The Ultimate Guide to the Best Camping in PA: Top Campgrounds and Spots

If you’re anything like me, the thought of trading concrete sidewalks for towering hemlocks and the sound of traffic for a crackling campfire is pure bliss. And when it comes to outdoor adventures, let me tell you, Pennsylvania is an absolute powerhouse. Often overlooked for flashier destinations out west, the Keystone State offers a stunning diversity of landscapes—from the rugged peaks of the Appalachian Mountains to the serene lakes of the Poconos. Finding the best camping in PA isn’t just about picking a spot; it’s about choosing an experience.

I’ve spent countless weekends exploring this state, pitching my tent in remote forests and pulling my RV into highly-rated parks. I’ve learned exactly what makes a truly great penn camping experience, and I’m here to share all my insider knowledge with you. Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker looking for remote tent camping in PA or a family seeking fully-loaded pennsylvania rv parks and campgrounds, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the absolute best places to camp in PA.

So, grab your s’mores ingredients, dust off your hiking boots, and let’s dive deep into the remarkable world of camping in Pennsylvania!

Why Pennsylvania is a True Camping Paradise

Before we get to the specific locations, let’s establish why PA holds a special place in the hearts of campers. Pennsylvania is massive, covered by over 2.4 million acres of State Forest land and 121 State Parks, managed by the DCNR (Department of Conservation and Natural Resources). This means accessibility to nature is extremely high.

We have something for everyone: deep wilderness experiences in the Pennsylvania Wilds, challenging trails along the Appalachian Ridge, and picturesque lakeside relaxation. When people ask me why I love camping in pennsylvania, I always point to the sheer variety and the accessibility. You can drive just a few hours from major metropolitan areas like Philadelphia or Pittsburgh and find yourself completely immersed in nature.

The terrain varies dramatically, offering unique camping seasons. Spring brings rushing waterfalls, summer offers refreshing lake swims, and autumn? Well, autumn in PA is world-renowned. The foliage creates a breathtaking backdrop for any campsite, making fall one of the absolute best times for pennsylvania best camping.

The Regional Breakdown: Finding Your Ideal Camping Niche

To help you narrow down your search for the best camping spots in PA, I’ve broken the state down into four distinct camping regions. Each area provides a different flavor of outdoor adventure.

Northeast PA: Poconos and Endless Mountains

If you’re looking for lakeside retreats, lush forests, and perhaps a touch of resort-style camping, Northeast PA is where you need to be. This region is easily accessible from New York and New Jersey, making it a highly popular destination.

The Poconos Region: Lakes and Amenities

The Poconos are famous for recreation, and many of the campgrounds in pa here cater to families and those who want amenities alongside their nature fix.

• Promised Land State Park: This park is a quintessential Pocono experience. The campground sites in pa here are situated around a beautiful lake, perfect for kayaking and fishing. If you prefer traditional tent camping in pa, Promised Land offers several loops, including some that feel quite secluded despite the park’s popularity. It’s also one of the prime locations for best camping in northeast pa.
• Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area: While not strictly a state park, the camping here is phenomenal, especially if you enjoy water activities and hiking the Appalachian Trail.

The Endless Mountains: Seclusion and Scenic Views

Moving slightly north and west, the Endless Mountains offer a quieter, more rugged experience.

• Worlds End State Park: Located in Forksville, this park truly lives up to its name. Nestled in a deep valley surrounded by rugged mountains, the campground is perfect for serious hikers and those seeking solitude. The Loyalsock Trail runs through the area, offering challenging multi-day treks. This is a strong contender for the most scenic camping places in pa.

Central PA: The Wilds and State College Region

Central PA is the heart of the state’s wilderness. Known as the Pennsylvania Wilds, this massive area encompasses some of the largest tracts of undeveloped land in the entire eastern United States. If you are looking for true wilderness immersion and excellent wildlife viewing, this is where you’ll find the best pennsylvania campgrounds.

The Pennsylvania Wilds: Elk and Grandeur

This region is home to Pennsylvania’s elk herd and the famous “Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania.”

