Campground Area A Introduce

For residents of Pennsylvania looking to immerse themselves in the natural splendor of the Appalachian mountains, Campground Area A in Todd Township stands as a quintessential choice for outdoor recreation. Located within the sprawling boundaries of Cowans Gap State Park, this specific camping loop is widely recognized for its balance of accessibility and rugged beauty. Todd Township, situated primarily in Fulton County, provides a serene backdrop of deep forests and rolling ridges, making it a favorite getaway for local families from across the Commonwealth. This area serves as a gateway to the broader Buchanan State Forest, offering a sense of seclusion while remaining an integral part of Pennsylvania's award-winning state park system.

The allure of Campground Area A lies in its integration with the unique geography of Allens Valley. As a part of a 1,085-acre park, the campground is centered around a picturesque 42-acre lake, which serves as the social and recreational heart of the facility. For local Pennsylvanians, this site is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it is a historic landmark built largely by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) during the Great Depression. The craftsmanship of the stone walls and cleared trails reflects a legacy of conservation that continues to be maintained for modern generations to enjoy. Whether you are looking for a quiet weekend of birdwatching or an active holiday centered around water sports, this location in Todd Township provides the infrastructure to support a wide range of outdoor interests.

Location and accessibility are two of the strongest selling points for Campground Area A. Situated in Todd Township, PA 17233, the campground is conveniently located just off PA Route 75, making it easily reachable from major Pennsylvania hubs like Chambersburg or Huntingdon. For those navigating larger vehicles, the park's roads are well-maintained to accommodate the transition from the highway to the forest interior. Once inside the park, visitors find that Area A is strategically positioned to provide quick access to the beach and main park office while remaining tucked enough into the woods to maintain a quiet atmosphere. The campground layout is designed with modern conveniences in mind, ensuring that both local weekenders and long-haul travelers can find their way to their designated sites with minimal stress.

Services offered at Campground Area A focus on ensuring a comfortable and functional stay for all types of campers. Recognizing that modern users often require reliable utilities even in a rustic setting, the campground provides several key services designed to enhance the visitor experience. These include:

  • Modern electric hookups at various sites to support RVs and powered camping equipment.
  • Ample on-site parking specifically designed to accommodate primary camping units and additional passenger vehicles.
  • Clean, central restroom facilities featuring flush toilets and hot showers for guest convenience.
  • Designated fire rings at each site to ensure safe and traditional evening campfires.
  • Provision of heavy-duty picnic tables at every individual campsite for outdoor dining and gatherings.
  • Easy access to potable water stations distributed throughout the campground loop.
  • Assistance from park rangers and staff who monitor the area to ensure safety and provide local guidance.

The features and highlights of Campground Area A make it a standout destination in the South Central Pennsylvania region. From the natural wonders of the surrounding forest to the man-made amenities designed for family fun, there is no shortage of things to do. Guests can enjoy a diverse array of highlights, such as:

  • Extensive hiking trail networks, including 13 miles of paths ranging from easy lakeside strolls to the difficult Cameron Trail which ascends Cove Mountain.
  • Direct proximity to the Cowans Gap Lake beach, which is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing during the summer months.
  • A variety of water-based activities, including non-powered and electric-powered boating, with rowboats and paddleboats available for rent on-site.
  • Excellent fishing opportunities for trout, bass, and panfish in both the lake and the nearby Little Aughwick Creek.
  • Dedicated playground areas that make the campground particularly "good for kids," allowing children to play safely in a natural environment.
  • Winter recreation options such as cross-country skiing, ice fishing, and ice skating, making it a year-round destination.
  • Educational programs and environmental workshops led by park staff to help visitors connect with Pennsylvania's local flora and fauna.

For those interested in booking a stay at Campground Area A or seeking specific information about seasonal availability and site dimensions, the following contact information is essential. It is highly recommended that Pennsylvania residents use the central reservation system, especially during the peak trout and deer seasons when sites fill up quickly.

Address: Todd Township, PA 17233, USA (Located within Cowans Gap State Park)

Reservations can be made through the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) portal or by calling the toll-free park reservation line at 888-PA-PARKS. For specific inquiries regarding the Todd Township area and park-specific alerts, visitors can contact the park office directly during standard business hours.

What is worth choosing when it comes to Campground Area A? For many Pennsylvania locals, the answer lies in the sheer versatility of the experience. Choosing this location means you don't have to sacrifice comfort for adventure. The availability of modern electric sites within such a rugged, historic landscape provides a "best of both worlds" scenario. It is a place where you can spend your morning on a challenging mountain hike and your afternoon relaxing in a climate-controlled RV or enjoying a hot shower at the modern bathhouse.

Furthermore, the campground's reputation as a family-friendly hub makes it an invaluable asset for those with children. The proximity of the playground to the campsites and the safety provided by on-site parking and park staff allow for a worry-free vacation. The natural beauty of Todd Township, combined with the professional management of the DCNR, ensures that the environment is both pristine and accessible. Whether you are coming for the world-class trout fishing or the simple joy of a lakeside sunset, Campground Area A offers a quintessential Pennsylvania experience that is well worth the choice for your next outdoor excursion. The combination of historical CCC architecture, modern utilities, and diverse recreational paths makes it one of the most reliable and rewarding camping destinations in the region.

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Customer Reviews

5.0
1 reviews
A
Andrew Lehman
Oct 21, 2025