The best camping in Pennsylvania with campfires

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Pennsylvania is a land of contrasts. Historic cities and industrial towns give way to the patchwork farmlands of Amish Country and the rugged hills of the Appalachian Trail. Dramatic canyons and forested mountains sweep through the heart of the Keystone State, providing endless terrain for hiking, kayaking, and mountain biking. Pennsylvania weather is notoriously changeable, but the best season for camping is May through October. Snow covers much of the state from December through March, so swap tent camping for a heated RV, replace your hiking boots with snowshoes, and head to one of 22 ski resorts.

96% (14.8K) 13,430 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Pennsylvania

100 Mile View Camping, Jim Thorpe

1. 100 Mile View Camping, Jim Thorpe

97%
(476)
Jim Thorpe, PA · 27 sites · Tents, RVs
You can get directions to 100 Mile View Camping by using Google Maps or Apple Maps, "100 Mile View Camping". The 100 Mile View Campground is located 3 miles from Jim Thorpe, the Lehigh Gorge State Park, Delaware, and Lehigh Heritage Trail, White Water Rafting, Steam Train Rides, Museums, Music Entertainment at Mauch Chunk Opera House, and Mauch Chunk Lake which is perfect for swimming, kayaking, paddle boating and fishing. You can get to all of these activities in 3 miles with no traffic by turning left out of our driveway and driving west on Flagstaff Road to Jim Thorpe. We offer hiking and mountain biking trails on our property and a variety of camping opportunities for parties with tents, campers, overlanders, and RVs. Our campsites are booked on ResNexus.com which does not charge additional booking fees for reservations made at our campground. 100 Mile View Camping is a family-run campground that is located in Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania on a property that has 100 Mile East to West Panoramic Views. It is comprised of several parcels totaling 100's of acres that were purchased over the past 35 years. We have shared our property with hikers, bikers, and outdoor recreation enthusiasts since day one. Our campground started with only 6 campsites, but with great reviews, we continue growing and have recently received the approvals to become one of the premier camping and outdoor resort destinations in the Eastern United States. Our founder, Jake Arner, has a passion for the outdoors and for people who show respect for nature and for other people. Jake genuinely enjoys sharing his property with others. This property and Jake's generosity have received 5-star reviews online from many people.
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Picnic table
Bald Eagle Campsite

2. Bald Eagle Campsite

96%
(1633)
Tyrone, PA · 21 sites · Tents, RVs
Originally opened as a family campground owned and operated by Denis and Kay Snyder in 1964. Bald Eagle Campsite has been owned and operated by the Snyder family to this day! Come join us in the beautiful forested landscape of Central Pennsylvania. Located a mere 20 miles south of Penn State University, we are surrounded by the many amenities Central PA has to offer. We are welcoming to LGBTQ+ campers as well as all ethnicities. Pitch a tent on a quiet site and drop a line into one of our two trout streams crossing the campground. Hang a hammock between two towering poplar trees surrounded by flowering rhododendron. Or pull up in your camper and relax before and after a Penn State Football game under the blue and white sky. We have small, secluded sites to get away from it all, as well as conjoined sites to accommodate larger groups. On property we have bathrooms, hot showers, and a recreation hall with free ping pong, board games, and billiards. For a fee, we also have firewood, electricity, and a large event tent for rent. Campers must be less than 24 feet. Generators are not allowed. Music should not reach outside your own site after 9pm. There are no water hookups. Vehicle noise is audible from route 350, especially on Friday afternoons. Noise is diminished at sites further back from route 350. Our sites are wheelchair accessible, but the bathrooms and showers do have one step up into them. Walk to Snappy's 24-hour convenience store to use their free Wi-Fi, buy bags of ice, or to pickup snacks and a sub in the attached Snappy's Grille. An ice cream stand and restaurant are within walking distance. We require a minimum two nights stay for the recognized holiday weekends for Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day.
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Electrical hookup
Toilets
The River's Edge