• Sinnemahoning State Park: Located in the heart of the elk range, this is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts. The campgrounds in northern pa here are well-maintained and offer a high chance of seeing elk, especially during the rutting season in the fall.
• Pine Creek Gorge (The PA Grand Canyon): While we will detail the specific state parks later, the camping surrounding the gorge (Leonard Harrison and Colton Point State Parks) offers unparalleled views. Booking a pa state parks campgrounds spot here requires planning, as they fill up incredibly fast.

Happy Valley and Beyond: Places to Camp in Central PA

For those needing access to supplies or wanting to be closer to civilization while still enjoying nature, the areas around State College and Harrisburg are ideal.

• Bald Eagle State Park: A massive reservoir makes this a fantastic spot for boating and fishing. The campground is large and modern, offering great options for both tent campgrounds in pa and RV users. This is a top choice for places to camp in central pa.

Western PA: Lakes, Rivers, and Proximity to Pittsburgh

Western Pennsylvania is defined by its rolling hills, deep river valleys, and close proximity to major metropolitan areas. Many folks looking for camping sites near pittsburgh pa flock to this region for quick weekend getaways.

Adventure Capital: The Laurel Highlands

The Laurel Highlands are famous for white-water rafting, hiking, and stunning natural beauty.

• Ohiopyle State Park: We’ll talk more about Ohiopyle later, but as a camping destination, it’s unbeatable. Its location along the Youghiogheny River Gorge makes it the adventure capital of the state. If you love kayaking, rafting, or intense hiking, Ohiopyle offers some of the top pa campgrounds.
• Keystone State Park: For those looking for a quieter, more family-friendly option closer to the city, Keystone provides excellent lake access and well-appointed campground sites in pa within easy reach of Pittsburgh.

Lake Erie Region: Shores and Sand

The very northwestern tip of PA offers a unique camping experience along the Great Lakes.

• Presque Isle State Park (Near Erie): While camping isn’t directly allowed on the peninsula, the surrounding area offers some great private and public options. Staying nearby allows you to spend your days enjoying the sandy beaches and unique ecosystem of Lake Erie—a very different vibe from the mountain camping sites in pa we’ve discussed so far.

Southcentral PA: History and Rolling Hills

This region blends history with nature, offering beautiful hikes and easy access to historical sites.

• Gifford Pinchot State Park: Named after the conservationist and former governor, this park features a large lake with two camping areas. It’s perfect for families and offers excellent amenities, making it one of the highly-rated campgrounds in pennsylvania.

Crown Jewels: Top Rated Campgrounds in Pennsylvania State Parks (DCNR Camping)

If you ask any seasoned PA camper where to find the absolute best campgrounds in PA, the answer almost always involves the state park system. The DCNR (Department of Conservation and Natural Resources) manages these gems meticulously, providing a clean, affordable, and incredibly scenic experience.

Booking a spot for camping in pennsylvania state parks often requires reservations months in advance, especially during peak season (May through October), but the effort is worth it.

Ricketts Glen State Park: Waterfalls and Wonder

Ricketts Glen is arguably the most spectacular natural feature in PA. This park boasts 22 named waterfalls, including the 94-foot Ganoga Falls, along the famous Falls Trail System.

• The Camping Experience: The campground is situated on a plateau above the waterfalls, offering standard wooded sites and some modern amenities. The real draw here is the proximity to the Falls Trail. Imagine waking up, brewing a coffee, and then spending the morning hiking through a lush, fern-filled gorge surrounded by cascading water. This truly is one of the best camping spots in PA.
• Insider Tip: The Falls Trail is challenging and often slippery. Be prepared with appropriate footwear. The lake area also offers great swimming and boating away from the hiking crowds.

Ohiopyle State Park: Adventure Central

Located in the rugged Laurel Highlands of Western PA, Ohiopyle is the state’s adventure playground. It’s a hub for white-water rafting, kayaking, rock climbing, and superb hiking, including the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) trail.

