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The best camping in Big Spring State Park, PA
Discover the scenic trails and historic charm of Big Spring State Park.
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Big Spring State Park adventure.
Top-rated campsites near Big Spring State Park
Wilbur's Shed
1. Wilbur's Shed
99%
(153)
4.8mi from Big Spring State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Let your children and dogs roam free without a leash. This property is remote and private. There are no neighbors nearby.
This location is;
twenty minutes north of I-76 Turnpike Willow Hill Exit
forty-five minutes from Raystown Lake
one hour and thirty minutes north of Gettysburg
one hour and thirty minutes south of PSU
three hours east of Pittsburgh
three hours west of Philadelphia
five hours west of NYC
There is some cell service, but it is limited. Can you hear me now? Be sure to save site information on your phone before you leave, in case you lose cell-service. This is not Alaska, but it is not a KOA campground, either. We recommend you print of bring a paper map. Your GPS will not bring you to the exact driveway location. You need to be personally observant.
This is the top of a mountain ridge. The access lane is steep, rocky, and has water erosion ditches you must drive over. Do not attempt this if you have a low profile car or a new/fragile camper. 4WD/AWD is highly recommended. Low profile and fancy cars are not recommended. This camping site is for those who want to live ruggedly like Lewis Clark. To see the water ditches you must drive over, go to YouTube and search "Wilbur's Shed - Blairs Mills", and it is the account of a cat with a white face.
This location is in a mix of farmland and mountain Appalachia. You will see common species such as chipmunks, squirrels turkey and deer. Many bird species. There are also porcupines, skunks, and black snakes around. You may also see black bear - it is rare, but possible. You are visiting wildlife species in their natural habitat. Please be self-aware of your own level comfort with wildlife. Once again, this is not an RVs park where you will socialize with a hundred other campers. This is primitive and isolated. This is an ideal camping spot if you want to escape from people.
Nearby is the Tuscarora Creek which is excellent for trout fishing. The Tuscarora has a small but lovely window for kayaking from mid-March through the end of May. Please contact the host if you would like help to plan some paddle logistics.
Rental through Hipcamp does not include hunting or the use of firearms, nor the use of dirt bikes and ATVs.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
River Golf Lodge RV & Tent Camping
2. River Golf Lodge RV & Tent Camping
100%
(15)
11mi from Big Spring State Park · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
We are a nature-inspired boutique campground with only 6 lots tucked under huge trees and spaced where you can have some privacy. Sites 1-4 are riverfront. Sites 5&6 are river view. Each site has 30A and 110A electric. There is fresh, potable water available for fill on way to your site for free. You may dump for fee upon exit.
If slow mornings, birdsong, fish jumping, river moon reflections, a spa-like twirl under our unique private open air rain shower, slow kayak or tube float, a crackling fire are your kind of thaaangs…we are your place.
Stay. Camp. Fish. Float. Golf. Swim.
Have friends who wanna come but don’t camp, no worries, we have 12 keenly appointed rooms with plush beds and private baths. Come create magical memories with the people you love along the beautiful Juniata River in central PA.
Our Resort is great for bird watching, floating, swimming, fishing, chilling out after a golf round, or doing nothing. It has been said over and over that the river heals one’s soul – we believe this to be true. Come relax and renew with us!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Morningstar Farmstead
3. Morningstar Farmstead
100%
(30)
14mi from Big Spring State Park · 1 site
Hello! Welcome to our family’s farm. The previous owner was here 50 years before selling to us in 2020. We have just under 20 acres here with beautiful views of the mountains where we raise our livestock and gardens. Your camping area is down in a quiet hollow beside our stream and shallow pond under the walnut trees, but if the weather gets rough you can always camp in our bank barn. There is a kitchen beside our barn available for you to use if you would like, also.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Meadow Lane Camp
4. Meadow Lane Camp
95%
(11)
19mi from Big Spring State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Welcome to a serene 10-acre property perfect for campers seeking a peaceful retreat. Nestled in a corner of this property is a single tent site, situated in a grassy field. The site is adorned with a few cedar trees, providing a touch of natural beauty. This tranquil spot offers campers a unique opportunity to connect with nature, enjoy the open space, and relax. Whether you're looking for a quiet getaway or a base for outdoor adventures, this property promises a memorable camping experience.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Juniata River RV/Camper Lot
5. Juniata River RV/Camper Lot
91%
(46)
20mi from Big Spring State Park · 1 site
Our camper lot sits along the Juniata River, farmland, and the Appalachian Mountains. It is a small half acre lot in the country with power, water, and septic dump. It is a flat lot with grass and a large gravel area for an RV that overlooks the river. There is firewood on site for camp fires. Burnt Timbers Winery is one mile down the road along the river. This is a beautiful place to kick back and enjoy the beautiful scenery of central PA.
