Wrightsville, Pennsylvania sits along the Susquehanna River at an elevation of approximately 300 feet, making it an ideal base for both waterfront and woodland camping experiences. The area experiences four distinct seasons, with summer temperatures averaging around 85°F—perfect for enjoying the numerous state parks and recreational areas. Fall brings colorful foliage that transforms camping experiences from mid-September through late October.
What to Do
Water recreation on Lake Marburg: Codorus State Park Campground offers boating opportunities on their 1,275-acre lake. "You can bring your own boat (gas allowed) or rent one from their marina. There is no swimming allowed in the lake but there is a pool located at the park, there is no extra cost to use the pool if you are at the campground," shares Catherine H.
Fishing in multiple locations: Catch a variety of fish species across the region's waterways. "We caught a ton of catfish and carp using live bait. It was a great time at the river!" explains Zach R. about his experience at River Rock Recreation.
Hiking nearby trails: Several campgrounds offer trail access for all skill levels. "I took an early morning hike on the 8.5 mile Lakeside Trail that goes around the lake and it was really awesome to see the lake from all different angles," notes a visitor at Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground.
Disc golf courses: Play through challenging courses in the area's parks. "Both areas also have their own 18 hole disc golf course, but I will say: BEWARE of poison ivy!! We played the first 10 holes around the Conewago day use area and I was shocked at how much poison ivy we had to dodge."
What Campers Like
Private riverfront sites: River Rock Recreation provides exclusive access to the Susquehanna. "This is a single campsite that you rent, no other campers on site unless you are bringing them with you! You can camp with up to 10 people and there is certainly plenty of room for everyone to spread out," explains Kellyann M.
Well-maintained facilities: State parks in the region prioritize cleanliness. "Paved sites, modern, clean bathrooms," notes Mike C. about Codorus State Park. Another camper shared, "Super clean laundry room and bathrooms. The only thing that is negative is that there is a shooting range right next door."
Family-oriented activities: Old Mill Stream Campground connects to nearby attractions. "The campground is in a good location to Lancaster and other quaint Amish towns like Bird-In-Hand, Paradise, and Intercourse. Just a little bit north of the campground is the beautiful town of Lititz which is definitely worth a visit," shares Nancy W.
Glamping amenities in natural settings: Luxury glamping options near Wrightsville provide elevated comfort without sacrificing nature access. "The site we originally picked was advertised as 'partially shaded' but when we got there we found one small tree per site in a grass field. But on the way in we noticed there are lots of wooded sites, and asked to move."
What You Should Know
Temperature fluctuations: Prepare for significant seasonal variations. "We were able to order surprisingly tasty food from the campground's onsite cafe." Despite some parks offering heated accommodations, most glamping sites operate seasonally from April through October.
Site variations within parks: Some campgrounds have dramatically different site types. "The primitive sites are back in the woods which kept us nice and cool on hot July nights. The location also kept us fairly bug free," explains Christine L. about Tucquan Park Family Campground.
Noise considerations: Some locations have unexpected noise sources. "The overwhelming impression of this campground was the smell of cow manure from the nearby dairy farm feedlot. The smell was not present the first day or so we were there and we enjoyed sitting outside in the afternoon, but when the wind shifted the horrid smell drove us inside."
Reservation requirements: Most glamping accommodations require advance booking. "If you reserve online you can see the availability and pick your site which is always a nice feature. They also have pictures of each campsite on the website so you really know what you are getting."
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access matters: Select sites with recreation options for children. "Our 3 young kids enjoyed the playground the most — there were lots of fun things for the kids on the playground. There was also a nice pond — it looked pretty full of fish, but we had forgotten our fishing gear," shares a parent at Tucquan Park.
Child-friendly introduction sites: Pinch Pond Family Campground offers dedicated family programming. "Very friendly and helpful staff. They have Hershey's ice cream in the office and my kids enjoyed getting a treat. Their game room has tickets. This is the one and only campground we have ever visited that gave tickets for playing games and my kids LOVED IT!"
Seasonal activities: Plan around special events. "We took our 3 yo camping for the first time here. He had so much fun. It was clean campground located in a State Park. Easy walk to the lake with a small beach. There was also a beach location on the state park side vs campground side of the lake."
Safety considerations: Be aware of environmental factors. "This area (central PA in general) tends to have a lot of rattlesnakes, and we spotted one about 20 feet off the trail in a downed wood pile - cool, but a little terrifying!"
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many sites require preparation. "Unlevel is an understatement we were in E row and every camper there had front end 4 foot off the ground. Many other sites were the same. The walk to pool and all other amenities was not pleasant due to hills," notes Justin B. about camping near Wrightsville.
Site selection strategy: Research specific sites within parks. "The entrance in off the main road turns you into the theme park. Fear not. Turn in and follow the road to the right and into the campground. We stayed on site 123 with a 40 ft Allegro Bus. Plenty of room to maneuver a big rig," advises Chuck W. at Old Mill Stream Campground.
Hookup variations: Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA offers various setups. "We were in a back in site #4. The patio was concrete stone, very pretty. Nice chairs, fire pit, and picnic table. The bath house was extremely clean and very nice. The pool was nice, but being that it was the end of June, the water was freezing!"
