The smell of smores by the campfire is more satisfying at a campground close to The Sweetest Place on Earth in Hershey, Pennsylvania.
Camping is a sweet affair in and around Hershey. (Photo: Courtesy Hershey Entertainment & Resorts)
The lowest upfront cost for a major theme park in the United States makes Hersheypark the #1 value attraction (tied) according to Journo Research. The surrounding agricultural lands, wooded parks, and nature preserves are home to numerous campgrounds. Here are our picks for 5 of the best places to spend time in an RV or tent near Hershey.
Hersheypark Camping Resort
The official campground of the chocolate theme park is Hersheypark Camping Resort, located just down the road from the theme park’s main entrance. Free shuttle service provides campers access to the park and other activities, and campers enjoy discounted park tickets, early and extended park access, and preferred pricing at other area attractions. Tent sites range from primitive to luxury with electric, water, and cable access. RV owners have the option of full or partial hook ups. And families without a tent or camper can relax in a tiny home or cabin. The resort has an outdoor pool, recreation area, and scheduled events and activities.
1200 Sweet St, Hummelstown
The mill is the namesake attraction at this country campground. (Photo: Michael C. Upton for TravelMag)
Mill Bridge Village & Camp Resort
A scenic 30-mile drive from Hershey into the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country transports visitors to a simpler time. Except at Mill Bridge Village & Camp Resort guests have all the amenities of today. The resort is home to the circa-1738 Herr’s Grist Mill and guided tours of the registered historic landmark are available. The neighboring property is a working Amish farm, and locals stop at campsites in horse-and-buggies selling homemade baked goods and pickled items. Weekend events like bingo, scavenger hunts, and wagon rides complement a pool, playground, and recreation hall. The property allows access to Pequea Creek for fishing. 101 South Ronks Rd, Ronks
Adventure Bound Eagles Peak
With easy access to Hershey and Lancaster, Adventure Bound’s Eagles Peak campground is a practical spot to enjoy a vacation in Pennsylvania. The campground features two heated swimming pools with a splash and play zone with more than six slides, an 18-hole miniature golf course, and two playgrounds. Life’s necessities can be satisfied with a visit to the massive camp store, full laundry, and easy Wi-Fi and free cable connectivity. Active campers often enjoy the variety of sports available, and those looking for a more passive activity enjoy the fishing pond. The campground offers extended stay and weekday specials. 397 Eagles Peak Rd, Robesonia
Kids can kick back with a rod and reel at Hershey Road Campground. (Photo: Courtesy April Delvisco)
Hershey Road Campground
Proudly family-owned, Hershey Road Campground sees many return campers who book their next visit while staying. Located on 20 acres conveniently off route 283 in Elizabethtown, the campground is only nine miles from Hersheypark. A popular draw is the campground’s theme weekends, like Easter, Memorial Day, and 4th of July in the spring and summer. In the fall, the campground hosts three Halloween weekends with trick or treating from site to site, a DJ dance party, and pumpkin carving and costume contests. Hershey Road is a GoodSam park and members receive a discount on nightly rates. 1688 Hershey Rd, Elizabethtown
Mountain Laurel Retreat
Less than an hour drive from Hersheypark, Mountain Laurel Retreat is a getaway for the small family who enjoys privacy. Popular with hikers, the campsite is located at the base of Goldmine Mountain and is only 15 minutes from access to the Appalachian Trail. The site is equipped with a canvas tent on a raised platform featuring a queen bed and additional mattress. The site includes electricity, well water, and an outside shower. Evenings are well spent in the wilderness around a fire pit with dinner from the campfire grill at the camp table. Visitors often spot wildlife. Kalmia Rd, Tower City