Seven Points Campground- Ridge Camp Loop

Hello, fellow Pennsylvanians! Are you seeking a serene and well-situated camping spot that offers easy access to the incredible recreational opportunities of Raystown Lake, all while providing a peaceful retreat? Then let's shine a spotlight on Ridge Camp Loop, a highly regarded section within the popular Seven Points Campground in Hesston, PA. This article is crafted specifically for you, our local community, to provide a clear, engaging, and informative overview of Ridge Camp Loop. We'll explore its strategic location, the excellent services it provides, its unique features, and ultimately, why it’s a favored choice for many Pennsylvanians looking for a comfortable base to explore the vast beauty of Raystown Lake and its surrounding trails.

Ridge Camp Loop is one of six distinct camping loops within the larger Seven Points Campground, which is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and forms a central part of the Seven Points Recreation Area at Raystown Lake. While the coveted waterfront sites at Raystown Lake are famously difficult to secure, Ridge Camp Loop stands out as a "favorite" alternative for many, especially if they can't snag a spot directly by the water. Its popularity stems from its consistently "beautiful" and "very well maintained campsites." As its name suggests, Ridge Camp Loop is situated on higher ground, offering a different perspective than the lakefront loops. This elevation often translates to a quieter atmosphere, providing a welcome separation from the buzz of the main lake activities, yet remaining conveniently close to key attractions. It’s particularly appreciated for its relatively "level" sites, making setup easier for RVers. Ridge Camp offers a balanced experience: access to all the excitement of Raystown Lake without the constant hustle and bustle, allowing for both adventure and peaceful relaxation.

Ridge Camp Loop is located within the Seven Points Campground at Hesston, PA 16647, USA. This places it firmly in Huntingdon County, in the heart of Pennsylvania's picturesque ridge and valley province. The campground is nestled on the eastern side of Raystown Lake, providing excellent access to the lake's extensive shoreline and popular recreation areas.

For Pennsylvanians, Ridge Camp Loop's accessibility is a key advantage. It's a manageable drive from major urban centers such as Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, and Philadelphia, making it an ideal destination for weekend getaways or longer vacations without requiring excessive travel. The routes leading to Hesston, primarily via state highways like PA 26, are well-maintained, ensuring a smooth journey for all types of vehicles, including large RVs. A significant benefit of Ridge Camp is its proximity to the Raystown Lake Visitor Center, which is often described as being "close to the visitor center." This central location within the Seven Points Recreation Area means campers have easy walking or short driving access to the swimming beach, marina, and other recreational facilities. Crucially, Ridge Camp is also the closest loop to the renowned Allegrippis Trails system, a major draw for mountain bikers and hikers. While it's "farthest loop from the lake shore" in terms of direct frontage, it's still only an 8-minute drive or an 18-minute walk to the lake shore, according to park information. This balance of feeling tucked away yet being highly accessible to amenities makes Ridge Camp an attractive option for many locals.

Ridge Camp Loop, as part of the larger Seven Points Campground, offers a range of services designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for its campers.

• Campsites: Ridge Camp Loop features 43 individual campsites. All 43 sites are suitable for RVs and include electric service (50-amp available on some sites, 30-amp on others). Each site comes equipped with a picnic table, a fire grill, and a lantern hanger. Sites can be spacious, with some featuring terraced layouts (living pad on a separate level from the parking pad with stairs) and others being more open and level.
• Restrooms and Showers: Ridge Camp has its own remodeled bathhouse with flush toilets and heated showers, ensuring clean and convenient facilities for campers.
• Drinking Water: Access to potable drinking water spigots is available throughout the loop.
• Playground: There is a playground located within the Ridge Camp Loop, providing entertainment for younger campers.
• Proximity to Visitor Center: Campers have easy access to the Raystown Lake Visitor Center, which offers interpretive exhibits, a gift shop, and ranger-led programs.
• Proximity to Dump Station: A centralized RV dump station for all of Seven Points Campground is available nearby for convenient waste disposal.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are permitted in the campground on a leash, though restrictions apply in park buildings and swim areas.
• Hiking and Biking Trail Access: The loop offers direct access to various hiking trails, including being the closest loop to the Allegrippis Trails system, providing immediate access to world-class mountain biking.

