The best camping in Big Spring State Park, PA

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Discover the scenic trails and historic charm of Big Spring State Park. 

The best camping in Big Spring State Park, PA

Wilbur's Shed

1. Wilbur's Shed

99%
(133)
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
from 
$41
 / night
Morningstar Farmstead

2. Morningstar Farmstead

100%
(19)
14mi from Big Spring State Park · 2 sites
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
from 
$43
 / night
Juniata River RV/Camper Lot

3. Juniata River RV/Camper Lot

92%
(32)
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
from 
$35
 / night
Montside Orchard Camp, Cabin&Sauna

4. Montside Orchard Camp, Cabin&Sauna

100%
(18)
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
from 
$45
 / night
Forest House at Warren Estates

5. Forest House at Warren Estates

100%
(39)
23mi from Big Spring State Park · 1 site
No parties! No Events! We are not a venue. The Forest House and grounds are for use by our registered guests only. 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—all 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); Fully finished basement. 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. It is an "honor system" check-in/check-out. Note: be sure to re-enter the lock box code in order to close the box.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$250
 / night
4722 Retreat

6. 4722 Retreat

100%
(23)
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
from 
$54
 / night
Wilson’s Boondock Hollow

7. Wilson’s Boondock Hollow

100%
(39)
29mi from Big Spring State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
***We are closed for the winter, we will open back up sometime in April or beginning of May*** 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
from 
$31
 / night
Shelly's Woods

8. Shelly's Woods

96%
(36)
32mi from Big Spring State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
The property includes a 34X24 pavilion, a swing set, a fire pit, a portapotty, a porch swing, picnic tables, etc. It is located directly on the West Branch of the Conococheague Creek. You can enjoy kayaking, fishing, being right on the creek, and peace and quiet. There is also a mowed section along the creek that allows you easy access to the water with a small rock-style beach. The land is pretty much all flat and you can pitch a tent/s anywhere. There is plenty of room to park a camper/rv in multiple locations. This property is the perfect place to get away but close enough to town to enjoy local restaurants/amenities. It is only 1 mile away from Historic Downtown Mercersburg, which has bars, restaurants and stores to buy anything you may need. *Please No Fireworks*
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$57
 / night
Seven Mountains Campground

9. Seven Mountains Campground

98%
(21)
35mi from Big Spring State Park · 51 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
from 
$41
 / night
Canoe Creek Camping

10. Canoe Creek Camping

97%
(15)
36mi from Big Spring State Park · 10 sites
Located in Hollidaysburg, PA, Canoe Creek Camping offers a secluded camping experience.Close attractions include Canoe Creek State Park, Horseshoe Curve, Allegheny Portage Railroad, Altoona Railroaders Museum, DelGrosso's Amusement Park, 1000 Steps, Lower Rails to Trails, Altoona Curve Double A Baseball, and much more!
Pets
from 
$25
 / night
Paradise By The Pond

11. Paradise By The Pond

100%
(156)
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
from 
$39
 / night
Cosey Cabin

12. Cosey Cabin

100%
(22)
37mi from Big Spring State Park · 3 sites
This is a 160 square foot tiny house/cabin in a small wooded area at the rear of my 2 acre property. A separate 90 square foot bath house is also provided. Both are primitive, ie, no electric or running water. The are some solar lights and candles for nighttime. Enjoy laying in the hammocks with a nice camp fire in the evening. The house is heated with a small wood stove but there is no air conditioning. Cook either on the wood stove or over the fire outside. In the summertime it is nice and private with the surrounding vegetation Please keep in mind. This is a primitive setting in the woods. It will be hot in the summer and temperature must be maintained in the winter with the wood stove or Buddy Heater. While I do spray for bugs to the best of my ability, there is a good chance you will encounter at least a few. We are in a residential country setting, so you may experience other wildlife as well. In the summertime while the foliage is up it is quite private, although you can still hear the neighbors. In the winter you will be able to see the neighbors as the trees are bare.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$88
 / night
Serenity Near State College

13. Serenity Near State College

100%
(12)
38mi from Big Spring State Park · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
A third generation family farm located near all the amenities of State College, PA and Penn State University. 
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$33
 / night
The Ponderosa

14. The Ponderosa

97%
(19)
38mi from Big Spring State Park · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
A quaint working farm located in the heart of Adams County, PA. Located just minutes away from Gettysburg Battlefield, Biglerville Apple Country, and Pine Grove Furnace State Park, and Hampton PA which has a pizza restaurant, coffee shop, donut and ice cream shop. The adjoining properties are also working farms, but you will get entranced in the surrounding peace and beauty. Almost every direction has a beautiful skyline.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$32
 / night
The Evergreen Lodge

15. 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
from 
$335
 / night
The Empty Nest

16. The Empty Nest

95%
(22)
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
from 
$35
 / night
CLOUD NINE VICTORIAN FARM

