Best Places to Camp Near Penn State University

On the other hand, camping is a great way to bond with friends, get back to basics, and stretch your budget, and there are literally dozens of campsites within driving distance of State College.

Bald Eagle State Park

149 Main Park Road

Howard, PA 16841

814-625-2775

(About 26.2 miles from State College; about 45 minutes)

The 5,900 acre park is located in north-central Pennsylvania and offers ample space for boating, swimming, picnicking, fishing, and more. There are various campsites, but be sure to check out the modern Russell P. Letterman Campground - it offers with hot showers, volleyball courts, and electricity. One of the park's most outstanding features is its 11-mile hiking trail that guides hikers through a variety of surroundings. Another highlight is the 1,200-foot long sand and turf beach is equipped with a snack bar, changing rooms, restrooms, and plenty of parking.

Approximate cost: $60/two-night stay with tent

Black Moshannon State Park
4216 Beaver Road
Philipsburg, PA 16866-9519
814-342-5960

(About 17.5 miles from State College; about 35 minutes)

Camping season opens the second week in April. The park has various options for campers of all comfort levels. Visitors can reserve a campsite that accommodates tents or trailers. Flush toilets, showers, and laundry tubs are located nearby. Most have electrical hookups and pets are permitted at designated sites.

The park also rents 13 rustic cabins. Although the cabins come with minimal furnishings, they include a living/dining room, kitchen, and bathroom. Renters must supply their own linens, towels, dishes, cookware, so plan ahead!

The park's sand beach opens in mid-May. If you visit before that, keep busy by exploring the 16-mile network of hiking trails. The park also has amenities for fishing, biking, and boating. If you get bored, check out the Central Pennsylvania Convention and Visitors Bureau (www.centralpacvb.org) for information on nearby attractions.

KOA Kampground

2481 Jacksonville Rd.
Bellefonte, PA 16823
(814) 355-7912
Reservations only: (800) KOA-8127

(About 18.1 miles from State College; about 27 minutes)

This campground is marketed towards families, but the activities and amenities make it a great choice for any camper. Fishing enthusiasts will love the fully stocked pond, nearby lake, and trout streams, while nature lovers will enjoy exploring one of the area's caves or hiking in the forest. Other unique qualities make this a campground worth checking out. For example, most summer evenings, members of the Amish community bring baked goods to the campground to sell. The less-outdoorsy members of your group can take a dip in the heated swimming pool or go to dinner and a movie at the pavilion.