Camping in Pennsylvania

With activities for all four seasons, camping in Pennsylvania is the perfect way to take in the state's wild forests and Appalachian mountains.

97% (13909 reviews)
  1. Pennsylvania
97% (13909 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Pennsylvania

Top-rated campgrounds

Campfire - site 13

1. Bald Eagle Campsite

96%
(1554)
33 sites ¡ RVs, Tents ¡ Tyrone, PA
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 25 feet. Generators are not allowed. Music should not reach outside your own site after 9pm. There are no water hookups. Vehicle noise is audible from route 350, especially on Friday afternoons. Noise is diminished at sites further back from route 350. Our sites are wheelchair accessible, but the bathrooms and showers do have one step up into them. Walk to Snappy's 24-hour convenience store to use their free Wi-Fi, buy bags of ice, or to pickup snacks and a sub in the attached Snappy's Grille. An ice cream stand and restaurant are within walking distance. We require a minimum two nights stay for the recognized holiday weekends for Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day.
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$30
 / night
100 Mile View Camping, Jim Thorpe

2. 100 Mile View Camping, Jim Thorpe

97%
(337)
27 sites ¡ RVs, Tents ¡ Jim Thorpe, PA
You can get directions to 100 Mile View Camping by using Google Maps or Apple Maps, "100 Mile View Camping". The 100 Mile View Campground is located 3 miles from Jim Thorpe, the Lehigh Gorge State Park, Delaware, and Lehigh Heritage Trail, White Water Rafting, Steam Train Rides, Museums, Music Entertainment at Mauch Chunk Opera House, and Mauch Chunk Lake which is perfect for swimming, kayaking, paddle boating and fishing. You can get to all of these activities in 3 miles with no traffic by turning left out of our driveway and driving west on Flagstaff Road to Jim Thorpe. We offer hiking and mountain biking trails on our property and a variety of camping opportunities for parties with tents, campers, overlanders, and RVs. Our campsites are booked on ResNexus.com which does not charge additional booking fees for reservations made at our campground. 100 Mile View Camping is a family-run campground that is located in Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania on a property that has 100 Mile East to West Panoramic Views. It is comprised of several parcels totaling 100's of acres that were purchased over the past 35 years. We have shared our property with hikers, bikers, and outdoor recreation enthusiasts since day one. Our campground started with only 6 campsites, but with great reviews, we continue growing and have recently received the approvals to become one of the premier camping and outdoor resort destinations in the Eastern United States. Our founder, Jake Arner, has a passion for the outdoors and for people who show respect for nature and for other people. Jake genuinely enjoys sharing his property with others. This property and Jake's generosity have received 5-star reviews online from many people.
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$44
 / night
Fairview Farms Airfield

5. Fairview Farms Airfield

98%
(762)
15 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents ¡ Pine Grove, PA
The 66-acre property has been licensed as an airport (PS20) since the 1980s. It is currently an active, private airport. We don't sell fuel or offer services beyond camping so we primarily have only air traffic with few to no landings each year. In other words, it is very quiet here except during the occasional low pass. We are very eager for pilots to fly in and camp out! The beautiful sunsets and stargazing night skies are a real treat for anyone that comes to visit. Lots of deer, birds, and other wildlife can be seen out and about. Bring your telescope and binoculars to view all the property has to offer! Note that we are always working to improve our slice of heaven, thus we do have tools, vehicles, and equipment stored around the farm that if not used now will be one day. We appreciate your understanding that some areas are used for our personal / farm storage. If you're not into looking at our farmware, there are a few nearby campgrounds. The hot tub is located next to the owner's home. Guests are welcome to use this at any time but must reserve and pay for a time slot. * Book this through the Extras * We are within walking distance of Swatara State Park and close to the Appalachian Trail. Short drive to the local winery, bowling alley, pub/diner, and movie theater. Grocery stores and gas are also nearby. Miles of hiking, rail trail, single-track mountain biking, and kayaking are all right here! See our kayak and bike rentals under extras! Hershey Park is approximately a 30-minute drive from our location. Rausch Creek, Anthracite, and Reading off-road areas are also nearby. Note: Monthly rental discounts are available. Work-stay exchange programs are available. We are always looking for good reliable part-time help on the farm! Please ask! Fall leaves colors are looking awesome! Come enjoy the leaves by day and stars by night beside your campfire! Follow us on Instagram: @fairview_farms_airfield
Pets
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from 
$45
 / night
The River's Edge