3. The River's Edge

98%
(367)
Pocono Woodland Lakes, PA · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
All lodging sites have heating for your comfort and are available year round! The River's Edge campsites sit on the shoreline of the Delaware River at the western edge of New York State overlooking the mountains of Pennsylvania. Our canvas tents and open air platforms perch between the river and the former Delaware & Hudson Canal which was once was used to transport raw goods by barge to New York City via the 'port' of Port Jervis. The remnants of the canal walls are throughout the property including a 300 person theater which we created to both preserve and feature this industrial history. It also makes a great place for an event or a movie night. Today, the original canal towpath, along which barges would be pulled and floated downstream, is a trail that links all of the campsites over 5 acres and at the furthest end an eel fishing camp that is in operation from June to October. In the early 1900s, the train replaced the canal as the primary method of moving goods into New York and if you are lucky — you will hear the train rumble by along the river on the Pennsylvania side. There is something spectacular in the absolute still and grandness of the river, the mountains and the ongoing industrial history of the valley. It is a reminder of the way things used to be. The farmhouse and cabins are located opposite the campsites on other side of route 97. Next to them are 50 acres of wild forest to hike and explore. These accommodations are great for guests who want more amenities but still with easy access to river. Pair campsites and cabins so that all your guests have their best experience. Contact us to coordinate for larger group bookings. Please note that a significant portion of county tax/fees and cancellation or change fees may be avoided by booking the base amount of people (4) and at a much later date adding extra guests. Guests NOT occupying canvas tent (lodging) and bringing their own tents should not be paying an occupancy tax but there is no provision for this in the app. We do not want our guests paying taxes -- that benefit no one but useless bureaucracy! Extra guests may be added the week before booking. Just let us know your plans through the app!
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Allegheny National Forest

4. Allegheny National Forest

97%
(39)
National forest in Pennsylvania · 742 sites
Find plenty to do in this half-million-acre national forest in northwestern Pennsylvania.
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Electrical hookup
Toilets
Raccoon Creek State Park

5. Raccoon Creek State Park

91%
(11)
State park in Pennsylvania · 195 sites
Wildflowers, wetlands, and woodlands provide photo-worthy views through every season.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Showers
Camp-A-While Campground - Camping Site

6. Camp-A-While Campground - Camping Site

Hegins, PA · 40 sites · Tents, RVs
Our Campground Camp-A-While is your family’s retreat into East-Central Pennsylvania that you’ll want to come back to over and over again. The peaceful camping atmosphere and the wealth of family fun and memory-making waiting in the surrounding area means that every member of your camping party will be able to enjoy their getaway exactly the way they want. We’re looking forward to seeing you this season! Happy Campers Hosting campers like you for an unforgettable getaway to Pennsylvania is just in our blood. We’re Rob & Michelle, a camping family who have been hooked on camping ourselves for over 20 years. We started by tenting, moved into a 5th wheel for several years, and then finally found our second home and became seasonals. There’s nothing better for us than to be outdoors and enjoying the camping community. Following Our Dreams A love for this and the campers we have met over the years have brought us to the place in our life where we are ready to make a change from the everyday routine of our current situation. We were given an amazing opportunity to follow our dreams and here we are! We are happy “parents” to our wonderful rescue dogs, Franklin and Lacey. We look forward to introducing ourselves as well as our family and personally getting to know you and yours! Amenities -Country Store -Showers & Restrooms -Pet Friendly -WiFi at the Lodge -Laundry Room -Propane Memories of an Escape to East Central Pennsylvania The smiles don't stop and the moments that make a vacation keep coming. Browse through some of our favorite snapshots of time well-spent at Camp-A-While! How will YOU spend a while with us?
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Full hookups
Bill S. and Nancy's property

7. Bill S. and Nancy's property

99%
(319)
Mercer, PA · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
The toilet is not available when temperatures are below 32 degrees. It's pretty dark here. There are no large cities anywhere around here. My family moved here in 1957 and I purchased it from my father in 1975. My wife is responsible for much of the landscaping and home improvements that have been done since 1990. We are retired self-employed .
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RoundStone

8. RoundStone

99%
(299)
Weatherly, PA · 15 sites · Tents, Lodging
Rustic tent sites and log cabins on nearly 400 acres nestled in the Appalachian Mountains. The property has been in our family since the late 1800's, initially operating as an ochre mill. We are near the historic town of Jim Thorpe, Whitewater Rafting Adventures, Hickory Run State Park, Lehigh Gorge State Park, Tuscarora State Park, and more. ***PLEASE READ BELOW AND READ EACH SITE DESCRIPTION BEFORE BOOKING*** - Our tent sites are rustic with NO electric or running water. We allow responsible use of the stream for cleaning. Please bring along potable water. Cabins have electric, but no indoor plumbing. Porta-Johns are available throughout the grounds. Cabins have a rustic outdoor shower available MID May- MID October. Please inquire for camper vans and pop ups. - FIREWOOD: We have firewood for sale for $7 per crate. You can pick and crate your wood at the wood pile on the grounds at your convenience. Please bring cash if possible or get in touch at the end of your stay to pay via Venmo, PayPal, or Zelle. -We have a variety of wildlife in the area, including BLACK BEARS. Please follow 'Leave No Trace' protocols and be mindful of trash and food throughout your stay. Keep your coolers in your vehicles and take garbage to the dumpster frequently. We have a dumpster available to you on the grounds. -Check in is contactless. Upon booking, you will receive directions to your site. **If you would like to stay for one night during the week or one night on a weekend during November-April, please get in touch and I can adjust the booking specifications. Otherwise, weekends are typically a two night minimum mid May through October. Memorial Day Weekend and Labor Day Weekend are a three night minimum.** Contact for pricing options. Please reach out with any questions!
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River Hills Above the Allegheny

