Sara’s Campground

- 50 Peninsula Dr, Erie, PA 16505

For Pennsylvanians who dream of waking up to the sound of waves and having the beach as their backyard, Sara’s Campground in Erie, PA, is a must-visit destination. Situated in an absolutely unbeatable location, this campground offers a truly unique experience, providing direct access to the shores of Lake Erie and the gateway to the stunning Presque Isle State Park. Unlike many other campgrounds across the Commonwealth that are nestled in the woods, Sara’s is known for its distinctive two-sided layout, offering both rustic, first-come, first-served tent camping directly on the beach (Lakeside) and more traditional, reservation-friendly RV and trailer camping on the wooded side (Bayside).

The core appeal of Sara’s Campground for local users is its prime real estate. You are quite literally at the epicenter of Erie’s summer fun, wedged between the natural beauty of the 12-mile Presque Isle peninsula and the exhilarating rides of Waldameer Amusement Park and Water World. This location elevates a simple camping trip into a complete, action-packed Pennsylvania vacation. While customers often note that the sites, particularly for RVs, can be "a little tight to maneuver" and are "very close," the atmosphere is consistently described as "cozy and friendly," with a staff that is "polite and accommodating." The blend of direct beach access, proximity to major attractions, and a welcoming, family-focused atmosphere makes Sara’s Campground an iconic and highly sought-after camping experience in Northwest PA.

The management’s dedication to a great guest experience is evident in their operations, from the clear information packets provided upon arrival to the efforts to maintain clean facilities, even during peak season when the park can get quite busy. The combination of its unrivaled location and commitment to service ensures that Sara’s Campground remains a favorite for seasonal campers and weekend warriors alike, drawing visitors from across Pennsylvania eager for a lakefront adventure.

The location of Sara’s Campground is its defining characteristic and a major selling point for any Pennsylvania resident. The address, 50 Peninsula Dr, Erie, PA 16505, places it directly on the main road leading into Presque Isle State Park, the jewel of Pennsylvania’s state parks system.

This means campers at Sara’s have unparalleled access to the park’s 12 miles of public beaches, bike paths, and nature trails, often only a short walk or bicycle ride away. Moreover, the campground is adjacent to Waldameer Amusement Park and Water World, an old-school Pennsylvania amusement park that offers free admission and affordable fun for the whole family. This proximity means you can walk to an amusement park one day and spend the next day on the sandy shores of Lake Erie, all without moving your vehicle.

Accessibility from across Pennsylvania is excellent, with easy travel directions from I-90 and I-79, making it a straightforward drive for visitors from Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, or the Central PA region. While the tight maneuvering space for larger RVs is a noted consideration, the benefit of being literally "on the beach" and adjacent to the region’s biggest attractions far outweighs the minor challenges for most local travelers looking for a premium vacation spot. The convenience of having an on-site restaurant, general store, and souvenir shop right at the entrance further solidifies its status as a destination campground.

Sara’s Campground provides essential services and diverse site options to cater to various camping preferences, ensuring a comfortable stay for both RV and tent campers from Pennsylvania.

• Diverse Campsites: Offering over 100 campsites, including open and wooded sites, back-in RV sites, and unique tent sites located directly on the Lake Erie beach.
• Full Hookups for RVs: Designated Bayside RV sites provide full hookups with 30/50 amp electric service, water, and sewer connections, plus Cable TV and Wi-Fi access on most sites.
• Pet-Friendly Camping: Pets are permitted on a leash in the wooded Bayside area of the campground (though strictly prohibited on the Lakeside/beach tent sites).
• Clean Restrooms and Showers: Providing clean, well-maintained restroom and shower facilities for all guests (note: showers are coin-operated, typically $0.25 for five minutes).
• Laundry Facilities: On-site laundry services are available, offering a practical amenity for longer stays.
• General Store and Dining: Features an on-site general store for necessities like firewood, ice, and camping supplies, along with nearby restaurants and food options, including Stevo's Pizza.
• Security Gate: Offering added peace of mind with a security gate entrance to the property.

The combination of natural setting and recreational access creates a set of highly desirable features that are hard to find elsewhere in the Pennsylvania camping landscape.

• Direct Beach Camping Access: The signature feature is the Lakeside area, which allows for first-come, first-served tent camping directly on the beautiful sands of the Lake Erie beach, providing a truly 'on the water' experience.
• Adjacent to Presque Isle State Park: Located right at the park's entrance, providing effortless access to the bike paths, hiking trails, fishing areas, and famous sunsets of this vital Pennsylvania natural resource.
• Next to Waldameer Amusement Park: The proximity to Waldameer and Water World means a day of roller coasters and water slides is just a short, convenient walk away.
• Waterfront Recreation: Unfettered access to Lake Erie and the bay for swimming, watersports, and fishing, allowing campers to fully utilize the magnificent Great Lake.
• Family Recreation Area: Features a playground, game room, basketball court, and outdoor games to keep children and families entertained within the campground.
• Campfires on the Beach: Campfires are permitted on the beach (in fire rings and designated areas), offering the classic, relaxing experience of a bonfire by the water under the Pennsylvania stars.
• Seasonal Site Options: Offers seasonal sites, making it possible for local residents to establish a long-term summer retreat with a view of Lake Erie.

For reservation inquiries, checking on first-come, first-served site availability, or general questions, local users can use the following contact information:

Address: 50 Peninsula Dr, Erie, PA 16505, USA

Primary Phone: (814) 833-4560

Alternative Phone: +1 814-833-4560

Sara’s Campground is an excellent choice for Pennsylvania locals looking for a memorable, high-value camping destination, primarily due to its non-replicable location. For residents from Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, or Western PA, this is the most convenient way to experience true lakefront camping on the Great Lakes without crossing state lines.

The sheer accessibility to Presque Isle and Waldameer means local families can maximize their vacation time, spending less time driving to attractions and more time enjoying the sand, water, and fun. The campground’s dual nature, offering both rugged, beautiful tent camping directly on the beach and full-service RV spots on the wooded Bayside, provides options for every comfort level. While guests appreciate the friendly staff and clean facilities, the ultimate draw is the experience of having Lake Erie right outside the door, offering views and sunset experiences often compared to more distant, coastal destinations. By providing an action-packed vacation hub right on the water, Sara’s Campground offers Pennsylvania residents an annual retreat that perfectly balances the natural beauty of the state with incredible family convenience and excitement. It is a true local gem that delivers an unforgettable Great Lakes camping experience.

Sara’s Campground

50 Peninsula Dr, Erie, PA 16505, USA