Jerry BensonPennsylvania is one of the best places in the Northeast for camping, offering lush forests, peaceful lakes, mountain views, and family-friendly outdoor activities. Whether you’re an RV traveler seeking comfort, a tent camper wanting quiet nights under the stars, or a family planning a weekend adventure, the state park campgrounds in Pennsylvania provide safe, beautiful, and memorable places to stay.
Top 50 State Park Campgrounds in Pennsylvania
1. Ricketts Glen State Park Campground
Ricketts Glen is famous for its breathtaking waterfalls and scenic hiking trails, making it ideal for adventurous families and backpackers.
Key features
• Multiple waterfall trails
• Pet-friendly camping areas
• Spacious sites for tents and RVs
• Swimming beach at Lake Jean
Best for
• Hikers
• Nature photographers
• Families wanting scenic views
2. Presque Isle State Park Campground
Located on Lake Erie, this campground gives visitors sandy beaches, sunsets, and excellent bird-watching opportunities.
Key features
• Beaches suitable for swimming
• Biking trails around the peninsula
• Calm waters for kayaking
• Family-friendly picnic areas
Best for
• Beach lovers
• Bird watchers
• Families wanting a relaxed getaway
3. Ohiopyle State Park Campground
Ohiopyle is popular for outdoor adventure, whitewater rafting, and miles of forested trails.
Key features
• Access to the Youghiogheny River
• RV and tent sites
• Mountain biking trails
• Waterfall lookouts
Best for
• Adventure seekers
• Groups and active families
• Kayakers and rafters
4. Pine Grove Furnace State Park Campground
Nestled in the South Mountain region, this campground combines history, hiking, and lake activities.
Key features
• Two lakes for swimming and paddling
• Part of the Appalachian Trail
• Playground areas for kids
• Historic ironworks buildings
Best for
• Hikers
• Families with young children
• History lovers
5. Leonard Harrison State Park Campground
Located near the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, this campground delivers breathtaking views and easy access to rugged hiking trails.
Key features
• Overlooks of Pine Creek Gorge
• Modern and semi-primitive sites
• Visitor center with exhibits
• Picnic areas with scenic views
Best for
• Sightseers
• Sunset lovers
• Tent campers
6. Hickory Run State Park Campground
This park is home to the famous Boulder Field and offers a wide variety of outdoor recreation.
Key features
• Boulder Field National Natural Landmark
• Multiple hiking trails
• RV and tent sites
• Sand Spring Lake for swimming
Best for
• Families
• Hikers
• RV travelers
7. Codorus State Park Campground
A peaceful campground centered around Lake Marburg, perfect for boating, fishing, and relaxing.
Key features
• 1,275-acre lake
• Paved biking paths
• Boat rentals available
• Quiet, shaded campsites
Best for
• Anglers
• RV travelers
• Families who enjoy water activities
8. French Creek State Park Campground
One of the largest state parks in Pennsylvania, offering both primitive and modern campsites.
Key features
• Two lakes for paddling
• Abundant wildlife
• Hiking and biking trails
• Well-maintained camp loops
Best for
• Nature enthusiasts
• Long-term campers
• Groups and families
9. World’s End State Park Campground
A stunning park surrounded by steep canyons and dense forests, offering rugged terrain and scenic overlooks.
Key features
• Loyalsock Creek for swimming
• Numerous overlook points
• Challenging hiking trails
• Quiet, nature-focused campsites
Best for
• Backpackers
• Tent campers
• Photographers
10. Prince Gallitzin State Park Campground
Rich in recreational activities, this large campground sits near Glendale Lake.
Key features
• Boat rentals and marinas
• Sandy beach for swimming
• RV-friendly loops
• Excellent wildlife viewing
Best for
• Families
• Boaters
• RV travelers
11. Cook Forest State Park Campground
Known for its old-growth trees, this campground blends natural beauty with peaceful surroundings.
