United Zion Camp Grove

United Zion Camp Grove is a hidden treasure located in the serene countryside of Manheim, Pennsylvania. For over a century, this historic campground has served as a cornerstone for spiritual renewal, community fellowship, and family bonding. Spread across a picturesque wooded landscape, the "Grove" offers a unique blend of rustic simplicity and essential modern facilities. It is particularly well-known among local residents as a premier destination for church retreats, youth camps, and large-scale family reunions that require a peaceful atmosphere away from the distractions of everyday life.

The campground is characterized by its distinctive layout, featuring over 75 individual tiny cabins that harken back to the traditional "camp meeting" style of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These cabins are often individually owned, giving each structure its own unique personality and history. The overarching environment at United Zion Camp Grove is one of tranquility and worship, where the sound of rustling leaves and the calls of local wildlife provide a natural soundtrack for reflection. Whether you are organizing a formal religious retreat or simply looking for a quiet place to host a multi-generational gathering, this location provides the space and spirit to make your event memorable.

Location and Accessibility

Conveniently situated at 2298 Camp Rd, Manheim, PA 17545, USA, United Zion Camp Grove is easily accessible for residents across the Pennsylvania region. It is nestled in the woods between fertile Lancaster County farmland and the state game lands near Mount Gretna. This location offers the perfect "middle ground"—it feels deeply secluded and private, yet it is only a short drive from major hubs like Lancaster, Lititz, and Hershey. For those visiting from further afield, the camp is within a 30-minute drive of the Harrisburg International Airport, making it a viable destination for regional conferences.

The facility is committed to being inclusive and accessible to all guests. It features a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a spacious, free on-site parking lot that can accommodate large groups and buses. Modern accessibility extends to the essential facilities as well, with wheelchair-accessible restrooms and paved pathways leading to the main assembly buildings. The grounds themselves are largely flat around the central meeting areas, though some of the surrounding hiking trails offer more varied terrain for those looking for a light physical challenge in the outdoors.

• Free on-site parking lot with ample space for large groups.
• Wheelchair-accessible entrance and assembly areas.
• Strategic location near Mount Gretna and the Lebanon Valley Rail Trail.
• Proximity to major Lancaster County attractions like Root's Country Market.

Services Offered

United Zion Camp Grove operates as a multifunctional retreat center, providing a variety of services designed to support group dynamics and individual comfort. The primary focus is on providing high-quality communal spaces that can be adapted for diverse needs. The services offered include:

• Cabin Rentals: A variety of individually owned cabins are available for private rental. Because these are owned separately, guests can find a range of options from basic rustic shelters to more modern units equipped with A/C, heat, and refrigerators.
• Event Venue Rentals: The camp features a large Fellowship Hall and a Tabernacle, perfect for worship services, seminars, and wedding receptions.
• Retreat Hosting: Specialized support for youth retreats, offering access to the dining hall and meeting rooms that can comfortably seat hundreds of people.
• Commercial Kitchen Facilities: A fully-equipped dining hall is available for groups to prepare and serve communal meals, a staple of the camp experience.
• On-Site Maintenance: Staff are available to ensure the grounds and public facilities remain clean and functional throughout your stay.

Features and Highlights

The "Grove" is more than just a place to stay; it is a center for activity and recreation. The grounds are packed with features that cater to both high-energy youth and adults seeking a quiet corner for conversation. Highlights of the facility include:

• Expansive Gymnasium: A massive indoor space that includes a full basketball court and multiple volleyball courts, ensuring that activities can continue regardless of the weather.
• Outdoor Recreation: The property includes a ball field and dedicated areas for outdoor volleyball and team-building games.
• Playground and Kid-Friendly Areas: A well-maintained playground with slides and swings makes it a favorite for families with young children.
• Scenic Hiking Trails: On-site walking trails lead through the woods, offering "kid-friendly" hikes that connect guests with the local flora and fauna.
• Picnic Facilities: Scattered throughout the grove are picnic tables and designated areas for outdoor dining and fellowship.
• Spiritual Atmosphere: The historic Tabernacle remains a focal point for worship, providing a sacred space for music and teaching.
• Community-Focused Design: The close proximity of the cabins fosters a unique sense of "neighborliness" and safety that is rare in modern vacation spots.

Contact Information

Because many of the cabins are privately owned, it is recommended to contact the camp office well in advance to inquire about facility rentals or to obtain a list of available cabin owners for lodging. The professional staff can provide details on pricing, availability, and specific amenities for the assembly halls.

• Address: 2298 Camp Rd, Manheim, PA 17545, USA
• Phone: (717) 336-5282
• Local/Mobile Phone: +1 717-336-5282

What is Worth Choosing

United Zion Camp Grove is worth choosing if you are looking for an "authentic" Pennsylvania retreat experience that prioritizes community over commercialism. One of the most significant advantages of this location is the flexibility it offers for large groups. Unlike a standard hotel or commercial campground, the combination of a high-capacity gymnasium, professional-grade dining hall, and affordable lodging makes it one of the most cost-effective options in Lancaster County for youth groups and non-profit organizations. It is the kind of place where kids can safely ride their bikes while adults sit on cabin porches and talk, recapturing a sense of community that many feel has been lost in the digital age.

Furthermore, it is worth choosing for its proximity to some of the best nature trails in the state. Guests are just a few minutes' drive from the Governor Dick observation tower, where a short hike rewards you with a 66-foot climb and panoramic views that stretch all the way to Lancaster. The camp's history as a place of "worship and peace" remains palpable today, making it a top-tier choice for those who want their outdoor adventure to include a spiritual or reflective component. If you value a quiet setting, friendly staff, and the charm of a rustic cabin in the woods, United Zion Camp Grove is a local landmark that truly delivers on the promise of a peaceful getaway.