Pets
Full hookups
Star Lee Farm
6. Star Lee Farm
96%
(12)
21mi from Big Spring State Park · 3 sites
Star Lee Farm operates to provide a small farm experience for guests and share a private rustic outdoor experience. We are using agritourism to promote awareness of pollinators through our honeybee experience and educational programs. The Star Lee is an old “family” farm that we are working to grow into a self sufficient working farm.
We encourage our guests to explore nature that encompasses the farm's 104 acres and enjoy the solitude it can provide. We also invite our guests to “look up” into the night sky and behold the majesty and vastness of the universe we share.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Montside Orchard Camp, Cabin&Sauna
7. Montside Orchard Camp, Cabin&Sauna
100%
(23)
22mi from Big Spring State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The Cabin, Wood-Fired Sauna, and Meadow campsites at Montside Orchard boast one of the most magical sunset views in the Cumberland Valley. You can also expect to see a daily show of wildlife—herds of white tail deer, wild turkeys and hundreds of wild birds make Montside Orchard their home! Bring your binoculars--it's a wooded wonderland!
The Cabin is hugged by woodlands at the back and bucolic green hills dotted with orchards and small farms out the front. Yet within 15 minutes you will have arrived in quaint, well appointed downtown Chambersburg-- a small town bursting with good art and good food! We are also conveniently located 10 minutes from I-81, a major North/South interstate and 10 minutes from Rt 30.
While we don't allow hiking on the property Rt 30 takes you into Micheaux Forest, the Appalachian Trail and Caledonia State Park within 15 min and the historic Gettysburg National Park within 35.
White Tail Ski Resort is 40 minutes South and Ski Liberty is 40 miles East.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Forest House at Warren Estates
8. Forest House at Warren Estates
100%
(39)
23mi from Big Spring State Park · 1 site
No parties! No Events! We are not a venue. House and grounds are for use by our registered/booked guests only - no visitors. No Hunting or Shooting!
Sorry – pets are not allowed. Should we discover that a pet was brought to the home, you will be charged a $300 cleaning fee.
It has been our dream for quite some time to have a place where we could "get away from it all" and relax. The Forest House has the best of both worlds - the amenities of nature along with all the best from home.
From its stone fireplace to its granite counter tops, this log home has many of the luxuries one would expect to find in a fine hotel.
We supply the linens, soaps, shampoos and so forth.
This is a "just bring your toothbrush" kind of place.
Free Internet/WiFi and free continental US long distance.
Log home. Super clean and fun. Fully prepped with linens and towels.
A "just bring your toothbrush" kind of place.
3 miles from the midway point of the Appalachian Trail. Plenty of parking.
NOTE: must be 25 or older to rent.
NOTE: Base rate is based on an occupancy of 2.
Each additional guest (above 2) is $25/night additional.
Accommodations Overview:
Scan QR code (third photo) with mobile phone for an immersive 3D Tour.
1250 square feet (main living area & loft); Fully finished basement (450 square feet); Bedroom 1: queen bed (closed door, main living area); Bedroom 2: queen bed (closed door, main living area); Bedroom 3 (open loft area): twin beds (qty 3);
Pricing Overview: Price shown is based on double (2 guests) occupancy.
$25 per person/per night for additional persons (above 2). $80 cleaning fee per stay.
We have 2 large Roku-enabled TVs, so guests will have access to our very own Netflix account, YouTube, and many other entertainment options.
Want to enjoy a nice fire in the fireplace or the fire pit out back? We even supply the firewood!
Adjacent to the Michaux State Forest (you are practically in it!).
Pine Grove Furnace State Park (3.1 miles away). Full beach, concessions and swimming area.
