Most wildfires are preventable. Be fire safe
- Camping with Horseback riding
The best camping in Pennsylvania with horseback riding
96% (4.6K) • 4,634 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds in Pennsylvania
Bald Eagle Campsite
1. Bald Eagle Campsite
96%
(1696)
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Laureleye Farms
2. Laureleye Farms
94%
(107)
Coatesville, PA · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging
Laureleye Farms is a 70-acre working horse farm in SE PA with access to great hiking trails and the Brandywine River for floating, dipping, or just sitting. Everyone is welcome here. We embrace individuals of all genders, races, and cultures, and their well-behaved pets, too. We have a paddock for rent if you would like to bring your horse. As a working farm, we request you drive slowly and be respectful of the people and animals on the farm. We go to bed early and hope you do too. Noise must be kept to a minimum when the sun goes down. Longwood Gardens, the Brandywine River Museum, Delaware Children's Museum, and other Chester County attractions are all within 20-30 minutes.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Fairview Farms Airfield
3. Fairview Farms Airfield
98%
(886)
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
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.
Pets
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
Campfires
River Hills Above the Allegheny
6. River Hills Above the Allegheny
100%
(581)
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.
*For clarification; some reviewers have remarked that 4WD or lifted vehicles are need for site access. This is false. An AWD vehicle can access every site in all but the worst of conditions, and the Stargazing and Travelers site can be accessed by any vehicle. If you have questions, please message me!*
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Organic Farm in the Pocono Mts.
7. Organic Farm in the Pocono Mts.
97%
(351)
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
Forest Camping with Modern Comfort
8. Forest Camping with Modern Comfort
98%
(61)
Shippenville, PA · 19 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Camp in the woods with modern comforts—family- and pet-friendly, trail-access, and WiFi-equipped, just minutes off I-80 in Clarion County, PA.
Welcome to Rustic Acres RV Resort & Campground, a pet-friendly, family-friendly campground set on 24 wooded acres in Western Pennsylvania near the Clarion River and over 3,000 acres of State Game Lands. Here, you’ll feel immersed in nature—quiet forest, spacious sites, and direct trail access—while still enjoying the comforts of modern camping.
Perfect for RV camping, van life, tent camping, overlanding, and glamping, Rustic Acres blends outdoor adventure with thoughtful amenities. Step right from your campsite onto hiking and biking trails, or explore nearby Cook Forest State Park and the Clarion River for kayaking, fishing, and scenic views.
Work remotely from camp at The Hub—our modern lounge with strong WiFi, comfortable workstations, and complimentary coffee and tea. Ideal for digital nomads, remote workers, and extended stays.
Stay your way:
Full hookup RV sites (30/50 amp)
Van-friendly and small rig sites near amenities
Primitive tent camping and overlanding sites
Glamping tents and retro campers
Amenities include free WiFi, camp store, clean bathhouses, laundry, playground, yard games, community fire pit, and gathering spaces. Enjoy a peaceful, dog-friendly setting with room to roam and space to relax.
Conveniently located near I-80 and close to local shops, dining, and attractions, Rustic Acres offers the perfect balance of seclusion and accessibility. You can even bike / walk from camp one mile to Lost in the Wilds Brewery and O’Neils Family Market.
Camp in the woods—without giving up comfort. Work. Explore. Stay at Rustic Acres.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Austin Dam Memorial Park
9. Austin Dam Memorial Park
98%
(842)
PA · 9 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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
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
Raymond B. Winter State Park
11. Raymond B. Winter State Park
100%
(6)
State park in Pennsylvania · 64 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Raymond B. Winter State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Shawnee State Park
12. Shawnee State Park
100%
(7)
State park in Pennsylvania · 253 sites
Discover Shawnee State Park's lush landscapes and outdoor adventures.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Cowans Gap State Park
13. Cowans Gap State Park
100%
(4)
State park in Pennsylvania · 208 sites
This idyllic lake is the campgrounds of your childhood with swimming, boating and even ice cream.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Stargazing Field at Olga Farm
14. Stargazing Field at Olga Farm
99%
(368)
Coudersport, PA · 5 sites
Olga Farm is a working organic vegetable farm with a Stargazing Field for primitive camping & it also offers a number of glamping options. Please contact us if you're interested in glamping at Olga Farm.
