Perry County Recreation Association

For those living in Central Pennsylvania, the Perry County Recreation Association, commonly referred to locally as the PCRA, represents a long-standing tradition of community-based outdoor fun. Located in the scenic borough of Duncannon, this facility operates as a unique hybrid between a traditional campground and a community recreation organization. It serves as a vital hub for local families, particularly during the humid Pennsylvania summers when the call of the outdoors and the need for a refreshing swimming hole become paramount. As a local user, you will find that the PCRA is deeply woven into the fabric of Perry County life, offering a place where neighbors meet, children play, and the rugged beauty of the Susquehanna Valley is right at your doorstep.

The association is dedicated to providing an affordable and accessible space for recreation. While it captures the rustic charm that defines much of the Duncannon area, it focuses on being a functional resource for the community. The atmosphere is generally laid-back and unpretentious, reflecting the "river town" culture of the region. Whether you are a local resident looking for a seasonal pool membership or a traveler seeking a spot to pitch a tent near the Appalachian Trail, the Perry County Recreation Association provides a factual and grounded environment for your outdoor pursuits. It is a place designed for those who appreciate local roots and the simplicity of mountain-side relaxation.

Location and accessibility are among the primary reasons Pennsylvanians choose this site. Situated at 51 YMCA Drive in Duncannon, PA 17020, the association is tucked away in a wooded setting that feels private yet remains highly accessible from major transit routes. It is conveniently located near US-11 and US-15, making it a straightforward drive for residents of Harrisburg, Marysville, and New Bloomfield. For those who enjoy the local geography, the park sits in the shadow of the surrounding ridges, providing a sense of immersion in nature without requiring a long journey into the deep wilderness. The facility has made strides in inclusivity, offering a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a wheelchair-accessible parking lot to ensure that all community members can participate in the activities.

Accessibility also refers to the ease with which families can utilize the grounds. The on-site parking is ample, allowing for easy loading and unloading of camping gear or pool bags. Being located in Duncannon, the "Hiking Capital of Pennsylvania," the PCRA is also strategically positioned for those who want to spend their day on the nearby trails before returning to a localized base camp. The grounds are laid out to accommodate both day-use visitors and overnight campers, with a management style that emphasizes local community standards and neighborly cooperation.

• Overnight camping sites suitable for those looking for a rustic experience in Perry County.
• Seasonal swimming pool access, providing a vital cooling-off spot for the Duncannon community during the summer months.
• Professional lifeguard services stationed at the pool area to monitor swimmer safety.
• Well-maintained public restroom and restroom facilities accessible to all guests and campers.
• Community association management that oversees the scheduling of local events and facility rentals.
• On-site parking services including dedicated spaces for members and visitors.
• Playground maintenance to ensure a safe and engaging environment for the younger generation.
• Access to communal outdoor spaces perfect for local gatherings, reunions, and family picnics.

The features and highlights of the Perry County Recreation Association are centered on traditional family recreation. The large outdoor swimming pool is arguably the centerpiece of the facility. It is a popular destination for older children and teens who enjoy the brisk, refreshing mountain water. For families with very young children, the presence of a playground on-site is a significant highlight, offering a dedicated space for kids to burn off energy while parents supervise nearby. The "good for kids" designation is a point of pride for the association, as it strives to remain a safe haven for local youth to enjoy unstructured outdoor play.

Another highlight is the wooded nature of the campground itself. The mature trees provide plenty of shade, which is a welcome feature during the peak of a Pennsylvania July. The sites allow for a genuine "under the stars" experience, where the evening air in Duncannon often carries a cool breeze from the nearby river. Because the PCRA functions as an association, there is a distinct sense of ownership and community pride among the regulars, making it a place where you are likely to see familiar faces and build lasting local friendships over the course of a season.

• Large community swimming pool with ample deck space for sunbathing and relaxing.
• Dedicated playground area featuring swings and slides for children’s entertainment.
• Wheelchair-accessible facilities ensuring the park is welcoming to individuals with mobility challenges.
• Strategic location near the Susquehanna River and the Appalachian Trail for expanded outdoor adventure.
• Wooded camping area providing a natural canopy and privacy for overnight guests.
• A family-friendly atmosphere that encourages local community engagement and social interaction.
• On-site restrooms that are centrally located for convenience from the pool and camping areas.
• Association-led environment that focuses on providing affordable recreation for Perry County residents.

For those interested in learning more about membership rates, pool hours, or camping availability, the Perry County Recreation Association can be reached through their local Duncannon office. It is often recommended to call ahead for current pool status and any seasonal updates to ensure your visit aligns with the association's current schedule.

Address: 51 YMCA Dr, Duncannon, PA 17020, USA

Phone: (717) 834-5000

Mobile Phone: +1 717-834-5000

What is worth choosing about the Perry County Recreation Association is the opportunity to support a local institution that prioritizes community space over commercial profit. For many Pennsylvanians, this is a "home-town" choice. It is worth choosing if you value a place where your kids can run around a playground and jump into a pool in a familiar, safe environment. The pool, specifically, is a major draw for local families who want a reliable place to swim without the high costs and crowds of larger commercial water parks. Even when the water is a bit brisk—as mountain-fed pools can be—it provides a classic Pennsylvania summer experience that "older kids" and seasoned swimmers find invigorating.

Furthermore, the PCRA is worth choosing for its convenience. If you live in the Duncannon or Harrisburg area, you don't have to drive for hours to find a quiet, wooded spot to spend the night or a sunny afternoon. It provides a localized escape that respects your time and your budget. Choosing this facility means choosing to be part of a local tradition that dates back years, contributing to the upkeep of a community asset that serves everyone from toddlers to retirees. While the management style is that of a local association, the focus remains on providing a factual and functional space for outdoor recreation. For the local user who wants a straightforward, unpretentious, and family-oriented destination, the Perry County Recreation Association remains a staple of the Perry County outdoors.

In conclusion, the PCRA in Duncannon, PA, is a testament to the importance of community-led recreation. It offers the essential elements of a Pennsylvania summer—trees, tents, and a swimming pool—all in a location that is easy to reach and hard to forget. Whether you are coming for the season or just for a day of splashing in the pool, you are participating in a local legacy that celebrates the best of Duncannon’s community spirit.