Cowans Gap State Park Campground and nearby Seven Points offer luxury outdoor accommodations in Pennsylvania's mountainous terrain. Located in Franklin County at elevations ranging from 700 to 2,100 feet, the Upper Strasburg region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Winter camping can be challenging due to steep, potentially icy access roads, while fall brings spectacular foliage displays with peak colors typically occurring mid-October.
What to do
Seasonal fishing opportunities: Cowans Gap Lake contains a variety of fish species with specific seasonal patterns. "There is showers on site and depending on the time you get to the showerhouse it may be a cold one. Nice small lake within walking distance along with a beach. There is also a few hiking trails near the campground," notes a reviewer at Cowans Gap State Park Campground.
Trail exploration: The region offers diverse hiking difficulty levels from flat lakeside paths to challenging mountain ascents. At Seven Points, "The 8.5 mile Lakeside Trail that goes around the lake was really awesome to see the lake from all different angles. I also hiked/jogged the Quaker Race Trail and that was nice, too, but obviously much less maintained."
Historical sites: Civil War battlefields and museums are within 30-45 minute drives. A visitor to Gettysburg Campground shared: "Whenever we go to Gettysburg which is usually once a year we always stay here. Really nice place. Recommend a site by the creek. Not to mention it's a few minute drive to historic Gettysburg. It's nice and out of the way of the busy parts of town."
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campsites offer natural screening and shade. At Cowans Gap, "Stayed in a walk-in tent site. Much better spacing than typical sites, though sites 2 & 3 were basically connected. The non-walk in sites in Loop B are typical to smaller than average and mostly suited for campers/RVs."
Lake activities beyond swimming: Visitors appreciate fishing access directly from campsites. "Coming back in July to a site we scout out. Looking forward to our next visit," mentions a camper at Cowans Gap State Park Campground who enjoyed the secluded environment.
Year-round natural beauty: The region transforms dramatically through seasons. At Twin Bridge Campground, "Our favorite campground. The most relaxing setting. Our kids love the creek and playing in and around it. Some activities, playground, mini golf etc. but more of a relaxing campground."
What you should know
Bathroom conditions vary: Facilities range from rustic to recently updated. A Cunningham Falls visitor reported: "Bathroom and shower facilities were mediocre large cracks in the fiberglass leaking water but they did provide an area to wash dishes. There are paths to the bathroom through many sites so people walk through your site to get to the bathhouse."
Noise considerations: Generator use, road noise, and water activities can create sound issues. At Cowans Gap State Park Campground, a camper noted "The major negative was generator noise coming from the facility just beyond the dam. Droning generator noise was on/off at all hours of the day and went on until 10pm in the evening."
Reservation timing: Sites with premium views or water access book 6-9 months in advance. "We wanted a waterfront site but even trying to reserve the first day we could for this weekend, they were all taken," explained a visitor to Seven Points, highlighting the competitive booking situation.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access logistics: Plan for walking distances and terrain between campsites and beaches. At Cunningham Falls State Park, a visitor shared: "The beach area at the lake was fantastic! My kids loved it plenty of areas to grill and dogs are allowed. Most of the time we did not spend at the campsite so we ended up having a fantastic weekend."
Playground proximity matters: Sites near playgrounds offer convenience but more foot traffic. A camper at Artillery Ridge Campground noted: "The only complain we had was people walking through our sites due us being close to the playground and the noise level on the playground but other than that it was quiet place and everyone was lovely to work with during our stay."
Family-friendly accommodations: Glamping close to Upper Strasburg, Pennsylvania offers alternatives for families new to outdoor experiences. "We arrived after dark, way past the 3pm check-in time, but didn't have any trouble finding our reserved campsite. There were plenty of signs; everything is well marked," reported a Cowans Gap visitor who stayed with their family.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require significant leveling equipment. "It took 2 hours to get our camper set up because of the very uneven stone lot, thankfully we had enough wood to get the jack up without having to over extend it," reported a visitor to Granite Hill Camping Resort.
Water and electrical hookup locations: Bring extension cords and water hoses longer than standard. "The hookups are oddly spaced and you need to ensure you have extentions handy. My electric hookup didn't work on 30A," warned a camper at Granite Hill Camping Resort.
Dump station facilities: Multiple campgrounds offer efficient dump stations for longer stays. A Seven Points visitor noted: "On our way out, we visited the dump station again and got in one of the 4 lanes with no wait. The dump station had wide lanes and made the experience an easy and clean one."
