The sound of Doubling Gap Creek flowing past campsites sets the tone at this compact state park campground. Colonel Denning offers 52 sites spread across a single loop and along the creek, with both RV sites featuring full hookups and walk-in tent sites for those preferring more separation from neighbors.
Campers consistently note the exceptionally clean restroom facilities, with several reviewers calling them the cleanest they've encountered in Pennsylvania's state park system. Sites 1-12 run directly alongside the creek, providing water sounds but requiring a walk uphill to reach the bathhouse. The main loop sites offer easier access to amenities but place campers closer together. "Very cool to hear their eerie cries in the woods," describes Nate & Erika L. after participating in the park's owl program.
The campground serves as a base for accessing Flat Rock Trail, a challenging six-mile round trip with 1,200 feet of elevation gain leading to mountain overlooks. A small swimming beach operates when water quality permits, and fishing opportunities exist in both the creek and lake. Walk-in sites provide more privacy, though they require carrying gear roughly 100 yards from parking areas.
For campers wanting additional amenities, Dogwood Acres Campground offers a different experience just south of the park.
Description
Colonel Denning State Park, in north central Cumberland County, is in Doubling Gap, so named by the "S" turn where Blue Mountain doubles back on itself. This feature may be seen from the Doubling Gap Vista in adjacent Tuscarora State Forest. The park has 273 acres of woodland and a 3.5-acre lake.
Permit Conditions: 1. No more than one family unit or five unrelated persons per campsite. Other facilities are limited to the maximum occupancy for the facility (i.e. beds in cabins) for non-family guests. Note: Family Unit-Persons living under one household. 2. Occupant shall include at least one person 18 years of age or older. 3. Noise or conduct which could interfere with the sleep of other persons is prohibited between 9 p.m. and 8 a.m. 4. Before vacating the facility/site, occupants shall clean and properly dispose of waste. 5. Visitors are permitted only between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. 6. This permit may not be assigned or transferred. 7. Alcoholic Beverages are prohibited. 8. Failure to abide by Pennsylvania State Park Rules and Regulations. 9. For cabins,/yurts/camping cottages removal of tables, beds or other furnishings from the facility are prohibited. 10. For cabins/yurts/camping cottages tents, camping trailers and recreation vehicles are not permitted in the area. 11. Pets are only permitte
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Due to a potential campground bridge rehabilitation project, Colonel Denning Campground is not available for reservations the fall 2026 season. Once the project is finalized additional facilities may be opened for reservations.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsColonel Denning State Park Campground is located in Pennsylvania near Blain
Directions
The park is eight miles north of Newville and nine miles south of Landisburg, along PA 233.
Address
1599 DOUBLING GAP RD
Newville, PA 17241
Coordinates
40.28087072 N
77.41790075 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 6/12/26- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 6/12/26
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Reservable
- WiFi
- Showers
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- 30 Amp Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Contact
General Info
Reservations
Drive Time
- 36 min from Chambersburg, PA
- 41 min from Harrisburg, PA
- 57 min from Gettysburg, PA
- 1 hr 22 min from State College, PA
