RV Campgrounds & Parks In Harrisburg, PA -- Find RV Parks

40.2737° N, 76.8844° W

Quick Overview

Pennsylvania's capital sits at the confluence of the Susquehanna River, where history and modern convenience create an ideal base for RV camping. Harrisburg offers easy access to Civil War battlefields, Amish country, and the rolling hills of south-central Pennsylvania, all while providing the urban amenities you need to resupply and explore. The city's strategic location puts you within striking distance of Gettysburg, Hershey, and Lancaster County's famous farmland.

The Harrisburg area features several RV campgrounds and parks to choose from, though budget-conscious travelers should note that some offer free camping options. Most parks here provide full hookups with 30 and 50-amp service, making them suitable for big rigs and smaller travel trailers alike. You'll find both urban-adjacent parks for easy city access and more rural settings that let you enjoy Pennsylvania's natural beauty.

From your campsite, you're perfectly positioned to explore the region's diverse attractions. The National Civil War Museum sits just minutes away, while Hersheypark's roller coasters are a 20-minute drive east. Lancaster County's Amish farms and markets lie about an hour southeast, making day trips entirely feasible. The Susquehanna River Rail Trail offers miles of flat, paved paths perfect for biking or walking right from downtown.

RV camping styles here range from full-amenity parks with pools and recreation centers to simpler campgrounds that focus on clean facilities and convenient locations. Many parks cater specifically to the RV crowd, with pull-through sites that accommodate coaches up to 45 feet. Some offer monthly rates that attract snowbirds and work campers, while others focus on weekend getaways and vacation stays.

Spring through fall delivers the best camping weather, with mild temperatures and lower humidity than summer's peak heat. Winter camping is possible but limited, as some seasonal campgrounds close from November through March. Summer brings the highest occupancy rates, especially during Hersheypark's busy season and Civil War anniversary events.

Our listings below detail each campground's specific amenities, rates, and seasonal availability to help you find the right fit for your rig and travel style.

Top Rated Dump Stations in Harrisburg

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All Dump Stations Near Harrisburg

Station Name	Distance	Rating	Category	Cost
Hampden Village	1.5 mi	\u2014	Dump Station	Varies
Harrisburg East Campground And Storage	5.4 mi	\u2014	Dump Station	Varies
Camp Reily	5.9 mi	\u2014	Dump Station	Varies
Rolo Court	9.9 mi	\u2014	Dump Station	Varies
Hersheypark Camping Resort	10.0 mi	\u2014	Dump Station	Varies
Riverfront Campground	11.2 mi	\u2014	Dump Station	Varies
Duncannon Lions Club Campground	11.3 mi	\u2014	Dump Station	Varies
Williams Grove Mobile Home Park	11.5 mi	\u2014	Dump Station	Varies
Quaker Race Campground	12.9 mi	\u2014	Dump Station	Varies
Mt Olivet Campgrounds	13.0 mi	\u2014	Dump Station	Varies

Traveling to Harrisburg by RV

Interstate 81 and Interstate 83 intersect right in Harrisburg, making RV access straightforward from most directions. I-81 runs north-south through the Susquehanna Valley, offering gentle grades and wide lanes that work well for big rigs. I-83 connects Baltimore and York to the south with easier terrain than the mountainous routes further west. US Route 322 provides an alternate east-west route, though it includes some steeper sections as you approach from the Philadelphia area.

The most scenic approach comes via US Route 15 from Gettysburg, which winds through Pennsylvania Dutch farmland and historic small towns. This route adds about 30 minutes compared to the interstate but rewards you with covered bridges and rolling agricultural landscapes. Avoid Route 11/15 during weekday rush hours, as commuter traffic can slow progress significantly.

Fuel stops are plentiful along all major routes, with truck-friendly stations at most interstate exits. The Flying J at Exit 67 off I-81 provides easy RV access with diesel pumps designed for larger rigs. For supplies, the Walmart Supercenter on Union Deposit Road allows overnight parking and stocks RV basics like propane, hoses, and electrical adapters.

Downtown Harrisburg's streets can be narrow with tight turns, so plan your route to campgrounds carefully. Most RV parks provide detailed directions that avoid low bridges and weight restrictions. The city's one-way street system downtown can confuse GPS units, so double-check your route before departing your campground for sightseeing.

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Dump Station Costs in Harrisburg

Nightly RV camping rates in the Harrisburg area typically range from $35-45 for basic sites with water and electric hookups, while full hookup sites with sewer connections run $45-65 per night. Premium parks near Hershey command higher rates, especially during summer peak season and special events. Budget travelers should note that a portion% of area campgrounds offer free camping, while a portion% charge fees for their services.

Seasonal pricing varies significantly, with summer rates often 20-30% higher than spring and fall. Winter camping, where available, offers the lowest rates but limited amenities as some parks close certain facilities during cold months. Holiday weekends like Memorial Day and Labor Day see premium pricing at most campgrounds.