Key features
• Towering ancient pines and hemlocks
• Scenic trails along the Clarion River
• Variety of campsites
• Access to canoeing routes
Best for
• Nature lovers
• Couples seeking quiet escapes
• Photographers
12. Black Moshannon State Park Campground
A unique wetland environment with a dark-tinted lake, making it one of the most distinctive state park campgrounds in Pennsylvania.
Key features
• Quiet lakeside sites
• Boardwalk trails
• Good for stargazing
• Canoe and kayak rentals
Best for
• Bird watchers
• Families
• Tent campers
13. Bald Eagle State Park Campground
This park offers wide-open views, spacious sites, and a large lake popular for boating.
Key features
• Large modern campground
• Excellent fishing and boating
• Plenty of open space
• Trails for hiking and wildlife viewing
Best for
• RV travelers
• Anglers
• Families
14. Locust Lake State Park Campground
A peaceful wooded campground wrapped around a quiet lake, perfect for slower-paced camping.
Key features
• Calm lake for paddling
• Playgrounds
• Walking paths
• Shaded campsites
Best for
• Families with kids
• Beginner campers
• Seniors and slow-paced travelers
15. Moraine State Park Campground
A popular destination for boating, hiking, and lakeside relaxation within the rolling hills of western Pennsylvania.
Key features
• Kayaking and sailing opportunities
• Well-maintained campsites
• Biking and horse-riding trails
• Lake views from several areas
Best for
• Water lovers
• RV travelers
• Groups and families
16. Shawnee State Park Campground
Shawnee State Park offers a peaceful mountain setting with a scenic lake, making it great for families looking for quiet outdoor adventures.
Key features
• Lakeside campground loops
• Boat rentals for calm water paddling
• Well-marked hiking trails
• Family picnic areas
Best for
• Families
• Beginner campers
• RV travelers
17. Tuscarora State Park Campground
This campground sits beside a beautiful, tree-lined lake and offers a cozy, relaxed camping atmosphere.
Key features
• Swimming beach
• Easy walking paths
• Shaded tent sites
• Picnic pavilions
Best for
• Tent campers
• Families with kids
• Weekend travelers
18. Laurel Hill State Park Campground
Laurel Hill offers wide, forested campsites and access to a stunning lake surrounded by rolling hills.
Key features
• Large lake for fishing and boating
• Spacious campsites
• Seasonal programs for kids
• Hiking trails through peaceful forest
Best for
• Nature lovers
• Long weekends
• RV and tent campers
19. Raymond B. Winter State Park Campground
This small but beautiful campground is nestled in a quiet valley with a spring-fed lake at its center.
Key features
• Clear lake for swimming
• Compact, quiet campground
• Pine and hardwood forest cover
• Short nature trails
Best for
• Couples
• Families seeking calm scenery
• Tent campers
20. Little Pine State Park Campground
Known for mountain views and a peaceful reservoir, this campground offers a relaxed, scenic environment.
Key features
• Mountain backdrop
• Good fishing spots
• Modern and rustic sites
• Boat launch access
Best for
• Anglers
• RV travelers
• Families
21. Promised Land State Park Campground
Located in the Pocono Mountains, this campground blends forest, lakes, and wildlife.
Key features
• Multiple campground loops
• Lakes for swimming and paddling
• Moose and deer sightings
• Family-friendly beach areas
Best for
• Wildlife lovers
• Families
• RV and tent campers
22. Poe Valley State Park Campground
A quiet, forested campground centered around a small but peaceful lake.
Key features
• Secluded location
• Good for paddling
• Pine-shaded tent sites
• Quick access to Poe Paddy State Park
Best for
• Tent campers
• Nature-focused travelers
• People seeking quiet getaways
23. Chapman State Park Campground
This campground is great for those who enjoy lake recreation and easy access to forest trails.
Key features
• Lake for boating and swimming
• Well-maintained sites
• Abundant wildlife
• Nearby hiking and biking
Best for
• Families
• Hikers
• RV travelers
24. Sinnemahoning State Park Campground
Known for its elk, wildlife habitat, and beautiful vistas, Sinnemahoning is a top pick for nature lovers.
