Camp Golden Pond

For Pennsylvanians seeking a truly special place to connect with nature, develop outdoor skills, or host memorable group events, Camp Golden Pond in Petersburg offers a unique and enchanting experience. This isn't just a typical campground; it's a cherished natural haven with a rich history, once a beloved Girl Scout Camp, now managed by the Friends of Golden Pond with a mission to promote leadership and youth development through safe, affordable camp experiences. Imagine a tranquil setting nestled in the mountains, with the beautiful Lake Louise at its heart, providing a backdrop for both serene relaxation and exciting outdoor adventures.

Camp Golden Pond is celebrated for its diverse lodging options, ranging from rustic cabins and "tabins" (wooden-framed structures with tent flap sides) to large lodges perfect for groups. It's a place where you can truly immerse yourself in the outdoors, whether you're paddling on the lake, hiking through forested trails, or participating in a specialized outdoor enrichment program. What truly makes this place magical, as noted by visitors, is the combination of knowledgeable trainers for skill-building weekends, the serene natural beauty, and the welcoming atmosphere for all types of visitors, from Girl Scout troops to families and event organizers. For locals looking for a versatile and inspiring outdoor destination that blends education, recreation, and community, Camp Golden Pond is a hidden gem in central Pennsylvania.

The commitment to providing an environment that fosters courage, confidence, and an appreciation for the outdoors is at the core of Camp Golden Pond's mission. It’s a place where individuals and groups can learn valuable skills, unwind in a picturesque setting, and create lasting memories, all while being surrounded by the natural splendor of Pennsylvania.

Location and Accessibility

Camp Golden Pond is located at 5126 Eberle Rd, Petersburg, PA 16669, USA. This address places it in a beautiful rural and mountainous setting within central Pennsylvania, offering a genuine sense of escape into nature. The camp is nestled by Lake Louise, adding a serene waterfront element to its natural charm.

While providing a secluded feel, Camp Golden Pond is surprisingly accessible for Pennsylvanians. It's approximately a half-hour drive from Penn State University, making it a convenient lodging option for those attending events in the State College area, including football games and other university functions. This proximity allows locals to enjoy the tranquility of the camp while still being able to access the amenities and attractions of a larger town. The rural roads leading to the camp are well-maintained, ensuring a smooth journey. The area around Petersburg is rich in natural beauty, with nearby attractions such as Stone Valley Forest and Whipple Dam State Park offering additional opportunities for hiking, biking, and outdoor exploration. For Pennsylvania residents, Camp Golden Pond strikes an ideal balance, providing a peaceful and immersive outdoor experience that is nevertheless within a practical driving distance from various parts of the state and major regional hubs.

Services Offered

• Diverse Lodging Units:
  • Legacy Lodge: Large open floor plan, accommodates up to 60 overnight guests (mattresses on floor) or 150 daytime guests. Features a full commercial kitchen, two fireplaces, restrooms/showers, and access to an outdoor fire ring and covered porch.
  • Hemlock House: A 2-bedroom cabin with carpet, large bathroom with shower, heat, and air-conditioning. Sleeps 8-10 guests. Features a kitchen (stove, limited pots/pans/dishes), dining area, oversized living room, and a covered wrap-around porch with Lake Louise view. Access to outdoor fire ring.
  • Palmer-Tussey & Palmer Barree: Rustic camp lodges with amenities and heat.
  • Serendipity: Primitive and rustic unit with 7 "tabins" (wooden framed structures with metal roof and tent flap sides), sleeping 25. Includes a bathhouse (4 showers, 3 flush toilets), kitchen pavilion (propane stovetop, potable water, picnic tables), and a fire circle (grill, benches, wood stocked).
  • Unit II: 7 individual cabins (most sleep 6, one sleeps 8) surrounding a pavilion and bathhouse (toilets only). Cabins have bunks, tables, electric lights, and an outlet. Shared kitchen pavilion (propane stovetop, potable water, picnic tables) and fire circle.
  • Family Camping Option: Available seasonally (May 1 - October 15) in outer units, can be rented by the cabin with shared usage of a pavilion and bathhouse (toilets only). Pavilions include electricity, outdoor kitchen with refrigerator, and fire ring.
• Kitchen Facilities: Various units offer full commercial kitchens (Legacy Lodge), equipped kitchens (Hemlock House), or outdoor kitchen pavilions with propane stovetops and running water (Serendipity, Unit II, Family Camping Option).
• Bathrooms and Showers: Provided in various units, ranging from full bathrooms with showers (Hemlock House, Legacy Lodge) to bathhouses with multiple showers and flush toilets (Serendipity) or toilets only (Unit II, Family Camping Option).
• Outdoor Fire Rings/Pits: Available at most lodging units.
• Firewood: Available upon request by the wheelbarrow for a fee; campers can also burn downed wood found on site. Bringing outside wood is prohibited.
• Watercraft Rentals: Canoes and kayaks are available for rent by the hour (includes paddles, life vests, rescue gear). Certified boating instructors available for a fee.
• Archery Range: Available for rental (April 1 - October 15) with targets and equipment. Requires a certified facilitator (can be provided for a fee).
• Educational Workshops: Offers various outdoor skill workshops including knot tying, fire building, campfire cooking (stick, Dutch oven, box oven, pie iron, flowerpot), and tree identification.
• Trash Disposal: Guests are expected to take their trash with them upon checkout, or use the on-site dumpster in the parking lot.
• Parking: One car per unit allowed; additional cars must park in the main parking lot.

