The best camping in Colonel Denning State Park, PA

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Views of woods, pond, and sunrise

98%
(124)
48mi from Colonel Denning State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Westminster, MD
Welcome to our fifth generation, mini-valley, woodland, and rolling hills. Empty Cupboard Farm has been family owned since 1918. It is presently planted in soy and corn. Wildlife abounds, including deer, small mammals, and geese. Bald eagles and Heron even take a pond dip periodically. Woodland trails are accessible and new tree plantings can be observed. We welcome RVs under 30'. It will be too hilly for anything longer. (Be aware: inclement weather is not your friend here if your vehicle can't handle potentially slippery conditions.) Enjoy the following activities: Mountain biking, pedal onlyPond fishing. (Sorry, no swimming in the pond; but an "An open to the public", private pool is 13 miles/20min. As is the Y. Lawn games and a fire pit are available. So are the stars at night; cloud permitting. Consider the free star gazing app, SkyView Lite, even in the day and under clouds. Don't miss our stunning sunsets at the "Red Door," our entrance. Historical towns within 10 miles any direction are reached over rolling countryside. Gettysburg is less than 20 miles. Baltimore is less than an hours ride by open highway. Blue Ridge mountains 18 miles. Taneytown, 1836, has an extraordinary antique store that is a delight to browse; as well as fine dining, drive through, an open air beer garden and close by grocery stores. Homemade ice cream is found at Baugher's and Hoffmans in Westminster. Baugher's Orchard has "pick your own" available. There is a mini farm animal petting zoo at the orchard. Additional things to see: Boating in Carroll County Maryland. Local wineries Ski Liberty Carroll is a full service county whatever your needs. Check out carrollcountytourism.org to learn more No lions, tigers, and Oh my! However, be aware that small critters may try to steal your food. No recent bear sightings. Geese visit occasionally. Coyotes are seen periodically. All hunting rights are reserved for long term clientele; therefore, hiking on the farm may be curtailed if they are present during hunting season. (November- January) Consider using Sky View Lite on line to watch the sky.
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from 
$15
 / night

Dark Hollow

100%
(1)
49mi from Colonel Denning State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Wrightsville, PA
Reconnect with Nature at Our Spiritual Biodynamic Agroforestry Farmstead Escape the hustle and bustle and immerse yourself in the serenity of our biodynamic regenerative farmstead. Rooted in reverence for the land and spiritual farming traditions, our farm offers a harmonious blend of nature, agriculture, and tranquility. Campsite 1: Peaceful Pond Retreat Situated near a quiet country road, this campsite provides easy access to a serene pond, perfect for catch-and-release fishing. Cast your line for carp, bass, and other local fish, or simply relax by the water and take in the peaceful surroundings. A private fire ring invites you to cozy up under the stars, with firewood available for purchase to keep your campfire glowing. Campsite 2: Forested Hillside Hideaway For those seeking seclusion, our hillside campsite offers a tranquil retreat. Nestled deep in the woods, it features full tree cover through spring, summer, and much of fall, creating a natural canopy and an intimate connection with the forest. End your day around a private fire ring, embracing the stillness of the night. Explore Beyond the Campsite Our location is a gateway to even more natural wonders and local gems: Less than a mile away, you'll find an entrance to the Mason-Dixon Trail, offering stunning hikes through diverse landscapes. Nearby is the Lancaster Conservancy’s Wizard Ranch Nature Preserve, perfect for nature enthusiasts. A short drive brings you to Highpoint Scenic Vista and Recreation Area, where panoramic views of the Susquehanna River await. Just down the road, enjoy a meal at John Wright’s farm-to-table restaurant or launch your adventure from the Susquehanna River boat launch. A Spiritual Farmstead Experience Our farmstead embodies the sacred principles of biodynamic farming, celebrating the earth’s rhythms and the interconnectedness of all life. Wander through lush pastures and silvopastures, where Icelandic sheep graze peacefully, and experience the vibrant synergy of nature and thoughtful stewardship. Whether you’re fishing by the pond, exploring the nearby trails, dining riverside, or simply reflecting by the fire, our farmstead offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature—and your spirit.
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from 
$20
 / night