Key features
• Elk and black bear sightings
• Scenic reservoir
• Modern campsite amenities
• Wildlife viewing platforms
Best for
• Wildlife enthusiasts
• RV travelers
• Photographers
25. Marsh Creek State Park Campground
Located around a large lake perfect for sailing and kayaking, this campground is ideal for water-based recreation.
Key features
• Big lake with calm waters
• Popular for sailing
• Modern campground facilities
• Lakeside picnic spots
Best for
• Water sports lovers
• Families
• RV travelers
26. Trough Creek State Park Campground
A rugged, beautiful park known for its unique geological formations and forested trails.
Key features
• Balanced Rock
• Waterfall and gorge trails
• Rustic campsites
• Scenic viewpoints
Best for
• Hikers
• Photographers
• Tent campers
27. Hyner Run State Park Campground
This peaceful mountain campground is perfect for those wanting a quiet retreat surrounded by wilderness.
Key features
• Streamside campsites
• Access to Hyner View Overlook nearby
• Small swimming pool
• Forest hiking trails
Best for
• Tent campers
• Nature lovers
• Families seeking relaxation
28. Hyner View State Park Camping Area
Although smaller, this area provides unforgettable views of the West Branch Susquehanna River Valley.
Key features
• Stunning scenic overlook
• Quiet, simple camping
• Great stargazing
• Good access to nearby trails
Best for
• Backpackers
• Scenic-view chasers
• Minimalist campers
29. Neshaminy State Park Campground
Located near the Delaware River, this campground offers open spaces and easy access to boating.
Key features
• River access
• Quiet, smaller campground
• Easy walking areas
• Close to nearby attractions
Best for
• RVs
• Families
• Travelers exploring southeastern Pennsylvania
30. Silver Lake State Park Campground
A peaceful lakefront campground offering forested beauty and great fishing opportunities.
Key features
• Lakeside views
• Good fishing
• Relaxing, quiet environment
• Shaded sites for tents and RVs
Best for
• Anglers
• Families
• Tent and RV campers
31. Tobyhanna State Park Campground
A peaceful Pocono Mountains getaway, Tobyhanna offers quiet camping beside a serene, tree-lined lake.
Key features
• Lakeside hiking trails
• Canoe and kayak rentals
• Clean, maintained campsites
• Wildlife viewing opportunities
Best for
• Families
• Tent campers
• Travelers seeking peace and quiet
32. Gouldsboro State Park Campground
Just minutes from Tobyhanna, this campground offers a quiet forest retreat with a large lake for paddling.
Key features
• Well-shaded sites
• Calm waters for kayaking
• Easy-to-navigate trails
• Great bird-watching
Best for
• Nature lovers
• Weekend campers
• Couples
33. Beltzville State Park Campground
Centered around a scenic lake, this campground is great for water enthusiasts and families.
Key features
• Popular swimming beach
• Boating access areas
• Wide campsites
• Gentle hiking trails
Best for
• Families with kids
• RV travelers
• Anglers
34. Nescopeck State Park Camping Area
A nature-rich park offering remote-style camping experiences in lush forest surroundings.
Key features
• Rustic camping feel
• Dense forest cover
• Quiet and private spots
• Good for wildlife sightings
Best for
• Tent campers
• Backpackers
• Nature-focused travelers
35. McConnells Mill State Park Camping Area
Known for its rushing waterfalls and deep sandstone gorges, this park offers rugged, adventurous camping.
Key features
• Dramatic gorge scenery
• Mill- and covered-bridge viewpoints
• Challenging hiking trails
• Rustic-style campsites
Best for
• Photographers
• Hikers
• Adventure campers
36. Pymatuning State Park Campground
One of the largest and most popular campgrounds in western Pennsylvania, especially loved by fishing families.
