Best Campgrounds near Watsontown, PA

Camping near Watsontown, Pennsylvania, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore the scenic trails at Ricketts Glen State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "The trails are very well maintained. If you want to do the Falls Trail (21 beautiful waterfalls), it is quite challenging."
• Swimming: Enjoy a refreshing dip at Lake Jean, where one camper noted, "The lake felt clean and wasn't too cold in July." This is a great spot for families looking to cool off.
• Fishing and Kayaking: At Locust Lake State Park Campground, you can find a clean lake perfect for fishing and kayaking. A visitor shared, "The lake was very clean. The camp store was great! They sell most things you’d need for camping."

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers. One review for Hickory Run State Park Campground stated, "The bathroom facilities were clean, the hiking in the area was gorgeous and pet friendly."
• Privacy: Many sites offer a sense of seclusion. A camper at Worlds End State Park Campground mentioned, "The sites are spaced a decent amount apart and are generous in size."
• Family-Friendly Activities: Campgrounds like Knoebels Campground are close to amusement parks, making them ideal for families. One parent said, "This place is awesome for the kids. You camp right at the park."

What you should know:

• Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds, such as Ricketts Glen State Park Campground, have no cell service. A visitor noted, "There is absolutely no cell service, however, and we had to go all the way down the mountain to get texts or make calls."
• Site Conditions: Some sites may be uneven or tight. A camper at Locust Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "The quality of our site was a little lacking. Very un-level so no great place to put a tent."
• Weather Variability: Be prepared for changing weather conditions. One camper at Hickory Run State Park Campground said, "We did not get over the mid 80's the whole time we were there and the mornings were quite cool."

Tips for camping with families:

• Bring Comfortable Shoes: If you're planning to hike, make sure to wear appropriate footwear. A reviewer at Ricketts Glen State Park Campground advised, "If you are going to visit all the falls, bring shoes that you can walk in and that are smart for wet and moist surfaces."
• Plan for Activities: Look for campgrounds with nearby attractions. One family at Hersheypark Camping Resort enjoyed the convenience of the shuttle bus to the amusement park, saying, "Shuttle bus to the park and arena."
• Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having food on hand can make your camping experience smoother. A visitor at Worlds End State Park Campground mentioned, "Firewood was for sale on the honor system conveniently located near the campsites."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Levels: Make sure to choose a site that accommodates your RV size and is level. A reviewer at Hickory Run State Park Campground noted, "The sites were not too close together."
• Be Prepared for Tight Spaces: Some campgrounds have close quarters. A camper at Knoebels Campground said, "The only knock on it is how tight the sites are."
• Utilize Amenities: Take advantage of the campground facilities. One RV traveler at Thousand Trails Hershey mentioned, "The park has a ton of amenities that I imagine are great for long termers."

Camping near Watsontown, Pennsylvania, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. With a little planning, you can enjoy the great outdoors and make lasting memories.