• Camping Options: Ohiopyle offers the Kentuck Campground, which is highly sought after. It provides a mix of standard sites and yurts. Given its popularity and status as one of the top rated campgrounds in pennsylvania, you must reserve early.
• Why We Love It: Ohiopyle is more than just a place to sleep; it’s an active base camp. You can literally walk from your tent to the put-in for a rafting trip or hop on the GAP trail for miles of scenic cycling. For outdoor adrenaline junkies, this offers the best camping in PA.

Cook Forest State Park: Towering Giants

If you love massive, ancient trees, Cook Forest is your sanctuary. Known for its “Forest Cathedral,” this park preserves some of the last old-growth forests in Pennsylvania, featuring towering white pines and hemlocks that predate European settlement.

• The Vibe: Camping here feels almost sacred. The air is clean, and the silence is profound, broken only by the wind whispering through the high canopy. The campgrounds in pa here are peaceful and well-spaced.
• Must-Do: Climbing the fire tower offers spectacular panoramic views, especially during the fall when the foliage is ablaze. Cook Forest offers some of the most serene tent campgrounds in pa.

Leonard Harrison/Colton Point State Parks: The PA Grand Canyon

Located on opposite rims of Pine Creek Gorge, these two parks provide the most famous views in Central PA.

• The Experience: Leonard Harrison offers the classic, easily accessible, paved overlooks, while Colton Point (on the west rim) provides a slightly more rustic, rugged experience. Both parks feature excellent pa state parks campgrounds that put you right near those breathtaking cliff edges.
• The Trail: Hiking or biking the Pine Creek Rail Trail, which runs along the canyon floor, is a monumental experience. This is truly one of the top camping sites in pa for view-seekers.

Choosing Your Style: Tent Camping vs. RV Parks

One of the beautiful things about camping in PA is the sheer variety of accommodation available. Whether you prefer roughing it or plugging in, Pennsylvania has you covered.

Essential Tips for Tent Camping in PA

If you cherish the minimalist experience—waking up to the smell of pine needles and the sound of birds—then tent camping in pa is for you. State parks are excellent, but private tent campgrounds in pa often provide slightly better facilities (like hot showers and laundry).

The State Park Advantage (DCNR Camping)

DCNR camping sites are usually more rustic and offer greater seclusion. They generally adhere to stricter rules regarding quiet hours and alcohol, which many campers prefer. They are also often located closer to major natural features (like waterfalls or gorges).

• Reservations: Use the DCNR website religiously. Reservations for prime spots open 11 months in advance and disappear quickly for weekends between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
• Wildlife: When penn camping, especially in areas like the Wilds, be bear aware. Always use bear boxes or hang your food properly. We want to enjoy the wildlife, not feed it!

Finding Seclusion: Backpacking and Primitive Sites

For the truly adventurous, PA offers numerous opportunities for primitive camping, particularly in State Forests (like Rothrock or Tiadaghton). Primitive sites usually require you to hike in, offer no amenities (pack-in, pack-out), and often require a free permit. If your goal is to find the most secluded camping spots in pa, look beyond the developed campgrounds and into the State Forest lands.

Navigating Pennsylvania RV Parks and Campgrounds

For those traveling with a rig—whether it’s a pop-up, travel trailer, or massive Class A—pennsylvania rv parks offer comfort, convenience, and community. Many of the best rv campgrounds in pa are privately owned and offer amenities far beyond what state parks can provide.

What to Look for in a Top Rated RV Campground

When searching for top rated campgrounds in pennsylvania specifically for RVs, I always prioritize a few key features:

1. Full Hookups: Look for 50-amp service, water, and sewer connections. This saves you the hassle of using dump stations.
2. Site Quality: Are the pads level? Are they gravel, concrete, or grass? Level, concrete pads make setup infinitely easier.
3. Amenities: Private RV parks often feature pools, activity centers, scheduled events, and sometimes even restaurants or mini-golf. These are perfect for families.
4. Location Access: Do they offer easy access to nearby attractions? Some of the best pennsylvania rv parks and campgrounds are strategically located near major trails or tourist destinations.

