Tent campsites near University Park, Pennsylvania include several roadside options in Bald Eagle State Forest, approximately 30 miles from campus. The region sits within the Ridge and Valley physiographic province with elevations ranging from 700 to 2,300 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-85°F with higher humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder conditions with occasional frost.
What to do
Creekside exploration: At Ravensburg State Park Campground, hiking trails follow alongside the creek with designated swimming spots. "There are few hiking trails; short and long that take you to beautiful views along the creek with a couple of places deep enough to swim," explains laura, who appreciates the waterfront access.
Stargazing sessions: The open fields at STAR LEE FARM provide excellent night sky viewing opportunities with minimal light pollution. "There's a huge field to star gaze as well as taking pictures," notes Tiana S., who enjoyed the property's seclusion.
Appalachian hiking: Multiple trailheads connect to longer trail systems throughout the area, allowing for day hikes ranging from 1-10 miles. "The area has lots of hikes to offer including the Alan Seeger State Forest, Midstate Trail and several others," shares Denise D., highlighting the diverse trail options.
Apiary observation: For those interested in beekeeping, some private campgrounds offer unique educational opportunities. According to Tiana S., at STAR LEE FARM "they grow their own honey in the property and you're more than welcome to walk around and look at all the boxes."
What campers like
Weekday solitude: Many campgrounds remain nearly vacant midweek, offering a more private experience. "I arrived on a Wednesday evening. I had my pick of campsites, because I was the only person there!" explains Chuck M. about his experience at Penn Roosevelt.
Water features: Stream and creek sounds enhance the camping ambiance at several sites. "In a few sites, you can set them up right by the creek, which is my favorite part," mentions laura about Nancy's Boat To Shore Campground, appreciating the waterfront placement.
Hammock-friendly trees: Forested campgrounds provide ample trees for hammock setup. "There are plenty of trees that are good for hammocking," notes laura about Ravensburg State Park, highlighting this relaxation option.
Digital disconnection: Limited or non-existent cell service creates a technology break. "Service is a little sketch but it's perfect for those who want to completely escape the business of modern world," explains Tiana S. about the connectivity at STAR LEE FARM.
What you should know
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult access roads requiring careful navigation. "If you have a trailer, I do not recommend this spot. There is a very tight hairpin turn on the way in. My six foot long trailer barely made the turn!" warns Chuck M. about Penn Roosevelt access.
Reservation systems vary: While some sites require advance booking, others use first-come systems with self-registration. At Reeds Gap State Park Campground, "Pay by honor system at the park office. Campground was quiet and lovely. Only 14 sites," explains Cheryl K.
Road noise considerations: Tent sites near access roads experience vehicle sounds. "The road that park is on is busier than one would think, not bad at night, but busy in the morning," notes Sarah C. about Ravensburg State Park Campground, suggesting selecting sites farther from the road.
Seasonal facilities: Water and bathroom availability changes seasonally. "The water was off, but I was prepared to wilderness camp later in my trip so, that was no big deal," mentions Chuck M. about his experience camping during shoulder season.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer play areas for children. At Reeds Gap, "There's a nice creek that runs through it, picnic pavilions and a playground for the kids!" notes Rebecca G., highlighting family-friendly amenities.
Spacious group sites: Some campgrounds accommodate multiple tents for family gatherings. "It's good for large groups (you can get sites in a row) or just you," explains laura about Ravensburg State Park's layout flexibility.
Private site selection: Choose buffer sites when camping with potentially noisy children. "I went there for a picnic with the young ones and it was quite a fun evening. There were not many people around so the kids could frolic and be slightly loud without bothering any other people," shares Jill R. about Penn Roosevelt State Park Campground.
Bathroom proximity: Consider distance to facilities when selecting sites with children. At Reeds Gap, "Bathhouses were a little far away," notes John Z., which could present challenges for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most tent campgrounds near University Park have limited capacity for larger vehicles. "If you camp on the sites by the river, be prepared for lots of noise from the rapids," notes Sarah C. about Ravensburg, adding that the access road "can feel very steep at times," presenting challenges for RVs.
Tent pads impact setup: Raised platforms at some sites may affect larger tent placement. "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," explains Traci F. about accommodating larger setups at Ravensburg State Park.
Water access points: Potable water typically requires walking from campsites. "There are spots to get water even placed throughout," notes Traci F., helpful information for RVers planning water tank refills.
