Nancy's Camp Boat to Shore

For Pennsylvania outdoor enthusiasts seeking a true escape from the hum of modern traffic, Nancy's Camp Boat to Shore offers a camping experience that is literally off the beaten path. Located in the heart of the Raystown Lake region in James Creek, this campground is a rare gem in the Commonwealth’s park system. What distinguishes Nancy's Camp from almost any other local destination is its total seclusion; the site is accessible exclusively by boat. This "boat-to-shore" model ensures a level of tranquility and natural immersion that drive-in campgrounds simply cannot match, making it a favorite for local boaters, anglers, and backcountry campers who want to wake up to the gentle sounds of the water lapping against the hull and shore.

Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the campground serves as a testament to the rugged beauty of Pennsylvania’s Ridge and Valley province. The atmosphere here is professional yet deeply rooted in the "no-frills" camping tradition. Because the site is removed from public roadways, the air is clearer, the nights are darker for stargazing, and the connection to the surrounding oak-hickory forest is immediate. Whether you are navigating the waters in a motorized vessel or paddling in by kayak, the journey to Nancy's Camp is the first step in a memorable adventure that showcases the very best of Raystown Lake’s 118 miles of shoreline.

Location and accessibility are the most critical factors to understand when planning a trip to Nancy's Camp. Situated on the western shore of Raystown Lake, halfway between mile markers 15 and 16, the campground is tucked into a scenic slope near James Creek, PA 16657. It is important for local users to remember that there is no motor vehicle access to the campsites. To reach the camp, most visitors utilize the nearby public launch areas which provide a smooth transition from the road to the water. The surrounding mountains and cliffs provide a dramatic backdrop, creating a sense of being deep in the wilderness while remaining within the safety and oversight of the Army Corps of Engineers park rangers.

• Access is strictly by watercraft. The most convenient launch points for local residents are the James Creek Boat Launch (accessible via PA-994) and the Aitch Boat Launch (accessible from PA-26).
• The campground is open year-round, though accessibility during the winter months may be limited by lake ice or water levels.
• Reservations are mandatory during the peak season, which typically runs from early April through late October.
• Outside of the peak reservation season (November through March), camping is often available free of charge, though services are further reduced.
• Ample vehicle and trailer parking is available at the mainland boat launches, allowing you to leave your car securely behind as you head to the site.

The services offered at Nancy's Camp Boat to Shore are intentionally primitive, catering to self-sufficient campers who enjoy a "back-to-basics" approach. You will not find electric hookups or paved pads here; instead, the service model focuses on maintaining the natural integrity of the 50 designated campsites. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers provides consistent ranger patrols to assist campers and ensure safety, creating a secure environment even in such a remote location. While the amenities are simple, recent updates to the shoreline walls and fire rings ensure that the infrastructure remains functional and clean for all guests.

• Traditional tent sites that are either open and grassy or nestled within the mature timber for added shade and privacy.
• Essential campsite equipment at each plot, including a heavy-duty fire ring and a sturdy picnic table.
• Public restroom facilities in the form of well-maintained vault toilets (non-flush) located throughout the camping loops.
• Shoreline mooring is permitted for free along the campground frontage for those with a valid camping reservation.
• Access to potable water and full shower facilities is available via a short boat ride to the nearby Seven Points Beach area.
• Ranger assistance and daily patrols to check on campers, provide information, and maintain park regulations.

The features and highlights of Nancy's Camp are centered on its unique "boat-in" status and its prime location on Pennsylvania’s largest lake. For the local angler, the highlight is the ability to roll out of a tent and be on the water during the prime early-morning hours when striped bass and muskies are most active. For families, the highlight is the private, communal atmosphere where children can explore the shoreline safely away from moving cars. The campground’s elevation provides diverse landscapes, from sunny slopes to sheer cliffs that offer spectacular views of the Raystown Branch of the Juniata River.

• True Waterfront Camping: Many sites sit directly on the water’s edge, allowing you to keep your boat within sight and reach at all times.
• Remote Seclusion: The absence of motor vehicles means noise pollution is practically non-existent, especially during the quiet weekdays.
• Excellent Connectivity: Despite the remote feel, many campers report reliable cellphone service (3-4 bars on major networks), which is a helpful safety feature.
• Recent Infrastructure Upgrades: The Army Corps of Engineers recently completed work on new shore walls and fire rings to improve the guest experience.
• Diverse Recreation: Beyond boating, the camp provides access to nearby hiking on the Terrace Mountain Trail and excellent birdwatching opportunities.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: Dogs are welcome, allowing the whole family to enjoy the lakeside retreat together.

To ensure a successful trip, it is highly recommended to check current lake conditions and reservation availability before departing. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers manages the site through the Raystown Lake Project Office. While the campground address is often listed as James Creek, the administrative office is located in nearby Hesston. Whether you need a map of the 50 sites or details on the current drawdown status of the lake, the local rangers are the best source for up-to-the-minute information.

• Physical Location: James Creek, PA 16657, USA (West shore of Raystown Lake, near marker 15).
• Project Office Phone: (814) 658-3405.
• Reservations: Handled through Recreation.gov or by calling (877) 444-6777.
• Emergency Services: Contact the park rangers or local authorities via 911; response times may be longer due to the boat-in nature of the site.

What is worth choosing at Nancy's Camp Boat to Shore is the rare sense of ownership over your outdoor experience. In an age of crowded RV parks and pre-fab camping resorts, Nancy’s offers a return to the authentic Pennsylvania wilderness. It is worth choosing for the unmatched convenience of having your boat ready to go at a moment's notice, and for the peace that comes with knowing the only way anyone can reach your site is by water. For the local camper who values solitude, professional ranger oversight, and the unique thrill of a boat-in adventure, Nancy's Camp is arguably the premier primitive destination in the region.

Ultimately, the choice to camp at Nancy's is a choice for quality and quiet. It is the perfect spot for those who want to experience Raystown Lake without the crowds of Seven Points or the noise of traditional campgrounds. Whether you are taking advantage of the free off-season camping in the crisp Pennsylvania March or enjoying a sunny summer weekend on the grass-covered slopes, Nancy's Camp Boat to Shore delivers a "backcountry" experience with just enough of the essential amenities to keep you comfortable. It is a true local treasure that highlights why Pennsylvania remains a leader in outdoor recreation.