The Stargazing Field at Olga Farm is perfect for camping, breathtaking sunrises, peaceful meditation, & you guessed it...stargazing in some of the darkest skies in the northeastern United States. It's adjacent to a working organic vegetable farm.
Olga Farm is 4.4 miles from the charming town of Coudersport & its shops & eateries, including Olga Gallery, Cafe, & Bistro which is only 5.9 miles away. There's a great swimming hole less than 5.5 miles away. Cherry Springs State Park, a stargazing Mecca is 21 miles away.
Olga Farm is a great base to explore the Pennsylvania Wilds. We are 36 miles from the Kinzua Skywalk & 46 miles from Leonard Harrison State Park, one of our favorite places to view the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon. We're only 14 miles from the Austin Dam Ruins & 37 miles from Rock City Park just over the border in New York State.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Old Soul Farm
15. Old Soul Farm
99%
(293)
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
Red Rock Mountain Campground
16. Red Rock Mountain Campground
95%
(10)
Jamison City, PA · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome Hikers!!! Our Campground is located at the base of the Red Rock Mountain where 487 meets 118 in Benton, Pennsylvania. It’s about a minute to the lower entrance of the park! We offer 23 spacious tent sites, cabins, and a RV Park with full hook up, 30 amp electric. We are a no frills campground, pitch your tent and enjoy nature! We are the closest campground to the beautiful Ricketts Glen State Park! We’re open April-October.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
SWEETDALE
17. SWEETDALE
100%
(26)
Oxford, PA · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
WELCOME TO OUR LITTLE FARM RETREAT.
Unplug, unwind, and settle into the peaceful rhythm of our small, welcoming farm.- Tucked in the hollow of an Amish Community yet Just minutes from some of Southeastern Pennsylvania's Most Beloved destinations like the world renowned LONGWOOD GARDENS , Browse the shops in quaint Historic Kennett Square, WINTERTHUR MUSEUM AND THE BRANDYWINE MUSEUM. in Chadds Ford. Just up the hill is a local Vineyard WAYVINE for world class wine tastings and local entertainment. Or perhaps spend the day Kayaking or Canoeing on the OCTORORO Reservoir. Our place offers the perfect blend of rustic charm and nearby adventure .
Escape to the charm of the countryside at our small working farm, where life is simple , air is fresh and friendly animals are always ready to greet you. Our flock of sweet wooly sheep and 4 gentle ponies will likely be the first to say hello-and if you're up for, they will happily take you for a carriage ride around the property.
Every stay includes complimentary seasonal fruit and produce you can pick yourself from the garden.
ripe tomatoes, crisp greens or whatever Nature's offering that week.
as well as fresh eggs collected daily from our happy hens. (SEE MORE on instagram @sweetdalefarm)
Whether you're lounging under the shade trees, stargazing or simply enjoying the quiet company of farm life, our little slice of the countryside is a place to unwind, reconnect and enjoy the slow rhythm of nature and the hoofbeats of horses and buggies.
You'll have access to laundry area for longer stays, fire pit and when available perhaps a room with a private bath if you'd like a little extra comfort
We'd love to share this peaceful piece of the world with you. Come for the fresh air, Stay for the magic.:}
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Neal Homestead Camp Sites
18. Neal Homestead Camp Sites
95%
(225)
Brookville, PA · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Camp is on 50 acres with a pink marked trail to Red Bank Creek on the western border and back up through a hemlock forest along south border. A small stream runs through the property and forms a rocky delta in Red Bank Creek. All camp sites are on the eastern border and close to the main road to access property. Hike, enjoy the sound of the stream tickling through property, stargaze, or rest, watch nature's critters, read or just relax in a hammock. No hunting on property but fishing permitted along "river" aka Red Bank Creek. Please keep fires in firepit and noise levels low. Set up to be most natural, minimal mowing, and sites meant to be more private. We let you know if you have others on property. No running water or flush toilets on sites unless in your self-contained camper. A compost loo provided. Lots of kindling can be easily gathered for a fire. Consider ordering some ahead of time if it has been raining though. There is a tarp and a wheelbarrow to collect logs and kindling and move to your site.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Ruby's Rocks
19. Ruby's Rocks
96%
(113)
Wilcox, PA · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land:
Our property is located near the tiny village of Glen Hazel, our unique area offers close proximity to many watersports and hiking opportunities.
