Mt Lebanon Campmeeting, Lebanon, PA

Introduction / Overview

For generations of Pennsylvanians, Mt Lebanon Campmeeting in Lebanon, PA, has been far more than a simple campground; it is a historic and spiritual retreat center. Established in 1892 during the "Great Religious Awakening," this location remains a unique pocket of history and community nestled in a tranquil, forested setting. While not a conventional modern RV park, Mt Lebanon Campmeeting operates as an active Christian ministry providing a unique summer Campmeeting schedule, year-round facilities for group retreats, and a charming residential neighborhood of privately owned cottages surrounding the central Tabernacle. The camp’s mission is centered on glorifying God and proclaiming the Gospel, offering a place for spiritual renewal, fellowship, and family connection. Though the primary annual focus is the week-long Campmeeting, locals often utilize the grounds for its quiet atmosphere and recreational opportunities, including a popular disc golf course. When visiting, guests step into a time capsule, where simple cottages and the majestic Tabernacle still stand, creating a distinct and welcoming environment for personal reflection and group gatherings.

Location and Accessibility

Mt Lebanon Campmeeting is conveniently located at Mt Lebanon Dr, Lebanon, PA 17046, USA. Situated approximately three miles north of the city of Lebanon and just off Route 343, the grounds are highly accessible for residents throughout South Central Pennsylvania. This central location in Lebanon County allows for easy travel from Harrisburg, Lancaster, and Reading, making it an ideal destination for a day trip or an extended stay without the need for significant travel time. The historic Tabernacle and surrounding grounds are nestled in a peaceful, wooded area, offering a sense of seclusion and serenity despite being close to local infrastructure. Visitors should note that for certain amenities, such as the popular disc golf course, designated public parking is minimal, with local users advising parking near visible landmarks on the property, like the Coke machine near the first tee. Its proximity to Lebanon ensures that local services, shops, and resources are always just a short drive away, blending the retreat experience with urban convenience.

Services Offered

Mt Lebanon Campmeeting’s services are diverse, catering to both the spiritual needs of its community and the functional requirements of visitors and renting groups.

Cottage Accommodation: The grounds are home to numerous historic, privately owned cottages, providing unique, small-scale lodging for those participating in the Campmeeting or visiting the grounds. While cottages are not typically rented to the public, they form the core residential aspect of the community.
Facility Rentals: In the off-season and outside of the main Campmeeting week, the facilities are available for rent to outside groups, including conferences, retreats, training seminars, team-building exercises, and special events. The camp can accommodate groups ranging from 2 to 1,200 people.
Dining Hall Services: During the annual Campmeeting, meals and snacks are provided. The Dining Hall offers scheduled supper services and special meals like ham dinners on key dates, with separate pricing for adults and children.
Snack Bar and Gift Shop: A snack bar and gift shop are often open following evening services, offering refreshments and small items to visitors and campers.
Youth and Children's Programming: During the summer Campmeeting, structured activities such as Children’s Hour, crafts in the pavilion, and separate sessions for Junior High and Senior High Youth are offered.
Adult Bible Study: The annual Campmeeting includes morning Adult Bible Study sessions in the Tabernacle led by area clergy.

Features / Highlights

The appeal of Mt Lebanon Campmeeting lies in its rich blend of history, spiritual programming, and unexpected recreational amenities.

The Historic Tabernacle: The centerpiece of the Campmeeting, this large, covered worship space was built in 1904 and continues to host daily worship services, Bible studies, and concerts, offering a powerful sense of historical continuity.
Annual Campmeeting Week: A cornerstone event, the week-long summer Campmeeting features a packed schedule of daily services, worship concerts, Bible studies, and dedicated programming for all age groups, maintaining a tradition that began in 1892.
Disc Golf Course: A significant modern amenity is the 9-hole disc golf course located on the wooded property. Described as mostly wooded and challenging, it is a popular, free-to-play course that is perfect for honing putter and mid-range shots, and is often used by local disc golf enthusiasts.
Special Music and Concerts: The Campmeeting schedule regularly features special musical guests, including local and regional Southern Gospel quartets and other worship-focused musical groups, which are open to the public (often accepting a love offering).
Family-Friendly Activities: Beyond the spiritual programs, the camp includes fun, family-focused events during its main season, such as a petting zoo near the playground and a Corn Hole Tournament, ensuring activities for children and teens.
Sense of Community: The intimate nature of the historic cottages and the shared meals and programming create a strong, tight-knit community atmosphere, which is highly valued by regular attendees.

Contact Information

To inquire about facility rentals, the annual Campmeeting schedule, or general information regarding Mt Lebanon Campmeeting, please use the following contact details:

Address: Mt Lebanon Dr, Lebanon, PA 17046, USA

Phone: (717) 274-1206

Mobile Phone: +1 717-274-1206

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Pennsylvania residents, Mt Lebanon Campmeeting is a uniquely valuable local resource. It offers an escape that is both historical and spiritual, all within an easily accessible drive from major Central PA hubs. As a local user, you can step away from the bustle of everyday life and into a tranquil, wooded grove where the air of a 130-year-old tradition still lingers. It is suitable for locals in several key ways: first, it provides a safe, structured, and enriching environment for families to experience a unique form of Christian fellowship and summer fun, with dedicated programs for all ages. Second, its unexpected addition of a free 9-hole disc golf course makes it a great spot for quick, recreational outdoor activity—a perfect, short workout run or practice round on a wooded course often used by area enthusiasts. Finally, for local churches, businesses, or non-profits, the year-round facility rentals offer an ideal, large-capacity venue for retreats, conferences, and events. Whether seeking spiritual renewal, family-focused activities, or just a quick round of disc golf, Mt Lebanon Campmeeting offers a slice of history and community that is deeply embedded in the Lebanon Valley landscape.