Appalachian Campground

appalachian campground shartlesville pennsylvania

For Pennsylvania locals, the call of the wild often means heading to a place where natural beauty meets family-friendly fun. Nestled in the picturesque foothills of the Blue Mountains, Appalachian Campground in Shartlesville, PA, is an established destination that aims to provide just that. Spanning 87 acres in Northern Berks County, this resort offers a diverse range of camping experiences, from traditional tent sites to full-hookup RV spots and cozy cabins, making it a versatile choice for any outdoor enthusiast.

Appalachian Campground positions itself as a comprehensive family camping resort, designed to offer something for everyone, whether you're eight or eighty. The goal is to ensure "camping time is leisure time," with a staff committed to making each vacation enjoyable. While recent reviews present a mixed bag of experiences, with some highlighting areas for improvement, the campground's long-standing presence and its array of advertised amenities suggest a continuous effort to provide a well-rounded and engaging outdoor experience.

The essence of Appalachian Campground lies in its blend of natural setting and recreational opportunities. It’s a place where you can relax by a fishing pond, splash in the pool, or join in on a variety of planned activities. For Pennsylvanians seeking a convenient and activity-rich escape without venturing too far from home, Appalachian Campground invites exploration as a potential hub for creating lasting family memories.

Appalachian Campground is conveniently located at 60 Motel Dr, Shartlesville, PA 19554, USA. This prime location places it directly off a major highway (I-78), making it incredibly easy to access for travelers and locals alike. Despite its proximity to the interstate, many visitors note that it's "easy to get to right off the highway but it wasn't too noisy," suggesting a well-designed layout that minimizes traffic disturbance.

Shartlesville is a small community in Berks County, Pennsylvania, part of the scenic Pennsylvania Dutch Country. This region is known for its rolling farmlands, charming small towns, and rich cultural heritage. The campground’s setting in the foothills of the Blue Mountains provides a beautiful natural backdrop, offering opportunities for scenic drives and enjoying the rural landscape.

The accessibility of Appalachian Campground extends beyond just the highway. Within a 10-minute drive, campers can find "National chains and local businesses," including various retail options in nearby Hamburg (which also boasts a large Cabela's store). This proximity to essential services ensures that campers can easily restock supplies, grab a bite to eat, or explore local attractions without venturing too far from their campsite. Nearby recreational opportunities include hiking, mountain biking, and boating, with places like Hawk Mountain Sanctuary and various state game lands offering additional outdoor adventures.

Appalachian Campground aims to provide a full-service camping experience with a variety of offerings for its guests:

• Diverse Site Options: The campground offers a wide range of accommodation choices, including 315 total spaces, with RV sites (50' super pull-thru sites, 45' back-in sites, 25' wooded sites), tent sites, and on-site rentals. RV sites provide full hook-ups with 30/50 Amp electric, water, and sewer connections.
• Cabin and Cottage Rentals: For those without an RV or tent, the campground offers camping cabins and cottages, which can include amenities like bathrooms and kitchens in some models.
• On-site Store & Restaurant/Snack Bar: A convenient store is available for basic necessities and camping supplies. There's also a snack bar or restaurant on the property, providing easy meal options. Reviews specifically mention an "Icecream shop was a favorite."
• Laundry Facilities: For longer stays, on-site laundry facilities are typically available to ensure convenience.
• Propane (LP Gas) Sales: Campers can purchase propane on-site, a crucial service for RV users.
• Wi-Fi Access: Wi-Fi is available, though often fee-based, allowing campers to stay connected if needed.
• Pet-Friendly Policies: Pets are generally welcome, with some restrictions, allowing families to bring their furry companions along.
• Sanitary Dump Station: A dump station is available for RVs without full hook-ups.

