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 in Joseph E. Ibberson Conservation Area, PA

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Solitude!

1. Gorgeous Water Overlook

100%
(23)
4.7mi from Joseph E. Ibberson Conservation Area · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Halifax, PA
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
Circle S Farm Camping

2. 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!
Pets
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from 
$40
 / night
Little Mahanoy Creek Campground

6. Little Mahanoy Creek Campground

100%
(25)
21mi from Joseph E. Ibberson Conservation Area · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging · Herndon, PA
There are 3 campsites located in the gap of the little Mahanoy Mountain and line Mountain range along the little Mahanoy creek. All four campsites have creek access and come with picnic table garbage can and fire ring and Firewood is usually available. There are two Porta potty‘s one located at each end of the sites. There are trails for hiking which extends along an abandoned railroad bed and also up into State game lands and into the deep woods. The hiking in the woods is on an incline. But the hiking on the railroad bed is pretty unintense. There is parking at each site. The sites are spread out along the creek bed ranging from more of a rustic primitive tent camping on site 4 to an open site on site 1.
Pets
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Campfires
from 
$46
 / night
View of runway from top of hill

8. Fairview Farms Airfield

98%
(821)
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
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$50
 / night
Map of sites. Red dots indicate the site with fire ring.

10. 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.
Pets
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Campfires
from 
$35
 / night
River Rock Recreation

11. River Rock Recreation

96%
(50)
24mi from Joseph E. Ibberson Conservation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV · Conoy Township, PA
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
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Campfires
from 
$77
 / night
Conewago Glamp and Paddle

12. Conewago Glamp and Paddle

100%
(28)
25mi from Joseph E. Ibberson Conservation Area · 1 site · Lodging · Dover, PA
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
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Showers
from 
$170
 / night
Elmlock Acres Camping on the Canal

13. Elmlock Acres Camping on the Canal

95%
(59)
28mi from Joseph E. Ibberson Conservation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV · Myerstown, PA
Elmlock was named by MJ's Grandfather for the majestic Elm trees that once graced the property and banks of the Tulpehocken Stream passing through the Union Canal lock. These beautiful trees were devastated by the Dutch Elm Disease in the early 20th century. Elmlock and the surrounding area was surveyed by non other than George Washington as plans were formulating to build a canal system to join the Schuylkill and Susquehanna Rivers. The General stayed with his friend Captain Michael Lei on the adjacent farm, once known as the Tulpehocken Manor when visiting the area. The ruins of one of the canal locks remains on the Elmlock property adjacent to the camping area. The 1838 stone farmhouse was built by the Spengler family and acquired by MJ's Grandfather in 1913. MJ's pottery studio is a local "Town Barn" that was relocated piece by piece to Elmlock by MJ"s brother, a Historic Restoration Specialist, in 1974. He also restored the Bake Oven on the property's Summer Kitchen. Our property features an historic canal lock from 1828 Union Canal and a stream that runs through it. There is a RR track that runs just south of our camp about 10acres away For campers who love to watch or hear trains you'll have plenty of opportunity to do so!  You can enjoy fishing and playing in the water, which is fresh, clean limestone water from a nearby quarry. We also have two small goats on the property. Farm land surrounds the property, wooded area and cattle nearby. This is a secluded property but less than a mile from Rt 422. You can bike along the many back roads nearby!  We also offer pottery classes, drawing classes, painting classes, and also Medicinal wild plants walk etc. for an additional fee.  See our extras below if you are interested! Historic places to visit and only 20 miles from HersheyPark. Also we are only 15-20 min from the Historic Appalachian Trail! And Blue Marsh Recreational park The latrine is spotless clean This year we have apples! Lots and lots of wonderful organic apples to take home and enjoy!
Pets
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from 
$68
 / night
Forest House at Warren Estates

18. Forest House at Warren Estates

100%
(39)
36mi from Joseph E. Ibberson Conservation Area · 1 site · Lodging · Newville, PA
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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from 
$250
 / night
The Creekside at Goat Hill

20. 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
Campfires
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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