Good Sam and Passport America memberships can reduce costs at participating campgrounds, typically offering 10-50% discounts on standard rates. Several parks also honor FMCA and Escapees club discounts. Weekly and monthly rates provide better value for extended stays, with some parks offering work camping opportunities during busy seasons.

Fuel costs in central Pennsylvania generally run slightly below national averages, while grocery prices at chains like Giant and Weis Markets remain competitive. The state's 6% sales tax applies to most purchases, but camping fees aren't subject to additional lodging taxes that some municipalities impose on hotels.

Free: 5 stations (56%)

Paid: 4 stations (44%)

Contact station for pricing details.

Prices may vary. Always confirm with the station before visiting.

What RVers Are Saying About Harrisburg

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Best Time to Visit Harrisburg by RV

❄️

Winter

December-February

25-40°F

Crowds: Low

Many seasonal campgrounds close; limited amenities at open parks but lowest rates available.

🌸

Spring

March-May

45-70°F

Crowds: Medium

Ideal weather for sightseeing; campgrounds reopen with moderate rates and good availability.

☀️

Summer

June-August

65-85°F

Crowds: High

Peak season with highest rates; book Hershey-area parks well in advance for weekends.

🍂

Fall

September-November

50-75°F

Crowds: Medium

Beautiful foliage and comfortable temperatures; good rates return after Labor Day weekend.

Explore the Harrisburg Area

For the best overall experience, choose a campground east of the city near Hershey if you're traveling with kids or want easy theme park access. These parks typically offer more amenities and better maintenance than budget options closer to downtown. The trade-off is slightly higher rates but significantly better facilities and security.

Boondockers have limited free options in the immediate Harrisburg area, but Walmart locations on the outskirts allow overnight parking with permission from management. Check with the Union Deposit Road and Grantville locations first, as they're most RV-friendly. State game lands offer primitive camping during certain seasons, though you'll need to research current regulations and access roads.

The best local activity from most campgrounds is exploring the Capitol Complex and State Museum, both offering free tours on weekdays. The Susquehanna Riverfront Park provides easy walking with your dog, plus seasonal festivals and farmers markets. For dining, try Cafe Fresco downtown for farm-to-table meals, or hit up the Broad Street Market for local Pennsylvania Dutch specialties and fresh produce.

Photography enthusiasts should visit the State Capitol building at sunset when the dome lights create dramatic silhouettes. The Walnut Street Bridge offers excellent river views, while nearby Wildwood Park provides nature shots just minutes from most campgrounds. Pet owners will appreciate the multiple dog parks and the extensive rail trail system that allows leashed pets on paved surfaces.

National Parks Nearby

Other Cities in Pennsylvania

Gettysburg (9)East Stroudsburg (6)Waynesburg (6)Lehighton (5)Lancaster (5)Dover (5)Hesston (5)Kane (5)Lock Haven (5)Philadelphia (4)Catawissa (4)Fayetteville (4)

View all cities in Pennsylvania →

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Frequently Asked Questions About Dump Stations in Harrisburg

What are the best RV campgrounds in Harrisburg?

The top-rated parks typically cluster east of the city near Hershey, offering full hookups and modern amenities. These campgrounds provide easy access to both downtown attractions and theme parks. Most feature pull-through sites that accommodate large motorhomes and offer seasonal activities for families.

Is there free RV camping near Harrisburg?

Free camping options are extremely limited in the immediate Harrisburg area, with most campgrounds charging nightly fees. Some Walmart locations allow overnight parking with manager permission, particularly on Union Deposit Road. State game lands offer primitive camping during hunting seasons, but require advance research of current regulations.

What is the best time of year to camp in Harrisburg?

Spring and fall provide the most comfortable camping weather with moderate temperatures and lower humidity than summer. May through October offers the best combination of pleasant conditions and open campground amenities. Summer brings peak crowds and higher rates, especially near Hershey attractions.

Are there full hookup RV parks in Harrisburg?

Yes, most established RV parks in the Harrisburg area offer full hookups including water, electric, and sewer connections. Many provide 30 and 50-amp electrical service to accommodate various RV sizes. Pull-through sites are common, making them suitable for larger motorhomes and trailers.

Can I boondock near Harrisburg?

True boondocking opportunities are limited near Harrisburg due to the urban setting and private land ownership. Some state game lands allow primitive camping during specific seasons with proper permits. Walmart overnight parking provides the most accessible dry camping option, though amenities are minimal.

How far are Harrisburg campgrounds from Hersheypark?

Most Harrisburg-area campgrounds sit 15-25 minutes from Hersheypark via Interstate 283 and US Route 322. Parks located east of the city near Hummelstown offer even closer access, often just 10-15 minutes to the theme park gates. Traffic during peak season can extend these drive times significantly.

Do Harrisburg RV parks allow pets?

The majority of RV campgrounds in the Harrisburg area welcome pets with standard restrictions on size, breed, and leash requirements. Most charge small daily pet fees and require current vaccination records. The extensive rail trail system and multiple dog parks make this a very pet-friendly camping destination.