The best camping in Gifford Pinchot State Park, PA

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100% (1)

Discover the scenic beauty of Gifford Pinchot State Park and its myriad activities.  

The best camping in Gifford Pinchot State Park, PA

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.

1. Conewago Glamp and Paddle

100%
(28)
3mi from Gifford Pinchot State Park · 1 site · Lodging
Enjoy 8 beautiful, secluded acres on the Conewago Creek at Bald Hill, Northern York Co. My homestead was once part of the Conewago Turf Farm. It borders the creek a length of 1100 feet, mostly maintained with easy access. Camp is at the base of a steep section of the Conewago Mountains, creating privacy and protection from wind and afternoon sun. This is not a whole house rental. I have a one bedroom, queen size bed, kitchenette, private restroom and outdoor shower with on demand hot water. There's plenty of room for tent or van camping. Please see pictures for detail. I live in the house above the glamping quarters. Plenty of good fishing and paddling here. I offer shuttle service for 1 or 2 day float trips, paddle in one day, paddle out the next day. Canoes, kayaks, paddles and PFD's are included in the price of your stay. The Conewago is very beginner paddling but remote, very clean and full of wildlife. Gifford Pinchot State Park is 7 miles away. I have two paddle boards if you want to paddle the 3 mile lake. This adventure would require a short hike out to a parking area. Relax in a wood fired Norwegian sauna and cook in a Peruvian wood fired earth oven or cook under the stars over an open fire. Firewood is also included. Foodies will rejoice here. I live and work here, part time blacksmith and wood worker. I'll assist you in any way or do my best to stay out of your way. Wildlife love it here, I think you will too.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$170
 / night

2. River Rock Recreation

96%
(50)
11mi from Gifford Pinchot State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
DO NOT REQUEST TO BOOK IF YOU HAVE NOT READ ALL OF THE INFORMATION AND DETAILS ON THIS LISTING. Trains, bugs, and industry exist along this river! IF YOU REQUEST TO BOOK WITH US ALL COMMUNICATION WILL BE THROUGH HIPCAMP MESSAGES. We are located along the banks of the mighty Susquehanna River in Conoy Township, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. An area rich with historic significance and breath taking natural scenery. From the rolling hills of Lancaster County, Chiques' Rock, the sculptured rock visible at the bottom of the Conewago Falls, the White Cliffs of Conoy, and the Northwest Lancaster County River Trail there is no shortage of adventure. Our campsite offers the combination of camping fun and an endless variety of river recreation and leisure. Retreat to a spacious primitive river front camping sanctuary in the woodland setting, nestled under the trees, where privacy and seclusion create a relaxing family-friendly experience. Our campsite is first time camper or camping enthusiast friendly! Whether you are feeding the need for your family's adventure or looking to get back to nature and relax, River Rock Recreation campsite can accommodate your needs. You will find yourself living a unique outdoor lifestyle during your stay at River Rock Adventures campsite. A private launch allows kayak, SUP, and other paddleboat access. Public boat launches near by that allow for trailer and boat access. Fish the river banks all day and night for the biggest catch or teach a new generation of fisherman the love of the sport. Hike or bike the Northwest Lancaster County River Trail, explore all it has to offer on its 14 mile stretch from Falmouth to Columbia. You can even get the kids excited and involved by Geocaching on the way! Want to relax and create memories? Let the children discover the swing and Teepee play structure to promote imaginative playtime in nature, make fairy or gnome home out of sticks and stones, teach knot tying, animal track and constellation recognition or organize a scavenger hunt! Horseshoe pit, birdwatching and wildlife viewing for the older kids. Did you know you can spot bald eagles flying along the river and even spot owls and bats that are present at night!? Meanwhile kick up your feet and relax in the trees with a hammock, you might love it! The camp kitchen area allows for efficient food storage and meal preparation space during your stay. Whether you want to use the on site grill or cook over the fire, the covered kitchen area will help make your meal duties at camp a breeze. When it comes to getting cleaned up, the solar shower bag compatible camp shower gives you a space to rinse off and clean up in privacy. The lights on site can be run by generator to help light the way at night. Want to rent a generator? Need to buy more firewood? You would like to add purchasable amenities? You're not familiar with local features? Do you have a question or concern? On site personnel can help answer your questions and serve your needs during the day. We want campers to have the best possible experience and strive to create personal connections with nature in hopes of starting future camping traditions here at River Rock Recreation campsite. The wildlife refuge area is a no human contact zone to promote local wildlife habitat and diversity. River Rock Recreation appreciates that you respect campsite boundaries and only view wildlife present on the property. Learn more about this land: River Rock Recreation is a seasonal campsite that offers a retreat to a Primitive Susquehanna River Front Tent Camping Experience in Lancaster County Pennsylvania. Our campsite is about 2 acres and includes 6 tent sites/area. You will have full reign of the campsite. Since we are only a single campsite the only crowd there, will be your own! We want campers to have an enjoyable stay and connect with nature! Check out our website for more detailed information and photos of our campsite!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$77
 / night

