camper noted, "We saw 18 of them on a four-mile moderate hike, but if you want to see the additional four, you could make it a seven-mile hike."
Riverside camping: At Riverside Campground & Riverside Roadhouse, visitors can enjoy the Susquehanna River. One reviewer shared, "We all took the kayaks out on the Susquehanna River that runs behind the property for a sunny paddle. Came back and went to a wine fest, in the park that is right next to the campground."
Primitive backpacking: The Old Logger's Path provides free backcountry camping opportunities for those seeking more remote experiences. A hiker mentioned, "Great area. Beautiful views and nice Forrest," while another said it was "An excellent weekend" for their backpacking trip.
What campers like
Quiet woodland settings: Ravensburg State Park Campground receives praise for its secluded atmosphere. One camper explained, "There are bushes and trees between the sites and it feels very private. Sometimes it can feel too secluded but the park ranger drives through a number of times."
Spacious tent areas: Happy Acres Resort offers designated tent camping areas with amenities. A camper mentioned, "We tent glamp with a Q air mattress and lots of room. Happy Acres had tent spots with electric and water. We were put in a hollow that had space for 6 tents, but with the exception of one (rainy) night when there was one other tent, we had the hollow to ourselves."
Accessible wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds provide opportunities to see local wildlife. At Little Pine State Park Campground, a visitor shared, "Great kayaking, hiking & fishing and just miles from Pine Creek proper," mentioning the natural attractions that draw them back repeatedly.
What you should know
Weather considerations: The region experiences significant seasonal changes that affect camping conditions. A reviewer at Little Pine State Park noted, "We go back again & again. Trees, clean, beautiful," but another camper warned about bugs: "It was extremely buggy when we went. Our dogs wouldn't come out of the camper because there was no relief."
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly throughout the region. At Worlds End State Park Campground, one visitor mentioned, "No cell service, which is refreshing. The sound of the creek nearby is really soothing."
Varying site privacy: Campsite arrangements differ widely between locations. At Ricketts Glen, a camper noted, "Site was pretty nice, but there is very little privacy as the sites are so close to each other. Also no service (Verizon)." Contrast this with Ravensburg where "They have tent pads which are nice but we have a 10x20 tent so we pick a site that the pad is flush with the surrounding ground."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Williamsport South-Nittany Mountain KOA offers numerous family amenities. A reviewer shared, "Swimming pool, recreation hall, fishing pond, biking, hiking/walking, mini golf, jumping pillow, playground, basketball, shuffleboard and more."
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Riverside Campground, a visitor mentioned, "Big huge park and tons of grassy areas. Really lovely. Nice staff. Kids enjoyed the pool and swam in the river."
Entertainment options: Yogi At Shangri-La On the Creek specializes in family-focused camping. One parent observed, "This is the best campground for a family with little kids in north-central PA, hands down!" Another mentioned, "My family of 4 tent camped here for the weekend. Everyone at this campground was so friendly and nice."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Some campgrounds offer more space than others for larger RVs. At Happy Acres Resort, a reviewer advised, "Stayed for 5 nights with a partial hook up for our brand new 32 foot travel trailer. Other reviewers had mentioned that sites were small, so we specifically asked for a larger site. We ended up getting a corner site right on the edge of a hill."
Hookup variations: Electric service varies by campground. Little Pine State Park offers limited hookups as described by a camper: "This is very rustic with electric options which is nice. The campsite we were at was very large probably better for a trailer but we enjoyed the space with our tent."
Leveling needs: Site terrain can require adjustments for RVs. One reviewer at Riverside noted, "We had campsite 19 - pull through with full hookups (50amp, cable, water, sewer). The site was nice and long. Even though they have had a lot of rain in this area, our jacks did not sink into the ground and the site was pretty level."
