The best waterside campgrounds in Pennsylvania

Looking for waterside camping in Pennsylvania? You’re in luck. With over 8,800 options lining rivers, lakes, and creeks, there’s a spot for every style—whether you want to pitch a tent by a trout stream or set up camp on a quiet reservoir bank. Average nights run about $50, but you’ll spot some as low as $10 if you’re quick. Top-rated picks include Bald Eagle Campsite (655 reviews), Fairview Farms Airfield (525 reviews), and Peace & Quiet by the River! (401 reviews). Most campsites here allow campfires, have showers, and welcome pets. Bring your fishing pole and binoculars—wildlife-watching, angling, and hiking are the big draws. If you want campgrounds where you can fall asleep to the sound of water, Pennsylvania delivers.

97% (10.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking for waterside camping in Pennsylvania? You’re in luck. With over 8,800 options lining rivers, lakes, and creeks, there’s a spot for every style—whether you want to pitch a tent by a trout stream or set up camp on a quiet reservoir bank. Average nights run about $50, but you’ll spot some as low as $10 if you’re quick. Top-rated picks include Bald Eagle Campsite (655 reviews), Fairview Farms Airfield (525 reviews), and Peace & Quiet by the River! (401 reviews). Most campsites here allow campfires, have showers, and welcome pets. Bring your fishing pole and binoculars—wildlife-watching, angling, and hiking are the big draws. If you want campgrounds where you can fall asleep to the sound of water, Pennsylvania delivers.

97% (10.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Close to Ricketts Glen State Park

97%

(307)

10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Hunlock Creek, PA

This is Prime Agruculture. We sit on 6 acres of Beautiful land Surrounded by Trees, Birds, Starry Nights and Clear Sunny Days. We have a little bit of every wild life around our area. People love coming here because it is a piece of serenity, private and friendly. Please come join us. We are welcoming people. Close to Ricketts Glen State Park. Any Animal You Bring goes when you go. You DON'T Leave any animal unattended. Area surrounded by nature! Have a fire for you and your family. Cook on The Grills That we Provide. Buy a Bundle of wood to enjoy the true experience in camping. Sit under the canopy listen to music. Go for walks in the Rustic Woods. Go for a Hike up at Ricketts Glen State Park. Go Kayaking, Fishing, Boating, hike the River lands flea markets, antiquing theres lots to do.

2. Raccoon Creek State Park

91%

(11)

195 sites · Frankfort Springs, Pennsylvania

Wildflowers, wetlands, and woodlands provide photo-worthy views through every season.

Potable water

Toilets

Campfires

3. Parker Dam State Park

100%

(3)

128 sites · Force, Pennsylvania

Discover the natural charm of Parker Dam State Park.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

4. Lackawanna State Park

100%

(3)

99 sites · Waverly, Pennsylvania

Discover the natural allure of Lackawanna State Park.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

5. Pymatuning State Park

67%

(3)

443 sites · Pymatuning South, Pennsylvania

Discover Pymatuning State Park's natural beauty and outdoor activities.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

6. Lyman Run State Park

100%

(3)

35 sites · Galeton, Pennsylvania

Discover the natural splendor of Lyman Run State Park.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

7. Tioga-Hammond Lakes

100%

(1)

189 sites · Tioga, Pennsylvania

Located in north central Pennsylvania near the New York State border, the Tioga-Hammond Lakes area has become a recreational destination for all members of the family.With two lakes, there are many opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming because it was built that way. There is no shortage of loading docks, surfaced ramps or large parking lots servicing the lakes. Those who prefer solid ground can still enjoy an overnight camping experience and all that comes with it. There’s even a children’s playground to let the rugrats roam free. If you’re here during the summer, the little sluggers in your tribe may be interested in checking out South Williamsport, home of the Little League World Series. You’ll only be an hour’s drive away.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

8. Yellow Creek State Park

100%

(2)

10 sites · Clymer, Pennsylvania

Discover the natural splendor of Yellow Creek State Park.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

9. Curwensville Lake

100%

(2)

45 sites · Curwensville, Pennsylvania

Whether you’re enjoying a bite in the picnic area or out on the fishing dock waiting for a bite, Curwensville Lake will captivate you with its spectacular, far-reaching views of dreamy, rolling landscape. At Curwensville, you’ll have easy access to trails of the hiking, equestrian and skiing variety, but no one would blame you if you just wanted to sit there staring at all the natural beauty around you. This is a great destination for families and parents who need a break, as the playground and beach will keep your kids occupied in a wide-open space where you’ll easily be able to keep an eye on them. It’s also just perfect for anyone looking to snag some quality relaxation time.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

10. Ricketts Glen State Park

98%

(43)

141 sites · Jamison City, Pennsylvania

Camp near dozens of waterfalls and ancient trees in this Northeastern Pennsylvania Park

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

11. Tionesta Lake

100%

(1)

163 sites · Tionesta, Pennsylvania

Deep in the rugged hills of northwestern Pennsylvania, Tionesta Lake sparkles with a diversity of outdoor recreation and fun. The landscape offers scenic hiking, diverse wildlife, and rich layers of history. The lake offers enticing boating and productive fishing. The Seneca named this area "where the water separates the land"- making it the perfect respite for the amphibious.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Public campgrounds in Pennsylvania

