RV camping near West Sunbury, Pennsylvania offers access to the northwestern Pennsylvania woodlands at elevations ranging from 1,100 to 1,400 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures typically reaching 80-85°F during peak camping months. Most campgrounds in the area remain open from April through October, with limited facilities available during shoulder seasons.
What to Do
Hiking at McConnell's Mill State Park: Located near Breakneck Campground, the park features over 30 miles of trails. "From our campsite we walked along the creek into McConnells Mill State Park and joined the covered bridge trail. Approx. 30min walk along the creek down into McConnells Mill State Park," reports one camper.
Water recreation at Lake Arthur: Just minutes from several campgrounds. "Moraine state park is 3 minutes away with lake Aurther for sailing, canoeing, power boating, bike trails, frisbee golf coarse and swimming," notes a visitor to Breakneck Campground.
Family activities at camp: Many resorts offer scheduled events. At Rustic Acres, "our children enjoyed the Saturday kids program, crafts, snacks and games with other children. Owners were great and extremely accommodating and helpful."
Swimming pools: Several campgrounds maintain pools for summer use. "The pool and playground are awesome for the kiddos," according to a visitor at RV Village Camping Resort.
What Campers Like
Clean facilities: Restroom cleanliness varies considerably between campgrounds. At Jellystone Park at Kozy Rest, visitors consistently mention the "cleanest shower house I have ever seen at a campground."
Family-friendly atmosphere: Many campgrounds create welcoming environments. One camper at Rustic Acres noted, "I can't remember when we were at a campground where everyone said hi and waved to each other."
Private creekside spots: For those seeking more seclusion. "We were lucky enough to be able to camp down by the stream. There are designated fireplaces. It is quite a walk up the hill to the campground amenities, but worth it to feel secluded down by the creek," reports a visitor to Breakneck Campground.
Level sites: Multiple reviewers mention site quality. At Chestnut Ridge Park and Campground, campers appreciate that "they keep up on the gravel and leveling which is always appreciated."
What You Should Know
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds close during winter months. Rustic Acres is one exception, remaining "open all year" according to their listing.
Noise levels vary significantly: Some campgrounds enforce quiet hours while others don't. At Breakneck Campground, one visitor noted being "woken around 11:00 by several people across the way having a blast laughing and yelling which went until 2am and a couple next to me screaming and arguing at each other until 3am."
Flooding risk in low-lying areas: Some campgrounds have flood-prone sections. At Fombell Landing, a camper reported, "The campground is entirely in a flood zone. It gets so deep the locals cars have floated away."
Utility connection challenges: Site layouts can require extra equipment. At Kalyumet Campground, "our only complaint would be the site we were in (11) and others next to it were quite far from the water and cable hookups. I ended up having to run 60ft of water hose and 50ft of cable in order to get a connection."
Tips for Camping with Families
Weekend activities: Look for campgrounds with structured programs. At Bear Run Campground, "Tons of activities always planned on the weekend. Activities include wagon rides to the lake, talent show, karaoke…etc, as well as church!"
Playground access: Consider proximity to play areas. "The pool is smaller but still enjoyable. Tons of activities always planned on the weekend. Family Friendly Friendly!" notes a visitor to Bear Run Campground.
Site selection for families: Choose sites away from common areas for earlier bedtimes. At RV Village Camping Resort, one camper mentioned "the daily sites are a bit tight which lends to noisy evenings past quiet hours. We had to get creative making white noise for our toddler to sleep."
Bathroom proximity: Especially important with younger children. One Breakneck Campground visitor explained, "It is quite a walk up the hill to the campground amenities, but worth it to feel secluded down by the creek."
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: At many campgrounds, utility connections aren't standardized. One camper at Kalyumet noted, "hook ups are extremely far away from sites. Very inconvenient."
Leveling considerations: RV sites vary in preparation quality. At Chestnut Ridge, "They keep up on the gravel and leveling which is always appreciated."
Site spacing: Density differs between campgrounds. At Rustic Acres, "The RV sites are large and the spacing is not crowded."
Cell service: Connectivity varies throughout the region. One camper at Rustic Acres mentioned it's "Close to Clarion for shopping and supplies," where cell reception is generally stronger.
