Riverfront Campground, Duncannon, PA

For Pennsylvanians who cherish the classic, no-frills camping experience combined with unparalleled river access, **Riverfront Campground** in Duncannon stands out as a true local gem. Strategically positioned right where the Juniata River flows into the mighty Susquehanna, this cozy spot is widely recognized as one of the state's premier fishing camps, especially for smallmouth bass enthusiasts. It offers a laid-back, down-to-earth atmosphere that prioritizes the outdoor adventure experience over high-end resort amenities.

The core identity of Riverfront Campground is defined by its deep connection to the water. It’s not just a campground near a river; it’s an integrated part of the Susquehanna River Water Trail experience. This unique positioning makes it a highly functional destination for paddlers and boaters. One reviewer's anecdote perfectly illustrates the accommodating, customer-first service ethos: "My friend and I were traveling down the river when it was too low and our boat hit a lot of rocks, we couldn't use the motor and we couldn't get to our designated camping spot before dark. I called the owner/manager and they were very kind and patient about giving us a camping spot last moment, at a great price!" This kind of helpfulness is invaluable to local users who rely on local knowledge and support while navigating the sometimes unpredictable conditions of the river.

Under new ownership and management, the campground has been undergoing upgrades, including an updated bathhouse, addressing past concerns and improving the overall visitor experience while maintaining its rustic, affordable charm. Visitors consistently praise the "nice views of the River" and the fact that it is "affordable." While facilities are often described as “a bit rustic,” they are confirmed to be "adequate" and fully functional, ensuring a comfortable stay for both seasoned campers and those new to the outdoors. The blend of a great river location, affordability, and practical amenities makes it a go-to spot for locals seeking a genuine escape.

Riverfront Campground caters to a diverse range of outdoor activities beyond simple camping, solidifying its role as a regional hub for nature-based recreation. It is known to accommodate tent campers looking for a traditional setup, as well as RV enthusiasts, offering varying levels of hookups. The campground's atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, drawing in not only individual families and anglers but also groups for annual events, such as the "Vanagons in the Valley" event, highlighting its appeal to specific hobbyist communities within Pennsylvania. The friendly staff and helpful owner/manager are frequently noted in reviews, creating a welcoming environment that encourages repeat visits and a strong sense of community among guests. This personal touch is a significant advantage over larger, more impersonal camping resorts.

### Location and Accessibility

The physical location of Riverfront Campground provides exceptional geographical accessibility for residents of Central Pennsylvania. The official address is **9 Newport Rd, Duncannon, PA 17020, USA**. Duncannon is an Appalachian Trail Community situated in Perry County, immediately across the river from Dauphin County and only a short drive from the Harrisburg metropolitan area.

Its situation at the confluence of the Juniata and Susquehanna Rivers is a major navigational and recreational advantage. For boaters, the location is prime, offering immediate access to a vast section of the Susquehanna River Water Trail. For hikers, the campground’s proximity to the **Appalachian Trail** is a huge draw, serving as a convenient resupply or rest stop for those trekking the famous national scenic trail. The town of Duncannon itself is within easy reach, offering local flavor, historical sites like the Old Sled Works Antique and Craft Market, and necessary provisions. Access to the campground is straightforward, making it an easy weekend destination for those driving from Harrisburg, Carlisle, or other nearby towns. Despite the occasional note about a nearby train line—which some visitors even find "soothing"—the constant sight and sound of the flowing river and the promise of a peaceful night under the stars underscore its rustic charm and accessibility to nature.

### Services Offered

Riverfront Campground focuses on providing the essential services needed for a safe, enjoyable, and activity-focused outdoor stay, particularly for those engaging with the river.

Campsites with Hookups: Available sites include options for both RVs and campers, offering essential services such as electric hookups (30 amp service is mentioned) and water hookups to ensure a comfortable stay. Sewer hookups are also available on some sites.
Tent and Primitive Camping: The campground welcomes tent campers, including special designated, no-hookup areas, and offers special rates for off-river tent sites, hikers, boaters, and scout groups, emphasizing its commitment to various camping styles.
Sanitary Facilities: A **bathhouse** provides necessary facilities, including restrooms and showers. Recent reports confirm this area has seen upgrades under the new management, improving the overall comfort level for all guests.
Boat and Watercraft Rentals: To maximize the river experience, the campground offers rentals for boats, canoes, and kayaks, making it easy for guests to get out on the water without owning their own gear.
Functional Boat Ramp: A useable **boat ramp** is on-site, providing critical access for guests to back in and launch their personal watercraft, a necessity for serious anglers and paddlers.
Bait Shop and Supplies: The facility operates an on-site bait shop, stocking live bait in season along with a supply of artificial bait, catering directly to the many fishing enthusiasts who frequent the camp.
Shuttle Service: An invaluable service for boaters and hikers, the campground offers a **shuttle service** for both watercraft (to locations like Clemson Island and Montgomery Ferry) and for **Appalachian Trail hikers**, facilitating multi-day trips and point-to-point paddling adventures.
Laundry Facilities: Laundry facilities are included on the property, providing a convenient amenity for long-term campers or those completing a section of the Appalachian Trail.

### Features and Highlights

Riverfront Campground is highly valued by local users for its unique geographical and recreational highlights, which distinguish it from other regional campgrounds.

Prime Fishing Location: Recognized as one of PA's **leading smallmouth bass fishing camps**, the campground's location at the confluence of the two rivers provides exceptional access to prime fishing waters, attracting serious anglers from across the state.
Direct River Views and Access: Virtually all sites offer **nice views of the river**, creating a picturesque and relaxing backdrop. Direct access to the Susquehanna River is the key feature, perfect for kayaking, tubing, and drift fishing.
Appalachian Trail Gateway: Its close proximity to the Appalachian Trail allows the campground to serve as a vital entry point and support station for local and traveling hikers, often providing shuttle services to help with logistics.
Campfire Experience: Campsites include a **good fire ring**, essential for the traditional camping experience of cooking outdoors and gathering around a fire at night.
Affordable and Laid-Back Vibe: Known for being **affordable** and having a **laid-back, welcoming atmosphere**, it provides a low-stress escape, making it accessible to budget-conscious families and outdoor enthusiasts.

### Contact Information

For reservations, information on watercraft rentals, or shuttle service details, locals can contact Riverfront Campground using the information below.

Campground Name:

Riverfront Campground

Address:

9 Newport Rd, Duncannon, PA 17020, USA

Phone Numbers:

Office/General Inquiries: (717) 834-5252

Mobile: +1 717-834-5252

### Conclusion: Why Riverfront Campground is Suitable for PA Locals

For residents across Central Pennsylvania, Riverfront Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it is a dedicated outdoor activity base camp that perfectly encapsulates the rugged beauty of the Susquehanna Valley. It is uniquely suitable for locals because of its specialization: it is a genuine **fishing and paddling destination** first and foremost. Its prime confluence location offers a level of smallmouth bass fishing that is regionally unparalleled, and the availability of an on-site boat ramp and rental gear means one does not need to be a major gear owner to enjoy the water. The laid-back, "down-to-earth" atmosphere and **affordable pricing** resonate with the practical spirit of Pennsylvania outdoor culture, offering a budget-friendly option without sacrificing the quality of the natural setting. Finally, the commitment of the owner/manager to providing supportive services, such as last-minute site availability and crucial shuttle services for river trips and the Appalachian Trail, makes it a reliable and trustworthy partner for any local planning an adventure in this picturesque region. It represents the best of rustic, accessible, and activity-focused camping right in the heart of Pennsylvania.