Kings Gap Environmental Education Center (about 8.5 miles away).
Full access to the home. Once you book, I will send you a key code which opens up the lock box adjacent to the front door. Note: be sure to re-enter the lock box code in order to close the box.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
Davis Farm
9. Davis Farm
100%
(13)
26mi from Big Spring State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
The Walnut Campsite is available to book on our Dairy Farm along Stone Mountain. Over a mile of East Branch Stone Creek runs through the property and is a Class A trout stream. Great area for wildlife and bird watching. Located in a beautiful valley with lots of public land for any outdoor enthusiast.
Local attractions:
Greenwood Furnace State Park - 4 mi
Stone Mountain Hawk Watch - 4 mi
Whipple Dam State Park - 7.5 mi
Alan Seeger Natural Area - 8.5 mi
Donation Rocks - 8.5 mi
Hunter's Rocks - 6.5 mi
Penn Roosevelt State Park - 13 mi
Lake Perez - 12 mi
State College - 18 mi
Raystown Lake - 23 mi
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Colonel's Creekside Campground
10. Colonel's Creekside Campground
95%
(10)
27mi from Big Spring State Park · 19 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Nestled in the scenic foothills of South Central Pennsylvania, Colonel’s Creekside Campground offers a peaceful, nature-filled getaway surrounded by towering trees, fresh mountain air, and a beautiful flowing creek.
Conveniently located just 1 mile from Caledonia State Park and only 10 miles from both Gettysburg and Chambersburg, the campground is the perfect destination for relaxation, outdoor adventure, and exploring the rich history of the region.
Guests can enjoy spacious water and electric creekside campsites, cozy cabins, and a quiet wooded setting ideal for camping, hiking, fishing, and unwinding by the creek. Whether you’re planning a family camping trip, a weekend retreat, or a stop while exploring Gettysburg and the surrounding mountains, Colonel’s Creekside Campground offers a relaxing escape close to it all.
Our campground features a variety of site options to accommodate every type of camper. Guests can enjoy:
• 5 cozy cabin sites – perfect for those seeking comfort with rustic charm, with sleeping accommodations for up to 8 guests
• 12 creekside water and electric sites – offering peaceful views and the soothing sounds of the flowing creek
• 3 spacious back-in mountainside sites – ideal for larger rigs and added privacy
At the heart of the campground is our beautiful stocked creek, a favorite spot for fishing, relaxing, or simply enjoying the natural surroundings. Guests also have access to a clean, modern bathhouse and on-site walking trails that wind through the property, providing the perfect opportunity to unwind and reconnect with nature.
Surrounded by state forest land and just minutes from hiking trails, UTV routes, and outdoor adventures, Colonel’s Creekside Campground offers a unique blend of tranquility and accessibility. Whether you're planning a weekend escape, a family vacation, or a longer stay, you'll find everything you need to relax, explore, and create lasting memories.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
4722 Retreat
11. 4722 Retreat
99%
(35)
29mi from Big Spring State Park · 1 site
This is a single hookup campsite for any size RV or pull-type campers up to 35 feet long. It has full hookups: water, 15 or 50 amp electric and sewer. Every stay comes with one complimentary wheel barrow full of firewood. There is one nature trail (more to come!) Enjoy the privacy of a campsite where you’re the only camper! The owners of the property live nearby and are available if there are any problems.
Pets
Full hookups
Wilson’s Boondock Hollow
12. Wilson’s Boondock Hollow
100%
(49)
29mi from Big Spring State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Latest updates on weather, local events, photos and videos can be found on our Instagram @wilsons_boondock
If you're in search of a primitive camping location that's perfect for unwinding, offering privacy and seclusion, then we are the destination for you. We have many extras that you can add to your stay like fishing our private spring fed pond. PSU Football fans we can accommodate your group, just send us a message about your group size first. We do welcome drones.
Tucked away in the heart of the Stone Valley Forest a secluded 150+ year old family farm bordering Penn State University Forest and near Rothrock State Forest. Abundant wildlife and scenic hiking, biking trails on site and nearby with Greenwood Furnace and Whipples Damn State parks only a few minutes away. The area has some of the finest trout fishing with the streams and lakes nearby such as Standing Stone Creek, Juniata River, Little Juniata and the famous Spruce Creek. We are centrally situated between State College PA, and historic Huntingdon PA home of Juniata College, and Belleville PA (Home to the second oldest Amish community in the country) where you can attend the famous sale every Wednesday.