Key features
• Huge lake with excellent fishing
• Multiple campground loops
• Boat rental areas
• Swimming and picnic spots
Best for
• Anglers
• Large families
• RV travelers
37. Parker Dam State Park Campground
A quiet forested setting known for its clear lake, CCC-built structures, and historic charm.
Key features
• Peaceful lakefront area
• Playgrounds
• Easy nature trails
• Historic interpretive panels
Best for
• Families
• Beginner campers
• Seniors seeking serenity
38. Bendigo State Park Camping Area
A clean, peaceful area known for its recreation spaces and friendly atmosphere.
Key features
• Open green spaces
• Access to Bennett Branch Sinnemahoning Creek
• Simple, relaxed camping
• Good for picnics and walking
Best for
• Families
• Tent campers
• Travelers seeking calm trips
39. Poe Paddy State Park Campground
A secluded spot deep in the forest, offering rugged charm and Dark Sky night views.
Key features
• Riverside campsites
• Tunnels and old rail-trail access
• Trout fishing
• Quiet, no-frills setting
Best for
• Backpackers
• Tent campers
• Stargazers
40. R.B. Winter State Park Overflow Camping
This area supplements the main campground and offers additional peaceful spots for nature immersion.
Key features
• Extra quiet sites
• Pine-scented forest
• Close to lake and trails
• Good for last-minute trips
Best for
• Tent campers
• Minimalist travelers
• Nature walkers
41. Clear Creek State Park Campground
A forest-rich campground with a charming creek running through, offering family-friendly relaxation.
Key features
• Creekside sites
• Canoeing opportunities
• Easy loop trails
• Traditional forest campground atmosphere
Best for
• Families
• Couples
• Tent and RV campers
42. Sinnemahoning State Park Forty Maples Campground
A smaller, quieter section of the main park, perfect for visitors who love wildlife and forest seclusion.
Key features
• Seasonal elk sightings
• Shaded camping areas
• Close to the nature center
• Peaceful creek access
Best for
• Wildlife watchers
• Couples
• RV travelers
43. Ole Bull State Park Campground
Set in a scenic valley with a friendly camping atmosphere and fun water access.
Key features
• Kettle Creek for wading
• Spacious tent and RV sites
• Mountain views
• Forest trails
Best for
• Families
• First-time campers
• Relaxed weekend travelers
44. Kettle Creek State Park Campground
A peaceful park known for trout fishing, mountain scenery, and quiet waterfront camping.
Key features
• Reservoir for paddling
• Excellent fishing
• Rustic and modern sites
• Dense forest surroundings
Best for
• Anglers
• Tent campers
• Serenity seekers
45. Linn Run State Park Camping Area
A small, charming camping space surrounded by mountain streams and lush greenery.
Key features
• Streamside relaxation
• Cool summer temperatures
• Easy access to Forbes State Forest trails
• Waterfalls nearby
Best for
• Couples
• Nature lovers
• Tent campers
46. Caledonia State Park Campground
A popular campground at the northern end of the Blue Ridge Mountains with historic landmarks and scenic trails.
Key features
• Appalachian Trail access
• Streamside picnic spots
• Forested sites
• Ample recreation space
Best for
• Hikers
• Families
• Long-distance travelers
47. Cowans Gap State Park Campground
A very family-friendly campground centered around a warm-water lake perfect for swimming.
Key features
• Sandy beach area
• Lake loop trail
• Modern campground loops
• Pedal boat rentals
Best for
• Kids and families
• RV travelers
• Lake lovers
48. Evansburg State Park Camping Area
Though known more for day-use activities, Evansburg provides nearby camping spots with easy access to trails and open land.
Key features
• Wide open fields
• Creek access
• Horseback riding trails
• Close to suburban conveniences
Best for
• RV travelers
• Group campers
• Weekend explorers
49. Fort Washington State Park Camping Area
A convenient campground near southeastern Pennsylvania offering greenery close to urban centers.
