Lickdale Campground

Lickdale Campground, also widely recognized as the Jonestown/Hershey NE KOA Journey, is a premier outdoor destination located in the heart of Lebanon County, Pennsylvania. For local residents and travelers alike, this campground serves as a perfect balance between a convenient roadside stop and a deep-nature retreat. Set along the scenic banks of the Swatara Creek, the property offers a peaceful woodsy atmosphere that belies its incredible proximity to major transportation routes. It is a place where the morning mist over the creek meets the convenience of modern amenities, making it a favorite for Pennsylvania families looking to explore the Dutch Country Roads region.

The campground is designed to accommodate a wide spectrum of outdoor enthusiasts. From "big rig" RV travelers needing long pull-thru sites to traditional tent campers seeking a grassy spot under the canopy of mature trees, the layout provides a sense of privacy and community simultaneously. Its reputation in the region is built on its dual identity: a quiet sanctuary for bird watching and fishing during the weekdays, and a vibrant, activity-filled hub for families on the weekends. As a year-round facility, it offers a rare opportunity for Pennsylvanians to experience the beauty of the changing seasons, from the lush greens of summer to the crisp, quiet beauty of a snowy winter landscape.

Location and accessibility are perhaps the most significant advantages of Lickdale Campground. Situated at 11 Lickdale Road in Jonestown, PA, the park is less than 1,000 feet from Exit 90 off Interstate 81. This makes it an ideal "base camp" for those planning to visit Hersheypark, Chocolate World, or the Hollywood Casino, all of which are just a short 25-minute drive away. Furthermore, the campground is located directly adjacent to the 3,750-acre Swatara State Park. This proximity allows guests to access miles of hiking and biking trails, including the famous Swatara Rail Trail, without ever needing to move their vehicle. For those coming from Harrisburg or Lancaster, the commute is effortless, providing a quick escape into the wilderness of the Swatara Valley.

The services offered at Lickdale Campground are comprehensive, aimed at providing a high-quality "KOA Journey" experience. The management focuses on onsite convenience so that guests can spend more time relaxing and less time running errands. The staff is noted for their friendly service and helpful site escorts, ensuring that even first-time campers feel at home. The professional service package includes:

• Full-service RV accommodations with both 30-amp and 50-amp electrical hookups and sewer connections.
• Well-lit after-hours check-in services for travelers arriving late from the nearby interstates.
• An onsite general store and gift shop stocked with camping essentials, souvenirs, and local treats.
• Professional canoe, kayak, and tube rentals with a dedicated livery service for exploring the Swatara Creek.
• Onsite dining options featuring a snack bar with a diverse menu, including their locally famous chicken wings and hard-dipped ice cream.
• High-speed Wi-Fi and cable TV access available at most RV sites to keep guests connected during their stay.
• Propane (LP gas) refilling station and firewood delivery directly to your campsite.
• Year-round availability for cabin rentals and RV sites, catering to "snowbirds" and winter adventurers.

The features and highlights of the park are centered around its natural setting and family-friendly recreation. The integration of the Swatara Creek into the campground's design provides a unique aquatic playground that defines the summer experience here. Whether it is the splash of a tube hitting the water or the laughter of children on the jumping pillow, the park is filled with highlights such as:

• Direct creek access for fishing, wading, and relaxing by the water on specialized "creekside" patio sites.
• A dedicated splash pad and "fun foam" parties during the peak summer months for younger guests.
• A large "Jumping Pillow" and a barrel train (the KOA Train) that provides daily entertainment for children.
• A private dog park and "pet-friendly" sundaes at the ice cream shop, ensuring four-legged campers are pampered.
• A historic-style camp store featuring Turkey Hill brand hand-dipped ice cream and unique "dirt sundaes."
• Spacious, level pull-thru sites (up to 100 feet) that can accommodate the largest modern RVs and toy haulers.
• Modern and exceptionally clean restroom and shower facilities that are frequently praised by guests.
• A recreational hall and game room for indoor fun on rainy days or during the off-season.

For those ready to plan their next Pennsylvania outdoor excursion, the contact information for Lickdale Campground is straightforward. The office is generally open daily, though hours may vary during the winter season. It is recommended to book in advance for holiday weekends or during major events in nearby Hershey.

Address: 11 Lickdale Rd, Jonestown, PA 17038, USA
Phone: (717) 865-6411
Reservation Line: 1-800-562-2609

What is worth choosing when considering a stay at Lickdale Campground? For the local Pennsylvania user, the value lies in the "hassle-free" nature of the experience. Choosing this park means you are choosing a location that is remarkably easy to get to, yet offers immediate access to one of the most beautiful state parks in the region. The ability to rent a kayak at your campsite, float down the Swatara Creek, and have a shuttle pick you up and bring you back to your fire pit is a level of convenience that is hard to find elsewhere. It is also worth choosing for the food alone; many locals stop by just for the ice cream shop or the perfectly cooked wings, which have earned a dedicated following in the Jonestown area.

Furthermore, the reliability of a KOA-managed facility means you can count on clean bathrooms and professional standards year-round. While some sites near the front of the park may experience road noise from Route 72, the "creekside" sites and the deeper wooded sections offer a profound sense of tranquility. Whether you are using it as a convenient stopover while traveling through Lebanon County or as a multi-day base for a Hershey vacation, Lickdale Campground provides an authentic and high-quality Pennsylvania camping experience. It is a place where tradition meets convenience, making it a staple of the local community for generations.

Would you like me to find the current seasonal rates for the creekside RV sites or check the local water levels for kayaking on the Swatara Creek?