Farm stays in Pennsylvania

·

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% (7.5K) 347 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Bill S. and Nancy's property

2. 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 .
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
RoundStone

3. 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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Staghorn Hollow

4. Staghorn Hollow

100%
(1)
Sweet Valley, PA · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Staghorn Hollow, a peaceful 6-acre farm tucked into the rolling countryside near Ricketts Glen State Park. Our small, working farm is home to friendly goats, pigs, and a variety of birds, along with thriving herb gardens that fill the air with earthy, calming scents. Campers can enjoy wide-open spaces, starry skies, and the soothing rhythms of farm life — all just a short drive from some of Pennsylvania’s most beautiful waterfalls and hiking trails. Whether you’re here to explore Ricketts Glen or simply unwind among the animals and herbs, Staghorn Hollow offers a quiet, grounding escape into nature.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Christmas Tree Farm with Views

5. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Laureleye Farms

6. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Fairview Farms Airfield

7. 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
Toilets
Full hookups
Farm on the Creek

8. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
BozziBrook Farm

9. BozziBrook Farm

100%
(100)
West Chester, PA · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
🌾 Peaceful Farmstead Camping at Bozzi Brook Farm Tucked into the rolling hills of Southeastern Pennsylvania, BozziBrook Farm is a peaceful 16-acre farm offering a simple, nature-filled camping experience. Pitch your own tent or stay in our furnished tipi and reconnect with nature. Enjoy quiet nights, fresh air, and the rhythms of farm life. Walk wooded trails, sit by our peaceful pond, and meet our variety of friendly animals. It's a great basecamp for exploring the region or accessing the Brandywine river (1 min away). 🏕️ Camping Options Choose from tent sites or our cozy furnished tipi. Most sites can accommodate a van or RV (electric hookup available). Bathroom access available. Each campsite has its own firepit (firewood bundle available). Ice machine and laundry available in barn. 🐐 Farm Life Perks Meet our cows, horses, pigs, goats, and chickens. Collect fresh eggs, explore the gardens, and visit our vibrant greenhouse. Horseback riding lessons available with advance booking (additional fee). 🌄 Nature & Nearby Surrounded by pastures and forest trails, the farm is just minutes from the Brandywine River for canoeing, fishing, or floating. Canoe/kayak available upon request (advance notice required) Horseback riding available (advanced notice required) Whether you’re bringing the kids to experience real farm life, looking for a peaceful nature escape, or simply wanting to slow down for a night under the stars, Bozzi Brook Farm is a place to breathe deep and reconnect. Learn more: https://bozzibrook.org/
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
GreenHills Camp

10. GreenHills Camp

99%
(350)
Birdsboro, PA · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
*****Please read Instructions before arriving, Inform you guests also. GUESTS when you arrive on the last road before the campground, The driveway is half way up the hill on the right hand side, it is WELL marked with "The Home Address number" signs. please go slow so you DO NOT MISS my driveway, it is driveway #2 on the right hand side, if you pass a pond on your right when you are going up hill, You went too far. Please do not go on my Neighbors propertys to make U turn, Go slow so you dont miss the driveway to go to the campground. ** Early check in (Only when confirmed with Marty the night before via text)2pm will be the earliest (for early check in) Please be honest! Any attempt to mislead will result in booking termination and or permanent ban from campground. NO ATVs. Quiet hours start at 9pm - 9am. Music and noise has to be low not to disturb other campers. @@@@ PLEASE order your fire wood before booking date, we dont have extra fire wood laying around, Please dont order wood when you arrive to camp (order before booking date ) 2-3 bundles of wood lasts all day so please order accordingly to what you will need. (You can always bring your own firewood or when you arrive go into the woods and collect loose dry branches/firewood from the ground, there is plenty., If you are looking for peace and complete seclusion, this is the place for you to camp, you will not hear or see any cars once you enter the campsite. Property is located one hour outside of Philly and 2hours away from NYC. 30 beautiful acres with woods and open fields, lots of wildlife, On site parking... after it rains mushrooms like (chicken of the woods) pop out in the woods.. Places to visit near by! 1. Exeter scenic river trail -park closes at 6pm 2.Berks natural ephraim -hiking 3. Birdsboro waters -park closes 8pm 4. Horseshoe trail -hiking 24/7 5.Birdsboro preserve -park 24/7 6.French creek - state park closes 9pm 7.schulkill river trail -hiking 24/7 8.Rustic Park - closes 9pm 9.Trailhead - Cocalico double trail - hiking Most of these are 4-10mile range from campground ⛺️ Animals you can spot: on campground property. Deer Fox Coyote Turkey Rabbit Turtles Beavers Squirrels Chipmunk
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Paradise By The Pond

