Tent campsites near Woodbury, Pennsylvania range from primitive sites to more developed campgrounds within state parks and privately owned properties. The region features varied terrain with elevations between 1,200-1,600 feet and typically experiences warm summers with high humidity and cold winters with significant snowfall. Most campgrounds in the area are situated near waterways including Raystown Lake, the Potomac River, and smaller creeks that provide natural swimming and fishing opportunities.
What to do
Hiking near campsites: Penn Roosevelt State Park Campground offers access to multiple hiking trails directly from tent sites. "The area has lots of hikes to offer including the Alan Seeger State Forest, Midstate Trail and several others," notes Denise D., who appreciated the natural setting.
Explore historic tunnels: Campers staying at Paw Paw Tunnel Campground can walk the short mile to the historic Paw Paw Tunnel. "Tunnel is very fun to travel through. Kids and adults alike enjoy the tunnel. Tunnel is always nice and cool refreshing during a long bike ride or hike on a hot day," explains Jordan B., who recommends bringing flashlights for the darkened passage.
Beekeeping observation: STAR LEE FARM offers unique educational opportunities for tent campers. "If you're a bee enthusiast they grow their own honey in the property and you're more than welcome to walk around and look at all the boxes," reports Tiana S., highlighting this distinctive activity not available at most campgrounds.
What campers like
Digital disconnection: Limited cell service at several campgrounds creates a true escape. "Service is a little sketch but it's perfect for those who want to completely escape the business of modern world," writes Tiana S. about Star Lee Farm, noting this as a positive feature for those seeking to unplug.
Stargazing opportunities: The minimal light pollution in the region creates excellent night sky viewing. "The stars are so bright out here," reports Sarah A. about Long Acres on Clover Creek, with many campsites featuring open fields ideal for astronomy.
Train spotting: Some campsites offer unique proximity to active rail lines. At Maple Festival Park, Mark G. notes "There are quite a few trains thru town," which can be either a feature or drawback depending on personal preference for ambient sounds.
What you should know
Seasonal water availability: Water systems at some campgrounds may be shut down during colder months. Chuck M. discovered this at Penn Roosevelt: "The water was off, but I was prepared to wilderness camp later in my trip so, that was no big deal."
Bathroom facilities vary significantly: While some sites offer flush toilets and showers, others have very basic facilities. Roger W. reports that Paw Paw Tunnel Campsite has "Clean Chemical toilets" but no showers, rating the facilities 2 out of 5.
Road noise considerations: Several campgrounds are situated near roadways with varying levels of traffic noise. At Paw Paw Tunnel Campsite, Roger W. observed "Highway noise" was "Close and loud," which impacted the wilderness experience, though sites further from roads tend to be quieter.
Tips for camping with families
Bring entertainment for boat-access sites: When camping at Nancy's Boat To Shore Campground, planning activities is essential since you cannot easily leave. "This campground is accessed by boat only. But it has a maintenance road and is patrolled by college kids with summer jobs," notes John H., suggesting families need to arrive fully prepared.
Choose weekdays for quieter experience: Weekend crowds can change the atmosphere at popular sites. Kristen H. advises about Nancy's: "Some weekend get slightly loud because of college kids, but most are mindful of younger children if you ask them to keep it down."
Consider weather conditions: Spring and fall camping means preparing for significant temperature swings. At Penn Roosevelt State Park, paige L. notes camping during winter means "the park wasn't very busy," which can be ideal for families seeking space but requires additional cold-weather gear.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions limit RV access: Many tent sites near Woodbury cannot accommodate larger vehicles. At Penn Roosevelt State Park, Chuck M. warns, "If you have a trailer, I do not recommend this spot. there is a very tight hairpin turn on the way in. My six foot long trailer barely made the turn!"
Limited hookups at tent-focused sites: Most campgrounds prioritize tent camping with minimal RV amenities. Joann notes that Penn Roosevelt is a "Beautiful primitive campground (tent only)," making it unsuitable for RVers requiring electrical or water connections.
Pack everything needed: Services and stores are limited near most campgrounds. "Make sure you bring everything you need as the isn't a store nearby," advises Denise D. about camping at Penn Roosevelt, a consideration particularly important for RV campers accustomed to more developed facilities.
