Lickdale Campground

- 11 Lickdale Rd, Jonestown, PA 17038

For Pennsylvanians and travelers passing through the heart of the Keystone State, the search for the perfect blend of convenience, nature, and family fun often leads to one name: Jonestown / Hershey NE KOA Journey. Often referred to by its familiar local name, Lickdale Campground, this premier camping destination offers much more than just a place to park an RV or pitch a tent. It is a true four-season basecamp situated in Jonestown, PA, providing an essential hub for exploring the best of Central Pennsylvania, from the sweet attractions of Hershey to the rugged beauty of the Appalachian foothills.

The core philosophy of this campground is to cater to every type of traveler. Whether you are a 'destination camper' planning a week of family activities or a 'journey camper' needing a convenient, comfortable overnight stop right off the interstate, this KOA is designed to meet your needs. The atmosphere is family-friendly and pet-friendly, with staff committed to providing a clean, well-maintained environment. Visitors frequently highlight the dedication to a positive experience, noting that the bathrooms and showers are kept impeccably clean and that the grounds are neat.

One of the most unique aspects of the Lickdale Campground experience is its surprising quality of on-site dining and treats. As noted by loyal customers, the general store not only stocks essential camping supplies but also features a fantastic snack bar, deli, and ice cream shop. One local review enthusiastically praises the "best wings in the area" with "tons of flavors," while another specifically calls out the ice cream selection, featuring beloved local Turkey Hill hard-dipped ice cream, soft serve options, and specialty items like the popular "dirt sundaes" and even a special "doggy bisquit" sundae for canine companions. This commitment to quality food service, including the ability to deliver lunch or dinner right to your campsite door, sets a high bar for campground hospitality in Pennsylvania.

The versatility of accommodations ensures that every visitor finds their perfect spot. The campground offers big-rig-friendly, long pull-thru RV sites with full hookups (Water, Electric, Sewer), including 50-amp service, making it an ideal stop for those traveling long distances. For those seeking a more rustic experience, tent sites are available, ranging from primitive grassy spots to developed sites with water and electric hookups, some even featuring a gravel tent pad right along the picturesque Swatara Creek. Additionally, the option to rent cozy cabins or on-site rental trailers provides a convenient, comfortable getaway without needing your own gear. The fact that the park is open year-round, with winter cabin and tent options, makes it a rare and valuable resource for Pennsylvania’s dedicated outdoor community.

Location and Accessibility

The location of Jonestown / Hershey NE KOA Journey at

The campground is located a mere 999 feet—less than a thousand feet—from Exit 90 of Interstate 81 (I-81), providing incredibly easy off-and-on access for RVs and trailers. This convenience is frequently highlighted by guests passing through on north/south routes, including the 'Snowbirds' on their seasonal journeys. Additionally, the location is a short distance from Interstate 78 (I-78).

Its central position in the Lebanon Valley region places it within close proximity to major Pennsylvania destinations:

• Hershey Area Attractions: The campground is only about a 25 to 30-minute drive from the 'Sweetest Place on Earth,' offering easy day trips to Hersheypark, Chocolate World, and the Hershey Gardens. The campground even offers a free shuttle bus service to Hersheypark during the summer season when tickets are purchased at their office, adding immense value for family vacationers.

• Natural Recreation: The campground is nestled along the scenic Swatara Creek, which is a key highlight for water activities like kayaking, fishing, and tubing. It also provides direct access to the Swatara Rail Trail, a great route for biking and hiking, and is connected to Swatara State Park, an expansive natural area spanning over 3,750 acres. For serious hikers, the world-famous Appalachian Trail is also easily accessible nearby.

• Historical and Local Sites: Historic Fort Indiantown Gap is minutes away, and the campground serves as a convenient base for visiting Lancaster’s Amish Country, Gettysburg, or the Cabela's outdoor store in nearby Hamburg.

Services Offered

The Jonestown / Hershey NE KOA Journey offers a wide array of services designed to enhance comfort and convenience for all guests:

• RV Services: Long, level pull-thru and back-in sites with full hookups (50/30-amp electric, water, sewer) and dedicated dump stations.

• On-Site Dining: A full-service Restaurant and Snack Bar offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with the unique convenience of delivery service directly to your campsite.

• Retail & Supplies: A large, well-stocked Convenience / General Store for food, camping gear, souvenirs, and the renowned Ice Cream Shop.

• Guest Amenities: Clean, modern Restroom and Shower Facilities, on-site Laundry Facilities, and Propane (LPG) service available.

• Connectivity: Complimentary Wi-Fi access and Cable TV hookups (available at most RV sites).

• Guest Services: Curbside check-in and site escorts during peak season hours, a fenced Pet Area / Dog Park, and Firewood for sale.

Features / Highlights

The features of this campground truly distinguish it as a premier destination for Pennsylvania locals seeking a recreational getaway:

• Creekfront Access & Water Recreation: Direct access to the Swatara Creek for fishing, swimming, tubing, and kayaking, with convenient on-site boat and kayak rentals available.

• Extensive Family Recreation: A variety of activities including a Splash Pad, Jumping Pad/Zone, Mini Golf course, Playground, Gaga Pit, Horseshoes, and scheduled weekend activities for all ages, such as Kids Fun Foam Parties.

• Proximity to Trail Systems: Direct connectivity to the Swatara Rail Trail for biking and hiking, and immediate access to the surrounding state lands, making it an ideal choice for outdoor sports enthusiasts.

• Big-Rig and Extended-Stay Friendly: Featuring long sites (up to 99 feet) and offering year-round availability, including seasonal and monthly RV sites for those looking for an extended stay in Central PA.

• The Famous Ice Cream Shop: A notable feature that has generated significant local buzz, offering delicious hard-dipped Turkey Hill ice cream, soft serve, and unique specialty treats for both people and their pets.

• Hershey Park Shuttle Service: A highly valuable, seasonal amenity that alleviates parking and driving stress for families planning a visit to the popular theme park.

Contact Information

Jonestown / Hershey NE KOA Journey

Address: 11 Lickdale Rd, Jonestown, PA 17038, USA

Information / Local Phone: 717-865-6411

Toll-Free Reservations: 1-800-562-2609

The campground is open year-round for reservations across its various site types, but check-in times and seasonal office hours may vary, especially during the winter months.

Conclusion: Why This Place Is Suitable for Locals

For people in Pennsylvania, the Jonestown / Hershey NE KOA Journey (Lickdale Campground) represents the ideal convergence of natural escape and logistical convenience. It’s not just a vacation spot; it is a locally beloved hub that understands the needs of a Central PA family. Its year-round operation means the adventure doesn't stop when summer ends—campers can enjoy the area’s beautiful fall foliage or a cozy winter cabin retreat.

The ease of access right off I-81 makes it a stress-free weekend retreat from Harrisburg, Reading, or Lancaster. Within minutes, locals can transition from highway driving to fishing on the Swatara Creek or biking on the state park trails. Furthermore, the extensive on-site amenities, especially the renowned Snack Shack and ice cream parlor, ensure that all generations—from the youngest campers enjoying the splash pad to the adults relaxing at a full-hookup site—find something to love. This campground offers Pennsylvania residents a consistently clean, amenity-rich, and strategically located destination that perfectly serves as both a convenient traveler’s stop and a full-featured family vacation basecamp.

Lickdale Campground

11 Lickdale Rd, Jonestown, PA 17038, USA