The best camping in Joseph E. Ibberson Conservation Area, PA

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Discover the serene beauty of Joseph E. Ibberson Conservation Area.  

The best camping near Joseph E. Ibberson Conservation Area, PA

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Fairview Farms Airfield

1. Fairview Farms Airfield

98%
(818)
22mi from Joseph E. Ibberson Conservation Area · 16 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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
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$50
 / night
Dark Hollow

4. Dark Hollow

100%
(1)
33mi from Joseph E. Ibberson Conservation Area · 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
Shambala at Mystic Hollow

5. Shambala at Mystic Hollow

96%
(184)
46mi from Joseph E. Ibberson Conservation Area · 16 sites · Tents, RVs · Mohrsville, PA
We will be decorated for Halloween. We are currently working a scary trail. 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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$38
 / night
Dj Duncan's Piece of Heaven

8. Dj Duncan's Piece of Heaven

99%
(255)
38mi from Joseph E. Ibberson Conservation Area · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Robesonia, PA
We are an active dairy farm in the rolling hills of Berks County, Pennsylvania. We take awesome sunrises and great star gazing for granted around here! Campsites are a 10-minute walk from the farm where all are welcome to interact with the animals or take a try at milking a cow. After all, you need milk and cream for breakfast!Its a ten minute drive to Blue Marsh Lake for Fishing, Biking, Hiking and Swimming. Its a 5 minute walk up to our Dairy Farm where you can visit with the cows and baby calves. There is a very nice view of Weiser's mountain. This site doesn't have any extra shelter and is only for tent camping.  There is a total of 4 listings in the one acre courtyard. The water source is shared by other people and also the port potty is shared with courtyard #3.
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from 
$40
 / night
Montside Orchard Camp, Cabin&Sauna

9. Montside Orchard Camp, Cabin&Sauna

100%
(18)
49mi from Joseph E. Ibberson Conservation Area · 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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$45
 / night
Circle S Farm Camping

12. Circle S Farm Camping

96%
(95)
13mi from Joseph E. Ibberson Conservation Area · 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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$40
 / night
Map of sites. Red dots indicate the site with fire ring.

13. Christmas Tree Farm with Views

100%
(392)
24mi from Joseph E. Ibberson Conservation Area · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · 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. 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.
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$35
 / night
Campsite #2

14. River Mountain Outdoors

99%
(274)
45mi from Joseph E. Ibberson Conservation Area · 7 sites · Tents, Lodging · Mainville, PA
The history of the Pump House began in 1878, when three ambitious men hatched a plan for the world's first long-distance underground oil pipeline which would transport oil from well to refinery more quickly and efficiently than the horse-drawn wagons of the time. Pumping stations were needed every fifty miles along this long route to keep pressure on the pipeline so that the oil could reach its destination. Pump House Bed and Breakfast is one of the only properties in the country in which the both the original homes of the foremen and the large brick buildings remain. Doug, owner, has spent more than 20 years lovingly restoring these foreman houses as well as the large industrial brick buildings. The Brick Barn Hall once housed steam pumps to pressurize the pipe and keep the oil moving, and the Catawissa Cabin behind it served as the telegraph office. The Studio Hall contained boilers that produced the steam to power the pumps, while the adjoining Studio Cabin functioned as a blacksmith's workspace. Today, the buildings function as reception spaces for weddings and other special events, and house private suites as well as an art studio where Doug pursues his work and teaches drawing, ceramics, and stained glass classes. The Season House, one of the two foreman homes, features additional guest accommodations while Doug resides in the other foreman house. Visit and experience a piece of PA history! The 2004 This Old House feature on Doug's
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$68
 / night
Wilbur's Shed

18. Wilbur's Shed

99%
(132)
47mi from Joseph E. Ibberson Conservation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV · Blairs Mills, PA
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.
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$41
 / night
The Creekside at Goat Hill

19. The Creekside at Goat Hill

99%
(51)
37mi from Joseph E. Ibberson Conservation Area · 2 sites · Tents · Upper Tulpehocken, PA
Elevated Campsite with 4 person hub tent above a beautiful creek, firepit, grill and friendly goats. Don't be disturbed by the sound of moving water where wild mink, raccoon, foxes and deer play. Relax on the dock at the pond on the property. Unique plants abound. Majestic creekside views of small outcropping cliffs and enjoy its own swimming hole. The Creekside retreat is part of the 17 acre 1842 estate and original farm which is perched on the now abandoned road which led to Fort Northkill a century ago. You are nearby to hiking on the Appalachian trail, biking or boating at Blue Marsh Lake and Beach or tubing on the Schuylkill River and riding or hiking trail, visit mountain Biking Meccas of : Mt Penn, Blue Marsh Lake, Swatara State Park and Trexlertown. The Reading Railroad Museum, Pagoda, Stokesay Castle , Hawk Mountain, Knoebels and Hershey Parks all located from 10 minutes to under an hour from your campsite. 3000 Blackberry Plants fruit each year as well as Peaches, Nectarines and Pears. Picking available by arrangement. Many Local Wineries nearby, Although the tents' label and description are calculated as 4 person, it seems as though 4 persons would be tight in this 8 x 8 interior and 2 or 2 and youngster would be more comfortable.. Goats roam free!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$41
 / night

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The best camping in Joseph E. Ibberson Conservation Area, PA guide

Overview

About

Nestled atop Peters Mountain, the Joseph E. Ibberson Conservation Area offers a tranquil escape into nature's embrace. Here, adventurers can wander through a network of trails, connect with the Appalachian Trail, and immerse themselves in the lush habitat that supports a diverse array of wildlife. With its commitment to conservation and passive recreation, this area is a perfect setting for hikers, bird watchers, and nature enthusiasts seeking a peaceful outdoor experience.

When to go

The Joseph E. Ibberson Conservation Area is a year-round destination, with each season offering its unique charm. The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset, with day use areas closing at dusk. Spring and fall are particularly magical, with vibrant wildflowers and spectacular foliage. Summer provides lush greenery, while winter's snow offers a serene, quiet landscape for cross-country skiing. Avoid holidays if you prefer solitude, as these can be busier times.

Know before you go

  • Ensure to check the weather before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
  • For those requiring assistance, the park offers ADA accessible facilities and activities.
  • Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the natural beauty of the area.
  • While the park is open year-round, always contact the Memorial Lake State Park office for specific facility seasons and hours.
  • In case of an emergency, dial 911 and notify a park employee; hospital directions are posted on bulletin boards.
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