Shawnee Organized Campground

For Pennsylvanians seeking a refreshing and accessible outdoor adventure, Shawnee Organized Campground, nestled within the expansive Shawnee State Park in Schellsburg, PA, offers an ideal retreat. This well-established campground is a beloved destination for families, couples, and individuals looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Laurel Highlands. With a sprawling lake at its heart, Shawnee State Park caters to a wide array of camping styles, from comfortable RVs and traditional tents to cozy cabins and yurts, ensuring a perfect fit for every preference. It’s more than just a place to park your rig or pitch your tent; it’s a vibrant hub for recreation and relaxation, providing ample opportunities to unwind and create lasting memories amidst Pennsylvania's scenic landscapes.

Shawnee Organized Campground is located within Shawnee State Park, with a precise geographical code of 29G3+J8, Schellsburg, PA 15559, USA. For Maryland residents, accessing this beautiful Pennsylvania state park is very convenient. The campground is strategically positioned near major transportation routes. It's approximately 10 minutes off the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76), making it easily reachable from various points across Pennsylvania, including Pittsburgh to the west and Harrisburg to the east. From I-76, take Exit 146 for Bedford, then follow US-30 West towards Schellsburg. Clear signage will direct you to Shawnee State Park and its camping areas. This excellent accessibility means less time spent on the road and more time enjoying the serene environment and abundant activities the park has to offer. Its ease of reach makes it a prime choice for a weekend getaway or an extended vacation for any Pennsylvanian eager to explore their home state's natural wonders.

As a prominent feature of Shawnee State Park, the Organized Campground provides a comprehensive array of services and amenities designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all visitors. The park is committed to accommodating various camping preferences and needs.

• Diverse Camping Accommodations:

  • RV Sites: The campground boasts a large number of RV sites, including those with 30-amp and 50-amp electric hookups. Some sites also offer full hook-ups (electric, water, sewer) and are pull-through for easy maneuvering. Loops A, B, D, and G offer a mix of electric, non-electric, and pet-friendly options.

  • Tent Sites: Numerous non-electric tent-only sites are available for traditional tent camping, offering a more immersed outdoor experience.

  • Camping Cottages and Yurts: For those seeking more comfort, the park features three camping cottages and two yurts. These typically include beds, a dining table, chairs, and electric heat, providing a cozy alternative to tenting (note: linens are generally not provided).

  • Pet-Friendly Sites: Specific loops and designated campsites within the campground are pet-friendly (Loops B and G, and designated sites in Loop A), allowing furry family members to join the adventure.

  • Group Camping: Facilities for larger groups are available, perfect for family reunions or organized gatherings.

• Essential Facilities and Conveniences:

  • Clean Bathhouses: Well-maintained restrooms with flush toilets and warm showers are conveniently located throughout the campground loops, ensuring comfort and hygiene for campers.

  • Sanitary Dump Station: A readily accessible dump station is provided for RV campers.

  • Potable Water: Water spigots are available throughout the campground.

  • Camp Store/Concessions: Although the main concession stand for boat rentals and some snacks is at the marina, a small camp store near the campground office may offer basic necessities, firewood, and ice.

  • Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, perfect for outdoor meals and evening campfires.

  • Laundry Facilities: Some bathhouses may include coin-operated laundry facilities.

  • ADA Accessible Facilities: Shawnee State Park offers ADA accessible campsites and lodging, as well as accessible restrooms.

  • Wi-Fi: While not guaranteed everywhere, some areas may have limited Wi-Fi access.

  • Vending Machines: Available at key locations within the park.

• Recreational Amenities:

  • Playground: A dedicated playground area is available for children.

  • Amphitheater: Used for park programs and gatherings, especially during peak season.

  • Boating and Kayak Rentals: Available on Lake Shawnee, offering canoes, kayaks, and rowboats. Three boat launches are available for private boats (non-powered or electric motors only).

Shawnee Organized Campground, as part of Shawnee State Park, stands out for several compelling features and highlights that make it a prime destination for Pennsylvanian campers:

• Beautiful Lake Shawnee: The centerpiece of the park is its 451-acre lake, renowned for its clean, clear waters. It offers excellent opportunities for swimming at the large, sandy beach (with a roped-off area for kids), fishing (stocked with bass, walleye, catfish, trout, and more), and various forms of boating (electric or non-powered only).

• Spacious and Private Sites: While some sites may be closer, many campers praise the campground for its ample space between sites, particularly in loops like D, which offers enhanced privacy and a quieter experience. This allows for a more relaxed and secluded feel, even within a large state park campground.

• Extensive Hiking and Biking Trails: The park boasts 16 miles of trails, varying in length and difficulty. The Lake Shore Trail, a scenic 3-mile path around the lake, is particularly popular for walking and biking. Other trails offer opportunities to explore the surrounding woodlands and diverse ecosystems, catering to both casual strollers and more avid hikers.

• Family-Friendly Environment: With a large sandy beach, playground, and diverse activities, Shawnee is exceptionally well-suited for families with children. The availability of camping cottages and pet-friendly loops further enhances its appeal for family vacations.

• Clean and Well-Maintained Facilities: Visitors consistently commend the cleanliness of the bathhouses and other park facilities, which is a crucial factor for a comfortable camping experience. Even with timed showers, the overall upkeep is highly rated.

• Proximity to Historical and Cultural Attractions: The campground’s location is a significant advantage for exploring the region. It's approximately 20 minutes from the poignant Flight 93 National Memorial, offering a profound historical experience. Additionally, the historic town of Bedford, local covered bridges, and other attractions are within easy driving distance, allowing campers to blend outdoor adventure with cultural exploration.

• Year-Round Activities: While summer is peak season for water activities, Shawnee State Park offers recreation throughout the year, including disc golf, cross-country skiing, sledding, ice skating (when conditions permit), and hunting in designated areas during the off-season.

For reservations or general inquiries about Shawnee Organized Campground within Shawnee State Park, you can use the following contact information:

Address: 29G3+J8, Schellsburg, PA 15559, USA (For park office and visitor information, typically use Shawnee State Park, 132 Park Road, Schellsburg, PA 15559)

Pennsylvania State Parks Reservation Phone: 1-888-PA-PARKS (1-888-727-2757)

Online Reservations: https://pennsylvaniastateparks.reserveamerica.com

Park Office Phone: (814) 733-4218 (While not directly provided for the campground, this is the general park phone number)

For Pennsylvanians, Shawnee Organized Campground at Shawnee State Park is an outstanding choice for a local camping adventure. Its easily accessible location in Schellsburg, nestled within the beautiful Laurel Highlands, means less travel stress and more time enjoying the great outdoors. This park genuinely offers something for everyone, from the serene waters of Lake Shawnee for swimming and fishing to miles of trails for hiking and biking, ensuring that every family member finds an activity to love. The commitment to clean facilities, diverse accommodation options (RV, tent, cabin, yurt), and pet-friendly areas makes it an inclusive and comfortable destination for all. Furthermore, its proximity to significant historical sites like the Flight 93 National Memorial adds a unique educational dimension to your trip. By choosing Shawnee Organized Campground, locals can easily tap into a wealth of recreational opportunities, create cherished memories, and rediscover the natural beauty that Pennsylvania proudly offers, making it a perfectly suitable and highly recommended destination for your next outdoor escape.