3. Esidarap Mountain

97%
(165)
13mi from Gifford Pinchot State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Note: For the winter months we are closed, we reopen in march. The furthest we are open at any given moment is about six months. We close when hunting season comes in during the fall. Description of camp: This is not a glampsite! There are limited utilities here. No Drinking water, just water for the fire. There is a self serve firewood store, you may also forage dead wood. Here only one group may camp at a time. The campsite is a big level hilltop clearing surrounded by acres of woods. There is stone driveway that leads to the site that gets you back into the woods. The driveway is wide enough for trucks, trailers, vans, etc. Since the site is up high it gets a great breeze which helps on warm days and gets good cell service. The campsite gets great sun and has shaded areas along the sides that make for good tent pitching. We have had people set up hammocks, tents, tarps, or camp in their vehicle. We provide a privy (outhouse), an outdoor showerroom/changing room, picnic tables, and a metal fire pit with grill rack that you can put in the fire pit if you wish to cook/grill over it. The woods are hilly so biking is not recomended. On the property we have 2+ miles of hiking trails. PLEASE feel free to contact us for any questions. Also please look at our pictures for a better idea of what we offer. Nearby Activities: A short drive from here will take you to Gettysburg, York, or Hanover. Codorus park offers great hiking and is next to a lake. There are many excellent restaurants and brewpubs nearby, including the award winning Warehouse Gourmet Bistro and Brewpub. For more information read our activities section to find out what other things we provide or have nearby that you can do. Pricing: We have a weeknight discount for the site which is 29 dollars (Sunday-Thurdsay nights). Friday night and Saturday night we charge 35 dollars. Any additional guests after five we charge 9.50 dollars per person. We allow up to 10 guests total. Rules: Extinguish camp fires that are unattended and to only make them in the designated fire pit, no noise past 9 o'clock, discharging of firearms and fireworks are prohibited, do not bring firewood (to prevent invasive bug spread), keep your pets attended/on a leash, clean up after your pets, no cutting down trees
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$29
 / night

6. Christmas Tree Farm with Views

100%
(392)
20mi from Gifford Pinchot State Park · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
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. In the event we are not home when you arrive, there is a site map on the light pole near the porta pot. We will try to notify you in advance if any sites are taken.
Pets
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from 
$35
 / night

8. Forest House at Warren Estates

100%
(39)
22mi from Gifford Pinchot State Park · 1 site · Lodging
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
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Campfires
from 
$250
 / night

9. Circle S Farm Camping

96%
(95)
26mi from Gifford Pinchot State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
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!
Pets
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Campfires
from 
$40
 / night

