Tent camping opportunities near Woodward, Pennsylvania extend beyond state parks into multiple state forests, creating diverse wilderness experiences in central Pennsylvania's wooded terrain. The region sits within the Ridge and Valley province of the Appalachian Mountains, with elevations ranging from 600 to 2,300 feet. Most camping areas remain open from spring through fall, with some primitive sites accessible year-round for winter camping enthusiasts.
What to do
Hiking midstate trails: Access multiple trail systems directly from Penn Roosevelt State Park Campground. "The area has lots of hikes to offer including the Alan Seeger State Forest, Midstate Trail and several others," notes camper Denise D.
Creek exploration: Wade through shallow sections of Honey Creek during summer months when water levels decrease. "Short walk to creek and beautiful pond," states Joann&WellsThePup I. about the access points from Penn Roosevelt.
Wildlife observation: Early mornings offer opportunities to spot white-tailed deer, wild turkeys and various bird species. During winter camping at Penn Roosevelt, one reviewer mentioned, "The sites are tent only and pretty close together but some still feel secluded. Very accessible and the park has some good trails."
What campers like
Peaceful setting: Ravensburg State Park Campground offers exceptional seclusion. "This state park is beautiful and I consider it a semi-hidden gem. It's our favorite place to tent camp. It's rarely busy and it's first come first serve," reports Traci F.
Hammock-friendly sites: Multiple trees provide perfect spacing for hammock setup near water features. "There are plenty of trees that are good for hammocking. And in a few sites, you can set them up right by the creek, which is my favorite part," says Laura about Ravensburg.
Limited connectivity: Escape digital distractions at Reeds Gap State Park Campground. "Put your phone away cuz there's no cell service here! Nice and peaceful with a dozen or so tent only sites," reports Danielle C.
What you should know
Self-registration process: Many campgrounds operate on honor systems, especially during weekdays. "Stayed here on a Sunday night without a reservation. We were the only ones there. Pay by honor system at the park office," notes Cheryl K. about Reeds Gap.
Site selection strategy: Choose carefully based on proximity to roads. "As other reviewers mention, it's right near a road so you hear car (and horse & buggy!) noise — would try to get a spot further away from the road if possible," KK advises about Eastville Roadside Campsites.
Water access varies: Plan accordingly for limited water sources. At primitive sites, water access may be centralized or seasonal. Water is typically available "near the picnic pavilion" at Reeds Gap according to reviews, while at roadside sites no potable water is provided.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Walters Road Site provides basic facilities with nearby recreation options. "This campground is beautiful! It's so peaceful and serene. There's a nice creek that runs through it, picnic pavilions and a playground for the kids!" Rebecca G. shares about the family-friendly atmosphere.
Geocaching opportunities: Several geocaches are hidden near camping areas for technology-enhanced exploration. "There is a trail head near the entrance of the park for hikers and a geocache showed up close to the trail on a road on my geocache tracker if you are into that," Paula L. mentions.
Bathroom proximity: Consider campsite location relative to facilities, especially with younger children. "Bathhouses were a little far away," notes John Z. about tent camping at Reeds Gap, which could pose challenges for nighttime bathroom trips with small children.
Tips from RVers
Access road awareness: RV access to many sites requires careful navigation through mountainous terrain. "Driving in I got a little worried I was getting lost, but I drove on... 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!" cautions Chuck M. about New Lancaster Valley Roadside Campsites.
Supply preparation: No nearby stores means bringing all necessities. "Make sure you bring everything you need as there isn't a store nearby," advises Denise D. about tent camping in this region.
Road noise considerations: Select sites away from main roads to minimize traffic sounds. "The road that park is on is busier than one would think, not bad at night, but busy in the morning," Sarah C. explains about camping experiences in the area.