Local Restaurants:
Doan's Bones BBQ (eat in & carry out, 5 min drive)
Couch's Subs and Groceries (eat in & carry out, 10 min drive)
McMurtrie's Tavern (eat in & carry out, 15 min drive)
Local churches:
Manor Hill Methodist, service every Sunday at 11am to noon (3 min drive)
St. Stephens Lutheran Church (5 min drive)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Treehouse Waters On The River
13. Treehouse Waters On The River
95%
(11)
34mi from Big Spring State Park · 1 site
This riverfront, fully equipped, beautifully crafted treehouse is not your average child's treehouse, but kids are certainly welcome. Walk up the easy 14 steps into this A Frame tiny house and you'll be surprised at the roominess. Inside you'll discover a full kitchen, full bathroom with shower, living area with sofa bed sectional, dining area, and loft with a queen bed. Step out on the deck, just a stone's throw from the river and listen to the sounds below of the gurgling moving water over the rocks. Move down below the treehouse to find another huge deck with a hot tub, relaxing seating, and a table for dining outside. But that's not all; step off that deck to a fire pit and steps leading to the river. The river is great for swimming, fishing, and boating and we even supply a canoe and kayaks.
Much of the treehouse was built with wood from the property, including the poplar floor joists, rafters, and siding. Inside you'll find several different species of beautiful wood, most from the property, including black walnut, oak, ash, cherry, and more. The two giant Tulip Poplar trees that supports the treehouse continue to grow and in the early summer produce the tulip like flowers.
If you're up for exercise or adventure, just across the river is the H&BT Bike Trail, which is now 14 miles long. A short drive takes you to a trailhead or if you're just looking for a hike on the trail, canoe across and climb up the short hill to the trail. Also across the river is a 2600 acre Pennsylvania State Game Land and 2000 foot high Kimber Mountain; if you're looking for a challenging and primitive hike, climb the mountain or work your way up Kimber Run, a small brook with many small waterfalls. Adventure abounds near Treehouse Waters.
There are also many other things to do in Bedford and Huntington Counties. The Raystown Lake is less than 20 miles away and the county seat, the small, charming town of Bedfrod is also only 20 miles away. Take a look at the Bedfrod County Tourist site for more activities.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Seven Mountains Campground
14. Seven Mountains Campground
97%
(34)
35mi from Big Spring State Park · 20 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Located in the breathtaking Spring Mills Pennsylvania, Seven Mountains provides an unforgettable experience for anyone who visits. Our family-friendly facility will help you to feel at home while providing unforgettable memories.
AMENITIES
Seven Mountains Campgrounds is the perfect place to get away and enjoy the great outdoors with amenities like:
Free Wifi
Year Round Availability
Picnic tables and fire rings at every Cabin, Tent, and RV Site
The tent site is available with electricit upon request. (Bring your own extension cord)
The tent area is pet-friendly.
All RV sites will have Water and Electric.
We have a dump station and trash disposal included in the stay.
We also have a dump service that is available for a fee of $25.
Pet Friendly (All pets are allowed on any RV site)
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Paradise By The Pond
15. Paradise By The Pond
99%
(175)
36mi from Big Spring State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land:
A large 2 acre pond you are free to fish in. A small row boat with life vests is provided. We recently added two kayaks! Large mouth bass and sunfish/bluegills mostly. Down a lane about 1/3 mile, large field, by the woods. No hookups, No electricity, No neighbors very private! Large field for pets to romp. We are very flexible on check-in and check-out times. 30 Minutes to Raystown.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Serenity Near State College
16. Serenity Near State College
100%
(12)
38mi from Big Spring State Park · 1 site
A third generation family farm located near all the amenities of State College, PA and Penn State University.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
The Ponderosa
17. The Ponderosa
99%
(41)
38mi from Big Spring State Park · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
A quaint working farm located in the heart of Adams County, PA. Located just minutes from Gettysburg Battlefield, Biglerville Apple Country, Codorus State Park, Pinchot State Park, and Pine Grove Furnace State Park. Also, not far from the Appalachian Trail, and points in Maryland. The small town of Hampton, PA is only a few miles away. There you will find a pizza/sandwich restaurant and a Donut/Ice Cream shop. The adjoining properties are also working farms, and you will be entranced by the surrounding peace and beauty. Almost every direction has a beautiful skyline. You can walked the mowed paths on the farm, fish in the pond, sit around the camp fire and listen to the quiet and the birds signing. If you like to bike or go for long walks the county roads don’t have a much traffic to contend with and are inviting for walks and biking. We offered carriage rides around the farm paths using our dartmoor ponies.
