Camping spots near Bainbridge, Pennsylvania sit along the Susquehanna River at roughly 300 feet elevation with abundant trees providing natural shade at most sites. The region experiences moderate rainfall throughout summer, with August averaging 4 inches of precipitation that can create occasional muddy conditions. Many Bainbridge-area campgrounds feature wooded sites with varying degrees of privacy from neighboring campers.
What to do
Fish multiple species: At River Rock Recreation, campers access prime Susquehanna River fishing directly from their site. "We spent our time fishing the river banks right outside our tents and kayaking on the Susquehanna to fish the warm waters. We caught a ton of catfish and carp using live bait," reports Zach R.
Visit historic sites: Campers staying at Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm can explore the Gettysburg battlefield, which sits about 25 miles from the campground. Dale Y. notes, "The park is expensive (based solely on my experience). It's about 25 miles from the Gettysburg battlefield. That may account for the premium prices."
Enjoy disc golf courses: Multiple disc golf courses are available at Gifford Pinchot State Park. One camper explains, "Both areas 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 all over the prime walking areas through the course."
Kayak or canoe: Launch directly onto the Susquehanna River from River Rock Recreation's boat ramp. "The site is almost 2 acres in size and you do not share the site with anyone. We saw no one while there and you're literally about 100-150 yards off a side road. It was definitely convenient and private," shares James B.
What campers like
Private island camping: River Rock Recreation offers a unique camping experience where groups rent the entire property. "They provided us with a solar shower bag filled with water, a 5 gallon container of fresh water and filled the hand washing station with fresh water which was fantastic to have as we had three children ranging in age from 10 to 2," one visitor explains.
Well-maintained facilities: Campers at Pinch Pond Family Campground consistently mention the cleanliness. "My family recently spent a long weekend at Pinch Pond. Our campsite was very spacious and the ENTIRE campground was extremely clean and tidy. The office and grounds keeping staff were super friendly and helpful," writes Melissa Y.
Farm animal experiences: Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm provides direct interaction with farm animals. "Got a kick out of the children playing with the kids (baby goats) pigs, goats, chickens, horses and even lamas. Plenty to see and learn. Prefect campground for the family," writes Robert M.
Beach access: Some waterfront sites include small beaches. At Gifford Pinchot State Park, one camper noted, "We had site 108 which is an electric site along the shore and close to the beach, and it was perfect for our needs. It has a small beach area within the campground loop that we camped in."
What you should know
Train noise concerns: At Hersheypark Camping Resort, multiple reviewers mention train disruptions. "Nice camp ground but super loud bc of the trains. Bath houses are nice and clean. I would suggest making sure you aren't close to the tracks bc the trains run all night long!" advises Kit.
Shooting range noise: Some campgrounds near Bainbridge have unexpected noise sources. At Pinch Pond Family Campground, Tara N. reports, "The only thing that is negative is that there is a shooting range right next door. It is pretty consistent from lunch to dinner. If your out and about, it won't be an issue. However if you enjoy sitting outside of your camper and relaxing this might be nerve wracking."
Uneven sites: Many campgrounds in the area feature sloping terrain. At Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country, a reviewer noted, "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."
Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds operate from April through October, with some opening the second Friday in April. River Rock Recreation has an even shorter season, running only from May through September.
Tips for camping with families
Look for multiple play areas: Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA offers numerous family-friendly amenities. "The Campground itself has tons of amenities from a pool, kids and adult lounges, basketball court, mini golf, ice cream in the store, a store and hiking trails," shares Sammii D.
Consider tent site locations: Sites vary greatly in size and privacy throughout the region. At Gifford Pinchot State Park, Scott B. warns, "I came for a hike and quick one night tent escape. I had never been and reserved a tent site online. When I arrived, someone was in my spot. After working it out and came back I noticed just how crowded it was. Lots literally right on top of each other."
Book early for holidays: Reservations become essential during peak periods, particularly at campgrounds near attractions. At Thousand Trails Circle M, Karla R. advises, "As with all thousand trails, this campground is first come best site. While the top part of the campground seemed more communal, we chose the lower, Riverside sites and we're glad we did!"
Bring water shoes: River and creek access points often have rocky or muddy bottoms. At River Rock Recreation, Kellyann M. notes, "Staying right on the river was both fun and relaxing for us. We even booked a second trip for this July."
Tips from RVers
Level carefully: Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country requires extra attention when setting up. "Site is gravel and pretty level. Water pressure is pretty low and the sewer pipe is a little high but all around a really solid experience," explains Nick E.
Reserve pull-through sites when possible: At campgrounds like Hersheypark Camping Resort, site selection matters. "It is a nice camp ground but the lower drive threw spots are packed together. Our 32' with slides just fit the sight and we had zero room for the truck. They have other spots up on the hill but would have been more of a challenge with our rig," shares Mike J.
Check amenity fees: Many campgrounds charge extra for WiFi, cable TV, or early check-in. At Thousand Trails Circle M, one camper mentions, "WiFi is available at a cost."
Consider tree cover for satellite users: Some campgrounds have extensive tree coverage. Nick E. noted at Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country: "Definitely got lucky with site F03 for Starlink. The rest of the campground has a lot of tree cover."