9. River Hills Above the Allegheny

100%
(532)
Parker, PA · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Located just outside of Parker, PA and 25 minutes from I-80, our campsite is very accessible, yet still very remote. With 4 campsites on 75 acres, guests have ample privacy and space, with the freedom to roam this posted property that has no homes on it. Perched high above the Allegheny there are several spots to take in the wonderful views. There is also a waterfall with a 3’ deep pool below it. Great for splashing with kids or dogs, guests love exploring the creek bottom and making new discoveries. The more curious guests sometimes find the ruins of the original homestead, chimney and spring house that sit upstream. The property is teeming with wildlife. Birds and tree frogs will be the soundtrack of your visit, and often deer will be seen nosing along the outskirts of your site in the mornings and evenings. Turkey, bald eagles and even bear are occasionally spotted, so be prepared to secure your food and trash at night. For those coming to disconnect, you have found the right place. But if cell service is needed, you will have enough for texts at all 4 sites, calls at 3 of 4 sites and good internet at 2 of 4 sites. For those who seek an electrical outlet AND an EV charger, the Travelers site is for you, and included in the price. Within a 15 minute drive of your campsite you can find The North Country Trail, Rails to Trails Trailheads and Boat Launches on the Allegheny River, Groceries, dining and beer. Note: Guests wanting The River Ridge site should book their weekends far in advance, or plan a weekday trip.
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Bald Eagle State Park

10. Bald Eagle State Park

100%
(6)
State park in Pennsylvania · 167 sites
Bird watching at Bald Eagle will let you see America's National Bird in all his (or her) glory
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Caledonia State Park

11. Caledonia State Park

100%
(8)
State park in Pennsylvania · 180 sites
Discover the scenic beauty of Caledonia State Park.
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Electrical hookup
Toilets
Raymond B. Winter State Park

12. Raymond B. Winter State Park

100%
(6)
State park in Pennsylvania · 64 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Raymond B. Winter State Park.
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Shawnee State Park

13. Shawnee State Park

100%
(7)
State park in Pennsylvania · 253 sites
Discover Shawnee State Park's lush landscapes and outdoor adventures.
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
Christmas Tree Farm with Views

14. Christmas Tree Farm with Views

100%
(397)
Elizabethtown, PA · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
In 1990, Scott and Sue Miller purchased a 16-acre farm in Elizabethtown, Pa with the intentions of starting a select cut Christmas tree farm. 15,000 trees were purchased and planted on the farm. Six years later, the first tree was sold and since then, the farm has expanded its operations to Bernville, Pa. Camp on our 16 acre Christmas tree farm in an Amish neighbors with horses. Within 30 minute drive to Hershey park, Mt Gretna , Lebanon, Lancaster, Harrisburg, York. Enjoy hiking and biking trails nearby and the many attractions. We have excellent cell reception on our farm. Great view for star gazing and sunsets. Firewood available for purchase. We have a stone parking lot for RV campers. Two sites can also accommodate RV’s. We will reserve these sites. Tent campers can set up in the trees and lanes. An outdoor portable toilet is available and water is available at an outside spigot. We are open April through October. We have 6 sites available with fire pits. You are able to drive and park next to the site. Sites are available first come first served. Four persons per site additional $5 per night fee for extra guests. We sell Miller’s Christmas tree farms stickers. Our sites have excellent cell coverage. In the event we are not home when you arrive, there is a site map on the light pole near the porta pot. We will try to notify you in advance if any sites are taken.
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Potable water
Laureleye Farms