100%

(7)

Raccoon Creek Park Campground

182 sites · Tents, RVs · in Raccoon Creek State Park

100%

(3)

Parker Dam State Park Campground

128 sites · Tents, RVs · in Parker Dam State Park

100%

(3)

Lackawanna Park Campground

99 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lackawanna State Park

100%

(3)

Raccoon Creek Park Group Campground

3 sites · in Raccoon Creek State Park

100%

(2)

Jamestown Campground

333 sites · Tents, RVs · in Pymatuning State Park

100%

(2)

Lyman Run State Park Lower Campground

16 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lyman Run State Park

100%

(2)

Curwensville Recreation Area

45 sites · Tents, RVs · in Curwensville Lake

100%

(2)

Yellow Creek Park Campground

10 sites · in Yellow Creek State Park

100%

(1)

Ives Run Campground

188 sites · Tents, RVs · in Tioga-Hammond Lakes

98%

(43)

Ricketts Glen Park Campground

141 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ricketts Glen State Park

100%

(1)

Nockamixon Park Campground

10 sites · in Nockamixon State Park

100%

(1)

Tobyhanna Park Campground

140 sites · Tents, RVs · in Tobyhanna State Park

Stories from the community

Megan

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Close to Ricketts Glen State Park

Had such a lovely stay with Jackie and Chris. Not only were they super accommodating of our last minute booking, they moved our campsite to one safer and dryer in the weather. We spent a beautiful cozy night despite the rain, we even got to have a little fire before it got too wet! Wood bundles for purchase are large and generous. Got to meet both Chris and Jackie and felt like we'd known them for years. Highly recommend this sweet little spot-- we'll be back!!

J

Jade

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Close to Ricketts Glen State Park

Very kind and welcoming hosts! The facilities were spotless and well-maintained. Everything we needed was provided, making our stay easy and comfortable. Highly recommend this campsite!

Q

Qamaruddin

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Close to Ricketts Glen State Park

Nice and clean, I would come back here. We enjoyed the clear sky full of bright stars

C

Caylin

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Close to Ricketts Glen State Park

My group of 8 gals had an absolute blast camping over the Labor Day weekend on Chris & Jackie’s property. They had everything we needed - firewood, a grill, tiki torches, a portable bathroom, drinking water, and a great sink that made washing dishes so easy. Chris and Jackie were both so kind and helpful, and they answered any questions we had about the campsite and getting to the state park. Each campsite was spread out enough that we really felt like we had our own personal haven. We enjoyed campfire songs, stargazing, and of course, Chris’s cool car collection. It was a perfect way to end the summer. Thank you Chris & Jackie for everything! :)

N

Nity

July 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Close to Ricketts Glen State Park

My family and I loved camping here. It was our first time. The hosts Chris & Jackie are very attentive. Whatever we needed, they were there. The space is huge and so lovely and clean. Definitely recommend and would love to go back!

J

Jordan

July 2025

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Close to Ricketts Glen State Park

Jackie and Chris were amazing hosts — warm, attentive, and responsive. The location was great, and we had everything we needed. Anytime we had a question or request, Jackie responded immediately. We loved the energy of the place and truly felt they did a wonderful job.

M

Marisel

July 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Close to Ricketts Glen State Park

This was my first HipCamp booking and was not left disappointed. Chris and Jackie were absolute super hosts! Most adorable couple. They were very accommodating and caring. Just want to thank them for being so kind and generous! 🙏🏼❤️

Tim

July 2025

Tent

With kids

2 nights at Close to Ricketts Glen State Park

We had a great time camping on Chris and Jackie's land. The campground area is wide open, with soft grass, perfect for the kids to run and play all the games we brought. The picnic tables, located right near the fire pit, were a convenient way to set up our meals, the other campsites were not too close, and the Wi-Fi was surprisingly strong. Chris and Jackie are wonderful hosts, willing to help in any way they can. I would recommend this camping spot for groups; it feels like you have your own private campground.

M

Mark

May 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Close to Ricketts Glen State Park

Very friendly hosts. Nice open, flat, grassy places to put the tent. Water, portable toilets, and electric are available. Dark sky’s for star gazing. Close to Ricketts Glen and other places of interest.

Alyssa

May 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Close to Ricketts Glen State Park

The property was well maintained and comfortable and Chris and Jackie were so hospitable, always stopping by to make sure we had all we needed. Our site had plenty of space and the property does not hold a lot of campers so we never felt like we were “apartment camping.” We were traveling with young kids and the nice open space was great for them to play baseball, soccer, lacrosse, etc. we also had two dogs with us and they were so happy to be on cozy grass with a wooded area close by. My family thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and we were close to all the activities we wanted to participate in.

s

stacy

April 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Close to Ricketts Glen State Park

The hosts were great. They land was beautiful and the wild life was out, specifically deer and a lot of woodpeckers. They delivered the firewood and water down to us. Made sure we had what we needed but respected our space