17. CLOUD NINE VICTORIAN FARM

99%
(132)
41mi from Big Spring State Park · 3 sites
BEST OF HIPCAMP AWARD WINNER 3 TIMES Spectacular Setting-360 Views-Farmland Mts- Orchards- 1890 Historic Buildings -5G Wifi - Games, Arts and Crafts, Swings, animals Lots of peaceful places to sit, very nice wash up and restroom area, Kitchen set up in Barn w lg table, pantry etc. Beautiful Farmland Everywhere Beautiful Big Barn w Kitchen area, Arts and Crafts and workshop , Huge Shade Trees, Upscale Chic washroom/bathroom area -Feed the Chickens, Gather their colored eggs- Activities and Games-Tree Swings-Horseshoes-Basketball-Checkers-Cards- Living Farmstead Museum, Hands on- Old Tools and Ways -Gardening-Birdwatching- PYO Flowers,Herbs, Veggies -Great Fire Pit, Cast Iron Skillets, Tools and Grates provided -Learn about Agriculture and times on a 1890 American Farm - Local Orchards, Creameries,Mennonite Feed and dry goods stores MICROWAVE - HOTPLATE TOASTER ,FIREPITS, Big Webber Charcoal grill ***FIREWOOD BUNDLES AT FARM/ONLINE IN EXTRAS AREA*** Victorian Summer Kitchen Curiosity, circa 1890, is located on small, organic Cloud Nine Farm among the beautiful Orchard, Dairy and Mennonite country of Western Maryland. Glorious sunrises over the Catoctin Mts and a great 360 vista of the surrounding Farmlands and Orchards. Close to the AT and several State Parks, great biking . Awesome area. We DO have good Wifi in all buildings THIS IS REAL FARM COUNTRY Fresh local produce available at innumerable Orchard stands throughout the year. This includes milk and ice cream :) , Apples, Peaches, Plums, Cherries, Strawberries, and all types of veggies and meats. The summer kitchen and its loft are outfitted as they would have been in the Victorian times, with implements for cooking, canning, candle making, herb and plant processing, braided rug making. etc. Also, part of the stable is set up as a eating area, and the barn and hayloft as a hands on Farm museum to explore. Old fashioned games and rope swings and Arts and Crafts for additional fun.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$99
 / night
Gorgeous Water Overlook

18. Gorgeous Water Overlook

100%
(23)
42mi from Big Spring State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The White Squirrel Properties include a cabin, rental pavilion and camp site. The camp site sits at the top of a hill and provides a secluded flat site to pitch your tent or park your van/truck camper/truck top tent. You will have this space to yourself. The view is breathtaking - you have a gorgeous view of the Susquehanna River, numerous sets of mountain ranges, and you are surrounded by beautiful fields. There is a rustic picnic table and a more modern high top table set with an umbrella, for your use. We have also added 4 hammock chairs that you can relax in while enjoying a glass of wine. There is a wooden platform with a small structure on it. You can stand underneath the platform and it can provide some shelter, if needed. (The structure is being renovated for a new experience next summer.) The pavilion is a short walk and has 2 bathrooms, a shower, and a kitchen. **The kitchen is only available if the pavilion is not being rented**. There is an additional fee to rent the kitchen. If you are interested, please message me after booking. This can be added at checkout. Deer come out nightly on this peaceful property. You won’t be disappointed.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$74
 / night
Bald Eagle Campsite

19. Bald Eagle Campsite

96%
(1614)
42mi from Big Spring State Park · 33 sites · Tents, RVs
Originally opened as a family campground owned and operated by Denis and Kay Snyder in 1964. Bald Eagle Campsite has been owned and operated by the Snyder family to this day! Come join us in the beautiful forested landscape of Central Pennsylvania. Located a mere 20 miles south of Penn State University, we are surrounded by the many amenities Central PA has to offer. We are welcoming to LGBTQ+ campers as well as all ethnicities. Pitch a tent on a quiet site and drop a line into one of our two trout streams crossing the campground. Hang a hammock between two towering poplar trees surrounded by flowering rhododendron. Or pull up in your camper and relax before and after a Penn State Football game under the blue and white sky. We have small, secluded sites to get away from it all, as well as conjoined sites to accommodate larger groups. On property we have bathrooms, hot showers, and a recreation hall with free ping pong, board games, and billiards. For a fee, we also have firewood, electricity, and a large event tent for rent. Campers must be less than 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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night
Old Soul Farm

20. Old Soul Farm

99%
(260)
43mi from Big Spring State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
OFF SEASON UPDATE: We are open, BUT there is no portable toilet available and site availability will be subject to weather conditions. This will be Dec through Feb. We are a small, working farm and apiary. Located back a gravel farm lane, Old Soul Farm is the perfect place to getaway from it all and still be within 10 minutes of the Gettysburg Battlefield. Learn more about this land: Site Option 1: The Point - A beautiful view of the farm and surrounding farm properties. It is the furthest away from the barn and owner housing for privacy but an easy field walk in and out. Site Option 2: The Barn Site - Closer to the barn. It is a level area with a great tree for shade and climbing. As of April 2025, we now offer a 50/30/20 amp for the convenience of our tent and RV campers! This location also has a stone fire circle.  Site Option 3: The Riding Ring - Formerly used as a riding ring for horses, it can now be used to accommodate larger groups.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$36
 / night

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The best camping in Big Spring State Park, PA 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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