AT Campground

The AT Campground, often referred to as the Boiling Springs Backpackers Campsite, serves as a vital transition point for hikers traversing the Cumberland Valley section of the Appalachian Trail. Located in the picturesque town of Boiling Springs, Pennsylvania, this campground is specifically designed to accommodate the needs of long-distance hikers and outdoor enthusiasts who are moving through the region's famous "long flat" stretch. Unlike traditional commercial RV resorts, this site offers a more primitive, backcountry-oriented experience that prioritizes proximity to the trail and the local village infrastructure. For many thru-hikers, it marks the last legal camping spot before heading north across the wide, exposed farm fields of the Cumberland Valley toward the Darlington Shelter.

For Pennsylvania residents looking for a local adventure, the AT Campground provides a unique opportunity to witness the vibrant culture of the Appalachian Trail. The atmosphere is one of camaraderie and transition, as it sits at the edge of the historic village of Boiling Springs. This location allows campers to enjoy the tranquility of a wooded site while remaining just a short walk away from the town’s famous Children’s Lake and local fly-fishing spots. While the site is known for its proximity to active railroad tracks, it remains a popular choice for those who want a convenient, no-cost stopping point that allows for an early morning departure into the surrounding state game lands or a quick walk into town for a hot breakfast.

Accessibility is one of the standout features of this location. Situated directly on the Appalachian Trail corridor in the 17007 zip code, the campground is easily reached by foot for hikers heading northbound from the Alec Kennedy Shelter or southbound from the Duncannon area. For those arriving by vehicle to support hikers or explore the local trail sections, there is on-site parking available nearby. The terrain around the campsite is relatively flat, reflecting the geography of the Cumberland Valley, which makes it accessible for various fitness levels. It is a frequent stop for families taking short weekend backpacking trips because the hike from the nearest road crossings is manageable and well-marked with the iconic white blazes of the AT.

• Designated tent camping areas specifically tailored for backpackers and thru-hikers.
• Wi-Fi access available in select areas, allowing hikers to check weather reports and coordinate logistics.
• On-site parking for those using the campground as a trailhead for day hikes or section hikes.
• Pet-friendly policies that welcome dogs, provided they are kept under control and follow trail etiquette.
• Proximity to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy’s Mid-Atlantic Regional Office for hiker information and registration.
• Walking access to the village of Boiling Springs for laundry, mail drops, and grocery resupply.
• Open 24 hours a day, providing flexibility for hikers arriving late in the evening.

The highlights of the AT Campground are deeply tied to its surroundings. Being situated in Boiling Springs means campers are just steps away from some of the best fly fishing in Pennsylvania on the Yellow Breeches Creek. The town itself is a historic treasure, featuring architecture from the 18th and 19th centuries. Another major highlight is the site's role as a "bail-out" point; since camping is restricted on many of the private lands and state game lands immediately to the north, this campground serves as a necessary sanctuary for those timing their trek through the valley. Additionally, the availability of Wi-Fi in such a rustic setting is a rare luxury that helps hikers stay connected during their journey through the Pennsylvania woods.

• Direct access to the Appalachian Trail, making it a "step-off-and-stay" location.
• A family-friendly environment that is great for introducing children to the concept of backpacking and tent camping.
• Located within walking distance of the Boiling Springs Tavern and local cafes for off-trail dining.
• Close proximity to Children’s Lake, a beautiful spot for photography, bird watching, and relaxing by the water.
• On-site parking that facilitates easy drop-offs and pick-ups for section hikers.
• A flat, mowed area that provides easy pitching for various types of tents and ultralight shelters.
• Strategic location near the midpoint of the entire 2,190-mile Appalachian Trail.

If you need to reach the AT Campground or are looking for more information about trail conditions and camping regulations in the Boiling Springs area, the site is located at Boiling Springs, PA 17007, USA. While the campground is a primitive outdoor space without a dedicated front desk, it is managed in coordination with the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC). Hikers and visitors can contact the ATC Mid-Atlantic Regional Office at (717) 258-5771 for general inquiries. The office is located at 4 East First Street in Boiling Springs, just a short walk from the camping area, and is a great resource for maps and local hiking advice.

Choosing the AT Campground is worth it for the hiker who prioritizes convenience and community over total seclusion. While the nearby train tracks are a known factor that may require earplugs for a sound night's sleep, the trade-off is unparalleled access to one of Pennsylvania’s most charming trail towns. It is a place where you can set up your tent, walk into town for a world-class meal, and return to your site without ever needing a car. For local Pennsylvanians, it is a perfect spot to experience the "hiker bubble" during the peak spring and summer months, offering a front-row seat to the spirit of the Appalachian Trail. The simplicity of the site, combined with the essential amenities like Wi-Fi and parking, makes it a practical and memorable stop in the Cumberland Valley.

Ultimately, the AT Campground represents the classic Pennsylvania outdoors—a mix of rugged trail life and small-town hospitality. Whether you are a thru-hiker looking for a free place to rest before the next big climb or a local resident wanting to spend a night under the stars near the Yellow Breeches, this campsite offers a functional and scenic home base. Its status as the only designated backpacker campsite in this specific stretch of the Cumberland Valley makes it an indispensable part of the local hiking infrastructure, ensuring that the legacy of the Appalachian Trail continues to thrive in central Pennsylvania.