Susquehannock Campground - U.S. Army Corp of Engineers

For Pennsylvanians who truly appreciate getting back to basics and immersing themselves in the raw beauty of nature, Susquehannock Campground at Raystown Lake, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, offers an ideal "rustic camping at its best" experience. This unique campground is a haven for those who prefer tent camping and a more primitive outdoor adventure, providing a refreshing contrast to the more amenity-rich RV parks. Nestled along the stunning shores of Raystown Lake, it promises breathtaking "scenic lake" views, abundant wildlife, and direct access to some of Pennsylvania's most cherished natural resources.

Susquehannock Campground is particularly suited for adventurers who are prepared for a less conventional camping trip, prioritizing natural surroundings and outdoor activities over modern conveniences. While it may require a slight adjustment to its "non electric and no running water at the sites" approach, the rewards are immense: unparalleled tranquility, a deeper connection with the environment, and a vast playground for hiking, swimming, and boating. This article will provide a comprehensive look at what makes Susquehannock Campground a compelling choice for Pennsylvania locals, including its prime location, the essential services it provides, its defining features, and how you can prepare for an unforgettable visit.

Susquehannock Campground is located on Susquehannock Rd, Hesston, PA 16647, USA. This places it near the north-central area of the expansive Raystown Lake, approximately seven miles above the dam. Raystown Lake, situated in the ridge and valley province of Pennsylvania, is a significant outdoor recreation destination, being the largest lake located entirely within the state. The surrounding landscape features an old oak-hickory forest, dramatic mountain ridges, and cliffs, creating a truly picturesque backdrop for camping.

For Pennsylvania residents, accessibility to Susquehannock Campground is relatively straightforward. From Huntingdon, PA, visitors can take Route 26 south for approximately 6 miles, then turn left onto Seven Points Drive and continue for about 3 miles. A left turn onto Baker's Hollow Road will lead you to the campground entrance, approximately two miles ahead on the right. While the campground itself offers a primitive experience, its proximity to the Seven Points Recreation Area (about a five-minute drive away) means that more extensive amenities like showers and coin-operated laundry facilities are within easy reach. The campground is also only about three miles from essential services such as groceries, a bait shop, gas, and a full-service marina, making it convenient for stocking up on supplies despite its rustic nature. This balance of secluded natural beauty and convenient access to nearby resources makes Susquehannock Campground an excellent option for Pennsylvanians seeking an authentic yet manageable outdoor escape.

Susquehannock Campground offers a primitive camping experience, focusing on essential facilities to support a back-to-nature adventure.

• Campsites: The campground provides over 60 campsites, including more than 20 designated as "tent-only sites." Many of these are "waterfront sites" or just a short walk from the water's edge, suitable for tents and pop-up campers. Each site typically includes a picnic table and a fire ring with a cooking rack.
• No Electric Hookups: It's important to note that Susquehannock is a "non electric" campground, meaning sites do not have electric hookups. This contributes to its rustic appeal.
• Potable Water: While there is "no running water at the sites," "Potable water is available at the camp entrance" via a pump, requiring campers to fill up jugs.
• Vault Toilet Restrooms: The campground provides "Vault toilet restrooms" (also referred to as composting latrines or in-ground toilets), which are regularly "cleaned every day" by park staff.
• Showers: Showers are not available directly at Susquehannock Campground but can be accessed at the nearby Seven Points Campground, which is approximately a five-minute drive away.
• Park Ranger Presence: Reviewers appreciate that "Park rangers care and do their job and people come around and clean the restroom every day," indicating a well-managed environment where rules are enforced.
• Pet-Friendly: Susquehannock Campground is pet-friendly, allowing visitors to bring their dogs along.
• Reservations: While unreserved sites can be first-come, first-served, it is recommended to reserve sites, especially during peak season, through platforms like Recreation.gov.

Susquehannock Campground's most compelling features lie in its stunning natural setting and its focus on a genuine outdoor experience.

• Rustic Camping at Its Best: This is the primary highlight. For those who love "rustic camping" and find it a "challenge to find nice level sites," Susquehannock delivers with "great tent sites" that are even "waterfront suitable." It's perfect for campers seeking a less commercialized experience.
• Beautiful Scenic Lake Views: The campground offers "scenic lake" views, with many sites right on the waterfront, providing picturesque settings for relaxation and enjoyment.
• Extensive Recreational Opportunities: Despite its primitive nature, the "area had so much to offer" in terms of recreation. This includes "great hiking" on nearby trails like the Allegrippis Trails, Old Loggers Trail, and Terrace Mountain Trail, as well as excellent "swimming" and "fishing" in Raystown Lake.
• Boating Access: The potential to "brought our boat" (as one reviewer wished) highlights the lake's suitability for various watercraft, including motorized and non-motorized options.
• Clean and Maintained Facilities: Even with rustic amenities, the "clean bathrooms" and the fact that "Park rangers care and do their job and people come around and clean the restroom every day" are significant positives.
• Proximity to Modern Amenities: While basic on-site, the convenience of Seven Points Campground (for showers and laundry) and nearby stores (for groceries, bait, gas) ensures campers have access to necessities within a short drive.
• Wildlife Observation: The surrounding natural features support diverse wildlife, including white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, bald eagles, and even occasional black bears, offering great opportunities for observation.
• Mountain Bike Trail Access: The campground is "so close to the lake and mountain bike trails," making it a superb base for cycling enthusiasts.

Address: Susquehannock Rd, Hesston, PA 16647, USA

Phone: (814) 658-6809

Mobile Phone: +1 814-658-6809

For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding reservations, site availability, and any potential changes to operations (such as those related to staffing, as noted in recent news), it is highly recommended to contact the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers office for Raystown Lake directly using the provided phone numbers or to check the official Recreation.gov website for Susquehannock Campground.

For Pennsylvanians who truly seek an authentic and unadulterated outdoor experience, Susquehannock Campground at Raystown Lake is an exceptionally suitable and rewarding destination. Its primary appeal lies in its commitment to "rustic camping at its best," offering a vital escape from the over-commercialized campgrounds often found elsewhere. For local tent campers, finding "nice level sites" that are even "waterfront suitable" is a significant advantage, providing direct access to the beauty of Raystown Lake. This allows residents to immerse themselves fully in the state's natural splendor without the distractions of extensive hookups or constant noise.

While the "lack of amenities" like electricity and running water at individual sites might initially seem like a drawback, it's precisely this primitive nature that fosters a deeper connection with the environment. Pennsylvanians who are prepared for this will discover that the "scenic lake and the area had so much to offer," from "really beautiful" vistas to "great hiking and swimming." The proximity to extensive mountain bike trails and the vast Raystown Lake itself means that active locals have endless opportunities for adventure right at their fingertips. The fact that "Park rangers care and do their job and people come around and clean the restroom every day" also ensures that even with basic facilities, cleanliness and order are maintained, contributing to a pleasant stay.

Furthermore, the convenience of having showers and laundry facilities just a short five-minute drive away at Seven Points Campground strikes a perfect balance, allowing campers to enjoy the wild without being entirely cut off from essential comforts. Susquehannock Campground represents a chance for Pennsylvanians to disconnect from the everyday, embrace the tranquility of nature, and rediscover the simple joys of camping amidst the stunning landscapes of Raystown Lake. It's an ideal spot for those who value peace, natural beauty, and active outdoor pursuits in their own beautiful state.