Camping in Gettysburg: Your Complete Guide to RV Parks, Tent Sites & Outdoor Stays
Gettysburg is famous for its hallowed battlefield, but the rolling hills, quiet woodlands, and scenic farmland of Adams County also make it one of Pennsylvania's most rewarding places to pitch a tent or park an RV. Whether you are traveling with a family in a travel trailer, seeking a secluded tent site near history, or arriving on horseback for a unique equestrian adventure, the campgrounds around Gettysburg offer something for every kind of outdoor enthusiast. This guide walks you through the best camping options in the area, what amenities to expect, and how to plan the perfect outdoor getaway paired with a stay at The Baladerry Inn.
Why Camp in Gettysburg?
Gettysburg sits at the crossroads of history and natural beauty. The surrounding countryside features lush farmland, gentle ridgelines, and quiet creeks that create a peaceful backdrop for camping. Most campgrounds are located within a short drive of Gettysburg National Military Park, meaning you can spend your days exploring historic monuments and your evenings around a campfire under the stars. The area is also within easy reach of the Appalachian Trail, state parks, and Adams County's winery and orchard country, making it an ideal base camp for a multi-day adventure.
Top Campgrounds in Gettysburg
1. Gettysburg Campground
One of the most popular options in the area, Gettysburg Campground offers wooded, riverside sites along Rock Creek. The campground caters to both RV and tent campers and features a pool, mini-golf, volleyball, basketball, shuffleboard, and a playground. Full hookups are available for RVs, and the wooded setting provides welcome shade during summer months. Its proximity to the battlefield and downtown Gettysburg makes it a convenient home base for sightseeing.
2. Gettysburg / Battlefield KOA Holiday
Part of the trusted KOA network, the Gettysburg / Battlefield KOA Holiday delivers a premium camping experience with full-hookup RV sites featuring KOA Patio layouts, deluxe cabins with full baths, and premium tent sites. Amenities include a pool, nature trail, camp store, and group meeting facilities, making it a great choice for family reunions or corporate retreats. The campground regularly hosts themed events and holiday celebrations throughout the season.
3. Artillery Ridge Campground & Horse Park
For something truly unique, Artillery Ridge Campground & Horse Park is one of the few campgrounds in the country where you can camp with your own horse. Located within walking distance of the Gettysburg Battlefield, it offers electric, water, and sewer hookups along with direct access to equestrian trails. The campground also features a pool, fishing pond, playground, and horseshoe pits. Even if you arrive without a horse, the historic setting and proximity to the battlefield make this a memorable place to stay.
4. Drummer Boy Camping Resort
Set on 95 wooded acres, Drummer Boy Camping Resort is a large resort-style campground with over 400 sites available for both seasonal and short-term rental. Beyond traditional RV and tent sites, the resort offers cabins and cottages for those who prefer a glamping experience. On-site amenities include a pool, recreational facilities, and organized activities. Its location on Hanover Road puts you minutes from battlefield tours, ghost tours, and downtown Gettysburg.
5. Granite Hill Camping Resort
Located on Fairfield Road, Granite Hill Camping Resort is known for its spacious creekside sites, clean bathhouses, and family-friendly atmosphere. The resort offers full-hookup RV sites, tent camping, rental cabins, and even bed-and-breakfast rooms in a historic farmhouse. Granite Hill is also the home of the Gettysburg Bluegrass Festival, drawing music lovers from across the region for live performances in a scenic outdoor setting.
State Park Camping Near Gettysburg
Caledonia State Park
About 25 minutes west of Gettysburg in Fayetteville, Caledonia State Park offers a quieter, more rustic camping experience nestled in the Michaux State Forest. The park features tent and RV sites with electric hookups, two large cabins, a swimming pool, and miles of hiking trails. A scenic waterfall along Conococheague Creek and the historic Thaddeus Stevens Blacksmith Shop add cultural interest. It is an excellent option for campers who want to combine Gettysburg's history with the natural beauty of the South Mountain region.
Planning Your Camping Trip to Gettysburg
Best Time to Camp
The camping season in Gettysburg typically runs from April through October, with peak season from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Spring and fall are especially beautiful, with mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and stunning foliage. Fall is particularly magical as the rolling hills of Adams County turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold.
What to Bring
- Layers: Evenings can be cool, especially in spring and fall, so pack warm clothing.
- Bug spray and sunscreen: Essential during summer months when the wooded campgrounds are at their busiest.
- Comfortable walking shoes: You will likely spend significant time exploring the battlefield and surrounding trails.
- Reservations: Popular campgrounds book up quickly during peak season and around major anniversaries and events, so reserve early.
Combining Camping With Other Gettysburg Experiences
One of the best things about camping in Gettysburg is how easily it pairs with other activities. Spend your mornings on a guided battlefield tour, your afternoons exploring local wineries and breweries, and your evenings around the campfire. The Destination Gettysburg website is a great resource for planning activities, dining, and attractions during your stay.
Camp in Comfort With The Baladerry Inn
For groups that include both campers and those who prefer the comforts of a boutique inn, The Baladerry Inn offers an elegant alternative just minutes from the area's best campgrounds. Whether you are planning a corporate retreat that combines outdoor team-building with indoor meeting space, or a family gathering where some members camp and others stay at the inn, The Baladerry Inn provides a warm, sophisticated home base. After a night or two under the stars, there is nothing like returning to plush accommodations, gracious hospitality, and the timeless charm of one of Gettysburg's finest boutique inns.
So pack your gear, pick your campground, and get ready to experience Gettysburg from the great outdoors. The history, the scenery, and the adventure are waiting.