15. Laureleye Farms

94%
(81)
Coatesville, PA · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging
Laureleye Farms is a 70-acre horse farm in SE PA with access to great hiking trails and the Brandywine River for floating, dipping, or just sitting. Longwood Gardens, the Brandywine River Museum, Delaware Children's Museum and other Chester County attractions are all within 20-30 minutes. We welcome well-behaved pets on leashes. We have a paddock for rent if you would like to bring your horse, and they can camp out too.
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Toilets
Picnic table
Elk Creek Escape/Sawmill Woodzie

16. Elk Creek Escape/Sawmill Woodzie

97%
(109)
Forksville, PA · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
In the heart of the forest, nestled among towering trees and surrounded by breathtaking views, a humble campground It’s the place that evokes tranquility and solitude, offering a refuge from the chaos of the outside world. What makes this campground truly captivating is its unique location, obscured by the presence of a running sawmill, a creek, and lots of animals Come enjoy watching as it takes you back in time. OPEN YEAR ROUND!! Same day bookings, Drive in stays allowed if available -Management available 24/7. Call ahead with any questions. Plan your next event or get-together with us. This sawmill is unlike any band mill, boasting a massive 4 and a half-foot circular saw, a relic from the years between 1935 and 1945. Its rhythmic, melodic hum fills the air, blending seamlessly with the symphony of nature. The captivating noise created an enchanting ambiance, luring those in search of solace and beauty. We run our mill with recycled cooking oil and a diesel blend. Behind the sawmill, nature thrives harmoniously. Wildlife painted the surroundings with vibrant colors, as birds filled the sky with their elegant dances and curious squirrels scurried about, their fluffy tails adding a playful touch to the lush landscape. The cabin is a sanctuary where one can witness the wonders of nature, just a walk away from the roaring sawmill. Come check out a piece of preserved history all while enjoying pristine wooded views! Take a step back in time and immerse yourself in history. Enjoy the power of the circular saw, a symbol of the immense progress and craftsmanship of yesteryears. Together, the cabin, the forest, and the sawmill form a perfect harmony — a testament to the beauty of nature entwined with mankind's desire to create. It offers a glimpse into a world where modernity meets tradition, where breathtaking views and the symphony of the sawmill entice all who venture here to enjoy.
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Full hookups
Grouseland Hospitality

17. Grouseland Hospitality

98%
(337)
Clearville, PA · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Grouseland's Private Campsites are located on top of our ridge offering a unique scenic overlook and a near virgin sky perfect for stargazing. We have 4 sites ready for you here at Grouseland! Please read their descriptions and book the one best for you! We encourage guests to bring dogs, however dogs must be kept on leads when on site or on leashes when on walks. There are no exceptions to this rule to ensure the safety of all of our guests. All sites include an allotted amount of free firewood, miles of hiking trails, and use of communal facilities including a hot shower and flush toilet. Tall Oaks Campsite: A small private site and is our only rustic style site, so no water or electricity, designed maximum 6 people with parking for 3 cars on site and space for 4 average size tents. This site has a picnic table, portable toilet, scenic overlook, hammock, fireplace, a bench and charcoal grill. Twisted Oak Campsite: A medium-sized luxury private site includes potable water and electricity on site, designed for maximum 8 guests with parking for 4 cars on site and has space for several tents. This site has a picnic table, portable toilet, scenic overlook, hammock, fireplace, benches, charcoal grill, and on-site string lights. Red Maple Campsite: A large luxury private site that includes potable water and electricity on site, designed for a maximum 10 guests with on-site parking space that is 90ft long and 20ft wide, for an RV or 6-8 cars and overflow parking for several more cars. It is designed to be backed into with an RV and then pulled out of. This site can handle several tents and has two picnic tables, two portable toilets, a scenic overlook, hammock, fireplace, benches, a charcoal grill, and on-site string lights. Aspen RV Campsite: A medium private luxury drive through site great for RVs, rooftop tents, pop ups or camper vans. This site includes potable water and electricity on site, designed with water and electric hookups for a single camping vehicle, maximum 6 people. This site is a drive through site, so guests don’t have to back in or out. This site also has a picnic table, portable toilet, scenic overlook, hammock, fireplace, charcoal grill, and a bench.
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Fairview Farms Airfield