11. Paradise By The Pond

100%
(163)
Martinsburg, PA · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land: A large 2 acre pond you are free to fish in.  A small row boat with life vests is provided. We recently added two kayaks! Large mouth bass and sunfish/bluegills mostly. Down a lane about 1/3 mile, large field, by the woods. No hookups, No electricity, No neighbors very private! Large field for pets to romp.  We are very flexible on check-in and check-out times. 30 Minutes to Raystown.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Woodward Camping w Dennis Alan

12. Woodward Camping w Dennis Alan

98%
(167)
Woodward, PA · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
About 30 acres of breathtaking beauty in the heart of Central Pennsylvania surrounded by Amish farms and food stands! Located 10 minutes from... Woodward Sports Camp Woodward Cave Two State Parks Ingleby and Coburn, some of the best fly fishing in the country. Crick tubing Elk Creek Brewery Pisano Winery IngleBean Coffee Shop & Cafe Yes all just 10 minutes away! This is the land I am using to build my off grid, self sustaining homestead on. We are surrounded by Amish farms so we specialize in quiet :) Two creeks run through the land with fun fishing for the everyone
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Organic Farm in the Pocono Mts.

13. Organic Farm in the Pocono Mts.

97%
(331)
East Stroudsburg, PA · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Our chemical free farm is set on 45 acres overlooking the iconic Delaware Water Gap in the Pocono Mountains! We're located 1 hour from NYC and 1.5 hours from Philadelphia and the closest national recreation area with millions of visitors each year. There are plenty of activities within the 45 acres: hiking, fishing, farming activities, bird watching, biking all on site. We have luscious fields of sustainably produced vegetables, fruit and flowers. Explore the Delaware river from our boat launch or one of the great canoe rental companies. Hike Mt. Tammany, Ski Shawnee Mt, walk the Appalachian Trail, visit America's oldest jazz club in Delaware Water Gap or visit the dozens of water falls surrounding our farm for a swim. (Autumn is camping season in the poconos, bring blankets and plan hikes for excellent fall foliage) We have 3 camping locations which you can park near with your vehicle. They are all private camps and out of sight from others. Our camps sites are for people that like camping in the mountains and near a working farm. Our farm and the community we built is focused on sustainable living with nature, local self reliance, and kindness. Also, feel free to join us in the fields, request a tour, pet a goat, smell a pig, and check out our DIY home renovation, (built with hempcrete). Pets should not be off leash unless well behaved and pets should not be left unattended. truck campers are allowed if they're under 8 feet. No trailers/campers. Also, if you move rocks to secure tents, please move them back, our mower blades thank you.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Grampy's Red Rock Rabbit Ranch

