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The best lakeside camping in Pennsylvania

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You can't go lake camping in Pennsylvania without at least acknowledging Lake Erie. This Great Lake borders northwestern PA, as well as other states, so you'll hardly realize you're not actually by the ocean. Exploring Erie is easy from a Presque Isle campsite, though Pennsylvania boasts a multitude of equally great lakes, albeit smaller ones. Opt for a campground in Allegheny National Forest or Susquehannock State Park, where wooded lake campsites not only allow for peaceful getaways but also up the ante. Warren County's Handsome Lake Campground is accessible by hike or boat, making your arrival an event in and of itself. If you're still craving adrenaline, head to the Poconos, where a mountain campsite proves you can have it all—from select campsites, you'll get double the vistas, with simultaneous views of Pennsylvania's lakes and peaks.

98% (3.6K) 7,330 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Pennsylvania

Fairview Farms Airfield

1. 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
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Full hookups
The Lookout

2. The Lookout

94%
(323)
New Tripoli, PA · 2 sites
Our property consists of 20 acres of the beautiful Blue Mountain. At the Lookout you can see for 40 Miles across the valley below. With views from Allentown, Lyons and Reading.  The area with the view is a shared area for both sites. Feel free to use the fire ring while you sit and watch the evening sky. It is breathtaking at night.  At the bottom of the mountain there is a Gunclub with a shooting range and you will hear shooting from the property. Please note it is far away and there is no danger Our property is mostly the mountain side. But with an area that is flat for tent camping. The property is close to Route 309 but there is a camping area away from the road. Our land is next to the road and you will hear some road noise. We are next to National Parks land which also consists of the Appalachian Trail and also against the Pennsylvania Game Lands. You can walk up the street or trail to Thunderhead Lodge Restaurant. Leaser lake is a short drive if you like fishing or kayaking. The Wanamakers Store is a unique place to visit with amazing sandwiches. The Wanamakers and Kemton railroad is close by for a weekend train ride. Bear Rock Junction is close by for mini golf and ice cream. Eight Oaks Distillery is only a few minutes away. Several wineries and antique shops as well. You may also see Appalachian Trail Thru Hikers come thru our property to stay at the hostel. Please welcome our hikers as they come to rest their weary bodies. Welcome to the Lookout. We have made many improvements to our land but also try to maintain the beauty it is. We plan to keep upgrading our property. We plan to use the land for Recreational activites. We have a Hiker Hostel in the Building. The Building was previously the Blue Mountain Lookout Restaurant but has been neglected for approximately 20 years. We are trying to restore the property to bring it back to life.
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Organic Farm in the Pocono Mts.

3. 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.
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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.
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
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Campfires
Bill S. and Nancy's property

6. Bill S. and Nancy's property

99%
(351)
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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Electrical hookup
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Cranberry Run Campground

7. Cranberry Run Campground

97%
(39)
East Stroudsburg, PA · 20 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Cranberry Run Campground is a small, family-owned campground in the Pocono Mountains, just outside East Stroudsburg, PA. We've kept the spirit of 1970s camping alive - simple, low-key, and laid-back. No corporate or chain-campground feel, just a relaxed, family-run place to camp in the woods. We offer tent sites, RV hookups, and primitive cabins, with access to free hot showers and flush toilets. You can cool off in our swimming pool, fish in our pond, or unwind in our game room, stocked with board games, pool tables, air hockey, pinball, and other arcade-style games. Cranberry Run is a place to unplug and slow down - but if you need to stay connected, we've got you covered, with free Wi-Fi in the game room, pool, and deck area, and strong cell service throughout the campground. There's plenty of space for privacy, and you'll find lots to do - hiking, fishing, and exploring nearby swimming holes. We're also just minutes from local restaurants and shops, so you can enjoy both the adventure of the outdoors and the convenience of town. We host live music and other unique events throughout the season. And as a small, family-run place, we're always happy to answer questions ahead of your visit. Whether you're looking to reconnect with family, friends, or yourself, we look forward to welcoming you to Cranberry Run.
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Full hookups
Stargazing Field at Olga Farm

8. 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.
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Scenic Turtle Ridge

9. Scenic Turtle Ridge

97%
(663)
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!
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Potable water
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.
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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.
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Fairie Tale Farm

14. Fairie Tale Farm

100%
(128)
Shickshinny, PA · 11 sites · Tents, RVs
Unplug, Refresh, Renew! Fairie Tale Farm invites you to experience its magical ambiance and warm hospitality. Our gorgeous historical farmstead is a hidden gem that begs to be shared! Explore hiking and biking trails on this expansive 60-acre horse farm, or simply unwind while watching the horses graze (no treats, please) and observing wildlife meandering through the woods. For more outdoor adventures, Ricketts Glen State Park is nearby, offering opportunities to hike alongside 22 breathtaking waterfalls in the gorge or kayak on Lake Jean. If camping is your pleasure, but hiking isn't your cup of tea, fret not! There are plenty of local antique stores to peruse for treasures or several wineries to tour and indulge in tastings. Not sure which of our many unique campsites suits you and your guests best? Simply book one, and we can have a chat to determine the perfect fit. All our sites come equipped with a picnic table, a fire ring stocked with one bundle of wood and kindling, and access to fresh water. Plus, there's a convenient Port-A-Potty nearby for your comfort.
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Two Creek Wildland

