Little Buffalo State Park Campground

- 483 Black Hill Rd, Newport, PA 17074

Introduction / Overview: Little Buffalo State Park Campground—Where History Meets Recreation

Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Perry County, Central Pennsylvania, the Little Buffalo State Park Campground offers locals an exceptional blend of modern recreational amenities and deep historical roots. This is a destination where you can seamlessly transition from a morning hike through wooded trails to an afternoon of aquatic fun at a state-of-the-art pool facility, all while being surrounded by the tranquility of the 923-acre State Park.

The campground itself is known for being well-maintained, clean, and family-friendly, catering to a diverse range of campers from tent enthusiasts to large RV owners. With a focus on providing both comfort and convenience, the park has cultivated a reputation as a peaceful, beautiful, and highly accessible escape for Pennsylvania residents. Visitors frequently praise the spacious sites, the cleanliness of the facilities, and the sheer volume of activities available within easy walking or driving distance of their campsite. The overall atmosphere is one of relaxed outdoor enjoyment, perfect for a weekend retreat or an extended family vacation.

Location and Accessibility: A Convenient Escape in Perry County

Little Buffalo State Park Campground is conveniently situated in the heart of Pennsylvania's Perry County, making it an easy drive for residents across the Central Susquehanna Valley and beyond.

The park's official address is 483 Black Hill Rd, Newport, PA 17074, USA.

Located just a short distance from major routes, the park offers excellent accessibility while still providing the feeling of being miles away from the city bustle. The park’s central feature is the 88-acre Holman Lake, a focal point for recreation. Access to the campground loop involves navigating paved and well-maintained park roads, though some areas near the sites may present moderate inclines, as is common in this region of PA. Guests have noted that while the main pool and day-use areas are easily reached, the path from the campground to the pool/lake area may be a longer walk or a short drive, depending on your family's needs and the size of your party. The campground loop itself is designed with clear signage, and sites are maintained to accommodate a range of equipment sizes, though larger rigs are advised to check specific site details during the reservation process.

Services Offered (Modern Amenities for Comfortable Camping)

Little Buffalo State Park Campground provides excellent infrastructure, offering more than the basic necessities typically found in older state park campgrounds. The services are designed to maximize camper comfort and convenience.

• Utility Hookups: A significant portion of the campground features modern amenities, including 50-amp electric hookups and water at most RV/Trailer sites. A select number of sites also offer full hookups (electric, water, and sewer).
• Sanitary Facilities: The bathhouse, often located near the campground entrance, is noted for being clean and well-maintained, even during busy holiday weekends. It features flush toilets and hot showers with spacious, locking shower stalls.
• Diverse Accommodations: In addition to the approximately 40 standard campsites (which include dedicated tent and RV/Trailer sites), the park offers four electric and heated camping cottages and one modern, accessible cabin that can sleep up to eight people. There are also walk-in tent sites for a more secluded experience.
• Pet-Friendly Camping: The entire campground welcomes domestic pets (primarily dogs) on all campsites for a nominal fee, making it easy for locals to bring their furry family members along for the adventure.
• Waste Disposal: A sanitary dump station is conveniently provided for RV and trailer use.
• Food & Supplies: A seasonal food concession is available near the main picnic area, and a food store is mentioned as a convenient stop.

Features / Highlights (Historic Sites and Aquatic Fun)

The features of Little Buffalo State Park extend far beyond the campsite itself, providing visitors with a rich tapestry of recreational and educational opportunities.

• State-of-the-Art Swimming Pool: A major draw, the park features a large, ADA-accessible swimming pool with zero-entry areas, two water slides, and a sprayground/splash pad. Campers receive a discount on the daily entry fee.
• Holman Lake Activities: The 88-acre Holman Lake is perfect for boating (electric motors only, ensuring a peaceful experience) and fishing. It is stocked with trout and designated as a “Big Bass Lake.” Canoe, rowboat, and pedal boat rentals are available seasonally.
• Historical District: The park is home to a rich history, featuring several preserved structures:
  • Shoaff’s Mill: An original grist mill from 1849, often operating and providing educational demonstrations of milling cornmeal and other grains.
  • Clays Covered Bridge: A beautiful, relocated covered bridge (originally built in 1890) that now serves as a picturesque pedestrian crossing.
  • Blue Ball Tavern Museum: An old farmhouse built on the foundation of an 1811 colonial tavern, maintained as a museum and library by the historical society.
• Extensive Trail System: The park boasts approximately eight miles of hiking trails, including the Little Buffalo Creek Trail, the Fisherman's Trail, and the more challenging Middle Ridge Trail, all perfect for exploring the PA forest ecosystem.
• Campsite Comforts: Each site is equipped with a picnic table and a fire pit that includes a built-in grill grate, making campfire cooking simple and enjoyable.

Contact Information

All reservations and inquiries for Little Buffalo State Park Campground are managed through the official state system.

Address: 483 Black Hill Rd, Newport, PA 17074, USA

Park Office Phone: (717) 567-9255

State Park Reservations Phone: (888) 727-2757 (888-PA-PARKS)

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Little Buffalo State Park Campground is ideally suited for residents of Pennsylvania, especially families residing in the central region, for several compelling reasons.

1. The Ultimate Family Value Destination: The park expertly combines high-value amenities—a modern pool complex with slides, a large lake for boating, and clean, modern bathhouses—within the affordable framework of the State Park system. This combination makes it a premier, budget-friendly destination for week-long family vacations without the need to travel out of state.

2. A Convenient Pet-Friendly Option: With a fully pet-friendly campground loop and many dog-walking areas, local residents no longer have to worry about leaving their dogs behind. The park encourages a responsible, inclusive outdoor experience for the entire family, pets included.

3. A Blend of Nature and History: Little Buffalo uniquely offers both an immersive outdoor experience—hiking, fishing, and shaded campsites—and a palpable connection to Pennsylvania’s past through Shoaff's Mill and the covered bridge. For locals, this provides an enriched, educational, and deeply rooted recreational experience right in their backyard. The ease of access and the well-maintained facilities confirm Little Buffalo State Park Campground as an indispensable gem for Central PA's outdoor community.

Little Buffalo State Park Campground

483 Black Hill Rd, Newport, PA 17074, USA