Appalachian Campground prides itself on its extensive array of features and recreational highlights, designed to keep campers of all ages entertained:

• Fishing Pond: A central attraction, the campground features a stocked fishing pond (with a bait vending machine), which is a "big hit" according to reviews.
• Swimming Pools: There are two swimming pools and a kiddie pool, typically open from Memorial Day through Labor Day, providing ample opportunity to cool off and have fun.
• Mini Golf: A mini-golf course is available for friendly competition, though one review noted it wasn't "very well maintained" at a particular time.
• Arcade/Game Room: An indoor game room and arcade provide entertainment, especially on rainy days.
• Sports Courts: Facilities for various sports include a sand volleyball court, basketball, shuffleboard, and horseshoe pits.
• Playgrounds: Dedicated playground areas offer safe and engaging spaces for younger campers.
• Planned Activities & Events: The campground boasts an Activities Director and a full schedule of planned events throughout the season, including Bingo nights, craft shows, live entertainment (DJs, bands), themed weekends (e.g., Christmas in July, Dino Weekend, Margaritaville Weekend), and tournaments.
• Spacious Sites: Many sites are described as "spacious with plenty of space" and "nice large pull through with FHU," offering comfort and privacy.
• Community S'mores Area: A designated area for community s'mores fosters social interaction and a classic camping experience.
• Paved/Gravel Roads: Internal roads are a mix of paved and gravel, generally in good condition, ensuring easy navigation within the park.

Appalachian Campground, as part of the Encore RV Resorts/Thousand Trails network, offers various ways for campers to save and extend their stays. While specific, short-term promotions may vary, long-term value can be found through:

• Membership Programs: Thousand Trails offers Camping Passes and Cabin Passes, allowing members to camp at their network of resorts (including Appalachian) for a low annual price with no nightly fees. Enhanced memberships offer even longer booking windows and park-to-park access.
• Seasonal and Annual Sites: For those looking for a more permanent camping solution, discounted yearly rates are available for seasonal or annual RV sites, providing a guaranteed spot and a sense of community.
• Extended Stay Rates: Special pricing may be available for stays longer than 35 days, which can be inquired about by calling the resort directly.

It's always recommended to check the official Thousand Trails or Appalachian Campground website and contact their reservation line for the most current information on rates, availability, and any specific promotions or membership benefits that might apply to your travel plans.

For reservations, inquiries, or additional information about Appalachian Campground, you can use the following contact details:

Address: 60 Motel Dr, Shartlesville, PA 19554, USA

Phone: (610) 488-6319

Toll-Free Reservation Line: 877-570-2267 (for special rates on seasonal/annual sites and extended stays)

Their website, often found through Thousand Trails or Good Sam, will provide resort maps, detailed amenity lists, and online reservation options.

For Pennsylvania locals, Appalachian Campground in Shartlesville offers a comprehensive and accessible option for outdoor recreation and family fun. Its strategic location directly off I-78 ensures an "easy to get to" journey from many parts of the state, minimizing travel time and maximizing leisure. Despite its highway proximity, the campground generally maintains a peaceful atmosphere, allowing for a genuine escape into nature's embrace.

The extensive list of amenities and activities is a major draw for families. The "frog pond" and available fishing are hits, as are the ice cream shop and arcade. The presence of two swimming pools, mini-golf, multiple sports courts, and playgrounds ensures that children and adults alike will find plenty to keep them entertained. The robust schedule of planned activities and themed weekends, from "Dino Weekend" to "Christmas in July," fosters a vibrant community spirit and adds significant value to a stay, making every visit a unique experience.

While some recent reviews, particularly from one long-term past visitor, have expressed significant concerns about declining conditions, cleanliness, and management since pre-2018, it's important to consider that other, more recent reviews (e.g., from May 2025) still highlight "Nice sites with plenty of space," "Great restaurant and ice cream shop," and "staff are very friendly and accommodating." As with any large resort, experiences can vary. However, the sheer breadth of offerings—from diverse site types including cabins to a full calendar of engaging events—shows a commitment to being a destination. For Pennsylvanians prioritizing a wide array of on-site activities and easy access to local attractions in a scenic setting, Appalachian Campground remains a strong contender. Prospective visitors are encouraged to read recent reviews and consider contacting the campground directly to address any specific concerns, ensuring their stay aligns with the positive experiences many still enjoy.

Appalachian Campground

60 Motel Dr, Shartlesville, PA 19554, USA