A surge in camping demand for state parks and forests in Pennsylvania

From Pennsylvania DCNR

Harrisburg — As summer kicks off, camping is booming in state parks and forests across Pennsylvania. The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources reports an overall 10% jump in campsite reservations – up 60% in some areas –  compared to this time last year with more than 5,400 additional bookings, reflecting strong demand for outdoor recreation statewide.

While DCNR has seen rising interest in camping, particularly near federally managed sites where campgrounds have closed, the department’s addition of 149 new full-service campsites since June 2024 was driven by strategic infrastructure investments to improve the camping experience and expand access across the commonwealth.

To encourage more residents and visitors to explore Pennsylvania’s natural beauty, DCNR also launched the “Still Open. Still Awesome” initiative, reinforcing the commonwealth’s commitment to accessible and affordable outdoor experiences while the federal government shutters some of its campsites.

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Pennsylvania’s 124 state parks and 2.2 million acres of state forests offer free, year-round recreation with no entrance fees. With more than 7,100 campsites –  including tent sites, modern cabins, and yurts – there’s an option for every level of camper, and many state parks also welcome pets.

“Camping is more popular than ever in Pennsylvania, and we’re working hard to meet that demand,” said DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn. “These new full-service sites help us better serve today’s campers and expand access to high-quality outdoor experiences across the state.”

State parks step up as federal sites close

The closure of U.S. Army Corps of Engineers campgrounds at Raystown Lake has driven more campers to state parks. From March through May 2025, parks within a one-hour drive of Raystown saw a 33% increase in reservations compared to the same period last year.

Nearby Trough Creek State Park alone saw a more than 60% spike in bookings.

Similarly, state parks near Cowanesque Lake experienced an 18% increase in reservations within a one-hour radius, and a 21% increase within 90 minutes – reinforcing the growing demand for reliable, well-maintained campgrounds.

New full-service sites

Since June 2024, DCNR has added full-service hookup sites – which include electric, water, and sewer – at the following parks: Pymatuning State Park, 89 sites;  Bald Eagle State Park, 20 sites; Lackawanna State Park, 20 sites; and  Ohiopyle State Park, 20 sites

Plan your getaway

Campsites and lodging at state parks can be reserved online at visitPAparks.com or by calling 888-PA-PARKS (888-727-2757), Monday through Saturday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Many state parks have weekday availability and offer lower rates during non-peak times.