6. The River's Edge

97%
(297)
8 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents ¡ Pocono Woodland Lakes, PA
The River's Edge campsites sit on the shoreline of the Delaware River at the western edge of New York State overlooking the mountains of Pennsylvania. Our canvas tents and open air platforms perch between the river and the former Delaware & Hudson Canal which was once was used to transport raw goods by barge to New York City via the 'port' of Port Jervis. The remnants of the canal walls are throughout the property including a 300 person theater which we created to both preserve and feature this industrial history. It also makes a great place for an event or a movie night. Today, the original canal towpath, along which barges would be pulled and floated downstream, is a trail that links all of the campsites over 5 acres and at the furthest end an eel fishing camp that is in operation from June to October (say 'hi' to Jim). In the early 1900s, the train replaced the canal as the primary method of moving goods into New York and if you are lucky — you will hear the train rumble by along the river on the Pennsylvania side. There is something spectacular in the absolute still and grandness of the river, the mountains and the ongoing industrial history of the valley. It is a reminder of the way things used to be. The farmhouse and cabins are located opposite the campsites on other side of route 97. Next to them are 50 acres of wild forest to hike and explore. These accommodations are great for guests who want more amenities but still with easy access to river. Pair campsites and cabins so that all your guests have their best experience. Contact us to coordinate for larger group bookings.
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$160
 / night
Waterfall short hike from sit

7. Camp Dietrich on Bear Creek

99%
(189)
4 sites ¡ Lodging ¡ Jim Thorpe, PA
Four secluded campsites along Bear Creek in the Poconos, feature spacious safari tents with queen bunk beds, covered dining area, a deck to set up an additional 6 person pop up tent. In addition we have “Check Point Shed” where campers can borrow gear. Drive into your campsite immediately you will hear the sounds of a babbling creek, by giant rhododendrons under magnificent hemlocks and oaks - a truly natural and relaxing experience. Campers can enjoy a short hike to our private waterfall with swimming hole or lay in a hammock by the creek. The sites are surrounded by 400 acres of privately owned natural forest with several miles of marked trails. The campsite is adjoined by Lehigh Gorge State Park and PA state game lands. Sturdy shoes or hiking boots are recommended for hiking. Just minutes away there are outdoor adventures galore: white water rafting, kayaking, biking on rail to trails bike paths, skirmish paint ball, Glen Onoko Falls and Hickory Run state parks. The mountaintop entertainment venue Penns Peak and the historic town of Jim Thorpe are just 15 minutes from the campsite. Jim Thorpe has many fine eatery’s, shops, the Lehigh Gorge Railway and Asa Packer mansion
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from 
$158
 / night
Peters Sawmill

9. Peters Sawmill

98%
(73)
6 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents ¡ Hillsgrove, PA
In the heart of the forest, nestled among towering trees and surrounded by breathtaking views, a humble cabin. It’s the place that evokes tranquility and solitude, offering a refuge from the chaos of the outside world. What makes this cabin truly captivating is its unique location, obscured by the presence of a running sawmill. Come enjoy watching as it takes you back in time. This sawmill is unlike any bandmill, boasting a massive 4 and a half-foot circular saw, a relic from the years between 1935 and 1945. Its rhythmic, melodic hum fills the air, blending seamlessly with the symphony of nature. The captivating noise created an enchanting ambiance, luring those in search of solace and beauty. We run our mill with recycled cooking oil and a diesel blend. Behind the sawmill, nature thrives harmoniously. Wildlife painted the surroundings with vibrant colors, as birds filled the sky with their elegant dances and curious squirrels scurried about, their fluffy tails adding a playful touch to the lush landscape. The cabin is a sanctuary where one can witness the wonders of nature, just a walk away from the roaring sawmill. Come check out a piece of preserved history all while enjoying pristine wooded views! Take a step back in time and immerse yourself in history. Enjoy the power of the circular saw, a symbol of the immense progress and craftsmanship of yesteryears. Together, the cabin, the forest, and the sawmill form a perfect harmony — a testament to the beauty of nature entwined with mankind's desire to create. It offers a glimpse into a world where modernity meets tradition, where breathtaking views and the symphony of the sawmill entice all who venture here to enjoy.
Pets
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from 
$33
 / night
River Hills Above the Allegheny