14. Grampy's Red Rock Rabbit Ranch

97%
(134)
Schwenksville, PA · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Tired of the daily grind? Escape to 50 peaceful acres of woods, fields, and creekside camping at Grampy’s Red Rock Rabbit Ranch. Spot foxes and pileated woodpeckers, relax by Mine Run Creek, and bask under the stars just 40 miles from Philly. It's a woodland getaway but with all your modern conveniences just a short drive away. Grampy's is not just a camp site, it is also a growing art park, with sculptures by Moma Sharrod repurposing old farm material and murals by Amarie that accentuate the natural beauty of the site. The story: 50-some years ago, the legendary Grampy David made his way to The Red Rock Rabbit Ranch. There he resides: a good-hearted curmudgeon, a handyman, a grumpy, Ywengling-drinking philosopher, the wittiest mason, carpenter, roofer, etc. you'll ever meet. I'm his grandson, a documentary filmmaker helping to make ends meet by sharing this glorious space with Hip Campers. Caring for the land: Please do not collect your own firewood on the land. That wood is decomposing and contributing to the health of the forest, providing numerous habitats for bugs. As we are going through a temporary pause on selling firewood, you can purchase firewood at nearby Limerick Hardware. If you want a flush toilet: While we are glad to offer a composting toilet, if you really want a flush toilet, Wawa is just an approximately seven-minute drive (depending on one of the two traffic lights in town). Note on dogs: We love dogs! We run a dog-sitting business, so there may be a pack (2-5) of dogs that come through the woods with us on walks. All dogs we sit are friendly towards humans. Nearby recreation: The Perkiomen Creek trail is just a mile away, perfect for biking and hiking. Cabin Craft Outdoor Adventures, just 7 minutes away, rents kayaks, canoes, paddle boards and tubes. Food recs: Thai Spice is ten minutes away. Trouble's End brewing is 15 minutes away in Collegeville, with delicious beer and a Spicy Chicken sandwich. For breakfast, we recommend Snoozy's cafe in historic downtown Schwenksville.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Old Soul Farm

15. Old Soul Farm

99%
(272)
Gettysburg, PA · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
We are a small, working farm and apiary. Located back a gravel farm lane, Old Soul Farm is the perfect place to getaway from it all and still be within 10 minutes of the Gettysburg Battlefield. Learn more about this land: Site Option 1: The Point - A beautiful view of the farm and surrounding farm properties. It is the furthest away from the barn and owner housing for privacy but an easy field walk in and out. Site Option 2: The Barn Site - Closer to the barn. It is a level area with a great tree for shade and climbing. As of April 2025, we now offer a 50/30/20 amp for the convenience of our tent and RV campers! This location also has a stone fire circle. Site Option 3: The Riding Ring - Formerly used as a riding ring for horses, it can now be used to accommodate larger groups.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Hardscrabble Hill

16. Hardscrabble Hill

99%
(59)
Chester Springs, PA · 1 site · Tent, RV
Sit back and enjoy a secluded, hilltop setting. Observe the grazing deer, migrating birds, and seasonal foliage. Local restaurants and shops will keep you connected to civilization, but only if you choose that option. The owners live right on the property (but not too close), so help is always just a minute away. Full hookup provided. 50/30 amp power. Waste disposal (full hookup), treated well water.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
Scenic Turtle Ridge

17. Scenic Turtle Ridge

97%
(652)
Coatesville, PA · 4 sites
Turtle Ridge farm is 35 acres of scenic beauty in historic Chester County, Pennsylvania. Secluded and private. Hiking and fishing available. Turtle Ridge Farms borders the Brandywine River and about 1,000 acres of woodland park. We try to be a unique host farm experience. We will have contactless check in available upon arrival. Campers will fill out the registration form on the front porch and then go to their site. A note about fishing. Fishing is available in the Brandywine River behind our farm, in Hibernia Park, at Springton Manor catch and release pond, and also at Chambers Lake in the park. 35-acre bucolic farm with goats, sheep, chickens and geese. Sites are near our one acre pond and each site has a fire pit. Our farm borders the 1,000-acre Hibernia Park with its historic mansion, extensive woodlands, hiking trails and along the beautiful Brandywine river. Lots of wooded areas, trails, rock outcroppings and beautiful scenery. The entrance to the park is through our farm gate near Site 2 and then down a trail. There is an indoor powder room with flushing toilet and sink for campers to use and a small camp shop. Wood is available for purchase. We are located 5 minutes from the hospital, 10 minutes from grocery stores, 30 minutes to Amish country and Longwood Gardens. Hopewell Furnace, St. Peter's village, Daniel Boone homestead, Historic Springton Manor, Marsh Creek Park and lake are all nearby. Check out our Facebook page and reviews - We are Open Year Round. Offer Farm fresh eggs for breakfast. Children age three and under are free. Children age four and up must register and pay as campers. All children must be supervised at all times and kept quiet from 10 pm to 8 am. Please make sure to check in before 10 pm. Please like, tag, and post some of your camping photos on our Facebook page- Scenic Turtle Ridge or with HipCamp!
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
Reyburn Creek