Key features
• Easy access from highways
• Bird-watching areas
• Walking trails
• Clean, simple campground layout
Best for
• RV travelers
• Short-stay campers
• Travelers exploring eastern Pennsylvania
50. Nockamixon State Park Campground
One of the most visited outdoor destinations in eastern Pennsylvania, offering a huge lake and scenic camp loops.
Key features
• Large sailing-friendly lake
• Family picnic grounds
• Modern camping facilities
• Forest and lakeside views
Best for
• Water sports enthusiasts
• Families and groups
• RV and tent campers
Why Pennsylvania State Parks Are Perfect for Campgrounds
Pennsylvania is one of the most diverse outdoor destinations in the Northeast, offering everything from sprawling forests to peaceful lakes and rolling mountain landscapes. Whether you’re planning a family trip, a weekend escape, or a long RV adventure, the state parks provide safe, scenic, and well-managed spaces that make camping feel both memorable and stress-free.
Reasons campers love Pennsylvania state park campgrounds
- Wide variety of landscapes, from lakes and rivers to mountains and dense forests
- Clean, well-maintained facilities with access to restrooms, trails, and recreation areas
- Family-friendly environments that feel secure and welcoming.
- Affordable camping fees compared to many private campgrounds
- Plenty of activities including swimming, hiking, kayaking, biking, and wildlife viewing
- Ideal for both beginner campers and seasoned outdoor travelers
Pennsylvania makes it easy to enjoy nature without giving up comfort and convenience, which is why so many travelers return year after year.
What to Know Before Booking a State Park Campground in Pennsylvania
To make the most of your camping experience, it helps to know a few important details before choosing a site. Pennsylvania’s popular parks fill up quickly during holidays and summer weekends, so planning ahead can make a big difference in securing the perfect spot.
Things to consider before booking
- Peak seasons: Summer and fall weekends fill up quickly, especially in lakefront or mountain parks
- Campground types: Options include modern RV sites, tent sites, rustic sites, and cabins
- Site features: Check for electricity, water access, space size, shade, and proximity to restrooms
- Weather patterns: Mountain regions may be cooler, while lake areas may experience more wind
• Wildlife presence: Store food safely to avoid attracting animals - Park activities: Look at what each park offers, such as trails, beaches, bike rentals, or boat launches
- Noise level: Some campgrounds are lively and family-friendly, while others are quiet and remote
Preparing ahead helps you avoid surprises and ensures your camping trip matches your expectations.
How to Choose the Right State Park for Your Campground Style
Every camper has a unique style. Some prefer peaceful lakeside stays, while others enjoy rugged mountain adventures or activity-packed campgrounds with plenty to do. Pennsylvania offers all of these options, so choosing the right park depends on what kind of camping experience you want.
How to match your camping style with the perfect park
- For families with kids: Choose parks with beaches, playgrounds, and easy trails
- For RV travelers: Select parks with modern loops, electrical hookups, and large pads
- For tent campers: Look for shaded, forested areas with quiet surroundings
- For backpackers or minimalists: Pick parks with primitive sites and remote trails
- For anglers: Choose parks with large lakes, streams, or stocked fishing areas
- For adventure seekers: Explore parks with whitewater rafting, mountain biking, or steep hiking trails
- For couples: Seek out peaceful parks with scenic views and quiet evenings
When you match your personal camping style with the right park features, your trip becomes much more enjoyable and tailored to your comfort.
Conclusion
Pennsylvania’s state park campgrounds offer everything campers need for unforgettable outdoor experiences. With diverse landscapes, family-friendly amenities, quiet escapes, and adventure-filled settings, these parks make it easy to enjoy nature at your own pace. Whether you’re pitching a tent beside a peaceful lake, pulling in with an RV for a long weekend, or exploring rugged mountain trails, there’s a state park in Pennsylvania that fits your camping style perfectly. With a little planning and the right park selection, your next camping trip can become a memorable tradition you’ll want to repeat year after year.