Fiddlers Green Farm

100%
(475)
47mi from Colonel Denning State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Taneytown, MD
When you come here you are experiencing the rebirth of farming in this country while getting to connect with the natural world. This historic piece of preserved farmland has been in our family for 5 generations. The property is just over 100 acres with about half in forest conservation. We have two streams that join one another and create an amazing habitat for all kinds of wildlife. Our farm has always been a fun and healing place for our friends and family to gather. We love sharing the peaceful seclusion here with folks who enjoy and respect nature. We are a certified organic farm in the early stages of transforming it into a fully regenerative, permaculture operation. We grow hemp, medicinal herbs, and small grains as well as keep bees and a small tribe of goats. We'd love to have you!
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from 
$60
 / night

The Bellefonte Campground

97%
(15)
49mi from Colonel Denning State Park · 11 sites · Lodging · Bellefonte, PA
Bellefonte Campground is situated on close to 40 acres in the heart of central Pennslyvania, just minutes from State College and near some of the best fishing spots in Pennsylvania, including Fisherman's Paradise on Spring Creek. At Bellefonte Campground, you'll have plenty of space to enjoy! Our expansive campground offers lots of wide-open Pennsylvania acreage for you to explore. Each site features a picnic table and fire ring, providing the perfect setting for family gatherings. And don't forget: We are a pet-friendly campground. Bellefonte Campground is your gateway to a host of exciting local attractions. Experience the thrill of a Penn State football game: Beaver Stadium is about 15 minutes away. Looking for something a little more relaxing? Nearby Spring Creek offers excellent fly fishing opportunities. Or head out to Bald Eagle State Park, where you'll find an abundance of scenic trails and fascinating wildlife. With such an array of activities, your stay at Bellefonte Campground promises to be a truly unforgettable one.
Potable water
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from 
$180
 / night

Montside Orchard Camp, Cabin&Sauna

100%
(18)
23mi from Colonel Denning State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Chambersburg, PA
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.
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from 
$45
 / night

Circle S Farm Camping

96%
(95)
43mi from Colonel Denning State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Grantville, PA
The camp sites on our farm are dry (for now) but we DO have a toilet that is cleaned regularly right by the sites. We have three leveled gravel RV/Camper spots, which are large compared to most campgrounds. The sites are pull through for most RVs and Trailers. We provide fire rings and campfire wood (assuming we have it available). Our farm is an operational farm with livestock and you will be camping right by our horse pasture. Our location is convenient. We are right off of I-81 and State route 22. Minutes from Hersheypark, Hollywood Casino and Penn National Race Course, The PA Renaissance Faire, as well as Ft. Indiantown Gap and Memorial Lake State Park. If you are a hiker, the Appalachian Trail is minutes from our farm. Our sites are easy access off the main road. We are in a friendly agricultural neighborhood with very little traffic or noise other than the light hum of I-81 in the distance. Wildlife is plentiful in our area and you can hike from our farm to Levitz Community Park (or drive if you prefer) to interact some great nature or have a picnic. Our goal is to be accommodating and provide our guests with the best experience possible while here. Got questions? We can help! Just ask!
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from 
$40
 / night

Cosey Cabin

100%
(21)
43mi from Colonel Denning State Park · 3 sites · Lodging · Greencastle, PA
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
Potable water
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from 
$88
 / night

Other options near Colonel Denning State Park

The best camping in Colonel Denning State Park, PA guide

Overview

About

Dotted with picnic tables, perfumed by the familiar clouds of burning charcoal, Colonel Denning State Park is a niche-like paradise for the backpacker―who fancys midnight reruns on the Food Network. While not geared toward the motor boating enthusiast, the park’s expansive lake is a favorite among canoers and kayakers, offering a safe, scenic experience for the paddling-minded ilk. Even the seasoned angler will be well catered to with Doubling Gap Lake’s healthy populated trout schools. And, if you’re not one to partake in water-going activities, Colonel Denning State Park is snaked with eighteen-miles of hiking trails that carve the Cumberland Valley. However, make sure your smartphone’s fully-charge; Colonel Denning State Park’s campsites offer little amenities (aside from the one electrically-fed campsite), allowing all it’s campers to experience Mother Nature in all her well-groomed beauty.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Colonel Denning State Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak. Summer brings warmth perfect for water activities, though it can be crowded. Winters are quiet but can be quite cold, so ensure you're prepared if you venture during this season.

Know before you go

  • Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately for the season to ensure a comfortable visit.
  • Be aware of park hours, typically from 8:30am to 5pm, and plan your trip accordingly.
  • Stay informed about any trail closures or area restrictions before you arrive.
  • Remember to pack essentials like water, snacks, and a first-aid kit for a safe and enjoyable day.
  • Take advantage of the available facilities, but always leave the park as you found it, respecting the Leave No Trace principles.
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