10. River Hills Above the Allegheny

100%
(496)
8 sites ¡ RVs, Tents ¡ Parker, PA
Located just outside of Parker, PA and 25 minutes from I-80, our campsite is very accessible, yet still very remote. With 4 campsites on 75 acres, guests have ample privacy and space, with the freedom to roam this posted property that has no homes on it. Perched high above the Allegheny there are several spots to take in the wonderful views. There is also a waterfall with a 3’ deep pool below it. Great for splashing with kids or dogs, guests love exploring the creek bottom and making new discoveries. The more curious guests sometimes find the ruins of the original homestead, chimney and spring house that sit upstream. The property is teeming with wildlife. Birds and tree frogs will be the soundtrack of your visit, and often deer will be seen nosing along the outskirts of your site in the mornings and evenings. Turkey, bald eagles and even bear are occasionally spotted, so be prepared to secure your food and trash at night. For those coming to disconnect, you have found the right place. But if cell service is needed, you will have enough to get texts out and depending what site you booked, calls and internet as well. For those who seek an electrical outlet AND and EV charger, we have a site for you! We also have a site with a large canvas tent already set up for your convenience. 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 trip during weekdays!
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from 
$34
 / night
Delaware Water Gap private boat launch

11. Organic Farm in the Pocono Mts.

97%
(301)
3 sites ¡ RVs, Tents ¡ East Stroudsburg, PA
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. 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
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from 
$80
 / night
Rustic Acres - Elevated RV Camping

12. Rustic Acres - Elevated RV Camping

96%
(27)
39 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents ¡ Shippenville, PA
Your basecamp for Clarion County adventures—just 4 easy miles off I-80. Nestled on 24 wooded acres just minutes from the Clarion River and over 3,000 acres of state game lands, Rustic Acres offers the perfect blend of nature, comfort, and convenience. Stay in full hookup RV sites, van life spots, Luxury Glamping tents, or retro trailers. Whether you’re rolling in with your RV, road-tripping in a van, or looking for a unique camping experience, Rustic Acres has something for everyone. Choose from full hookup RV sites, van life spots, primitive camping, over-landing, and luxury glamping tents,—each with access to thoughtfully designed amenities that blend comfort with rustic charm. Onsite, you’ll find everything you need for a memorable stay: • A camp store stocked with essentials • Free WiFi across the property • The Hub – a cozy remote work space with coffee & tea bar • Playground and craft room for the kids • Community fire pit and gathering spaces • Direct access to scenic hiking and biking trails Located just 4 miles off I-80, Rustic Acres offers the perfect balance of tranquility and convenience—with restaurants, shops, and small-town charm only minutes away. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway, a weeklong family vacation, or a longer seasonal stay, you'll find the perfect mix of nature, comfort, and community. Come experience the simple joys of outdoor living—where memories are made around the campfire and every trail leads to a little more happiness.
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from 
$28
 / night
Map of sites. Red dots indicate the site with fire ring.

13. Christmas Tree Farm with Views

100%
(356)
7 sites ¡ RVs, Tents ¡ Elizabethtown, PA
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.
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from 
$35
 / night
The tent is up a short flight of steps with a nice deck that contains the hot tub, chairs, hand washing station, and slide.

14. Magical Treehouse w/ HotTub & Slide

97%
(33)
1 site ¡ Lodging ¡ Pottsgrove, PA
Welcome to your private treehouse-style glamping retreat, nestled on a peaceful 16-acre, 100-year-old family farm—just one hour from Philadelphia. Perched among the trees on a raised wooden deck, our spacious, furnished canvas tent offers a serene escape with everything you need for a relaxing, memorable stay. Climb a short flight of stairs to take in sweeping views of the open field below, then unwind in the all-season hot tub, lounge on the deck, or zip down the slide into your own private meadow. Inside the tent, you’ll find a plush king-size memory foam bed, two cozy twin trundle beds, and thoughtful touches including dishes, cooking essentials, and charming decor to make your stay feel like home. Below the tent, enjoy a shaded outdoor dining area, hammock, gas grill, and fire pit—complete with firewood for cozy nights under the stars. Amenities include on-site parking, fresh drinking water, a clean private porta potty, and access to a shared outdoor hot-water shower stocked with toiletries and fluffy towels (a short walk away). The tent comfortably sleeps 4 guests, and we welcome additional campers (BYO gear) in the surrounding field for a small extra fee. All guests have access to the hot tub, shower, and restroom facilities. 🐾 Well-behaved dogs are always welcome—four-legged friends are our favorite kind of campers! Hosting Something Special? Our farm is a beautiful backdrop for small weddings, parties, retreats, and group gatherings. If you’re planning a celebration, we’d love to help bring your vision to life. Contact us for event details and pricing. Whether you're here to relax, explore, or celebrate, our farm offers the perfect place to disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with what matters most. We can’t wait to host you.
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from 
$173
 / night
Cranberry Run Campground

