Camping near Lebanon offers mountains, lakes, and a delightful proximity to chocolate.
The city of Lebanon is a popular jumping-off point for Southeastern Pennsylvania outdoor adventures. Its proximity to Allentown, Harrisburg, and Philadelphia makes it a convenient base for visiting the region’s cultural sites and enjoying regional state parks with fishing hotspots and scenic trails. Tourist destinations near Lebanon like Hershey promise Hipcampers a taste of the amusements and confections of Hersheypark along with nature-inspired fun at ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park. Lebanon’s park scene includes Memorial Lake State Park, Swatara State Park, and Stoever’s Dam State Park, which feature fishing, hiking, kayaking, and birdwatching. Nearby campsites, RV parks, and cabin rentals keep campers within easy distance of park entrances and highlights.
Explore 230 acres around the southern base of Blue Mountain at Memorial Lake State Park, where campers flock to enjoy fishing for northern pike, largemouth bass, yellow perch, trout, and muskellunge. The 85-acre lake attracts boaters with space for more than 50 moorings and two dock launch ramps. Park amenities include pavilions with picnic tables (rent in advance for privacy), charcoal grills, water fountains, benches, and restrooms. There are no campsites in the park, but private RV and tent campsites are available nearby.
Backpack along the Appalachian Trail where it cuts through Swatara State Park. The park’s 3,520 acres boast scenic landscapes with views of Swatara Creek. Hike through wetlands and forests for glimpses of local wildlife or visit park highlights like historic Bordner Cabin or Akrigg Falls, which remains flowing throughout all four seasons. Area campsites are situated in the rolling fields and woodlands close to park entrances. Cabin rentals are also available.
Fish, hike, and canoe at Stoever’s Dam State Park, another popular Lebanon destination for Hipcampers. Brimming with flora and fauna, the park includes observation decks for birdwatchers as well as a 23.5-acre lake that’s stocked with trout. Other park highlights include the 125-year-old nature barn with special exhibits related to the barn and park’s history and a community theater. Look for RV parks and campsites near the park as well as within. Park amenities include pavilions, boat ramps, and restrooms.
Winter is off-season for Lebanon, but during mild weather, hikers can still be seen hitting the trails or snowmobiling. Peak camping season is summer, but spring and fall draw campers to Lebanon's outdoor attractions, too. Seasonal festivals and farmer’s markets add to Lebanon’s warm season fun. Campers can find some RV parks and campgrounds that offer year-round accommodations, but many remain open only for the warm season.