Chinquapin Hill Campground

Nestled within the lush, rolling landscapes of South Mountain, Chinquapin Hill Campground offers an authentic Pennsylvania outdoor experience for locals and visitors alike. As a key feature of the historic 1,125-acre Caledonia State Park, this campground serves as a gateway to the Pennsylvania Wilds and the rich heritage of Franklin and Adams counties. Residents of the Commonwealth often look for destinations that combine rustic charm with modern convenience, and Chinquapin Hill delivers exactly that. Surrounded by towering oak and pine trees, the campground provides a shaded sanctuary where the air is cool and the sounds of nature replace the hum of suburban life.

For Pennsylvania families, Chinquapin Hill is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it is a seasonal tradition. The campground is renowned for its mountain-side setting, which provides a sense of verticality and seclusion rarely found in flatter coastal regions. Whether you are a dedicated hiker looking to conquer a section of the Appalachian Trail or a family seeking a weekend of poolside relaxation and evening campfire stories, this destination caters to a diverse range of outdoor interests. The professional management under the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) ensures that the natural beauty is preserved while providing top-tier amenities for a comfortable stay.

Location and accessibility are standout benefits for those residing in South Central Pennsylvania. Chinquapin Hill Campground is conveniently located in Fayetteville, PA, directly along the historic Lincoln Highway (US 30). This prime location places it midway between the bustling centers of Chambersburg and Gettysburg, making it an ideal home base for those wishing to explore the historic battlefields or local orchards during the day before retreating to the woods at night. For local travelers, the campground is easily reached within a two-hour drive from both Harrisburg and the Maryland border, providing a quick transition from the city to the forest.

The campground itself is designed with inclusivity in mind. It features a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a paved parking lot, ensuring that the beauty of the South Mountain region is available to everyone. Once inside the park, many of the primary facilities are interconnected by well-maintained roads and paths. Guests should note that because the campground is built into a hill, some sites feature a slight incline, which local campers often use to their advantage to gain better views of the surrounding forest. The proximity to local stores—within roughly two miles—ensures that even the most secluded-feeling campsite is never too far from necessary supplies or emergency services.

Chinquapin Hill Campground is a full-service facility that has undergone significant modernization to meet the needs of today’s campers. Whether you are bringing a high-tech RV or a traditional canvas tent, the services offered are designed to provide a seamless outdoor living experience. The following services are available to all guests:

• Comprehensive RV camping options, including dedicated sites with 30-amp and 50-amp electrical service.
• Full-hookup sites that provide integrated water, sewer, and electric connections for maximum convenience.
• On-site firewood sales, often managed via a convenient community honor system, ensuring your campfire never goes out.
• Sanitary dump station facilities for RV travelers, located conveniently near the campground exit.
• Professional park ranger presence and staff-led educational programs at the nearby amphitheater.
• Regularly maintained public restroom and hot shower facilities that have been recently renovated for modern comfort.
• Reservation services through the state park system, allowing locals to secure their favorite spots up to 11 months in advance.

The features and highlights of Chinquapin Hill make it one of the most sought-after loops within Caledonia State Park. Its layout and proximity to park highlights ensure that there is never a dull moment. Key highlights of the campground include:

• Direct access to miles of hiking trails, including a portion of the world-famous Appalachian Trail which bisects the park.
• A large, ADA-accessible swimming pool featuring a water slide and a snack bar, located within walking distance of the sites.
• Kid-friendly amenities including a dedicated playground with slides, swings, and nearby shallow water streams for splashing.
• Spacious picnic areas equipped with barbecue grills and sturdy picnic tables for large family gatherings.
• An amphitheater that hosts weekend movies and interpretive programs about Pennsylvania’s diverse wildlife.
• Pet-free environment specifically in the Chinquapin Hill loop, ensuring a quiet atmosphere for those who prefer a stay without barking or pet-related allergens.
• Historic charm, with nearby attractions like the Thaddeus Stevens Blacksmith Shop and old furnace ruins within the park grounds.
• Excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, where it is common to spot white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and a variety of woodland birds.

If you are ready to plan your next weekend getaway in the South Mountain region, the staff at Chinquapin Hill is ready to help you find the perfect site. It is recommended to book early, especially during the autumn apple harvest season when the surrounding orchards are in full bloom and the fall foliage is at its peak.

Address: Fayetteville, PA 17222, USA (Located within Caledonia State Park)

Phone: (717) 352-2161

Mobile Phone: +1 717-352-2161

When considering where to spend your leisure time in Pennsylvania, Chinquapin Hill Campground is worth choosing because it represents the perfect balance of recreation and relaxation. Unlike more commercialized campgrounds, Chinquapin Hill maintains the integrity of the state park experience, focusing on the natural environment while still providing the "creature comforts" like hot showers and full RV hookups. For many Pennsylvanians, the value of staying in a state-managed facility is the assurance of quality and the knowledge that your visitor fees go directly back into preserving the Commonwealth’s natural resources.

The "pet-free" status of the Chinquapin Hill loop is a significant draw for many. While Pennsylvania is a very pet-friendly state, having a designated area that is guaranteed to be quiet and free of domestic animals allows for a different level of immersion in the forest sounds. Furthermore, the sheer variety of nearby activities—from golfing on the historic 18-hole park course to trout fishing in the East Branch Conococheague Creek—means that everyone in your group will find something to love. Whether you are a local from Franklin County or traveling from across the state, Chinquapin Hill provides a high-quality, affordable, and memorable escape that captures the true spirit of Pennsylvania camping.