Beach Camping in Pennsylvania
Discover the best beach camping across Pennsylvania. Camp where the land meets the water. Ocean breezes, sandy shores, and stunning sunsets await.
Featured Campgrounds
Handpicked destinations that define the region
Laurel Hill State Park
The 63-acre lake anchors this mountain retreat with a sandy swimming beach where campers spend sun-soaked days paddling calm waters and cooling off beneath the Laurel Highlands' forested peaks.
Yellow Creek State Park
The 720-acre lake delivers a genuine sandy beach where swimmers splash in clear waters and boaters explore secluded coves along wooded shorelines. Launch a kayak at sunrise to watch herons take flight, then return to shore for an afternoon of building sandcastles and diving into...
Raymond B Winter State Park
Halfway Lake's spring-fed waters stay refreshingly cold even in summer heat, with sandy shores inviting swimmers and sunbathers to claim their spot beneath the forest canopy.
About Beach Camping in Pennsylvania
Beach camping in Pennsylvania offers an unexpected treasure trove of lakeside retreats where sandy shores meet forested mountains and pristine waters. While the Keystone State lacks ocean coastline, its state parks have transformed glacial lakes, mountain reservoirs, and spring-fed waters into premier beach camping destinations that rival coastal experiences.
Best Time
The prime beach camping season in Pennsylvania runs from mid-June through early September, with July and August offering the warmest water temperatures and most reliable swimming conditions. Water temperatures typically reach comfortable levels (70-75°F) by late June, making this the sweet spot for families with young children.
Scenery Highlights
- Oceanfront and lakeside sites
- Sandy beaches and swimming
- Stunning sunrise and sunset views
- Water sports and fishing
Explore Beach Camping in Pennsylvania
Browse 20 campgrounds on our interactive map. Filter by amenities, price, ratings, and more.
Plan Your Trip
Popular Activities
Tips & Recommendations
- 1Reserve campsites early through the Pennsylvania State Parks reservation system, especially for lakefront or beach-adjacent sites that book months in advance for summer weekends.
- 2Bring water shoes or sandals as many beaches have rocky entries or zebra mussel shells in certain areas.
- 3Pack reef-safe sunscreen and reapply frequently, as the combination of water reflection and mountain elevation can intensify sun exposure.
- 4Most beaches prohibit glass containers, so opt for plastic or metal drink containers.
Beach Camping in Pennsylvania FAQ
We've ranked 20+ beach campgrounds in Pennsylvania based on water access, amenities, and user reviews. Top options include oceanfront and lakeside sites with sandy beaches and swimming access.
Beach camping in Pennsylvania is generally best from May through September when water temperatures are warmest. Shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds and milder weather.
For beach camping in Pennsylvania, bring sun protection, beach chairs, water toys, and sand-friendly gear. Wind stakes for your tent are essential, and consider a shade structure for daytime comfort.
Popular Pennsylvania Campgrounds Book Fast
The best beach camping in Pennsylvania book up quickly. Set up free alerts to catch cancellations.
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Laurel Hill State Park
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