Camping near Williamsport, Pennsylvania offers diverse options on both sides of the Susquehanna River, with elevations ranging from 518 feet in the valley to over 2,000 feet in the surrounding mountains. The best places to camp near Williamsport are located primarily within a 40-mile radius and provide water access to either creeks or lakes, while state park campgrounds typically open from April through December with limited winter availability.
What to do
Hiking with waterfall views: At Ricketts Glen State Park Campground, the Falls Trail features 22 named waterfalls along a moderate 4-mile loop. One camper noted, "We saw 18 of them on a four-mile moderate hike, but if you want to see the additional four, you could make it a seven-mile hike."
Lake swimming: Several campgrounds offer designated swimming areas in lakes rather than pools. Raymond B. Winter State Park has a natural lake with a sand beach. According to a visitor, "The lake is small, more like a pond, but super cold and clean water, as it is fed by two mountains streams."
Wildlife viewing: Campgrounds with petting zoos like Williamsport South-Nittany Mountain KOA provide controlled wildlife interactions for children. A visitor shared, "A nice feature is the petting zoo. We will definitely return!" The campground includes farm animals that can be fed and petted.
Night sky observation: Several campgrounds in the region offer minimal light pollution for astronomy. One camper at Worlds End State Park reported, "The night skies were beautiful (starry starry night w/little light pollution)." Fall and winter provide longer viewing hours.
What campers like
Private tent sites: Ravensburg State Park Campground offers more secluded options for tent campers. According to a review, "There are bushes and trees between the sites and it feels very private. Sometimes it can feel too secluded but the park ranger drives through a number of times."
Live music options: Seasonal entertainment at multiple campgrounds adds social elements to camping trips. At Riverside Campground, a reviewer mentioned, "The bands were great both nights. We all took the kayaks out on the Susquehanna River that runs behind the property for a sunny paddle."
Creek-side relaxation: Many campers prefer sites along small waterways rather than lakes. A camper at Ravensburg noted, "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...And in a few sites, you can set them up right by the creek, which is my favorite part."
Quiet weekday camping: Most campgrounds in the region experience significantly lower occupancy Monday through Thursday, even in summer. At Little Pine State Park, a visitor shared, "We went on a weekday and it wasn't crowded but I've heard on the weekends it gets packed."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds in the region have minimal or no cellular coverage. At Worlds End State Park Campground, a camper stated, "No cell service, which is refreshing. The sound of the creek nearby is really soothing." Prepare offline maps and information.
Seasonal flooding risks: Spring camping near waterways can involve flooding after heavy rains. At Riverside Campground, one camper reported, "We unfortunately got stuck in infamous Northeast PA weather but we made the best of it. There were thunderstorms and campsite was a little flooded but we were still able to camp."
Road noise variations: Some campgrounds experience road noise despite rural settings. At Ravensburg, a reviewer noted, "The campgrounds are close to the road and therefore are loud at night occasionally." Sites further from entrance roads typically offer more quiet.
Water quality issues: Occasional water testing may affect available amenities. One camper at Ricketts Glen reported, "All water spigots were shut off and covered but we were told it was safe to wash our dishes and brush our teeth. However, the water for the dishwashing sink was turned off as well as the water in the restroom at the trailhead."
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Choose sites near play areas at Williamsport South-Nittany Mountain KOA to minimize walking distance. A camper reported, "The playground was fantastic and looked to be new, and there was a jumping pillow and a pool. It was very quiet and not crowded during our stay."
Kid-friendly activities: Scheduled events at Jellystone Park offer structured entertainment. One visitor noted, "This is the best campground for a family with little kids in north-central PA, hands down!"
Beach access for children: Raymond B. Winter State Park provides sand beaches ideal for young swimmers. A visitor shared, "The beach is amazing. Tons and tons of clean sand, no rocks, and lots of space to play and swim. The concession stand is so cool. They have great food, lots of treats, and beach supplies and toys too, all reasonably priced."
Rainy day options: Camping during Pennsylvania's unpredictable weather requires backup plans. At Happy Acres Resort, a camper mentioned, "There was a basketball court, shuffleboard and carpet pool that you could borrow equipment for," providing alternative activities during rain.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Many sites in the region require significant leveling. At Little Pine State Park Campground, a visitor observed, "This is very rustic with electric options which is nice. The campsite we were at was very large probably better for a trailer but we enjoyed the space with our tent."
Pull-through availability: Sites accommodating larger rigs without disconnecting are limited but available at select locations. At Williamsport South-Nittany Mountain KOA, a camper shared, "We spent 1 night passing through. We were given a pull through site with water close to the bath house, which was very clean and had nice warm showers."
Winter RV options: Few campgrounds offer winter hookups, but Holiday Pines remains accessible year-round. A camper reported, "The campground has excellent service, I work online so that was a relief. Full bars on at&t and Verizon," making it suitable for digital nomads and winter camping.
Seasonal road access: Mountain elevations can affect road conditions during shoulder seasons. At Raymond B. Winter, visitors should note the campground sits at a higher elevation with steeper access roads that may become challenging after snow or heavy rain.
