Camping opportunities near Annville, Pennsylvania extend beyond the popular Hershey attractions, with options spanning a 30-mile radius that includes Lebanon County's wooded areas and nearby state parks. The region sits at approximately 430 feet above sea level in the Lebanon Valley, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Most campgrounds in the area remain operational from mid-April through October, with several offering extended season options.
What to do
Water recreation at Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground: Located about 30 miles southwest of Annville, this park features a sizeable lake for fishing, boating and swimming. "The lake is one of the nicest I've ever seen at a PA state park, with tons of picnic tables with grills, a playground, a volleyball court, and a special fence solution to keep the stupid geese out of the water in the swimming area," notes one visitor to Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground.
Rail trail access from Jonestown KOA: Cyclists can access the Swatara Rail Trail directly from the campground. "The campground is connected to the Swatara Rail trial which is great for biking. The Swatara creek runs right next to it so it is great for kayaking, tubing, etc.," shares a camper at Jonestown/Hershey KOA. The trail provides miles of flat, scenic terrain suitable for all experience levels.
Mini golf and family activities: Many campgrounds offer on-site recreation beyond swimming pools. "They have a tennis court, mini golf, basketball court, and you saw many kids out with their bicycles. There is even an arcade center for the kids and a rec center with a pool table," explains a reviewer about Thousand Trails Hershey.
What campers like
Creekside camping spots: Water access sites are highly valued by campers in the region. "Some creekside sites along with access to creek from your campsite!" mentions a visitor to Jonestown/Hershey KOA. These sites offer both scenic views and direct water access for recreation.
Campground entertainment options: Beyond the standard amenities, some facilities provide unique attractions. "At night they have a merry go round, train, giant slide and ferris wheel you can ride," describes a camper at Twin Grove RV Resort, which sets it apart from more basic camping options in the area.
Nature trails and outdoor spaces: Campgrounds with natural features receive positive reviews. "The tent sites are located in the rear of the property and therefore quieter and more removed from the rest of the somewhat crowded campground," notes a visitor to Pinch Pond Family Campground, highlighting the balance of amenities with natural settings.
What you should know
Train noise at certain locations: Railway lines run near several campgrounds in the area. "Nice camp ground but super loud bc of the trains. Bath houses are nice and clean. I would suggest making sure you aren't close to the tracks bc the trains run all night long!" warns a camper at Hersheypark Camping Resort.
Primitive camping options: For those seeking a less developed experience, Stoevers Dam Park in Lebanon offers basic sites. "Nice area. Primitive camping with portapot. Must get permits on line or from city hall. $3/night. Small lake," reports a visitor, noting the significant price difference from more developed facilities.
Nearby shooting range impacts: Some campers have noted noise from shooting facilities. "The only thing that is negative is that there is a shooting range right next door. It is pretty consistent from lunch to dinner. If you're out and about, it won't be an issue," explains a visitor to Starlite Camping Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with dedicated kid activities: Look for facilities that provide structured recreation. "They have a pool and fun activities though the day. At night they have a merry go round, train, giant slide and ferris wheel you can ride," shares a Twin Grove RV Resort visitor, noting the importance of evening entertainment options.
Consider Hershey discount packages: Some campgrounds offer special pricing arrangements with attractions. "We were able to purchase Hershey Park tickets which were cheaper than buying from Hershey (at a discount) and it includes shuttle service to and from the park!" explains a camper at Jonestown/Hershey KOA.
Look for playgrounds and water features: Campgrounds with multiple recreation options keep children engaged. "It has water access and is right next to a small man made beach and playground. Bathrooms were in good shape," notes a visitor to Hersheypark Camping Resort, highlighting the convenience of having amenities clustered together.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions carefully: Many campgrounds have variable-sized spots that may challenge larger rigs. "It is a nice camp ground but the lower drive threw spots are packed together. Our 32' with slides just fit the sight and we had zero room for the truck," reports an RVer at Hersheypark Camping Resort.
Consider terrain and leveling: The topography around Annville creates challenges at some campgrounds. "The campground is very hilly but you're not stacked on top of your neighbor like the others. Campground loses a star because the sites are pretty uneven. Not just the one we're on but others as well," explains a visitor to Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country.
Look for pull-through availability: Some sites offer easier access than others. "We chose a pull through site for its ease and the extra space it had being on the end," notes a camper, emphasizing the importance of site selection for RVs with tow vehicles.
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