Swimming Campgrounds in Pennsylvania

Swimming Campgrounds in Pennsylvania

Discover the best swimming campgrounds across Pennsylvania. Beat the heat at campgrounds with pristine swimming spots. Lakes, rivers, beaches, and swimming holes just steps from your campsite.

20+ Campgrounds4.6★ AverageBest: Summer (June-September)
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Featured Campgrounds

Handpicked destinations that define the region

1
Moraine State Park
Star
4.9
(41)
Moraine State Park
Portersville

Exceptional 4.86 sentiment with pristine 3,225-acre Lake Arthur offering swimming, private cabin docks, and extensive water recreation. Reviews emphasize clean facilities and beautiful lake views. Perfect greenbook status (100 vibe score).

2
Clear Creek State Park
Star
4.8
(32)
Clear Creek State Park
Brookville

Outstanding 4.84 sentiment with beach area featuring soft sand swimming zone along Clarion River. Reviews praise pristine waters and family-friendly swimming environment. Perfect greenbook (100 vibe).

Tents
RVs
3
Worlds End State Park
Star
4.8
(76)
Worlds End State Park
Forksville

Highest sentiment at 4.81 with river swimming in scenic Loyalsock Creek. Reviews emphasize clean facilities and natural swimming opportunities. Greenbook ok despite red_flag notation (97.81 vibe score indicates safe community).

Tents
RVs

About Swimming Campgrounds in Pennsylvania

Swimming camping Pennsylvania offers an exceptional blend of pristine lakes, refreshing mountain streams, and sandy beaches across the state's diverse landscapes. From the expansive 3,225-acre Lake Arthur at Moraine State Park in Butler County to the crystal-clear waters of Kettle Creek at Ole Bull State Park in the remote Black Forest region, Pennsylvania's state parks provide some of the Mid-Atlantic's finest swimming and camping destinations.

Best Time

The prime swimming camping season in Pennsylvania runs from late May through early September, with peak conditions occurring during July and August when water temperatures reach comfortable 70-80°F ranges in lakes and 65-75°F in streams. June offers an excellent balance of warm weather, fewer crowds, and lower accommodation rates, making it ideal for families seeking a quieter experience.

Activity Highlights

  • Lake and river swimming access
  • Natural swimming holes
  • Beach and waterfront sites
  • Family-friendly swimming areas
Staunton River Campground
Asher Creek Campground
San Elijo State Beach Campground

Explore Swimming Campgrounds in Pennsylvania

Browse 74 campgrounds on our interactive map. Filter by amenities, price, ratings, and more.

Interactive MapAdvanced Filters74+ swimming campgrounds

Plan Your Trips

Popular Activities

Swimming in lakes, rivers, and creeksBeach lounging and sunbathingKayaking and canoeingStand-up paddleboardingFishing from shore and boatsHiking to scenic overlooks and waterfalls

Tips & Recommendations

  • 1Reserve campsites early through the Pennsylvania State Parks reservation system, especially for summer weekends at popular locations like Moraine State Park and Clear Creek State Park—booking opens 11 months in advance for most parks.
  • 2Bring water shoes for rocky stream bottoms at river swimming locations like Worlds End and Ole Bull, as natural creek beds can be uneven.
  • 3Pack reef-safe sunscreen to protect aquatic ecosystems, and consider a pop-up shade tent for beach areas that lack natural cover.
  • 4Most state parks charge a modest daily use fee for out-of-state visitors, while Pennsylvania residents camp free at some locations.
20 campgrounds ranked
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Curated for Swimming Campgrounds in Pennsylvania

Swimming Campgrounds in Pennsylvania FAQ

We've ranked 20+ swimming campgrounds in Pennsylvania based on water access, swimming areas, safety, and user reviews. Top options include campgrounds on lakes, rivers, and beaches with designated swimming areas.
Swimming safety varies by location. Many campgrounds have designated swimming areas with lifeguards during peak season. Always check for posted warnings, water conditions, and currents before swimming. Never swim alone.
Summer (June-September) is the best time for swimming camping in Pennsylvania. Water temperatures are warmest and swimming areas are typically staffed. Some mountain lakes may be too cold for swimming even in summer.
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