Visitors can watch bald eagles and osprey as you enjoy kayaking, fishing and nature at this primitive campsite. We have just one site. Our campsite is very private and includes a fire ring, a picnic table a trash can and a swing. Parking is available right at the site. It's just a 2 minute walk to the northernmost kayak launch on the East Branch of the Clarion River. Here you will find a public porta potty for use during the summer only. Several small jack dams will make your kayak experience a delight. We have a private 1 acre pond just a stones throw from the campsite that visitors can enjoy. Fishing is permitted in the pond, no license needed. Fly fishermen will enjoy the thrill of catching native and stocked trout in the most beautiful section on the East Branch of the Clarion River (PA fishing license and trout stamp required).
Nearby is Bendigo State Park that offers free use of picnic areas and swimming in an immaculately kept pool. Just 1 1/2 miles away is the Dam Inn where you can stop for a beer or for a nice dinner on the deck. Adjacent to the campsite is State Gamelands #25. This enormous tract of public land is open to all for hiking, biking and fishing the pristine native trout streams, including Middle Fork, Crooked Creek and several others. Only a 3 mile drive will land you at the East Branch Lake, a seven mile long lake where you can put your boat in and fish, kayak or water ski to your hearts content.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Clarion Heights
20. Clarion Heights
99%
(152)
Johnsonburg, PA · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
The Property has been previously used for its Large stone, coal, and clay mine. The property has been virtually untouched for 60+ years. Beautiful views of the surrounding hills.Small private spot on the top of the hill.. Lots of wildlife and close to many area attractions like 4 wheeler trails fishing, hunting, boating and more...
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
D
Don
2 days ago
Tent
The campsite was clean, peaceful, and set in an ideal location. We loved the great trails, exploring the old homestead, and especially the beautiful waterfall. There was so much to explore and enjoy, making it the perfect place to disconnect and spend time outdoors. We had a great stay and will definitely be coming back.
See more
A
Anya
1 week ago
Tent
I absolutely loved this campsite! There is a pond with many benches and some thoughtful amenities such as a campfire grill, lantern, torch, and even a mailbox full of activities to do in the area. The location is beautiful and private feeling and has lots of wildlife and creek access (plus some trails across the road)! The hosts are lovely people, both incredibly kind and helpful. I would 110% recommend!!
See more
P
Pete
1 week ago
35 ft travel trailer
Host were great
Loved veggies from garden
Very quiet
Definitely would recommend
See more
A
Aaron
1 week ago
Tent
With pets
I loved the peace and quiet beautiful little spot back in the deep woods id highly recommend
See more
V
Victoria
1 week ago
Tent
We absolutely loved our stay! The campsite was beautiful, peaceful, and the creek was definitely our favorite part. We spent the weekend hiking, collecting firewood, exploring, cooking over the fire, and making some really great memories. The host was super friendly too!
See more
Edan
1 week ago
Tent
Group trip
We had a great time camping! The sites were clearly marked and despite the wet road conditions getting back to our site, our Impreza was able to easily get in and out. The site felt private and has a nice picnic table and fire pit with numerous grates, tongs, etc to use for fire cooking. The outhouse was well stocked with wood chips, toilet paper, and hand sanitizer. The onsite firewood was also very convenient and reasonably priced. We got caught in some thunderstorms, so the platform came in handy to keep us off the ground.