We can provide you with large fire 🔥 wood bundles, farm fresh eggs, fresh homemade donuts and bagels to your campsite if you order!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
The Evergreen Lodge
18. The Evergreen Lodge
100%
(23)
39mi from Big Spring State Park · 1 site
Family owned land for over 100 years and at that time it was planted in corn. On the property is a foundation that was said to be where one of the Youngers that rode with Jessie James lived in a shanty. Known as the “Younger Shanty”. Nearby attractions: wineries, state parks, Penns Cave, Penn State University, and great restaurants.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
Beespoke Farms
19. Beespoke Farms
96%
(112)
41mi from Big Spring State Park · 1 site
A small, startup farm focused on regenerative agriculture and producing environmentally friendly products through environmentally friendly processes.
With roughly 15 acres of grazing and forested space, and another 9 acres developing projects and orchard planting, we're located along the Blue Ridge Mountains.
There is both A-frame camping and 'pitch your own tent' camping space available.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
The Empty Nest
20. The Empty Nest
97%
(29)
41mi from Big Spring State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
We sit on 17 acres set back from the road away surrounded by the mountains. We are in the hollow and have a small creek running through the woods on our property. We see lots of wildlife and beautiful sunsets. It is very peaceful yet we are very close to Gettysburg for sight seeing and Liberty Mountain Resort for golfing in the warm weather and snow sports in the winter.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
J
Jackie
4 days ago
30 ft travel trailer
We had a great stay at 4722 Retreat! The site was nice and private, and having full hookups was really convenient. We loved the fire pit and that firewood was included. Kevin was very responsive and easy to communicate with. The location was great for us since we brought our boat and wanted to fish. Raystown Lake is only about 30 minutes away, and there are several other fishing spots nearby, including the Juniata River. Our dogs also really enjoyed having the space. We would definitely stay here again!
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Jonathan
1 week ago
20 ft rooftop tent
I have had my eye on Wilbur’s shed for months. Finally my wife and I were able to figure out 3 nights to book it. It did not disappoint. Wesley is a great host and I have to say I told him we would be arriving late around 9:00 pm at the site. My wife and I couldn’t believe it but Wesley had a beautiful fire built in the pit upon our arrival. Such an amazing way to begin the trip. The site is so pretty with views of the mountains and the other reviews are right the sunrises don’t disappoint. The electricity is a plus and the port a potty is clean. We have nothing bad to say about this site. We would definitely come back again. Thanks Wesley!!
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C
Chris
2 weeks ago
45 ft travel trailer
We loved staying at 4722 Retreat! Easy to pull right in and set up camp. The loop trail through the woods was a great added bonus. Kevin was an exceptional host and went out of his way to make our stay comfortable.
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V
Valeri
2 weeks ago
32 ft travel trailer
With pets
It was easy to get to from the highway. Pretty clean. New hook ups.
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Chris
2 weeks ago
Tent
We had a wonderful stay! The campsite was spacious and the property is beautiful with an added bonus of both sunrise and sunset views. We were glad we opted for the breakfast and firewood deliveries as well. We’ll be back again for sure!
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J
Joshua
2 weeks ago
Tent
The weather was perfect the hosts were kind and the views were incredible. 9/10 would (and probably will) go again.
See moreJ
Joe
2 weeks ago
54 ft toy hauler
It’s a lovely place to camp. There is some road noise but nothing excessive and definitely more private and quiet than a campground!
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H
Hunter
2 weeks ago
1 night at Beespoke Farms
The A-frames were clean, no visible sign of bugs or spiders. But that view! Oh my that view was beautiful. Michael wasn't there but made sure to send a text to check in on us. We were only there a night but it was definitely one of our favorite hip camps! If we ever find ourselves near the area we will definitely stay here again!