Best RV Campgrounds in PA Examples:

• Hersheypark Camping Resort: If you are planning a trip to Hershey, this resort offers incredible convenience and amenities (pool, shuttle service, etc.). It’s a great example of an amenity-rich RV park.
• Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park (Various Locations): These parks are designed specifically for family fun, offering extensive programming and facilities, making them excellent choices for those seeking full-service campgrounds in pennsylvania.

Beyond the Basics: Hidden Gems and Unique Camping Sites in PA

While the state parks offer reliably wonderful experiences, sometimes the best camping in PA is found off the beaten path or through unique private opportunities.

The Appeal of Glamping and Cabin Rentals

Not everyone wants to wrestle with tent poles or navigate the complexities of an RV hookup. PA has seen a boom in “glamping” sites and rustic cabin rentals. Many state parks, like Black Moshannon or Parker Dam, offer rustic cabins that provide a solid roof, a bed, and electricity while still keeping you deep in the woods. These are fantastic alternatives to traditional camping sites in pa.

Allegheny National Forest: Dispersed Camping

For those who truly want to disappear, the Allegheny National Forest (ANF) in Northern PA offers extensive opportunities for dispersed camping. This means you can drive or hike into designated areas and camp virtually anywhere, provided you follow Leave No Trace principles.

• Why it’s a Hidden Gem: The ANF is rugged, remote, and less crowded than the state parks. It’s perfect for serious backpackers and those seeking total solitude. This is the definition of true wilderness penn camping.

Deep Dive: Planning Your Trip to Top PA Campgrounds

Preparation is key to a successful and enjoyable trip. Here are my essential tips for planning your adventure to the best campgrounds in pa.

When to Go: Seasonality in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania’s camping seasons are distinct, and knowing when to go can drastically change your experience.

1. Spring (April – May): Beautiful wild blooms, rushing water (great for waterfalls), but prepare for mud and cool nights. Reservations are easier to secure.
2. Summer (June – August): Peak season. Warm days, ideal for swimming and boating. Expect crowds, especially at popular campgrounds in pa like Ohiopyle and Promised Land. Reservations are mandatory months ahead.
3. Fall (September – October): The most popular time for pennsylvania best camping. The foliage is magnificent, the temperatures are perfect for hiking, and the bugs are mostly gone. Book fall trips early—these spots are highly competitive.
4. Winter (November – March): Many DCNR camping loops close, but some parks offer winterized cabins or limited camping. It’s quiet, beautiful (especially after a snowfall), and perfect for cross-country skiing, but requires specialized cold-weather gear.

Navigating the DCNR Reservation System

If you want to secure a spot at one of the prime pa state parks campgrounds, you need to be familiar with the DCNR’s online reservation system.

• The 11-Month Rule: Reservations open 11 months to the day before your desired arrival date. For major holidays or prime fall weekends, you need to be online the moment that window opens. I’ve personally sat at my computer at 7:00 AM sharp, ready to click ‘book’ for a popular spot!
• Flexibility is Key: If you can camp mid-week or during the shoulder seasons (late April/early May or late October), you will find securing camping sites in pa much easier.

Gear Check: What You Need for PA Camping

Pennsylvania weather can change rapidly, particularly in the mountains. A few essential items will ensure you enjoy the best camping in pa:

• Layers: Always pack layers. Even summer nights in the mountains of Central PA can drop into the 50s.
• Rain Gear: You will encounter rain. A good tent footprint, sturdy rainfly, and waterproof jacket are non-negotiable.
• Bug Protection: Ticks and mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially near water sources. Invest in high-quality insect repellent and perform frequent tick checks.
• Firewood Awareness: Many campgrounds in pennsylvania prohibit bringing firewood from home to prevent the spread of invasive species like the Emerald Ash Borer. Plan to buy local, certified firewood near or at the park.

Spotlight on Popular Destinations: Camping Sites Near Pittsburgh PA

For those living in or visiting Western Pennsylvania, finding quality camping sites near pittsburgh pa that don’t require an all-day drive is crucial. Luckily, the area surrounding the Steel City offers fantastic options.

