Susquehannock Campground - U.S. Army Corp of Engineers

For Pennsylvanians who yearn for a true escape into nature, where the focus is on starry nights, crackling campfires, and the serene beauty of a vast lake, Susquehannock Campground – managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – offers an ideal rustic retreat. Nestled by the picturesque Raystown Lake in Hesston, PA, this campground provides a back-to-basics experience that allows you to truly disconnect and immerse yourself in the great outdoors.

We know that sometimes, the best vacations are the ones that strip away the distractions and bring us closer to what truly matters. Susquehannock Campground excels at this, offering an environment where the natural beauty of the lake and surrounding forests takes center stage. As one satisfied camper noted, "This is rustic camping at its best! We use a tent only and often find it a challenge to find nice level sites. This campground had great tent sites -- even the waterfront sites are tent suitable. Didn't realize that the whole camp was non electric and no running water at the sites. Potable water is available at the camp entrance. Showers are only available at 7 Points campground which was about a five min drive. But once we got past the lack of amenities in this campground we found the scenic lake and the area had so much to offer! Really beautiful, with great hiking and swimming. Wish we had brought our boat." Another reviewer praised the upkeep and proximity to trails: "Nice campground and clean bathrooms. Park rangers care and do their job and people come around and clean the restroom every day. Too close to other sites for my liking but worth it being so close to the lake and mountain bike trails." These testimonials confirm that while the amenities are minimal, the natural setting and the quality of the experience more than make up for it.

If you're a Pennsylvania local seeking a peaceful lakeside camping adventure with ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, Susquehannock Campground is a must-visit destination that promises beauty and tranquility.

Susquehannock Campground is beautifully situated on Susquehannock Rd, Hesston, PA 16647, USA, directly on the shores of Raystown Lake. Raystown Lake is a massive, 8,300-acre lake in Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania, known for its deep, clear waters, forested shores, and abundance of recreational opportunities.

For Pennsylvania residents, accessing Raystown Lake and Susquehannock Campground is relatively straightforward. The lake region is well-connected by state routes, making it a manageable drive from major population centers across the state. Once in the Hesston area, the campground can be found off well-marked roads leading to the lake's various recreation areas. While the campground itself is described as "rustic," its proximity to the lake means that you are immersed in natural beauty the moment you arrive. The fact that showers are available at the nearby "7 Points campground which was about a five min drive" indicates that essential facilities are still conveniently accessible. This balance of a rustic lakeside setting with nearby support amenities makes Susquehannock an ideal spot for locals who want to feel truly "away from it all" without being completely isolated. Its location within the greater Raystown Lake Recreation Area ensures easy access to the extensive network of trails, boat launches, and other outdoor pursuits that the region is famous for.

• Rustic Campsites: Susquehannock Campground offers a classic rustic camping experience. It's important to note that the "whole camp was non electric and no running water at the sites." This means campers must be prepared for a more primitive setup.
• Tent-Friendly Sites: Reviewers specifically highlight that the campground has "great tent sites -- even the waterfront sites are tent suitable," which is a significant advantage for traditional tent campers often frustrated by uneven or gravel-only sites.
• Potable Water Access: While not at individual sites, "Potable water is available at the camp entrance." Campers should bring containers to transport water to their sites.
• Clean Bathrooms: Despite the rustic nature, the campground provides "clean bathrooms." This is a crucial amenity for comfort in a non-electric setting. Park rangers are noted to "come around and clean the restroom every day," ensuring high standards of hygiene.
• Shower Access (Nearby): Showers are "only available at 7 Points campground which was about a five min drive." This provides a convenient option for campers to clean up while maintaining the rustic feel of Susquehannock itself.
• Fire Rings/Grills: Most campsites in US Army Corps of Engineers campgrounds typically include a fire ring or grill for cooking and campfires (when permitted).
• Picnic Tables: Individual campsites generally come with a picnic table for convenience.
• Lake Access: The campground's location on Raystown Lake provides direct access to the water for various activities, including swimming and boating.
• Park Ranger Presence: Reviewers commend that "Park rangers care and do their job," suggesting a well-managed and secure environment where rules are enforced for the benefit of all campers.

