Cherokee Campground & Family

For those seeking a genuine outdoor escape in the heart of the Cumberland Valley, Cherokee Campground & Family offers a tranquil 20-acre retreat designed for nature lovers and families alike. Located in Gardners, Pennsylvania, this campground—formerly known as Tag Run—immerses visitors in a lush, fully wooded landscape that provides ample shade and a true forest atmosphere. It is a destination where the simplicity of traditional camping meets the needs of modern travelers, making it a popular choice for local Pennsylvanians looking for an affordable weekend getaway or a seasonal home away from home.

The campground is well-regarded for its welcoming, community-centric environment. Whether you are pitching a tent under the canopy of mature trees or pulling in with a luxury RV, the atmosphere is geared toward relaxation and clean, quiet fun. The property borders the legendary Appalachian Trail, placing world-class hiking right at your doorstep. For families, the park serves as a hub of activity with its swimming pool, playground, and seasonal events, while remaining peaceful enough for those who simply want to sit by a campfire and listen to the sounds of nature. It is a place where neighbors often become friends, creating a sense of a close-knit family community that spans generations.

Accessibility and location are among the strongest attributes of Cherokee Campground & Family. Situated at 200 Pine Grove Rd in Gardners, the park is conveniently positioned just a short drive from several major Pennsylvania hubs. Residents of Gettysburg, Harrisburg, and Carlisle find the campground to be an easy commute, with drive times typically ranging from 25 to 35 minutes. This central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the rich historical and cultural landscape of South Central Pennsylvania. The entrance is designed to be accessible, featuring a wheelchair-accessible parking lot and restrooms to ensure all guests can enjoy the facilities with ease.

The surrounding region offers a wealth of recreational opportunities. Being just minutes away from Pine Grove Furnace State Park, campers have easy access to the refreshing waters of Fuller Lake and Laurel Lake for swimming and boating. The campground's proximity to the Carlisle Fairgrounds also makes it a favorite spot for enthusiasts attending the region's famous car shows. For those who want to blend their outdoor experience with education, the proximity to the Gettysburg National Military Park and the Appalachian Trail Museum provides endless opportunities for day trips that are both engaging and historically significant.

Cherokee Campground & Family provides a wide array of onsite services and amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. The facility caters to all levels of "roughing it," from primitive tent sites to full-service RV hookups and cozy cabin rentals. The onsite "Snack Shack" and camping store provide essential supplies and quick meals, ensuring you don't have to leave the woods for the basics. Furthermore, the management is committed to giving back to the community, frequently hosting fundraising events for organizations such as St. Jude Children’s Hospital and local fire companies.

• Diverse camping options including tent sites, RV sites with electric/water/sewer hookups, and various sized cabins.
• Onsite Snack Shack serving a full menu of hot food, including popular pancakes and bagels.
• A well-stocked camping store providing firewood, ice, LP gas, and basic groceries.
• Modern payment convenience accepting major credit cards, debit cards, and mobile payments.
• Sanitary dumping station for RV travelers and onsite trash management.
• Professional onsite services including administrative support and maintenance.
• Seasonal site opportunities for those looking for a semi-permanent summer residence.

The features and highlights of Cherokee Campground & Family are centered on active recreation and family-friendly entertainment. The park boasts a beautiful saltwater pool that is a favorite during the warm summer months. For the younger campers, the facility includes a playground with slides and swings, as well as a game room for rainy-day entertainment. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy the basketball court or participate in horseshoe tournaments, while nature lovers can explore the miles of hiking trails that intersect the property.

• Direct access to the Appalachian Trail for hiking and nature walking.
• A clean saltwater swimming pool with a sun deck for relaxation.
• Extensive playground facilities featuring multiple slides and swings for children.
• Onsite basketball court and horseshoe pits for friendly community competition.
• Pet-friendly policies that allow dogs to join in the family camping adventure.
• Wi-Fi access available in designated areas for guests who need to stay connected.
• Quiet, wooded sites that offer privacy and a scenic "forest-first" aesthetic.
• Regularly scheduled family activities including wagon rides and themed events.

If you are planning a visit or have questions regarding seasonal availability and cabin rentals, the staff at Cherokee Campground & Family is available to assist. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for holiday weekends like the 4th of July, when the park often hosts special displays and events for its guests.

• Address: 200 Pine Grove Rd, Gardners, PA 17324, USA
• Phone: (717) 448-2852
• Mobile Phone: +1 717-448-2852

What is worth choosing about Cherokee Campground & Family is the exceptional value for money and the genuine, friendly atmosphere that defines the experience. In an area known for its high-priced tourist resorts, this campground remains an affordable option that doesn't compromise on the quality of the natural setting. It is worth choosing for the stunning 20-acre wooded landscape alone, which provides a level of shade and seclusion that is rare in many modern RV parks. Whether you are a hiker looking for a basecamp near the Appalachian Trail or a parent searching for a safe, kid-friendly environment where your children can run free, Cherokee delivers a classic Pennsylvania camping experience.

Additionally, the location serves as a perfect "middle ground" for those who want to see the sights of Gettysburg or Hershey during the day but return to a quiet, star-filled sky at night. While it is a simple facility, it provides the necessary infrastructure to make memories that last a lifetime. From the quick service at the Snack Shack to the warmth of a fire made with wood bought right on-site, the convenience factors are high. For those who appreciate a place where dogs are welcome and the owners go out of their way to make you feel like family, Cherokee Campground & Family is a premier choice in the Gardners region. Would you like me to help you look up the specific dates for the upcoming fundraising events or car shows nearby?