Camping at SWATARA STATE PARK
Location and Contact Information
Swatara State Park is situated in the Swatara Valley in central Pennsylvania. It is bounded by I-81 to the west and Route 443 to the east. This state park is located in Swatara Township, Lebanon County, and Union Township, Schuylkill County.
Address: Swatara State Park 1450 Suedberg Road Pine Grove, PA 17963
Phone: (717) 865-6470
Camping Facilities
Swatara State Park offers a variety of options for camping, but it doesn't have a formal campground with sites for RVs and trailers. Instead, the park offers different experiences:
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Primitive Camping: Hikers or bikers traversing the Appalachian Trail or the Swatara Rail-Trail can access primitive camping areas in the park. These sites do not have modern facilities and typically include a cleared area for tents and sometimes a fire ring.
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Yurts and Cabins: Pennsylvania state parks offer yurts and cabins, but you need to check the specific offerings at Swatara State Park by contacting the park directly or by looking at the state park reservation website.
Please note that reservations are likely needed, especially during peak seasons, and can be made through the Pennsylvania State Parks reservation system online or by phone.
Activities and Amenities
Swatara State Park provides a number of recreational activities:
- Hiking: There is an extensive network of trails suitable for hiking within the park.
- Biking: The park features the Swatara Rail-Trail, which is a well-maintained path for cyclists.
- Fishing: Swatara Creek has warm-water game fish, panfish, and trout.
- Boating: Non-powered and electric-powered boats are allowed on Swatara Creek.
- Hunting: Some areas of Swatara State Park are open for hunting.
Wildlife
Swatara State Park is rich in wildlife and offers opportunities for nature enthusiasts to observe local flora and fauna.
Park Regulations
When camping or enjoying the park, it is important to adhere to park regulations to ensure safety and conservation:
- Firewood: Transporting firewood is often discouraged due to the spread of invasive insects.
- Alcohol: Alcohol is typically prohibited in Pennsylvania state parks.
- Pets: Make sure to check the pet policy for Swatara State Park, as some areas may or may not be pet-friendly.
- Quiet Hours: Most parks enforce quiet hours throughout the night.
Weather and Best Time to Visit
Swatara State Park is open year-round, but the best time to visit for camping is usually from late spring to early fall. Always check weather conditions before planning your trip, as weather can influence park conditions and available activities.
Accessibility
For campers with disabilities, Pennsylvania state parks strive to provide facilities that are accessible. Contact the park in advance for specific information and to ensure accommodations.
Note: The above information may change, and it's best to check with Swatara State Park directly or visit the official Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources website for the most up-to-date information before planning a visit or camping trip.
