Camping at PINE GROVE FURNACE STATE PARK

General Information

Pine Grove Furnace State Park is a 696-acre Pennsylvania state park in Cooke, South Middleton and Dickinson Townships in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania in the United States. The park is surrounded by Michaux State Forest and is near the northern terminus of the 2,186-mile Appalachian Trail.

Location and Directions

Pine Grove Furnace State Park is located at 1100 Pine Grove Road, Gardners, PA, 17324. It is situated approximately halfway between Chambersburg and Carlisle along the eastern edge of South Mountain.

To reach the park:

• From I-81, take exit 37 to PA Route 233 south and drive for about 8 miles.
• From the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76), take exit 201 to PA Route 233 north.

Camping at Pine Grove Furnace State Park

Camping in Pine Grove Furnace State Park is available at the park's campground which provides a range of facilities:

• Basic Sites: These are traditional campsites, many of which are nestled within the forested area, providing shade and privacy.

• Modern Facilities: The park offers modern restrooms, warm showers and some electric hook-ups for campers.

• Camping Season: The regular camping season typically runs from mid-April through mid-December, though specific dates can vary by year.

• Cabin Rentals: The park also features historic paymasters cabins from the time when the area was an active iron furnace community.

• Amenities: Campsites come equipped with fire rings and picnic tables. Some sites may also offer amenities such as a playground, amphitheater, and a camp store.

Recreational Activities

Hiking: The park is a popular destination for hikers, especially since it is located at an important juncture on the Appalachian Trail. The park serves as a rest stop for the thousands of Appalachian Trail thru-hikers each year.

Swimming: Pine Grove Furnace State Park has two lakes, Fuller and Laurel Lakes, which offer swimming during the summer months.

Fishing and Boating: Fishing is allowed in both lakes, and boats with electric motors are permitted on Laurel Lake. A boat rental concession is typically available during the summer season.

Biking: Some multi-use trails in the area allow for mountain biking.

Historic Significance

The park is home to historical structures including the furnace stack, the iron master's mansion, and other buildings that are reminders of the iron industry that once flourished here.

Local Services

The nearby town of Gardners hosts a general store and a few small eateries. For a larger variety of services, consider visiting Carlisle or Chambersburg.

Reservations and Fees

Reservations for camping can be made up to 11 months in advance and are highly recommended during peak summer months. Fees for campsites vary depending on amenities and site type.

To make a reservation, you can visit the Pennsylvania State Parks reservation system online or call the toll-free number.

Precautions and Regulations

• Campfire Rules: Observe all campfire safety guidelines and respect burn bans if they're in effect.
• Wildlife: Store food properly and maintain a clean campsite to avoid attracting bears and other wildlife.
• Leave No Trace: Follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the natural environment.
• Pets: If bringing pets, ensure they are controlled and managed according to the park's pet policy.

For specific questions or the latest information about Pine Grove Furnace State Park, you should check the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) website or contact the park office directly.