Pine Grove Furnace State Park

4.53

49 reviews

1100 PINE GROVE ROAD, GARDNERS, Pennsylvania, 17324, United States

Great HikingSummer Destination

Featured in:Fishing Camping Pennsylvania Swimming Camping Pennsylvania

Quick Facts

919 ft

Price

$30 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens Pennsylvania State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

919 ft

Price

$30 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens Pennsylvania State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Pine Grove Furnace State Park

$30.00 - $35.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fee ranges from $30 to $35 for campsites based on amenities.

Standard Site Fee$30.00

Hookup Site Fee$35.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

4.53

Top-Rated

Based on 49 reviews

2234 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanhikinglakestaff

"Overall, Pine Grove Furnace State Park receives positive reviews for its cleanliness, natural beauty, and range of activities. Highlights include well-maintained facilities, spacious campsites, and diverse recreational opportunities."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

1100 PINE GROVE ROAD, GARDNERS, Pennsylvania, 17324, United States

Pine Grove Furnace State Park

1100 PINE GROVE ROAD, GARDNERS, Pennsylvania, 17324, United States

Driving directionsThe park is easily reached from I-81. Visitors should take Exit 37 to PA 233 south then travel for eight miles.

Roads are accessible year-round, but based on user reviews, the campground roads are narrow. "The road passing all the campsites is very narrow but I saw some huge campers in spots, so it's at least still navigable."

Nearby places

Carlisle: 20 minutes (approx. 15 miles)

Gettysburg: 30 minutes (approx. 25 miles)

Nearby supplies

Pine Grove General Store within the park offers food, ice cream, burgers, and resupply items for hikers. "The food at the general store is very good. A little pricey for hikers to resupply, but have a lot of options." Nearby towns like Gardners and Carlisle may also have additional supplies.

Best Time to Camp at Pine Grove Furnace State Park

Experience the full drama of Pennsylvania's changing seasons at Pine Grove Furnace. Winter transforms the landscape into a serene wonderland, with light to moderate snowfall creating perfect conditions for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing through hushed forests. As spring awakens the mountains, wildflowers carpet the forest floor and migrating birds fill the canopy with song. Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days ideal for swimming in the lakes and exploring shaded trails, though afternoon thunderstorms occasionally roll through with dramatic displays and refreshing downpours. Autumn paints the mountainsides in brilliant golds and crimsons, creating spectacular backdrops for hiking and photography.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Peak season: swimming, boating and rentals active though lakes/camps can be crowded.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Quieter and cooler with excellent hiking and likely strong fall foliage viewing.

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring is quieter than summer and good for hiking and wildlife viewing.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Open year-round; winter is scenic with light–moderate snow but fewer activities noted.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak season likely summer and early fall, based on crowds mentioned in reviews.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Based on user reviews, campground appears operational year-round.
Current Alerts: No active alerts mentioned in source.

About Pine Grove Furnace State Park

Discover a 696-acre wilderness sanctuary where adventure meets history at Pine Grove Furnace State Park. Here, two pristine mountain lakes—Laurel and Fuller—mirror the surrounding forest canopy, inviting swimmers, anglers, and kayakers to explore their crystal-clear waters. As the celebrated halfway point of the legendary Appalachian Trail, this park draws thru-hikers and day adventurers alike to its extensive network of trails perfect for hiking and mountain biking. Whether you're seeking a refreshing swim after a trail run or hoping to cast a line at sunset, Pine Grove Furnace offers an authentic outdoor escape where every path leads to a new discovery.

This state park accommodates a range of camping options, including RVs, tent sites, and group sites.

Historical SignificanceStep back in time at Pine Grove Furnace, where layers of American history reveal themselves at every turn. The stately Ironmasters Mansion stands as a testament to the area's industrial heritage, when iron forges powered the young nation's growth. Explore fascinating remnants of the park's varied past—from a World War II POW camp where German prisoners once lived, to the ghostly foundations of a beloved amusement park that brought joy to generations of families. A former Girl Scout camp adds another chapter to this rich tapestry. Most notably, the park serves as a milestone for Appalachian Trail thru-hikers, who celebrate reaching the trail's halfway point with the famous 'half-gallon challenge' at the park store.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the full drama of Pennsylvania's changing seasons at Pine Grove Furnace. Winter transforms the landscape into a serene wonderland, with light to moderate snowfall creating perfect conditions for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing through hushed forests. As spring awakens the mountains, wildflowers carpet the forest floor and migrating birds fill the canopy with song. Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days ideal for swimming in the lakes and exploring shaded trails, though afternoon thunderstorms occasionally roll through with dramatic displays and refreshing downpours. Autumn paints the mountainsides in brilliant golds and crimsons, creating spectacular backdrops for hiking and photography.

ElevationThe park's varied terrain creates diverse microclimates and ecosystems throughout the mountain landscape, offering campers everything from lakeside settings to hillside perches with cooling mountain breezes.

Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the pristine beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, where Pine Grove Furnace sits cradled within the vast expanse of Michaux State Forest. Towering hardwoods and evergreens create a living cathedral above heavily wooded campsites, where dappled sunlight filters through the canopy and wildlife moves quietly through the understory. Many sites are completely enveloped by forest, offering an intimate connection with nature and a true sense of seclusion. The interplay of mountain ridges, sparkling lakes, and dense woodland creates ever-changing vistas that shift with the light and seasons.