16. Cranberry Run Campground

94%
(8)
38 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents ¡ East Stroudsburg, PA
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 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, slow down, and enjoy the quiet beauty of the woods. 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 Campground.
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from 
$49
 / night
Shambala at Mystic Hollow

17. Shambala at Mystic Hollow

95%
(168)
15 sites ¡ RVs, Tents ¡ Mohrsville, PA
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. There is also a small bridge that goes over a small strip of wetlands. Fire rings are included. I can haul your gear to your spot with tractor and wagon if needed. 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. 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.
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from 
$38
 / night
RoundStone

18. RoundStone

100%
(242)
15 sites ¡ Lodging, Tents ¡ Weatherly, PA
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. Cabins have electric, but no indoor plumbing. Porta-Johns are available throughout the grounds. (Some sites are closer to port-a-johns than others.) We do not provide potable water or showers for tent campers but we allow responsible use of the stream for cleaning. Cabins have a rustic outdoor shower available May-October. Please inquire for camper vans and pop ups. - FIREWOOD: Due to the threat of invasive pests, we do not allow firewood to be transported onto the grounds. 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. Memorial Day Weekend and Labor Day Weekend are a three night minimum **
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$55
 / night
The Lookout

20. The Lookout

94%
(274)
4 sites ¡ Tents ¡ New Tripoli, PA
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.
Pets
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from 
$50
 / night

Camper favorites in Pennsylvania

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Public campgrounds in Pennsylvania

Stories from the community

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Star Hosts in Pennsylvania

Under $50

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

Camping in Pennsylvania guide

Overview

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.

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Set in Pennsylvania (not Delaware), Delaware State Forest offers several camping options. Campers can enjoy primitive camping at designated sites with a camping permit, which is required for stays longer than one night. More information and permit applications can be found on the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources website.

Yes, Pennsylvania is an excellent destination for camping. The state is home to numerous state parks, national forests, and private campgrounds that cater to tent campers, RV enthusiasts, and those seeking cabins or glamping options. Pennsylvania's diverse landscape, which includes mountains, forests, and lakes, provides campers with a wide range of outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife watching. You can browse your options on Hipcamp.

Yes, it is legal to camp in designated areas and campgrounds within Pennsylvania. Camping is allowed in designated campgrounds and specific areas within state parks, state forests, and national forests. In state forests, you can engage in dispersed camping, also known as primitive camping, but you must follow certain rules and regulations. For example, you need to obtain a free permit for stays longer than one night, and you must camp at least 25 feet away from trails and water sources.

For private land, you need the landowner's permission to camp. There are many private landowners who offer camping experiences through platforms like Hipcamp, where you can find unique camping spots in Pennsylvania.

In Pennsylvania, you can camp for free in some areas of the state forests and the Allegheny National Forest. Dispersed camping is allowed in these areas, but make sure to follow the guidelines and regulations set by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and the Allegheny National Forest. Keep in mind that amenities are limited, and you should practice Leave No Trace principles when camping in these areas.

Boondocking, or camping without amenities in undeveloped areas, is not illegal in Pennsylvania as long as it is done on public lands that permit dispersed camping. In Pennsylvania, you can boondock on state forests and some national forests, such as the Allegheny National Forest, where dispersed camping is allowed. However, it is essential to follow the guidelines and regulations set by the respective land management agency. Boondocking is allowed in designated or non-designated areas, but make sure to practice Leave No Trace principles and adhere to any posted restrictions or rules. Boondocking on private property without permission is illegal. If you are looking for more secluded camping options in Pennsylvania, you can also check out Hipcamp for private land camping.