Racoon Creek State Park

Located west of Pittsburgh, Raccoon Creek is a large park known for its beautiful wildflower reserve. It offers a variety of campsites, making it perfect for a quick weekend escape. The lake offers boating and swimming, making it a very popular choice for families seeking accessible campgrounds in pa.

Laurel Hill State Park

A bit further east in the Laurel Highlands (about 90 minutes from Pittsburgh), Laurel Hill is a perennial favorite. The large lake and well-developed campground make it one of the best pennsylvania campgrounds within a reasonable driving distance of the city. Plus, you’re just a short drive from the historical sites of Fort Necessity and Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater.

Private Campgrounds for RVers

Many RV owners looking for full services often turn to private pennsylvania rv parks just outside the city limits. These typically offer larger sites, superior Wi-Fi, and extensive amenities, providing a comfortable base for exploring both the city and the surrounding natural areas. When seeking the best rv campgrounds in pa near Pittsburgh, look for those along the I-70 or I-76 corridors.

Advanced Camping Knowledge: Dispersed Camping and Multi-Day Treks

If established campground sites in pa feel too structured, you might be ready for the world of dispersed camping. This is where you truly find the most isolated camping spots in pa.

Understanding State Forests vs. State Parks

This is a critical distinction for anyone serious about wilderness camping:

• State Parks (DCNR Camping): Highly developed, focused on recreation, structured campgrounds, strict rules, and high visitor volume.
• State Forests (DCNR): Focused on conservation, timber management, and watershed protection. Less developed, vast, and permit dispersed camping (often free permits required for stays over one night).

If you want the ultimate challenge and solitude, research the vast State Forests like Tiadaghton, Sproul, or Rothrock. They offer incredible hiking and mountain biking opportunities, and you can camp almost anywhere, allowing you to create your own personalized penn camping experience. Just remember the fundamental rule: Leave No Trace.

The Appalachian Trail and Multi-Day Hikes

The Appalachian Trail (AT) slices right through Pennsylvania, and hiking portions of the trail offers unique camping opportunities. Shelters (lean-tos) are spaced along the trail, allowing for multi-day treks without needing to carry a tent every night. Sections of the AT in Central PA, particularly around the Harrisburg area, are known for their rugged beauty and challenging terrain—a perfect way to truly test your tent camping in pa skills.

The Northeast PA Advantage: Best Camping in Northeast PA

Let’s circle back to the Northeast, as it offers a specific blend of beauty and convenience that draws massive crowds.

The Lake Region: Camping by the Water

The Poconos and surrounding areas are defined by water. Many of the best camping in northeast pa spots are centered around lakes and rivers.

• Tobyhanna State Park: A great alternative to the often-crowded Promised Land. Tobyhanna offers beautiful lake views and solid campgrounds in pa. It’s a fantastic place for canoeing and paddleboarding.
• Gouldsboro State Park: Situated right next to Tobyhanna, this offers another beautiful lake environment. Pairing a visit to these two parks allows you to explore the typical Pocono ecosystem thoroughly.

Why RVers Love Northeast PA

The density of private, high-quality pennsylvania rv parks and campgrounds is highest in the Northeast, catering to vacationers from the metropolitan areas. These parks often provide heated pools, organized events, and paved roads—making them ideal for large RVs and those prioritizing comfort alongside nature access. If you are seeking the best rv campgrounds in pa with family activities, the Poconos should be high on your list.

Conclusion: Your Next Adventure Awaits in the Keystone State

I hope this detailed journey has shown you why Pennsylvania is truly one of the greatest—and perhaps most underrated—camping destinations in the country. From the towering pines of Cook Forest to the white-water thrills of Ohiopyle, the state offers endless possibilities.

Whether you are looking for the tranquility of tent camping in pa deep within a State Forest, the family fun of a modern pennsylvania rv park, or the unparalleled beauty of a dcnr camping site at Ricketts Glen, you can find the perfect spot. Remember to plan ahead, respect the environment, and always bring extra marshmallows.

The best camping in PA is waiting for you. Get out there, breathe the fresh mountain air, and make some unforgettable memories. Happy trails!