15. Two Creek Wildland

99%
(71)
Lakewood, PA · 2 sites
Reconnect with nature's embrace as you immerse yourself in 500 acres of untouched wilderness including a pristine 50-acre lake. We are sharing this beautiful land to foster connections with nature. THIS IS NOT A PARTY VENUE. If you are not interested in cultivating harmony with nature, please do not book with us. If you are, this property is a dream - set up camp beside the lake, or anywhere else you choose on the property. Explore our wildland on foot or by mountain bike along the old logging trails that crisscross the terrain. Enjoy leisurely time on the lake using our canoes and kayak. Fish your own dinner! Your campsite offers comforts including a two-person hammock, an 8-foot picnic table, Adirondack chairs, and a state-of-the-art composting toilet with running water. Cook over an open fire using our fire-pit with a built-in grilling rack. If you're interested in farm-to-campsite, we can deliver organic provisions from our regenerative farm, Two Creek Farm, including steaks, burger patties, sausages, eggs, and grilling veggies. Take this opportunity to rediscover a reconnect with nature in this wild and peaceful setting.
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Paradise By The Pond

16. Paradise By The Pond

99%
(173)
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.
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Aspen Overlook Campsite

17. Aspen Overlook Campsite

98%
(27)
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. The site is located on a remote dirt road so please consider that fact,
Pets
Electrical hookup
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Ruby's Rocks

18. 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.
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The Dam House At Beaver Pond

19. The Dam House At Beaver Pond

100%
(31)
Honesdale, PA · 1 site
The Beaver Lodge is a single-site glamping retreat tucked in the woods just outside Honesdale, PA. The site features two ponds and roughly five acres of quiet forest. In October, the surrounding hardwoods turn, and you’ll have a front-row seat to peak Wayne County foliage from your Adirondack chair or the waterside fire circle. Our site sits beside Spinner Pond. You’ll arrive by a short wooded walk (about 3 minutes), or catch a ride in on the UTV — we’re happy to shuttle guests and gear. At the waterfront, there’s a fire circle, Adirondack chairs, and multiple watercraft: canoe, kayaks, and a rowboat, all with paddles and life jackets. Fishing is excellent in both ponds — bass, pickerel, crappie, and panfish are active throughout the season. Wildlife watching from the pond edge is excellent: bald eagles, osprey, beavers at work, deer, ducks, and turtles are regular visitors. On a clear night, the sky above the pond is as dark as it gets this close to the Poconos. Inside the canvas bell tent you’ll find a real queen-size bed made up with sheets, pillows, and blankets, LED camp lighting, and a footlocker stocked with cooking essentials: cast iron skillet, pot, utensils, and dinnerware. The site includes a two-burner propane stove with fuel, picnic table, and a fire pit. Potable water, a composting toilet, and a gravity-fed outdoor shower are all on-site. Optional extras include a propane Buddy Heater, two additional cots, and firewood bundles. The camp is tucked behind our home, so you’ll feel completely private — no other structures in view. We’re nearby if you need anything, and we mean that. Past guests have called this the best campsite they’ve ever stayed at. We aim to keep it that way and ask you to practice Leave No Trace to help. Dogs welcome off-leash on the property. Season runs April through first snow. Feel free to message us with any questions — we look forward to hosting you.
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Justamere camp

20. Justamere camp

100%
(28)
Susquehanna, PA · 1 site · Tent, RV
No frills rustic camp situated on lake Very peaceful lakeview setting with flat level area for your tent and sits surrounded by pine trees Very private - while there are several spots to choose from - you are assured complete privacy as we only host one client at a time Upper area can accommodate your RV, trailer or camper .Located on a quiet dirt road it is geared to those who like rustic settings ,wildlife watching , hiking , biking, winter skiing if you are the hardy sort- Due to slope of land I highly recommend only 4x4 vehicles if you are driving to the open camp spot closest to the lake if we have had a lot of rain In dry weather all vehicles should be ok You may park anywhere within the gate and camp at any place that you feel comfortable Firepit, table & dock - of course are nearest the lake . ******************************************************************************************* ( Please make sure to extinquish completely before checking out) Our "resident" eagle was spotted several times swooping down for fish- what a sight! Perfect get away for those who want to experience the most basic camping - and outdoor living with no frills- to get away from it all bring your pet, tent , portable toilet and whatever basics you need for a relaxing time great for walks, exploring surrounding woods, sunbath or fish on dock UPDATE: Some useful info : Justamere camp is about 5 miles away from a small town - Susquehanna- with some nice historic interest If you are looking for a bit of diversion from camp life see the famous Starrucca Viaduct , RR station ( not open to public) UPDATE : 7/28 The boat on the dock is not availablel for campers ! please do not try to use It is NOT registered and needs work You are welcome to bring your own small Kayak if you want to go on the lake Fall is rapidly approaching! nice time to come enjoy the changing leaves and sit around a cozy campfire Wood is FREE! Book now if you are into rustic no frills camping in a very private setting Bring the Kayak or ATV- nice dirt roads great for cruising. UPDATE: 6/5 its been a lovely week, conditions dry and sunny perfect camping Check availability if you want cheap rustic camping Free firewood!
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Picnic table

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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