Camping is an exhilarating experience for thrill-seekers and thousands of people who love to wander in the wilderness. From boundless outdoor adventures to breathtaking vistas, these campsites in Pennsylvania offer myriads of opportunities for camping enthusiasts to immerse themselves in a wholesome expedition. Whether you seek a solitary escape or a family-friendly campground, we have you covered! From rugged terrains to serene shores, embark on an unforgettable journey that will rejuvenate your soul from the mundane life. So, what are you waiting for? Book your tickets, lace up your hiking boots and let’s find the best campsites in Pennsylvania for your next adventure!
Top 9 Campsites in Pennsylvania:
Nestled in the northeastern United States, Pennsylvania offers a perfect retreat for those seeking adventure in the diverse landscapes. Whether you are a seasoned adventurer or a newcomer, there is always something new to discover in the wild. Let’s take a look at some of the top campsites in Pennsylvania:
1. Ricketts Glen State Park
In Luzerne, Sullivan, and Columbia counties, Ricketts Glen State Park is one of the most scenic campsites in Pennsylvania. Comprising 13,193 acres of land, this campsite boasts the rustic charm of Falls trails and idyllic vistas of 94-foot Ganoga Falls. Outdoor enthusiasts can go horseback riding on the Cherry Run trail, which offers a stunning view of cherry trees and old railroad grades. For an enthralling experience, hike 7.2 miles on the Falls Trail.
If you enjoy water sports, make sure to visit in the summer. Visitors can go boating, fishing, and swimming in Lake Jean for a delightful experience. Don’t forget to go skiing and snowmobiling if you are going in the winter. Though this campsite doesn’t include any outstanding facilities, the stunning views make up for it. Furthermore, this campsite welcomes differently abled people and has accessibility for wheelchairs. If you are seeking the thrill of wild camping, visit Rickets Glen State Park.
Location – Benton, Pennsylvania
Timing – All year
Things to do – Hiking, boating, horseback riding, snowmobiling, skiing, swimming
Must Read: Things to Do in Pennsylvania
2. Bald Eagle Campsite
Located 20 miles south of Penn State University in Pennsylvania, Bald Eagle Campsite offers 33 sites for RVs and tents in a beautiful forested landscape. Campers can have a wonderful experience as this scenic campsite offers an array of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, fishing, and horse riding all in one place.
This campsite offers a range of facilities, such as a washroom, hot shower, firewood, tent and electricity for rent. Whether admiring the flowering rhododendrons from a hammock or relaxing in your caravan, this place is perfect for all camping enthusiasts. However, the campground maintains a quiet site policy after 9 P.M.
This campsite also welcomes differently-abled people. With wheelchair and bathroom facilities available, they promise a wholesome experience for every visitor. Campers can buy a few snacks and essentials from a convenience store nearby. This is a must-visit spot if you are camping solo.
Location – Tyrone, Pennsylvania
Timing– All year
Things to do – Hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, horseback riding
3. Stargazing Field at Olga Farm
Nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania Wilds, Olga Farm offers 15 sites for tents with a mesmerising stargazing field for campers. Whether you are glamping or solo camping in the wild, this campsite offers an unforgettable experience. Whether watching the beautiful sunrise or glittering skies at night, this is the perfect panoramic retreat for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can have full access to the farm grounds, the Stargazing field, fire pits, & a picnic table.
The campground is only 4.4 miles away from the lovely village of Coudersport. While you are here, don’t forget to visit the Olga Gallery and Springs State Park, which is about 21 miles away from the farm. History buffs can visit the Leonard Harrison State Park which is about 46 miles away from the farm.
Campers can access the bathroom and come inside the farmhouse to warm up in the winter. Other facilities include a toilet, campfire, waste disposal and wifi. This place is open All year and you can bring your furry friends around while camping here.