Ridge Camp Loop at Seven Points Campground is distinguished by several key features and highlights that make it a favorite among many campers, especially those prioritizing quiet and trail access.

• Peaceful and Quiet Atmosphere: A standout highlight is its reputation as the "quietest of the loops." Being "farthest from the lake shore" helps separate it from boat noise and the busiest areas, making it a "great place to enjoy a relaxing weekend and quiet campfire."
• Closest to Allegrippis Trails: For mountain biking enthusiasts, Ridge Camp is the absolute best choice. It is the "closest loop to the Allegrippis Trail System" and the Old Loggers Seven Points Trailhead, with a trailhead located just "200 yards" from the loop entrance. These trails are renowned as some of the "best flow trails on the East Coast" and the "#1 trail system in Pennsylvania."
• Well-Maintained and Level Sites: Visitors consistently praise the "beautifully maintained campsites" and note that sites in Ridge are "pretty level," which is a significant advantage for RVers and tent campers alike. Sites are described as "big and private," offering ample space.
• Remodeled Restrooms: The presence of a "remodeled restroom (new!)" with heated showers within the loop enhances comfort and cleanliness.
• Mix of Shade and Open Sites: Ridge Camp offers a variety of sites, some "very well shaded" and others more open, allowing campers to choose based on their preference for sun or shade.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: With a playground within the loop, it remains a suitable option for families, even if not directly on the beachfront.
• Proximity to Visitor Center & Amenities: Despite being set back from the lake, it's conveniently close to the Raystown Lake Visitor Center and the broader Seven Points Recreation Area's amenities like the swimming beach, marina, and disc golf course.
• Excellent Base for Exploration: Its quiet nature and easy access to trails make it an ideal base for exploring the diverse recreational opportunities of Raystown Lake and the surrounding central Pennsylvania mountains.

For reservations and inquiries about Ridge Camp Loop specifically, or Seven Points Campground in general, please use the following official contact information:

• Address: Hesston, PA 16647, USA (Note: The Seven Points Entrance Station GPS is 6256 Seven Points Road, Hesston, PA).
• Reservations: Reservations for all Seven Points campsites are required and can only be made through the National Recreation Reservation Service (NRRS). You can visit their website at Recreation.gov or call 1-877-444-6777.
• General Inquiries (Raystown Lake USACE): For other questions not related to reservations, you can contact the Raystown Lake Project Office at (814) 658-3405.

Given the popularity of Seven Points Campground, even for non-waterfront loops like Ridge Camp, it is highly recommended to book your site well in advance, especially for weekends during peak season. Recreation.gov provides detailed information on site availability, maps, and booking windows.

Ridge Camp Loop at Seven Points Campground is an exceptionally suitable destination for Pennsylvanians for several compelling reasons. For those who prioritize a peaceful and quiet camping experience, away from the immediate hustle of the busiest lakefront areas, Ridge Camp offers a serene sanctuary within the popular Raystown Lake region. It allows locals to truly unwind and enjoy the tranquility of Pennsylvania's natural beauty.

Crucially, for the growing number of mountain biking and hiking enthusiasts in our state, Ridge Camp's unparalleled proximity to the world-renowned Allegrippis Trails is a massive draw. It means less travel time to the trails and more time on them, making it an ideal base for active adventures. Furthermore, the commitment to "beautifully maintained campsites" and modern, clean facilities like the remodeled bathhouse ensures a comfortable stay that meets the expectations of discerning Pennsylvanians. While it may not offer direct waterfront sites, its easy access to the main lake activities and the charm of its elevated, wooded setting make it a fantastic alternative. For Pennsylvania locals seeking a well-rounded outdoor experience that balances peaceful relaxation with access to top-tier recreational opportunities, Ridge Camp Loop at Seven Points Campground is a highly recommended choice, offering a true taste of our state's incredible natural offerings.