10. Black Locust Hops Farm Brewery

100%
(25)
28mi from Gifford Pinchot State Park · 3 sites · Tents
Welcome, to Black Locust Hops Farm Brewery! We are a small, commercial hops farm (the largest in MD) and brewery located on 24 acres in Northern Baltimore County, just minutes from the North Central Railway hiking and biking trail and Gunpowder Falls State Park. We have our own, small, private hiking trail that leads down to our wetlands area (and beaver pond). The best time of year to view our hops (and join a farm tour) is between mid- June and mid- August. The best time of year to enjoy our beverages is ANY TIME! Our taproom is open Thursday- Sunday all year, with live music Friday and Saturday evenings and Sunday afternoons. We have 16 taps of craft beer grown and brewed onsite and always a good array of hard, non- beer beverages, like our famous hard limeade! By law, only alcohol made by us may be carried/ consumed on our property. We are a working farm and do not allow pets on our property. Close attractions include the Gunpowder River, Prettyboy Reservoir and Prettyboy Dam, The Markets at Shrewsbury, and the Northern Central Railway, scenic railroad.
Potable water
Picnic table
from 
$45
 / night

11. Gorgeous Water Overlook

100%
(23)
29mi from Gifford Pinchot 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
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Campfires
from 
$74
 / night

12. Old Soul Farm

99%
(260)
30mi from Gifford Pinchot 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

16. Views of woods, pond, and sunrise

98%
(127)
33mi from Gifford Pinchot State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
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from 
$15
 / night

17. Fiddlers Green Farm

100%
(477)
33mi from Gifford Pinchot State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
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!
Pets
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Campfires
from 
$60
 / night

20. About Tyme Farm

95%
(28)
34mi from Gifford Pinchot State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
About Tyme Farm is a 26 plus acre privately owned farm used for crops such as corn, soy beans and sunflowers. The property includes a 150+ year old stone farm house, large historic barn on the barn quilt tour in Carroll County, renovated camping cabin for those not into rough camping, fields, streams , woods for hiking, plenty of wild life and lots of quiet. The farm is surrounded by other farms in the agricultural preservation program yet you are only 5 miles from stores, movies, antiques and other aspects of civilization or entertainment if needed. Enjoy watching the deer come out of the woods and meander along the stream and fields at dusk and return in the morning. Electric, water, fire pit and a Port a Pot is available even for rough campers. Pets welcome but must be on a leash or exercise pen or with their owners in some way while here for their safety. There is a large fenced yard for dogs that just have to run if needed. Glamorous camping with a furnished heated/cooled cabin is available for rent by the night for those who do not have camping equipment or do not want to rough it. For those that have been camping before and have all the equipment there is plenty of room for a tent or camper near the buildings or by the stream or woods. For RV owners there is 50amp electric service in the barn. You will need an RV extension cord to access it. I have a 100 ft RV ext. cord but it can be farther than that depending on where you park. Bring one of your own to be sure. It is a farm and not set up like an RV park with numerous outlets.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night
100% (1)

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The best camping in Gifford Pinchot State Park, PA guide

Overview

About

Nestled in northern York County, Gifford Pinchot State Park offers a retreat into nature with its 2,338 acres of lush landscapes. Here, adventure awaits with a 340-acre lake ripe for kayaking, two 18-hole disc golf courses, and trails that beckon hikers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Whether you're casting a line for 'Big Bass' or cozying up in a yurt by the lake, this park is an outdoor haven.

Notable campgrounds

  • Yurts and Camping Cottages: Enjoy a unique stay with stunning lake views, perfect for those who prefer a touch of comfort in the wild.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early: Reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance, so plan ahead to secure your spot.
  • Off-peak visits: Consider visiting during weekdays or outside of peak summer months for better availability.
  • Stay flexible: Have alternative dates in mind in case your preferred time is fully booked.
  • Explore nearby camping options: Look for other local campgrounds if the park is full, ensuring you don't miss out on the region's natural beauty.

When to go

The park's allure shifts with the seasons, offering a pink-hued spring with blooming redbuds and a summer flutter with the giant swallowtail butterfly. While the park is open year-round, the best time to visit is May through September when all facilities are fully operational. Winter offers a serene, frosty landscape, but some amenities may be limited.

Know before you go

  • Check the weather: Be prepared for changing conditions and dress accordingly.
  • Park hours: The park is open from 8am to sunset, with day use areas closing at sunset.
  • ADA accessibility: The park office and certain facilities are ADA accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy the park.
  • Electric vehicle charging: An EV charging station is available near the beach concession.
  • Emergency info: In case of an emergency, call 911 and notify park staff immediately.

100%
1 ratings · 1 review