18. Fairview Farms Airfield

98%
(853)
Pine Grove, PA · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The 66-acre property has been licensed as an airport (PS20) since the 1980s. It is currently an active, private airport. We don't sell fuel or offer services beyond camping so we primarily have only air traffic with few to no landings each year. In other words, it is very quiet here except during the occasional low pass. We are very eager for pilots to fly in and camp out! The beautiful sunsets and stargazing night skies are a real treat for anyone that comes to visit. Lots of deer, birds, and other wildlife can be seen out and about. Bring your telescope and binoculars to view all the property has to offer! Note that we are always working to improve our slice of heaven, thus we do have tools, vehicles, and equipment stored around the farm that if not used now will be one day. We appreciate your understanding that some areas are used for our personal / farm storage. If you're not into looking at our farmware, there are a few nearby campgrounds. The hot tub is located next to the owner's home. Guests are welcome to use this at any time but must reserve and pay for a time slot. * Book this through the Extras * We are within walking distance of Swatara State Park and close to the Appalachian Trail. Short drive to the local winery, bowling alley, pub/diner, and movie theater. Grocery stores and gas are also nearby. Miles of hiking, rail trail, single-track mountain biking, and kayaking are all right here! See our kayak and bike rentals under extras! Hershey Park is approximately a 30-minute drive from our location. Rausch Creek, Anthracite, and Reading off-road areas are also nearby. Note: Monthly rental discounts are available. Work-stay exchange programs are available. We are always looking for good reliable part-time help on the farm! Please ask! Fall leaves colors are looking awesome! Come enjoy the leaves by day and stars by night beside your campfire! Follow us on Instagram: @fairview_farms_airfield
Pets
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Full hookups
Farm on the Creek

19. Farm on the Creek

98%
(181)
Howard, PA · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
The active farm lays along the lazy Marsh Creek not far from where it collides with the mighty Bald Eagle. Campsites are spaced out along the creek, in the fields, and on the mountain. Fish on any of the three streams, relax by the water or enjoy view of the cattle and wildlife. Bald Eagle State Park, State College, and Lock Heaven are a short distance away.
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Picnic table
Austin Dam Memorial Park

20. Austin Dam Memorial Park

98%
(810)
PA · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
Just outside the quaint town of Austin sits a vivid reminder of one of Pennsylvania's worst disasters – the Austin Flood. In 1909, the dam was constructed on Freeman Run to power the Bayless Papermill downstream. Many wondered if the dam was safe. On September 30, 1911, Austin found out. Poor construction, coupled with torrential rain, resulted in the dam's collapse. Nearly 400 million gallons of water were released, destroying everything for 8 miles. At least 78 people perished in the tragedy. It was the second worst flood disaster in Pennsylvania's history and sixth worst dam failure in U.S. history. The tragedy sparked new legislation to improve dam safety, and the Austin Dam was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1987. The ruins of the dam still stand, surrounded by a 76-acre park, as a tribute to the lives lost in the Austin Flood. Don't miss one of Potter County's best kept secrets!
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Pennsylvania camping guide

Where to go

Pennsylvania Wilds

The evocatively named Pennsylvania Wilds blanket the north and boast some of the state’s best camping and hiking. Views of Pine Creek Gorge, the “Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania,” can be enjoyed at Leonard Harrison and Colton Point State Parks, and there are primitive tent sites and RV sites in the surrounding Tioga State Forest. To the west, the Allegheny National Forest covers more than 500,000 acres, with kayaking, ATV and mountain biking trails, and a national scenic byway.

Pittsburgh & the Great Lakes

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania’s second-largest city, is the first stop in the state’s southwestern corner, and several state parks lie within easy reach. Top of the list is Ohiopyle State Park, where adrenaline seekers go to raft or kayak along the white-water rapids of the Youghiogheny River. In the north, camp resorts and RV parks with full hookups dot the shores of Lake Erie, and you can hop over to the Presque Isle State Park to hike, windsurf, and bird-watch.

South-Central Pennsylvania

West of the Philadelphia region, the state capital, Harrisburg, is the gateway to the southern stretch of Pennsylvania’s Appalachian Trail. Just to the south, a day trip to the chocolate capital of Hersey is a must to stock up for all those s’mores around the campfire, and there’s back-to-basics camping in Amish Country around Lancaster. The Allegheny Mountains rise to the west, where campers can hike in the backwoods, paddle along lazy rivers, or hit the ski slopes.

East Pennsylvania

All roads in eastern Pennsylvania lead to Philadelphia, where you can dive into US history and take a peek at the Liberty Bell. For a wilderness camping experience, head north into the Poconos Mountains—there are more than 100 miles of hiking trails in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, including 28 miles of the Appalachian Trail. Further west, Ricketts Glen State Park has waterfall hikes and a family campground with yurts, cabin rentals, RV camping, and tent sites.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Top national parks and forests in Pennsylvania