Camp Reily, Harrisburg, PA

For Central Pennsylvania residents, the name **Camp Reily** may evoke a sense of deep nostalgia, stirring up cherished childhood memories of summer days spent exploring the woods and learning new skills through the YWCA. It is a pleasant surprise for many to learn that this historic property, located conveniently close to Harrisburg, is not only still operating but is also available today for private rentals, group retreats, and individual camping. As one delighted customer remarked, "Omg I used to go to the summer camp here offered through the YWCA. I had no idea this place was still around. I have such good childhood memories here. I've gotta go just for the trip down nostalgia lane."

Situated on 28 acres of serene, rustic woodland just off Fishing Creek Valley Road, Camp Reily offers a unique blend of natural beauty and essential amenities. It is a multipurpose site, successfully hosting everything from large social gatherings and elegant weddings to traditional overnight stays. Another reviewer noted the venue's capability to accommodate major functions, stating, "We had the pleasure of attending a beautiful wedding here. The site accommodated a very large crowd, large tent and plenty of seating." This versatility makes it a valuable community resource—not just for camping, but as an affordable, tranquil venue option in the Greater Harrisburg area.

The core mission and spirit of Camp Reily, sustained by the YWCA Greater Harrisburg, continues to prioritize community, outdoor education, and creating safe, welcoming spaces for all ages. While it maintains its identity as a traditional summer day camp for children aged 6–12, its expanded availability for private rentals outside of the summer season ensures its legacy touches a broader segment of the Pennsylvania community. Whether you're planning a corporate retreat, a family reunion, or simply a quiet weekend under the stars, Camp Reily provides a natural backdrop minutes from the state capital.

A key characteristic of Camp Reily is its established history. Since its founding, the camp has been dedicated to providing children and families with an enriching, nature-focused experience. The rustic facilities, including the camp-style lodge and cabins, contribute to an authentic, traditional camp atmosphere that is hard to replicate. It stands as a physical and historical landmark for generations of local Pennsylvanians who grew up attending the YWCA's summer camp program. Its continuity allows former campers to relive their youth and new visitors to create entirely new memories within the same cherished environment.

### Location and Accessibility

Camp Reily boasts a location that is both secluded and highly convenient for residents across Central Pennsylvania. The camp's physical address is **300 Reily Rd, Harrisburg, PA 17112, USA**. This places it in Dauphin County, a short distance from the bustling downtown area of Harrisburg, yet perfectly nestled within the forested foothills that flank the Susquehanna River Valley.

The accessibility is a significant advantage for locals. It's close enough to the capital region to be reached easily for day-long events or weekend trips, avoiding the long drives often associated with deep-woods camping. Located just off Fishing Creek Valley Road, the site offers straightforward vehicular access. Despite its proximity to a major metropolitan area, the 28 wooded acres provide a peaceful, quiet environment, allowing visitors to feel fully immersed in nature shortly after arrival. For those utilizing the site for large events like weddings, this convenient location simplifies logistics for all attending guests, many of whom may be traveling from various points within the state. The balance of accessibility and natural retreat is one of Camp Reily’s most attractive qualities for the local user.

### Services Offered

Camp Reily is structured to serve as a versatile rental and retreat facility, offering a range of services and spaces that cater to both large events and casual outdoor stays. The services are generally focused on providing necessary infrastructure for a rustic yet comfortable group experience.

Private Facility Rentals: The entire camp can be rented for private functions, including weddings, family reunions, corporate retreats, and other large gatherings. This service is available typically on weekends from May through November.
Lodge with Full Kitchen: A primary facility is the camp-style lodge. This structure provides a central gathering space complete with a **full kitchen** for food preparation, a large fireplace to enhance the rustic atmosphere, and an area suitable for seating up to approximately 125 people.
Cabin Rentals: Five rustic **cabins are available for rent**. These offer basic shelter for overnight stays and are equipped with electricity and fans, though they are unfurnished, aligning with a traditional camp experience.
Seasonal Swimming Pool Access: The camp features a **community-sized pool**. While availability is noted as seasonal and may require an additional fee, this amenity is a major draw for summer events and campers, providing an enjoyable recreational option that was a favorite among former campers.
Restroom and Shower Facilities: For convenience, the campground maintains necessary facilities, including **restrooms with multiple stalls and showers**, crucial for guests utilizing the cabins or camping on-site during events.
Camping and Overnight Stays: Though its primary focus is events and youth camp programming, the site offers opportunities for **on-site camping** for guests who wish to fully immerse themselves in the woodland setting, as suggested by event attendees who planned to return for camping.

### Features and Highlights

The facilities and natural landscape at Camp Reily are its defining assets, making it a distinctive and memorable venue in the Harrisburg area.

Historic YWCA Association: The camp's long-standing connection to the YWCA Greater Harrisburg provides a legacy of community service, positive youth development, and a deep well of **local nostalgia** for generations of Pennsylvanians.
Rustic Wedding/Event Venue: The property is highly regarded for its suitability as an affordable, tranquil **rustic wedding venue**. The space can accommodate large crowds and includes an **open-air chapel** specifically noted as perfect for wedding ceremonies.
Extensive Outdoor Recreation Areas: Campers and guests can enjoy a variety of recreational features, including a **large activities field**, a **full-size basketball court**, and numerous **hiking trails** that wind through the 28 wooded acres, promoting physical activity and nature engagement.
The Pavilion and BBQ Pit: A key gathering spot is the large **pavilion**, which includes a dedicated **BBQ pit**, making it an ideal spot for preparing meals and hosting large, traditional cookouts.
Wooded, Tranquil Setting: Its location in a valley surrounded by woods provides a peaceful and **secluded atmosphere**, offering a valuable retreat from the urban energy of Harrisburg without being geographically isolated.

### Contact Information

To inquire about facility rentals, check on the seasonal pool schedule, or learn more about Camp Reily's offerings, please use the following contact details:

Campground Name:

Camp Reily

Address:

300 Reily Rd, Harrisburg, PA 17112, USA

Phone Numbers:

Office/General Inquiries: (717) 234-7931

Mobile: +1 717-234-7931

### Conclusion: Why Camp Reily is Suitable for PA Locals

Camp Reily is a unique and highly suitable destination for Pennsylvania locals for three core reasons: **nostalgia, convenience, and versatility**. For anyone who grew up in the Central PA region, the camp represents a tangible link to a cherished past, offering a meaningful "trip down nostalgia lane." For parents and event planners, its **convenient location** near Harrisburg—just minutes from major roads—makes it an exceptionally accessible retreat, simplifying travel for large groups while still providing the deep woods feeling of a true escape. This balance is difficult to find in the state capital region. Most importantly, its **versatility** is a tremendous asset to the community. It functions simultaneously as a venue for affordable, rustic weddings and large private events, a traditional summer day camp nurturing the next generation, and a straightforward camping or retreat location for families. The availability of cabins, a communal lodge, and a seasonal pool ensures that it can cater to various needs, from a comfortable event setting to a simple, quiet, outdoor weekend. By supporting Camp Reily, locals are not just booking a venue or a campsite; they are engaging with a historic institution managed by the YWCA Greater Harrisburg, ensuring a beloved piece of local history continues to serve the community for years to come.