18. Reyburn Creek

100%
(12)
Shickshinny, PA · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Our 10 acer property situated about a 20 minute drive from rickets glen state park has field and wooded camp areas provided with a fire ring. We have 1 site suited for rv parking in our upper field. Other sites include our lower field and 1 site along side reyburn creek. There is minimal phone service, none at the creek, but our wifi reaches the upper 2 campsites which we will gladly give access. A 2 wheele drive vehicle can make it to all campsites but i would recommend 4 or all wheele drive for the lowersites as the trail can be slick when wet. Wood is not currently provided but you can burn any downed or dead lumber. Feel free to contact me with any questions.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Shambala at Mystic Hollow

19. Shambala at Mystic Hollow

96%
(191)
Mohrsville, PA · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Pitch your tent along Irish Creek under a canopy of Maples at Mystic Hollow. Irish Creek stream is a tributary to the Schuylkill River. The land is mostly flat for walking to camping area. Fire rings are included. There is a port-a-potty close by. If you have your own portapotty, you must take the waste with you. We have no way to dispose of human waste. Absolutely no disposing of human waste on the property or in the trash. There will be a fine. At this time, I do not have fresh water, shower or electric. I have an extension cord for charging phones, etc... We are flexible with check-in and check-out times if we are not at full capacity. Just let us know ahead of time. We allow dogs. They must be on leashes unless they are friendly and play well with others. You must clean up your dog's poop! No exceptions! We are 5 minutes from the Schuylkill River. 10 minutes from Ontelaunee Lake. 15 minutes from Blue Marsh. 15 minutes from the Appalacian Trail. Trail heads nearby Port Clinton, Hamburg, Bernville, Bethel, Blue Rocks, Kempton... 20 minutes from Hawk Mountain. We are an hour from Jim Thorpe. There are several wineries in the area including Long Trout Winery where wine is cool and hippy chicks rule! My favorite! Lots of wildlife. Expect to hear owls, blue heron, cows, goats, chickens, hawks, eagles, dogs, racoons and coyotes. Racoons will steal food that is not put away or in coolers. Deer may walk past in the middle of the night. Hiking, kayaking, tubing, fishing, mountain biking, bike trails, etc... all nearby. Sadly there are no fish in Irish Creek worth catching. The Crayfish are! As with any land situated along a water source, there is always a possibility of flooding. We flood maybe once a year, once every other year. If that should happen, we will assist in hauling gear. There is higher ground for tents to be set up if need be. There will also be rooms available to rent in the near future. Please don't hesitate to contact us with questions. 420 friendly. LGBTQ friendly.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Aspen Overlook Campsite

20. Aspen Overlook Campsite

97%
(16)
Harrisville, PA · 1 site · Tent, RV
Very private setting in rural farmlands with ponds, trails and woods to explore. 2.5 Miles to Yogi Bear Waterpark . You will be able to pitch your tent or small pop-up in dense hemlocks or in a sunny level grassy area. There is a overlook deck for your enjoyment. Site comes with electric. For the Waterpark you can obtain a day pass and visit the park. Also there is a PA Trout stream 5 minutes away that is stocked in the Spring.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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