Raystown Lake serves as the primary recreation hub for campsites near Woodbury, Pennsylvania, spanning over 8,000 acres and reaching depths of 185 feet. The area maintains cooler temperatures at higher elevations, with Blue Knob State Park situated on the second-highest peak in Pennsylvania at 3,146 feet. Camping options range from primitive sites along creek beds to resort-style accommodations with full hookups.
What to do
Fishing access points: At Susquehannock Campground, waterfront sites offer direct lake access for anglers. "There aren't many waterfront sites, so book early. Some sites not listed as waterfront can be used for boats (with a permit from the campground office)," notes Deanna B. Tautman Run and Aitch access areas provide additional fishing opportunities within 15-20 minutes of most campgrounds.
Mountain biking trails: The Allegrippis Trail system near Seven Points Campground offers over 36 miles of purpose-built mountain bike trails. "The mtb trails begin just above the upper camp loops and provide a full day of fast flowing singletrack," mentions Travis S. The Ridge Camp loop has a trail head at its entrance for easy access to the IMBA standard trails.
Winter recreation: Blue Knob State Park transforms into a winter sports destination when temperatures drop. The park features a ski resort at the peak with multiple runs for various skill levels. During non-winter months, the area offers golf at the same resort location, providing year-round recreational options.
What campers like
Lake access variety: Lake Raystown Resort offers multiple ways to enjoy the water. "This campground offers tent sites, RV Sites, cabins and hotel accommodation. The campground is relatively flat and on the shore of Lake Raystown," explains Britt B. Sites include waterfront options with boat tie-ups directly at individual campsites.
Quieter alternatives: For those seeking less crowded experiences, Trough Creek State Park provides a more secluded option. "Trough is quiet and small. It's really great if you're looking for a spot to 'rough' it with the kids," shares Michael L. The park features hiking trails along scenic creeks with unique geological features like the balanced "leaning rock."
Primitive camping experiences: Pat's Primitive Place offers a genuine off-grid experience with only 4 sites. "We set up camp right along the creek, as shown in our pictures. There was a mixture of rocks and sand, so we had our tent on the dirt area and the fire pit near the rocks," reports Sarah C. Despite being primitive, the site remains accessible to modern conveniences with a Walmart approximately 7 minutes away.
What you should know
Site topography challenges: Many campgrounds in the area feature uneven terrain. At Shawnee State Park Campground, "there are a fair amount of awkwardly-placed sites that sit on a hill and are difficult to place a tent, equipment or gear," notes Kaley R. Checking site-specific reviews before booking helps avoid disappointing locations.
Seasonal facility limitations: Bathhouses and showers are not available at all campgrounds year-round. Susquehannock offers only composting toilets with no shower facilities. "There are restrooms with well-ventilated composting toilets, potable water is available at the entrance station," explains Andrew, indicating campers need to plan accordingly.
Cell service variability: Connectivity differs significantly between locations. Pat's Primitive Place reports "great phone service at the site and nearby (Verizon)" while at Blue Knob State Park, visitors should "be prepared for extremely limited cell service (Verizon)," according to Olivia L. This variability affects planning and emergency communications.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Friendship Village Campground offers extensive recreational options for children. "Lots of fun for kids, live music on the weekend, this campground was full of activity," notes Daniel S. Specific facilities include "3 play grounds all different and all well kept," according to Steve K., along with mini golf and fishing ponds.
Swimming options: Beaches and swimming areas provide summer relief for families. Seven Points features "a sandy beach which is perfect for swimming," with designated swimming areas that include snack bars and bathhouses. Multiple beaches around Raystown Lake offer varying levels of crowds and amenities.
Educational opportunities: The Seven Points Visitors Center includes "a great educational area inside and a nature trail outside," providing learning experiences for children. RayCEP educational programs at Raystown Lake/Saxton KOA offer structured activities where staff from PA DNCR discuss "various outdoorsy type things" that engage younger campers.
Tips from RVers
Dump station quality: Seven Points Campground features an "ultra-cool 4 lane dump station" with clean, modern facilities. Tim J. notes, "The dump station had wide lanes and made the experience an easy and clean one," indicating multiple RVs can service simultaneously without long waits.
Site leveling considerations: Research site-specific leveling information before arrival. At Blue Knob State Park, site #5 was "slightly sloped" while at Seven Points, Tim J. found their site to be "perfectly level...that was definitely a first for us." Many campgrounds provide site-specific photos on reservation websites.
Water access points: RVers should note that many campgrounds do not offer full hookups at every site. At Seven Points, "Water is available in the campground loop" rather than at individual sites. Plan water tank filling during check-in, as some parks like Susquehannock only offer water at entrance stations.
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