KOA Campgrounds in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is great for camping. There are many campgrounds and parks where you and your family can camp during spring, summer and fall.

You can camp for free in Pennsylvania. Different state and national parks allow dispersed camping. Some areas may require a camping permit, so check before arriving at your campsite.

While you can legally camp in most places in Pennsylvania, you should stick to the designated camping areas and sites. Camping in the specified regions ensures the natural environment remains safe and healthy. If you are planning to camp in a state forest, you cannot set up your campsite in designated natural areas or within:

• 25 feet of a trail
• 100 feet of open water or a stream
• 200 feet of a forest road

Camping in allocated camping areas within national and state parks and forests is legal. You can also camp on campgrounds and the specific regions specifically made to accommodate campers, like an RV park. Before choosing your campsite, check the area's ordinances to ensure camping is allowed.

You and your family will have many things to do in Pennsylvania, whether camping in the north, south, east or west areas of the state. Some of the top things to do in Pennsylvania include:

• Hershey Park: Immerse yourself in the world of chocolate when you visit Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania. While known for its chocolate treats, the amusement park is also home to many thrilling rollercoasters, a water park and plenty of family-friendly attractions.
• Eastern State Penitentiary: If you enjoy learning about crime and its history, tour the Eastern State Penitentiary, a famous prison turned museum that once housed Al Capone and other notorious criminals. The museum in Philadelphia lets you walk through the halls lined with cellblocks and see the courtyards where prisoners could visit.
• Duquesne Incline: See Pittsburgh from another perspective when you take a century-old cable car up and down the Duquesne Incline. It's one of the few remaining inclines in the country.

Spending time outdoors is a popular pastime for many Pennsylvania residents. When visiting, there are many things you can do outdoors while in Pennsylvania. Some of the best outdoor activities include:

• Fishing: The state's many lakes, rivers and streams make it popular for fishing. You can catch bass, trout, pike and many other fish species while fishing in the Keystone State.
• Hiking: With about 20 national parks and over 100 state parks in Pennsylvania, residents and visitors easily enjoy hiking during their free time. You'll see unbelievable views of the mountains and terrain.
• Camping: When the weather is nice, camping becomes popular from spring through fall. Families head to the parks or campgrounds to enjoy time together surrounded by nature.

You and your family can head outdoors during your vacation to bird-watch, fish, hike and learn while visiting some of the best national parks in Pennsylvania, including:

• Gettysburg National Military Park: Learn about the Battle of Gettysburg, a turning point during the Civil War, when you visit Gettysburg National Military Park. Tour the battlefields and visit the museum and visitor center to begin your adventure.
• Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area: Spend time at the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area to enjoy many fun recreational activities and experience tranquil landscapes.
• Allegheny National Forest: Visit the Allegheny National Forest whenever you want to hike or bike the trails. You could also paddle in a canoe or kayak down the Clarion River.

Pennsylvania has an abundance of state parks that residents and visitors can enjoy. A few of the best state parks in Pennsylvania include:

• Point State Park: Enjoy the sunshine and fresh air while walking around and learning different historical facts at Point State Park. The park has many monuments, markers and plaques commemorating important historical people and events from the area.
• Presque Isle State Park: Walk the beach, hike the trails or swim in Presque Isle Bay and Lake Erie while at Presque Isle State Park. The park is the perfect place to be during the summer because of its beaches and other recreational activities.
• Ricketts Glen State Park: Experience one of the most scenic areas in Pennsylvania when you visit Ricketts Glen State Park. The park is home to Glens Natural Area, a national natural landmark. Use the various trails for hiking to the different waterfalls around the park.

The most popular and visited state park in Pennsylvania is Presque Isle State Park. If you're camping in or visiting the Erie area, add the park to your itinerary to have a fun-filled day with your family. The 3,200-acre peninsula that makes up the park provides many fun opportunities that everyone will love.

When you visit the park when the weather is warmer, you and your family can have fun watching the wildlife, fishing, surfing, swimming, hiking and picnicking. You could also experience Lake Erie from a different perspective while boating. Take your boat to the park or rent canoes, kayaks and small motorboats. If you have water skis, you can also have fun participating in that activity.

Pennsylvania is home to diverse cultures and unique dishes. You can find some of the best food in the state in cities like:

• Philadelphia: While Philadelphia is known for its namesake cheesesteak and pretzels, there are plenty of other cuisines you can try in the melting pot city.
• Lancaster: Take a trip to Lancaster to indulge in meals and treats made by the local Amish community. The city also has many other cuisines, from Vietnamese and Japanese to Middle Eastern and Caribbean dishes.
• Pittsburgh: Pittsburgh, the populous city in western Pennsylvania, also has an eclectic array of food. Find dining experiences that meet your standards, from farm-to-table restaurants to upscale dining.