Harshbarger's Campground

For Pennsylvania residents seeking a quiet escape into the rural heart of the Commonwealth, Harshbarger's Campground stands as one of Mifflin County’s best-kept secrets. Located in the tranquil countryside just past McVeytown, this campground offers a quintessential central Pennsylvania experience, defined by rolling cornfields, shady woodlots, and the gentle flow of the Juniata River. It is a destination where the pace of life slows down, allowing families to trade the noise of the city for the sounds of nature. Whether you are a local from Lewistown looking for a weekend getaway or a traveler exploring the Juniata River Valley, Harshbarger's provides an authentic, "unplugged" atmosphere that captures the independent and hardworking spirit of the region.

The campground is widely respected for its commitment to safety and tranquility. With a strict 5 mph speed limit throughout the property, the environment is specifically designed to be a safe haven for children and pets. This focus on a slow-paced lifestyle ensures that the roadway leading past the scenic cornfields serves as a transition into a space where relaxation is the priority. The layout of the park takes full advantage of its riverside setting, offering roomy, well-shaded sites that provide both privacy and a sense of community among the seasoned campers who frequent the area. It is the type of place where neighbors recognize one another and the staff maintains a professional yet friendly presence to ensure every guest feels welcome.

Location and accessibility are major draws for those in the Pennsylvania region. Situated in McVeytown, PA 17051, the campground is easily reached via US-22/US-522, making it a convenient drive for residents of State College, Harrisburg, and Altoona. The final approach involves a scenic drive through the farmland of Mifflin County, offering views of the iconic Pennsylvania agricultural landscape before arriving at the riverside property. To ensure that everyone can enjoy the beauty of the Juniata River, the campground features a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a wheelchair-accessible parking lot. This commitment to accessibility reflects the inclusive nature of the local community, ensuring that the great outdoors remains reachable for all.

Harshbarger's Campground offers a practical range of services tailored to the needs of modern RV enthusiasts and traditional campers alike. The emphasis here is on providing reliable essentials that allow for a comfortable long-term stay or a quick weekend trip. The park is well-equipped to handle the logistics of camping, from waste management to power needs, ensuring that guests can focus on the leisure aspects of their visit. The on-site services are maintained with care, reflecting the pride the owners take in their property.

• RV sites equipped with dedicated water and electric hookups.
• On-site septic dump station for the convenience of self-contained units.
• Regular garbage removal services to maintain a clean and pristine environment.
• Clean and maintained restroom facilities available to all guests.
• Hot showers provided on-site for a comfortable camping experience.
• Roomy and level sites designed to accommodate various sizes of RVs and trailers.
• Secure on-site parking for both primary and secondary vehicles.

The features and highlights of Harshbarger's Campground center around its prime location along the Juniata River. This proximity to the water makes it a premier spot for those who enjoy river-based recreation or simply the peaceful aesthetic of a waterfront site. The abundant shade provided by mature trees keeps the campground significantly cooler during the humid Pennsylvania summers, making it a favorite for those who prefer natural temperature control. The combination of rural seclusion and functional amenities makes it a standout choice in the central Pennsylvania camping circuit.

• Direct access to the Juniata River, perfect for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing.
• Spacious, shady sites that provide relief from the summer sun and a sense of privacy.
• A family-centric environment that is safe and welcoming for children of all ages.
• Pet-friendly policies that allow your four-legged family members to join the fun.
• Proximity to the local "Harshbarger’s Sub 'n Malt," a regional favorite for 1950s-themed dining and ice cream.
• Beautiful views of the surrounding Mifflin County countryside and nearby cornfields.
• A quiet atmosphere with strictly enforced quiet hours and speed limits for maximum peace.

For those looking to book a site or inquire about seasonal availability, the management can be reached through their primary office line. It is recommended to call ahead, especially during the peak summer months or during the prime fishing seasons on the Juniata River.

Address: McVeytown, PA 17051, USA

Phone: (717) 899-7625

What makes Harshbarger's Campground worth choosing is its status as a "best-kept secret." While other larger resorts may offer more commercialized entertainment, Harshbarger's offers something increasingly rare: genuine peace and quiet in a beautiful natural setting. It is worth choosing because it respects the tradition of simple, honest camping. You won't find bustling crowds or loud traffic here; instead, you find a well-managed park where the river is the main attraction. For local families, it provides an affordable and safe way to introduce children to the outdoors, all while remaining close enough to the comforts of home and the excellent local dining options McVeytown has to offer.

The commitment to maintenance—from the clean showers to the reliable electric hookups—shows a level of care that regular visitors truly appreciate. If you are a fan of the Juniata River Valley and want a basecamp that feels like a private retreat, this is the place. It serves as an ideal jumping-off point for exploring the local history of Mifflin County or just a quiet corner to sit by the water and watch the river go by. For an authentic Pennsylvania camping experience that prioritizes nature, safety, and tranquility, Harshbarger's Campground is a top-tier choice for your next outdoor adventure.