• Scenic Lakeside Setting: The primary highlight is its "scenic lake and the area had so much to offer! Really beautiful" location directly on Raystown Lake. This provides stunning views and immediate access to water-based recreation.
• Rustic Camping Experience: For those who love "rustic camping at its best," Susquehannock delivers. It's ideal for campers seeking to truly disconnect from modern conveniences and immerse themselves in nature.
• Excellent Tent Sites: The campground is particularly well-suited for tent campers, offering "nice level sites" including "waterfront sites" that are specifically "tent suitable."
• Abundant Outdoor Recreation: The surrounding Raystown Lake region is a mecca for outdoor activities. Campers have access to "great hiking and swimming." The area is also famous for "mountain bike trails" (as noted in reviews for similar nearby campgrounds), fishing, and boating.
• Well-Maintained Facilities: Despite being rustic, the "clean bathrooms" and daily cleaning by park rangers are a significant plus, ensuring a comfortable and hygienic stay.
• Proximity to 7 Points Campground Amenities: The short 5-minute drive to 7 Points Campground for showers means campers can enjoy the rustic charm of Susquehannock while still having access to an important modern amenity when needed.
• Boating Opportunities: The lake is perfect for boating, as one reviewer lamented not bringing their boat. This suggests a great environment for various watercraft.
• Managed by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers: Being managed by the USACE often implies well-preserved natural areas and a focus on responsible recreation.

As a campground managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Susquehannock Campground typically operates under a standardized fee structure rather than offering traditional commercial "promotions" or "special offers." The value here is in the affordable access to a well-maintained, scenic natural area.

However, for Pennsylvania locals, there are specific federal pass programs that can provide discounts on camping fees at US Army Corps of Engineers facilities:

• America the Beautiful – The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass Series: This pass series includes several options that can offer discounts:
  • Annual Pass: Covers entrance fees and standard amenity fees for federal recreation sites.
  • Senior Pass: U.S. citizens or permanent residents 62 years or older can purchase a lifetime pass that provides a 50% discount on camping fees at federal campgrounds.
  • Access Pass: For U.S. citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities, this free lifetime pass also offers a 50% discount on camping fees.
  • Military Pass: A free annual pass available to current U.S. military members and their dependents.
  • Fourth Grade Pass: The Every Kid Outdoors program offers a free annual pass to fourth graders and their families.
• No Specific Seasonal Discounts: Do not expect seasonal discounts or "buy-one-get-one" offers like you might find at private campgrounds. The fees are generally consistent throughout the operating season.
• Reservation System: Reservations for US Army Corps of Engineers campgrounds are typically made through recreation.gov. Checking this platform will provide the most accurate and current pricing.

The true "offer" of Susquehannock Campground lies in its inherent natural beauty and the opportunity for affordable, rustic camping in a truly spectacular part of Pennsylvania. Always check the official recreation.gov website or contact the Raystown Lake Project Office for the most current information on fees, availability, and pass benefits.

For reservations, inquiries about camping, or information regarding Susquehannock Campground and the Raystown Lake Project, please use the following contact details:

• Address: Susquehannock Rd, Hesston, PA 16647, USA
• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Raystown Lake Project Office Phone: (814) 658-6809 or +1 814-658-6809
• Website for Reservations: Reservations for Susquehannock Campground (and other USACE campgrounds) are typically made via recreation.gov. Searching for "Susquehannock Campground Raystown Lake" on this platform will lead you to the booking page.

It is highly recommended to make reservations well in advance, especially for popular weekends and during peak season, as sites can fill up quickly. Calling the Project Office can also provide valuable information regarding current lake conditions, trail access, and specific campground rules.

For Pennsylvania residents, Susquehannock Campground at Raystown Lake is an exceptionally suitable destination for anyone seeking an authentic, rustic outdoor experience within our beautiful state. It offers a perfect antidote to the fast pace of modern life, providing a serene lakeside retreat that encourages true connection with nature.

Its primary appeal for locals lies in its genuine "rustic camping" atmosphere. While it lacks electricity and running water at individual sites, this very simplicity is its strength, allowing campers to truly disconnect and appreciate the natural surroundings. The availability of "great tent sites" – even waterfront ones – is a significant advantage, particularly for those who prefer tent camping and often struggle to find ideal spots. As one satisfied camper noted, despite the minimal amenities, the "scenic lake and the area had so much to offer! Really beautiful, with great hiking and swimming." This sentiment perfectly captures the value proposition for Pennsylvanians: a stunning natural environment that provides ample opportunities for recreation right from your campsite.

Furthermore, the commitment to cleanliness, with "clean bathrooms" and daily visits from park rangers, ensures a comfortable and well-managed experience, despite the primitive setting. Its proximity to 7 Points Campground for showers offers a convenient touch of modern comfort without compromising Susquehannock's wild charm. For any Pennsylvanian who cherishes the outdoors, loves the call of the lake, and is ready for a back-to-basics adventure filled with hiking, swimming, and the simple joys of camping, Susquehannock Campground is a truly special place to make lasting memories right here in our own backyard.