Mountain Creek Campground

- 349 Pine Grove Rd, Gardners, PA 17324

Introduction / Overview: Family Fun in the Heart of South Central PA

Mountain Creek Campground, nestled near the charming town of Gardners, PA, is a celebrated destination that has become a multi-generational favorite for Pennsylvania families seeking a classic outdoor getaway. Situated amidst the natural beauty of the South Mountain area, this campground offers a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere that has evolved over decades to provide modern amenities while retaining the rustic charm of a true camping experience. With nearly 300 sites spread across approximately 100 acres, Mountain Creek is large enough to offer a huge variety of recreational activities but remains peaceful enough for a quiet night under the stars. The camp aims to be a perfect launchpad for both on-site fun and exploration of the rich historical and natural attractions of the region, including Gettysburg, Carlisle, and the vast Michaux State Forest.

As a local family stated in a review, this is a "great family place that has evolved and continues to do so many great things," indicating a commitment to continuous improvement for their guests. While the reviews highlight the need for consistent attention to detail in cleaning, particularly for rental units, the core appeal remains the abundant on-site activities and the beautiful natural setting. Whether you’re a seasoned RVer, a dedicated tent camper, or someone looking for the convenience of a cabin, Mountain Creek provides the right mix of accommodations and atmosphere for a memorable Central Pennsylvania vacation.

Location and Accessibility: Perfectly Positioned for Exploration

Mountain Creek Campground boasts an excellent location in Gardners, Pennsylvania (349 Pine Grove Rd, 17324), placing it strategically between several of the state’s most significant attractions. The campground is situated in the South Mountain region, offering immediate access to the outdoors via adjacent Michaux State Forest and the famous Appalachian Trail. This position appeals directly to local hikers, bikers, and nature enthusiasts from Harrisburg, York, and the Cumberland Valley. The convenience factor for regional Pennsylvania travelers is one of the camp’s strongest selling points.

The camp is only a short, scenic drive from major historical and cultural hubs:

• Gettysburg: Approximately 26 minutes away, making it an easy day trip for Civil War history immersion.
• Carlisle: Conveniently located for visitors attending the world-famous car shows and events at the Carlisle Fairgrounds.
• Hershey: Less than an hour’s drive, providing access to Hersheypark and the chocolate attractions.

The relatively easy drive from the major population centers of South Central Pennsylvania solidifies Mountain Creek as an accessible and ideal weekend getaway destination for families who don't want to spend half their vacation sitting in traffic.

Services Offered (Designed for Comfort and Convenience)

The facility provides a wide array of services to ensure comfort and convenience for all types of campers, from those with large RVs to guests utilizing the rental units.

• Full Accommodations Range: The campground offers primitive and water/electric tent sites, full hook-up RV sites (including 50-amp service), creek-front sites, and long-term seasonal sites.
• Rental Units: Options include various cabin styles (primitive, half-bath, and deluxe full-service cabins) and rental RV campers, though guests must note that bedding and linens are typically not provided. Some primitive cabins are designated as pet-friendly for a fee and security deposit.
• Essential Camping Support: Services include LP gas refill, firewood sales and delivery, a dump station, and a honey wagon (pump-out) service for sites without sewer hook-ups.
• Camp Store & Food: A fully stocked Camp Store provides groceries, camping supplies, fishing tackle, unique gifts, and the highly-praised hand-dipped ice cream. A Snack Shack or snack bar is also available.
• Utility & Tech Access: Wi-Fi access is provided, along with two bathhouses and a laundromat for guest convenience. Guests should be aware, as one reviewer noted, that bathhouse locations may require a walk or a golf cart rental depending on the site.
• Mobility: Golf cart rentals are available, which many long-term or mobility-conscious campers find highly beneficial for traversing the large grounds. Guests may also bring their own electric carts with pre-approval and fee payment.

Features / Highlights (Non-Stop Family Activities)

Mountain Creek Campground truly excels in its extensive offering of recreational features and planned activities, ensuring there is never a dull moment for children and adults alike. Its highlights focus heavily on water activities and robust weekend programming:

• Stocked Creek: The Mountain Creek stream runs through the property, offering a unique opportunity for both fishing (stocked trout stream, requires PA license) and recreational swimming or tubing.
• Swimming Pool: A large, well-maintained swimming pool is a central feature and a huge hit during the warmer months.
• Activity Center & Sports: The camp features a wide variety of organized sports areas, including sand volleyball, shuffleboard, horseshoes, basketball, a Gaga Ball pit, and a playground.
• Mini-Golf & Games: On-site mini-golf and a game room/arcade provide additional entertainment options, regardless of the weather.
• On-Site Winery: A unique feature is the presence of an on-site winery, which offers wine tastings and events, catering to adult campers looking for a relaxed evening activity.
• Planned Themed Weekends: The campground runs a comprehensive calendar of themed weekends throughout the season (e.g., Easter, Christmas in July, Pirates Week, Halloween) featuring special activities, live entertainment, music, crafts, and hayrides, making every visit a fresh experience.
• Appalachian Trail Access: For the serious outdoor adventurer, the property offers direct or very close access to the hiking and biking trails of Michaux State Forest, including sections of the Appalachian Trail.

Contact Information

Mountain Creek Campground

Address: 349 Pine Grove Rd, Gardners, PA 17324, USA

Phone: (717) 486-7681

Mobile Phone: +1 717-486-7681

Conclusion: Why This Place Is Suitable for Locals

Mountain Creek Campground is perfectly suitable for Pennsylvania residents, particularly those in the southern and central regions, because it offers a centralized, amenity-rich, and affordable family vacation experience without the need for extensive travel. It serves as a single destination where the interests of every family member—from the creek fisherman and the pool enthusiast to the history buff—can be met. The combination of its varied accommodations, which suit every camping style and budget, and its extensive list of activities guarantees a high value for the local consumer. The multi-generational loyalty mentioned in customer reviews—campers returning since childhood and bringing their own children—speaks volumes about the enduring quality of the family atmosphere. By offering a true escape into the scenic South Mountain, coupled with the convenience of a short drive to both the historical weight of Gettysburg and the fun of Carlisle, Mountain Creek Campground provides a reliable, local sanctuary for creating lasting family memories year after year.

Mountain Creek Campground

349 Pine Grove Rd, Gardners, PA 17324, USA