The highlight is definitely the short walk down to the beautiful waterfall! What a hidden gem! We definitely will be back - hopefully with less rain :)
See more
M
Michael
1 week ago
Tent
Great spot, had a wonderful time. Very private and the stream is beautiful.
See more
Amber
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
We booked one of the primitive sites, but due to the standing rainwater and mud, they moved us to a different campsite on the upper level near the RVs. Unfortunately, it wasn’t very private, and with kids and a dog, we didn’t have much space. They were very accommodating though, and allowed us to choose another spot that worked out a little better for us.
Honestly, I think this might be the nicest campground I’ve ever stayed at. The bathrooms were always completely spotless, and everything is fairly new and well maintained. The kids loved playing at the park, and the dog park was a really nice feature. One thing to keep in mind if you have a small dog, our little dog could run right underneath the gate!
The hub was incredible. It’s the perfect space if you need a quiet place to work or just want somewhere to relax. The complimentary coffee was such a nice touch and just not something you typically see at a campground. They also have books and games available. They even have a place to clip your dog’s leash outside the hub and the office, which is very convenient.
My kids, our dog, and I loved exploring the creek. They have strings of lights leading down the path to the creek, so I imagine it would be beautiful to walk down there in the evening.
You can tell a lot of thought has gone into making this campground as convenient and enjoyable as possible for their campers. Despite the initial campsite situation, we had a great experience and will definitely be back some day!
See more
C
Courtney
2 weeks ago
Tent
I booked this camp site for a surprise weekend trip with my boyfriend for his birthday and we absolutely loved it! The directions were very clear and exact, especially since we arrived after dark. Our campsite was clean and secluded, allowing privacy. I really loved interacting with the goats. The owners were very kind and provided firewood for our arrival, as well as education about the farm. The shower was exceptional after a long day of hiking. Great vibes overall.
See moreA
Andre
2 weeks ago
Tent
Absolutely beautiful spot!
Very peaceful and quiet. We will definitely be back ☺️
See moreD
Daisy
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Loved the stay it was a gorgeous spot! The little waterfall was the highlight of the trip
See more
C
Chrystal
2 weeks ago
Tent
It's a beautiful campground love the creek the owners are very nice, we also enjoyed the many visits from the ducks there I also like the convenience of the Snappy's and Dollar General being real close We had a back site wasn't hardly any traffic noise, it was rather quiet well kept bathrooms , just an all around nice little Campground
See more
S
Suzette
2 weeks ago
Tent
We were greeted by Linda when we arrived. She was so nice and friendly and we chatted for a few minutes. Were we returning campers so we knew where to go. It was a great time, as always!
See more
S
Susan
2 weeks ago
20 ft Class B
With pets
What a hidden gem of a campground! We loved Bald Eagle Campground & Linda & Janet are awesome ! If you love nature & the lush woods of PA, this is a nice place to stay.
See more
d
dave
3 weeks ago
Tent
Beautiful space! Quiet and peaceful with more lightning bugs than i have ever seen!
See more
R
Ronald
3 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
Me, my son and grandkids had a great time camping out there. I haven't went camping for ages and enjoyed getting out and enjoying it with the grandkids. They loved the frog pond and the thrill of the outdoors. Overall great time. Thank you Linda and Janet. We will be back next year.
See more
H
Hannah
3 weeks ago
Tent
Stayed the night at Eric and had a great time. Lots of room and very friendly host.
See more
W
Will
3 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
My friends and I loved staying here. The property is beautiful and sites feel very private. The goats were lots of fun to see and it was easy to find things to do nearby.
See moreB
Becky
3 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
We loved our stay! The girls loved that it was a working farm and entire enjoyed the chickens! The land was beautiful and the hosts are very nice.
See more
Alicia
3 weeks ago
4 nights at River Hills Above the Allegheny
The best hipcamp we have been to! Wow just incredible, there is something very magical and unique happening here. Thank you for hosting us.
See morePennsylvania 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.