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C
Chris
2 weeks ago
20 ft travel trailer
With pets
Our second time at this beautiful spot for a 2 night camper trip. The grounds were well maintained, weather was perfect and views always relaxing. We truly appreciate the privacy with our reactive dog and feel at home letting him loose without distractions. We also explored the area further this time finding 2 state parks within 15-20 min drive- both with hiking trails around a lake/reservoir with a beach, swimming, and playgrounds for kids! 814 Cidery also had live music during our trip. Emily was friendly and very communicative, we surely hope to be back again!
See moreC
Cyndi
2 weeks ago
20 ft travel trailer
With pets
We had a great weekend. The land was fantastic! Great views, all to yourself. Our 3 dogs had open land to run and explore. We do alot through Hipcamp and this is one of the best. Can't wait to go back.
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E
Emily
2 weeks ago
Tent
We had a lovely time during our stay. The land is so beautiful, by far the best Hipcamp site we’ve visited. The campsite is private and tucked away by the water. There is a nice fire pit that we cooked our food over. The bathroom was very clean and the kitchen area to wash dishes was an added bonus. Loved that the cows came up to say hello at the fence line. Will definitely be back :)
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Sean
2 weeks ago
Tent
Second time camping at Wilson’s Boondock Hollow, a fact that speaks for itself. Awesome place, even better hosts!
See moreW
William
3 weeks ago
10 ft rooftop tent
With pets
The Ponderosa was a peaceful and picturesque camp site! I stayed a night with my dog and we had the place to our selves, it was such a perfect spot that it was surreal. This was my first Hipcamp and I was fortunate to find this one to break the ice! Don’t miss out on this gem!
Ps don’t be like me and drive to their house, the entrance to the camp is around the corner 😅
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K
Kelsey
3 weeks ago
Tent
this place was truly perfect! Candice was a great host and the views were incredible. very peaceful and so many different things to experience on the property. will be back for sure
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B
Brigitta
August 2026
Tent
Very quiet and peaceful private site with no traffic or nearby neighbors. Well taken care of, the table even has an umbrella. Would definitely stay again.
See moreJ
Jillian
August 2026
27 ft travel trailer
Your own private campground only 25 minutes from State College.
See more
C
Courtney
August 2026
Weekend Trip to Beespoke Farms
peaceful location for a getaway for a night with a beautiful view. there was a bad storm so being in the a-frame was great and falling asleep to the rain on the tin roof was incredible. we will definitely be back!!
See more
J
Jackie
August 2026
30 ft travel trailer
With pets
This was our second time staying at this campground. Everything was great again as usual. We only stayed one night for a stop along a road trip. Great spot, I recommend it. Very quiet!
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Sandy
August 2026
28 ft travel trailer
The only campsite we use. Privacy! Just you, beautiful farm scenery and a large pond for fishing. Nothing else compares to Yvonnes Paradise! Yvonne is such a perfect host. Quick response time. Sweet lady.
See more
C
Charmaine
August 2026
20 ft travel trailer
Nice spot for my 20ft TT. Easy in and out. I enjoyed the crop of soybeans ant the back of the site. Clean and maintained. A home on each side, no bother, never saw anyone. I would stay here again.
See moreBig Spring State Park camping guide
Overview
About
Nestled against Conococheague Mountain, Big Spring State Park offers a serene escape with its picturesque picnic spots and inviting trails. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely hike to a historic railroad tunnel, delve into the area's past with informative trailhead plaques, and traverse the Iron Horse Trail for an immersive day or overnight hiking experience. The park's namesake, Big Spring, feeds the beautiful Shermans Creek, adding to the park's tranquil ambiance.
When to go
The best time to visit Big Spring State Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak. Summer offers lush greenery, but can be hot; winter brings a quiet, frosty beauty, though some areas may be inaccessible.
Know before you go
- Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Wear appropriate footwear for hiking, as trails may have uneven terrain.
- Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities within the park.
- Review the park's rules and regulations, especially regarding wildlife and Leave No Trace principles.
- For emergencies, dial 911 and note the nearest hospital is UPMC Pinnacle Carlisle.
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