Location – Coudersport, Pennsylvania
Timing – All year
Things to do – Stargazing, visit Olga Gallery, visit Springs State Park
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4. Muddy Myst
Situated in western Pennsylvania, Muddy Myst is one of the finest family-friendly campgrounds. Offering only four pitching spots, this spectacular campsite is just a 12-minute drive from Buttermilk Falls. This campsite offers lots of opportunities for outdoor sports. Tourists can go boating, hiking, and mountain hiking for an incredible experience.
Fishing lovers can take a short drive to Pine Creek or Cowanshannock Creek for an exciting adventure. You can also visit Keystone Lake, Mahoning Dam, and Crooked Creek Lake to take in the breathtaking views of the landscape. Visitors can also go off-roading as the Scrubgrass OHV park is only a few minutes away.
Muddy Myst offers a range of conveniences like showers, water, campfires and clean toilets for visitors. This campsite permits you to bring your pet with you for a more soul-filling experience.
Location – Kittanning, Pennsylvania
Timing – All year
Things to do – Boating, hiking, mountain biking, fishing
5. Organic Farms at the Pocono Mountains
Situated in the heart of the Pocono Mountains, this organic farm offers 3 sites for RVs and tents and is one of the best campsites in Pennsylvania. With luscious green fields and a serene landscape, this place offers plenty of outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, bird watching and mountain biking. Take in the view of the Delaware River from the campsite. You may also rent a canoe if you want to go kayaking. If you are a hiking enthusiast, go hill walking on the Appalachian Trail for a thrilling experience.
This majestic campsite offers the necessary facilities, such as water, showers and toilets. Visitors can also enjoy a campfire if visiting in the winter. You are welcome to bring your pets. However, they should be on a leash as per campsite guidelines. If you enjoy tranquillity with ethereal landscapes, include this place in your must-visit bucket list.
Location – East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania
Timing – All year
Things to do – Hiking, fishing, bird watching and mountain biking
Suggested Read: Places to Visit in Pennsylvania
6. Austin Dam Memorial Park
Austin Dam Memorial Parl is one of Pennsylvania’s best-kept secrets and is located in Austin. Whether you are camping solo or with your loved ones, this is one of the best free campsites in Pennsylvania. Unlike busy commercial campgrounds with an overabundance of RVs, this campground offers spacious campsites.
Hikers can take a trip along the Austin Dam Trails. At the Austin Dam Memorial Park, the stroll showcases the breathtaking scenery of the three separate dams. Campers can also go to the Freeman Run for a fishing adventure. August is a great time to visit, as the Austin Dam Show has live music performances. Fans of the wild can camp here with excellent success. With any luck, you may spot wild turkeys, white-tailed deer, and other mammals. Make sure you visit the Artistic Festival while you’re here. Additionally, guests are welcome to participate in the auction of certain carvings and handicrafts from the carvers. You are welcome to bring your dogs to this campsite.
Location – Austin, Pennsylvania
Timing – March to October
Things to do – Hiking, mountain biking, boating fishing, wildlife viewing, horseback riding
7. 100 Mile View Camping
Located 3 miles from Jim Thorpe, the 100 Mile View Campground is a paradise for visitors. Whether you are a nature lover or an outdoor enthusiast, this campground will take your breath away with its outstanding landscape and scenic trails.
If you like to hike, you can visit Lehigh Gorge State Park and Lehigh Heritage Trail, for an entrancing adventure. The 100 Mile View campsite also offers mountain biking trails within the property. From kayaking to swimming and fishing this campsite offers a range of opportunities for water sports lovers. Tourists can also visit Mauch Chunk Lake for paddle boating. While you are here, music lovers can visit the Mauch Chunk Opera House for a surreal experience.
Furthermore, they also have toilets, campfires, and trash disposal facilities available. Bring your pets along for a more exciting camping adventure. With a mesmerising view from east to west, this campsite is a must-visit for your next camping adventure.