Geological RegionPerched at the northern gateway of the iconic Blue Ridge Mountains, Pine Grove Furnace occupies a unique geological position within the ancient South Mountain range. Completely surrounded by the 85,000-acre Michaux State Forest, the park sits at the intersection of mountain ridges and valleys carved by millennia of natural forces. This location at the Blue Ridge's northern tip creates a distinctive landscape where Appalachian geology meets Pennsylvania's ridge-and-valley topography, resulting in the dramatic terrain and diverse ecosystems that make this region a natural treasure.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in is automatic when you reserve online.

Stay Limit

Maximum stay limit not explicitly stated in authoritative sources.

Guests Allowed Per Site

No more than one family unit or five unrelated persons per campsite.

Groups

Group camping areas include grassy fields, some shade, and four individual family bathrooms. Ample parking is available.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites are generally wooded but may be closer together compared to other campgrounds. "Sites are a lot closer together than others.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online through the state's official reservation system or third-party platforms like Campground America.

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability not explicitly mentioned in authoritative sources.

Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy details not explicitly provided.

AccessibilityADA sites available in the campground, and the Appalachian Trail includes paved portions that are accessible for wheelchairs.

Site SizeSites are spacious and some are noted to be level. One user commented, 'Sites were well spaced and level.

PrivacyPrivacy levels vary, but several users noted a quiet and peaceful experience. One user stated, 'The campsite is nicely private.

Recommended SitesChoose sites in heavily wooded areas for privacy and shade. "Sites were well spaced and level." Avoid sites close to bathrooms due to maintenance issues.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Dump station

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

This park offers a diverse array of recreational activities. Highlights include hiking on the Appalachian Trail, biking, fishing, and swimming. There are two lakes, Laurel Lake and Fuller Lake, which offer beach activities and water sports. Educational and cultural experiences are also available, such as the Appalachian Trail Museum.

HikingHiking is a major attraction at the park. Key trails include the Appalachian Trail and Pole Steeple. One user commented, 'Miles and miles of trails, with the Appalachian Trail being the focal point for most people.' Another added, '2 hikes 20+ miles on AT.'

FishingFishing is permitted at both Laurel and Fuller Lakes. One user described the lakes as 'two nice lakes for fishing and swimming.'

SwimmingSwimming is available at both Laurel Lake and Fuller Lake, which feature beach areas. A user mentioned, 'The lake is fun to swim in, and their campground wasn’t bad.' Another said, 'There’s a beach, wild trout streams, camping areas, and plenty of picnic areas.'

BikingBiking is popular on the rail trails and to nearby lakes. A user noted, 'Bring your bike, we took an easy beautiful ride to Laurel Lake.'

BoatingBoating is allowed on the lakes, and there are boat rental facilities. 'You are also able to use kayaks outside the swimming area,' one user said.

Wildlife viewingWildlife sightings are common, with one user mentioning, 'Seen two deer from our camp and they didn’t mind us being there.'

Beach activitiesBeach areas at both lakes provide opportunities for sand and swimming-related activities. Laurel Lake is noted as the larger beach, while Fuller Lake is closer to the campgrounds.

Cultural and Educational ProgramsThe park offers educational opportunities through the Appalachian Trail Museum and historical sites such as the furnace and Iron Masters' Mansion.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsSome user reviews mention narrow and navigable roads, and occasional loud music disrupting quiet hours.

Active AlertsNo active alerts mentioned in source.

Fire PolicyNo specific fire policies mentioned in authoritative sources.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours from 9 PM to 8 AM. "Quiet hours were not enforced."

Emergency ServicesRanger Station: null; Nearest emergency services likely in Carlisle or Gardners.

Trash & RecyclingTrash disposal is emphasized as part of campground rules. 'The park doesn’t tolerate mess of any kind and people clean up after themselves before they leave,' mentioned one reviewer.

Water FeaturesTwo lakes (Laurel Lake and Fuller Lake). Laurel Lake features a large beach, and Fuller Lake is walkable from the campgrounds.

Camp HostHosts are mentioned as friendly and helpful. "Friendly campground hosts."

Weather at Pine Grove Furnace State Park

Reviews

4.5

49 reviews

Top-Rated

Pine Grove Furnace State Park is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Overall, Pine Grove Furnace State Park receives positive reviews for its cleanliness, natural beauty, and range of activities. Highlights include well-maintained facilities, spacious campsites, and diverse recreational opportunities.

Review Summaries

Based on 49 reviews

What Campers Love

Users praised the clean bathrooms, scenic hiking trails, multiple recreational activities, and friendly park staff. The lakes were also a standout feature.

Based on 49 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints included lack of Wi-Fi and cell service, noise during quiet hours, and occasional crowding at lakes and campsites.

Based on 49 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing bikes, exploring the Appalachian Trail Museum, and visiting outside peak summer weekends to avoid crowds. One user advised, 'Wear water shoes at the beach.'

Based on 49 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer sees the highest activity levels, with crowded lakes and campgrounds. Spring and fall are quieter, offering better privacy and cooler weather for hiking.

Based on 49 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Clean bathrooms and showers, spacious pads.' 2. 'The Appalachian Trail runs through the park, and part of it is actually paved.' 3. 'One of the best state parks for swimming and camping.'

Based on 49 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 29 is noted for being along the Appalachian Trail. Some users found campsites close together, while others noted spacious and level sites.

Based on 49 reviews

Accessibility Features

The Appalachian Trail’s paved portion was mentioned as accessible for wheelchairs.

Based on 49 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

The park is pet-friendly, but dogs are not allowed in the beach area. One user stated, 'It is dog-friendly, but they stop allowing them in the beach area.'

Based on 49 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026

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