Glamping in Wellsville, Pennsylvania offers access to the wider Susquehanna River Valley where elevations range from 350 to 1,200 feet. The region's climate features humid summers with temperatures averaging 85°F and moderate rainfall of 42 inches annually. The proximity to both the Appalachian Trail and the Susquehanna River creates diverse camping conditions with options ranging from riverside sites to forested settings.
What to do
Trail hiking along the Appalachian Trail: Campers at Mountain Creek Camp Ground can access nearby hiking trails that connect to the Appalachian Trail for day hikes. "I took an early morning hike on the 8.5 mile Lakeside Trail that goes around the lake and it was really awesome to see the lake from all different angles," notes one visitor to Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: The waterways around Wellsville provide excellent fishing. "We caught a handful of bass and an absurd amount of bluegill from shore," reports a camper at Gifford Pinchot State Park. Another visitor at River Rock Recreation mentions, "We spent our time fishing the river banks right outside our tents and kayaking on the Susquehanna to fish the warm waters. We caught a ton of catfish and carp using live bait."
Kayaking and water activities: Many campsites offer direct water access. "We stayed Sun-Wed and rented 2 kayaks from River Rock for 1 of the days," shares a visitor about their glamping experience near Wellsville. At Cedar Lake Family Campground, "The lake is nice and they stock it with trout," making it ideal for families looking for both fishing and paddling options.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campers consistently mention site sizes as important. "Site 114 has water access and is right next to a small man-made beach and playground. Bathrooms were in good shape. Sites were of ample size and well spaced," notes a visitor to Gifford Pinchot. At Cedar Lake Family Campground, "Roads are narrow, but the sites are large and level."
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness ranks high on campers' priority lists. At Codorus State Park Campground, "Paved sites, modern, clean bathrooms" were highlighted by visitors. Another camper mentioned, "Very clean facilities. We typically stay in the primitive tent loop which is right on the lake."
Water proximity: Many campers seek waterfront locations. "Staying right on the river was both fun and relaxing for us," explains a River Rock Recreation visitor. At Codorus State Park, a camper noted, "There is no swimming allowed in the lake but there is a pool located at the park, there is no extra cost to use the pool if you are at the campground."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Campgrounds have varying operating seasons. Codorus State Park operates "from 2nd Friday April to November 1," while some like Hersheypark Camping Resort have extended seasons. Plan accordingly, especially for holiday weekends.
Noise factors: Some campgrounds have unexpected noise sources. "Unless you have multiple grub sticks it would take forever to cook for a lot of people," notes a River Rock visitor. At Hersheypark Camping Resort, "Trains are all night. Basic RV park, $95 night is way too much, you pay for location."
Booking requirements: Most campgrounds require advance reservations, especially during peak season. A visitor to Codorus State Park advises, "It can get a little busy on the weekends since there is a boat launch at the end of the primitive lane, but some of the sites are secluded/set back enough to be private."
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated activity areas: Family-oriented campgrounds offer specific amenities. At Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA, "The facilities are all lovely, staff in the camp store are kind and helpful. The snack bar is very convenient, breakfasts on the weekends in the summer."
Choose campgrounds with play areas: Kids need entertainment options. A camper at Cedar Lake Family Campground shared, "The animal area could stand a good cleaning, but my little one enjoyed them. Lots of activities and the staff was very friendly."
Consider water safety: Families with young children should check water access details. "We took our 3 yo camping for the first time here. He had so much fun. It was clean campground located in a State Park. Easy walk to the lake with a small beach," notes a Gifford Pinchot visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: RV campers should check site specifications before booking. At Mountain Creek Camp Ground, a visitor noted, "Two bath houses, one near the entrance and one in the way back. May not be anything fancy or new, but they are clean."
Hookup availability: Different campgrounds offer varying levels of services. At Hersheypark Camping Resort, "Sites are kind of close, no trees or anything to separate spots. It had really nice bathrooms and showers. The washers and dryers work awesome, grateful for that!"
Access considerations: Road conditions affect larger rigs. "Sites were a bit close where we were but they had other sites that were more spread out. Nice pool and great camp store!" reported an RVer at Hersheypark Camping Resort, highlighting the importance of site selection for luxury camping near Wellsville.
