Campground Area B

For residents of Pennsylvania looking to escape into the heart of the Allens Valley, Campground Area B at Cowans Gap State Park offers a unique and tranquil outdoor experience. Nestled in Todd Township, this specific section of the park is widely regarded by local campers as the more spacious and scenic alternative to the busier loops. Whether you are a weekend warrior from nearby Chambersburg or looking for a week-long retreat in the mountains of Fulton County, Campground Area B provides the perfect backdrop for traditional camping activities. The atmosphere here is deeply rooted in the natural beauty of the 1,085-acre park, which is surrounded by the vast Buchanan State Forest, offering a true sense of seclusion for those who want to "unplug" from the digital world.

The history of this area adds a layer of character to the camping experience. Much of the infrastructure, including the nearby rustic cabins and the dam that created the iconic 42-acre lake, was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) during the 1930s. Today, Campground Area B stands as a testament to that legacy, offering well-integrated sites that respect the natural topography. While the park is a popular destination throughout the summer, Area B is often praised for its quieter midweek atmosphere, particularly during the shoulder seasons like September, when the changing leaves and crisp mountain air create a peaceful sanctuary for those seeking rest and relaxation.

Located in Todd Township, PA 17233, the campground is easily accessible for Pennsylvania travelers via US 30. From the west, many locals prefer taking I-76 to Exit 180 (Fort Littleton) and following US 522 north to Burnt Cabins, where signs clearly lead the way to the park entrance. For those coming from the east, the route through Richmond Furnace via PA 75 is a scenic and straightforward drive. Once inside the park, Campground Area B is located in a position that offers stunning views of Cowans Gap Lake. The roads within the park are paved and well-maintained, though the "sheepish" hills and turns common to the Pennsylvania ridge-and-valley province require careful navigation, especially for those towing larger RVs.

The accessibility features of the park ensure that it remains a destination for everyone. The campground includes on-site parking at each individual site, and the main facilities are designed to accommodate a variety of needs. While the natural terrain of the valley means some sites are situated on slopes, the park management works to maintain gravel pads and clear access paths. For families with children or individuals with mobility considerations, the park's proximity to the Lakeside Trail—a flat, 1.5-mile loop—provides an easy way to enjoy the waterfront without the challenge of steep mountain inclines.

Services offered at Campground Area B are designed to support a modern camping experience while maintaining a rustic feel. Most sites in this loop are equipped with electric hookups, catering to both RV enthusiasts and tent campers who appreciate a bit of extra power. The facilities are noted for being exceptionally clean, with the bathhouses receiving high marks from local visitors. The available services include:

• Electric hookups available at most sites, ranging from 30-amp to 50-amp service.
• Access to modern bathhouses with flush toilets and warm showers.
• Potable water stations conveniently located throughout the loop.
• A sanitary dump station available for RV and trailer maintenance.
• Pet-friendly camping options, as Area B is a designated section where dogs are permitted on specific sites.
• Courtesy boat mooring area for registered campers to keep their watercraft close to the site.
• Fire rings and picnic tables provided at every campsite for outdoor cooking and dining.
• Access to a camp store with concessions, ice, and firewood during peak season hours.

The features and highlights of Campground Area B make it a standout choice for Pennsylvania outdoor lovers. One of the most significant advantages of this loop is the generous spacing between sites compared to Area A. Many sites in Area B back directly up to the woods or offer a direct path down to the lake, providing a private and immersive forest experience. The "star-watching" programs and full moon walks organized by park rangers are a local favorite, taking advantage of the dark skies found in the Allens Valley.

• Direct access to the Lakeside Trail and Plessinger Trail for immediate hiking opportunities.
• A spacious and shaded layout that provides more privacy and tree cover for campers.
• Proximity to the 42-acre Cowans Gap Lake for fishing (walleye, trout, and bass) and boating.
• Seven walk-in tent sites adjacent to Area B for those seeking a more primitive experience.
• Kid-friendly amenities including a playground and a public sand beach for swimming across the lake.
• Spectacular lake views from select sites, particularly sites 180, 184, and 186.
• Close proximity to challenging mountain trails like the Tuscarora Trail and Standing Stone Trail.
• Opportunities for wildlife viewing, including frequent sightings of deer and water snakes along the shoreline.

For those planning a visit, it is important to note that cell service and Wi-Fi are virtually nonexistent within the valley, making it essential to have physical maps or downloaded information before arrival. To make a reservation or check current site availability, you can contact the park office or use the Pennsylvania State Parks reservation system. The primary contact information for the area is as follows:

Address: Todd Township, PA 17233, USA (Cowans Gap State Park, 6235 Aughwick Rd)

Phone: (717) 485-3948

What is worth choosing about Campground Area B is the balance it strikes between convenience and seclusion. For families, it is worth choosing because it is "good for kids," offering a safe environment where the sounds of playing children are a normal part of the daytime atmosphere. For the dedicated hiker or fisherman, it is worth choosing because it places you mere steps away from some of the best trails and water in Fulton County. While some users have noted that sound can carry easily across the water or from neighbor to neighbor, the general consensus among local Pennsylvanians is that the trade-off—a clean, beautiful, and well-managed state park site—is more than worth it.

Ultimately, choosing Area B means opting for the "best of both worlds." You get the modern convenience of electric hookups and clean showers while being surrounded by the wilder elements of the Buchanan State Forest. It is a place where you can spend the morning hiking up a steep ridge for a gorgeous overlook and the afternoon floating on a quiet lake. Whether you are looking for a mid-week peaceful stay or a vibrant weekend family gathering, Campground Area B at Cowans Gap State Park remains one of the most reliable and beloved camping destinations in the Pennsylvania region. Would you like me to look up the specific pet-friendly site numbers for your next reservation?