Camp Furnace Hills

Nestled in the lush, rolling landscapes of Lancaster County, Camp Furnace Hills serves as a quintessential destination for outdoor enthusiasts and youth groups throughout the Pennsylvania region. Located in Denver, PA, this campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it is a vibrant center for leadership, history, and natural exploration. Operated by the Girl Scouts in the Heart of Pennsylvania (GSHPA), the property spans a beautifully wooded acreage that offers a peaceful retreat for local residents and visiting groups looking to reconnect with the environment and Pennsylvania’s rich cultural heritage.

For those living in the Keystone State, Camp Furnace Hills is often synonymous with first-time camping memories. The site is designed to foster a "progressive" outdoor experience, meaning it provides various levels of comfort ranging from modern lodges with full amenities to more rustic, traditional camping setups. This makes it an ideal spot for younger children or beginner campers who might be intimidated by a purely primitive experience. The atmosphere is one of community and learning, where the heritage of the Swiss-German settlers who once inhabited this area is celebrated alongside modern outdoor skills.

Accessibility is a priority at Camp Furnace Hills, ensuring that the joys of the Pennsylvania outdoors are available to everyone. The campground features a wheelchair-accessible entrance and on-site parking lots designed for easy navigation. Modern restroom facilities are strategically located to serve the various lodging units, and many of the main gathering areas are prepared to accommodate visitors with mobility needs. Its location at 300C Project Drive puts it within easy reach of major Pennsylvania thoroughfares, making it a convenient getaway for a weekend trip or a day-long educational excursion.

• Year-round lodging in the Foxfire Program Center, a modern lodge accommodating up to 30 guests with central heating and full kitchen facilities.
• Seasonal rustic cabins like the New Frontiers unit, providing a traditional wooden-shelter experience for up to 24 campers.
• Authentic platform tent sites such as Ferndell and Pioneer, perfect for a classic summer camping trip under the stars.
• The unique "Covered Wagons" units, which offer a pioneer-style experience combined with modern luxuries like air conditioning and electricity.
• Whispering Winds house, a fully equipped residential-style building for groups seeking a more domestic camping environment.
• Specialized troop houses like Hickory House, designed for large group indoor camping with basic kitchen amenities.
• Professional summer camp organization services, including guided programs and counselor-led activities during peak months.
• On-site parking available for both day visitors and overnight guests.

The highlights of Camp Furnace Hills are deeply rooted in its connection to the local environment and history. One of the most distinctive features is the Foxfire House, an early 19th-century Swiss-German stone bank house listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Here, visitors can participate in historical programming that teaches traditional skills like hearth cooking, weaving, and paper cutting. Beyond history, the camp is a hub for active recreation, featuring well-maintained trails that link up with the famous Horse-Shoe Trail, allowing for extensive hiking adventures through the Pennsylvania Highlands.

• The historic Foxfire House and Barn, where guests can step back in time to experience 1800s rural Pennsylvania life.
• Extensive hiking trails that are specifically designed to be kid-friendly, encouraging younger explorers to discover local flora and fauna.
• A dedicated Gaga Ball pit, a high-energy local favorite for group games and physical activity.
• An archery range where campers can practice their focus and precision under the guidance of certified instructors.
• Proximity to the Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area, a premier spot for bird watching and observing the annual snow geese migration.
• Organized conservation projects, such as tree planting and trail maintenance, which allow groups to leave a lasting positive impact on the land.
• Picnic areas and fire circles located at every unit, perfect for evening campfire songs and traditional s'mores.
• Direct access to the Horse-Shoe Trail for long-distance hikers and nature photographers.

For those interested in booking a stay or learning more about the seasonal programs offered at this Denver landmark, the main office can be reached at (800) 692-7816. The staff is available to provide details on rental policies, badge workshops, and summer camp registration. The physical address for the campground is 300C Project Dr, Denver, PA 17517, USA. It is recommended to contact the office well in advance, especially for weekend rentals during the spring and fall seasons when the Lancaster County foliage is at its peak.

What makes Camp Furnace Hills truly worth choosing is its incredible versatility and commitment to education. While many campgrounds offer a place to sleep, Furnace Hills offers a place to grow. For local families and troop leaders, the "Mommy and Me" sessions and family camp weekends provide a structured yet flexible way to enjoy the outdoors without the stress of planning every detail. The staff's expertise in youth development ensures that every hike and every campfire is an opportunity for children to build confidence and teamwork skills in a safe, supportive environment.

Furthermore, the variety of lodging options is a major draw. You can choose the level of "roughing it" that suits your group’s needs, whether that means a climate-controlled lodge or a platform tent that lets you hear the sounds of the Pennsylvania woods at night. The addition of the Conestoga-style covered wagons has added a whimsical and educational layer to the property, making it one of the few places in the region where you can sleep like a pioneer with the comfort of modern HVAC. Whether you are coming for the history of the Foxfire House or the challenge of the hiking trails, Camp Furnace Hills provides an authentic, high-quality outdoor experience that remains a cornerstone of the Pennsylvania camping community.