Location – Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania
Timing – March to October
Things to do – Kayaking, hiking, paddle boating, mountain biking, hill walking
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8. River’s Edge RV Park and Campground
Situated on the shoreline of the Delaware River, The River’s Edge campsites are the perfect getaway to have a soulful experience in the wild. If you are hiking for the first time, start with the easy walking trails in Mifflintown. Fishing and boating enthusiasts can go to the access point of the Juniata River for a delightful adventure. They also offer a riverfront deck for a picturesque view from the campsite.
During your stay, visit the Hazard’s Distillery and Juniata Valley Winery to taste-test the whisky and sweet wine. The most exciting part of this campsite is the Midway drive-in movie theatre which is located just next to the campground.
The River’s Edge campsite offers an array of amenities that includes shower facilities, a game room and full water and electric hookups for your RVs. The campground has a quiet site policy from 11 P.M. to 8 A.M. Only well-trained pets are welcome. Take in the scenic view of the riverside and make memories for a lifetime at the River’s Edge Campground.
Location – Mifflintown, Pennsylvania
Timing – April to November
Things to do – Hiking, fishing, boating, visiting Hazard’s Distillery and Juniata Valley Winery
9. Camp Dietrich on Bear Creek
Located along Bear Creek with a stunning view of Pocono Mountain, this campsite is surrounded by towering hemlocks and bewitching rhododendrons. Camp Dietrich is a private campground with four large safari tents featuring queen bunk beds, a dining room, and a deck where you may put up a second, six-person pop-up tent. This is one of the best campsites in Pennsylvania with cabins. The campgrounds are surrounded by 400 acres of privately owned natural forest with several miles of designated pathways, so campers can go for a hike to the private waterfall.
This campsite is a haven for water sports lovers. Visitors can go to Pocono Whitewater Rafting for a thrilling experience. Explore more than 138 miles of gorgeous biking routes on the Rail Trail and take part in paintball fights in Skirmish. This campsite permits you to bring your pets around. With comforts like water, toilet and shower facilities, tourists can have a stress-free camping adventure in the wild. History buffs can visit the famous Jim Thorpe town with fine eateries and shops around. While you are here, do not forget to visit Lehigh Gorge Railway and Asa Packer Mansion to have an unforgettable venture.
Location – Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania
Timing – All year
Things to do – Rafting, hiking, mountain biking, paintball fight
Further Read: Small Towns in Pennsylvania
Whether you are expecting enthralling outdoor activities or serene mornings in picturesque landscapes, these campsites in Pennsylvania promise to offer an unforgettable journey in the wild. While providing a haven for adventurers alike, the outdoors heals the soul of a nature lover with its scenic splendours. From a peaceful retreat in the woods to an adrenaline-fueled adventure on the water, the Keystone State has something to offer to every camper. So, embark on a trip to the USA and get ready to explore some of the best campsites that Pennsylvania has to offer!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Campsites In Pennsylvania
Is Pennsylvania good for camping?
Pennsylvania's varied terrain, which consists of lakes, forests, and mountains, offers campers a variety of outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. So, add these campsites to your bucket list for your next camping adventure.
How many campgrounds are there in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, there are over 7,000 family camping spots and 121 state parks. You can select the one from the list above that best suits your style of camping.
Do you need a permit to camp in Pennsylvania?
If you are camping for just a night, you don’t need a permit. However, you might want to get a permit if you are camping for a few nights for safety reasons.
What is the nickname of Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania is also known as ‘The Keystone State’, as it played a significant role in founding the United States of America.
What is the best place to stargaze in Pennsylvania?
You can go for a camping trip on Olga Farm. It is one of the best places for stargazers.
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As a Travel Content Writer, I live to conquer the world of globetrotting with words. With my unquenchable thirst for storytelling, I believe that my words will inspire you to travel around the world’s breathtaking landscapes. As for me, I am an unapologetic selenophile, who loves to wander around in a starry night!
