The Lykens region of central Pennsylvania sits in the valley between the Mahantango Mountain to the north and Berry Mountain to the south. Campers near Lykens can access both the Appalachian Trail system and multiple waterways including Swatara Creek and the Susquehanna River. Winter temperatures typically drop below freezing from December through February, while summer highs average in the mid-80s with periodic thunderstorms.
What to do
Water recreation options: Lake Heron Retreat provides a 10-acre private lake for fishing and swimming. "This lake was beautiful! A short walk from the campsite. We had the lake to ourself both evening and morning," reports one visitor who appreciated the solitude.
Rail trail biking: The Swatara Rail Trail connects directly to Jonestown/Hershey KOA for easy biking access. "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," notes a camper at Jonestown/Hershey KOA.
Amusement park activities: Knoebels Campground offers free park admission where you only pay for the rides and activities you choose. "Connected to the park, a great way to visit! If you're an early to bed kinda person it'll be tough, the roller coasters are right there! I loved it though," shares a camper at Knoebels Campground.
Historic ferry rides: The Susquehanna River Ferry operates from Ferryboat Campsites and has been running for over 100 years. "Rode on the Ferry every time I could. It was the nicest place I ever visited. I never wanted to leave," describes an enthusiastic visitor.
What campers like
Entertainment options: Twin Grove RV Resort features family rides and activities on weekend evenings. "At night they have a merry go round, train, giant slide and ferries wheel you can ride. The bathrooms are always clean and staff is friendly," notes a reviewer at Twin Grove RV Resort.
Wildlife viewing areas: Nearby state parks offer hiking opportunities with chances to observe local wildlife. "Before fishing, we hiked the White Rocks Trail a few miles outside of town, and it was a ton of fun with some cool rock scrambles. It hooks up with the AT going through the area if you want to extend the hike," reports a visitor to the region.
Fishing access: Multiple waterways around Lykens provide fishing opportunities. "This is a wonderful little campsite primarily catering the seasonal RVer. With that said they do have primitive camping spots next to the putt putt course and water only tent sits at the upper feild," explains a camper about Ferryboat Campsites.
Quiet natural settings: Several campgrounds offer more secluded options for those seeking peace. "This place is a must if you like the outdoors when camping! It is hands down the best place we've camped. Good water pressure, reliable electric. Cheap firewood available. Nice pool and lots of hiking trails," shares a visitor at Camp Hebron.
What you should know
Highway noise levels: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise due to proximity to major roads. "Right off the highway with lots of loud trucks and bikes. The campground is very busy with loud activity from other campers at all hours," warns a camper at Camp A While.
Train disturbances: Campgrounds near rail lines may experience nighttime noise. "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!" advises a visitor at Hersheypark Camping Resort.
Seasonal flooding risks: River proximity creates potential for high water. "Storms with heavy rain in the area made the river rise. We were told the campground is susceptible to flooding, so check the weather when you come!" notes a camper at Ferryboat Campsites.
Limited availability: Many campgrounds near Lykens fill completely during summer weekends and require advance booking. "We usually stay here for the first trip of our season. It's always clean and the staff are real friendly," mentions a return visitor at Jonestown/Hershey KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Educational wildlife options: Some campgrounds feature animal interaction opportunities. "There is a small goat petting zoo, with very friendly pigmy goats and the camp is extremely pet friendly as long as they are on a leash," reports a visitor at Ferryboat Campsites.
Playground access: Multiple facilities offer play equipment for different age groups. "We come here once a year to take our grandkids on an annual camping trip with us. Lots to do! Playgrounds, special events, crafts," shares a grandparent staying at Twin Grove RV Resort.
Water play areas: Campgrounds with swimming options provide relief during summer heat. "We took our 3 yo camping for the first time here. He had so much fun. It was clean campground located in a State Park. Easy walk to the lake with a small beach," comments a parent at Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground.
Structured activities: Some sites offer organized programs for children. "One of our favorite places we have visited! Friendly staff, very quant, laundry onsite, splash pad, play grounds, very clean restrooms/showers," notes a visitor at Jonestown/Hershey KOA.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many regional campgrounds require leveling equipment. "The sites are gravel and most are not level. They are not well maintained as the site next to us has weeds a foot high," cautions an RVer at Hersheypark Camping Resort.
Size limitations: Larger rigs face challenges at some facilities. "The campground is very tight, cramped, and hard to navigate. The sites are so small that many tow vehicles have to park partially on the narrow access roads making it difficult to get in and out of with a big rig," warns a Class A motorhome owner.
Electric service variations: Power options differ between campgrounds. "Good water pressure, reliable electric. Cheap firewood available," notes an appreciative camper at Camp Hebron, while others mention that some campgrounds offer both 30 and 50 amp service options.
Weekend congestion: Many campgrounds experience significant population increases during weekends. "It accommodates a large family reunion with plenty of space. The campground was well populated but we didn't feel cramped at all. Super dog friendly," reports a visitor to Twin Grove RV Resort.
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