Features / Highlights

• Lake Louise Access: Direct access to Lake Louise for paddling, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing.
• Ideal for Group Events: Legacy Lodge and other facilities are perfect for family reunions, weddings, corporate retreats, and youth group events, accommodating large numbers.
• Girl Scout & Youth Group Focused: Has a strong history as a Girl Scout camp and continues to offer programs and facilities tailored for youth development and outdoor education.
• Adult Enrichment Weekends: Offers specialized weekends for adults to learn outdoor skills like campfire cooking, knot tying, and fire building in a supportive environment.
• Variety of Rustic Accommodation: From traditional cabins to unique "tabins," providing diverse experiences for different comfort levels.
• On-Site Outdoor Activities: Kayaking, canoeing, archery, and hiking trails directly on the property.
• Beautiful Natural Setting: Located in a rural, mountainous area with scenic forest surroundings.
• Proximity to Penn State: Convenient lodging option for Penn State events.
• Year-Round Lodges: Some lodges with amenities and heat are available year-round, allowing for cold-weather camping.
• Knowledgeable Trainers/Facilitators: Especially for skill-based programs, guests benefit from expert guidance.

Promotions or Special Offers

Camp Golden Pond, being managed by the non-profit Friends of Golden Pond, focuses on providing affordable and enriching experiences rather than traditional commercial promotions. Their "special offers" are often embedded in their program structure and rental rates for various groups. For instance, youth groups typically receive lower rates for lodging and activity rentals (e.g., archery range, watercraft) compared to non-youth groups.

The Adult Outdoor Enrichment Weekends are a key highlight, offering an all-inclusive fee that covers programming, meals (cooked outdoor style), and overnight lodging from Friday to Sunday, or a day fee for Saturday-only participation. This structured offering provides significant value for individuals seeking to enhance their outdoor skills in a supportive environment. While there might not be explicit "discounts" in the common retail sense, the organization aims to keep costs low to ensure accessibility for youth groups and families, aligning with their mission. For specific details on rates for your group size, duration of stay, or any seasonal pricing, it is always recommended to directly contact Camp Golden Pond or visit their official "Friends of Golden Pond" website, as prices for various units (lodges, outer units, family camping) and activities are listed there based on group type and season.

Contact Information

Address: 5126 Eberle Rd, Petersburg, PA 16669, USA

Phone: (814) 769-9314 (as listed on their non-profit's contact page)

Email: contact@friendsofgoldenpond.org (General Inquiries) or dawnwolfhope@gmail.com (for program-related questions, as seen for adult enrichment)

Mailing Address: 13036 Honeysuckle Lane, Mapleton Depot, PA 17052

Website: https://www.friendsofgoldenpond.org/ (for detailed information and reservation inquiries)

For reservations, information on specific lodging units, availability for group events, or details about their outdoor enrichment programs, please contact Camp Golden Pond directly using the provided phone number or email addresses. It is highly recommended to visit their website for the most comprehensive and up-to-date information on rental policies, camp rules, and program offerings. Due to the varied nature of their facilities and programs, direct communication will ensure you receive the most accurate information for planning your visit.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Pennsylvanians, Camp Golden Pond offers a truly distinctive and highly suitable outdoor destination, providing a multifaceted experience that caters to a wide array of interests. Its location in Petersburg, nestled in a rural, mountainous setting by Lake Louise, creates an immediate sense of escape from the everyday, yet it remains conveniently accessible from various parts of the state, including being just a half-hour drive from Penn State. This accessibility makes it ideal for locals seeking regular retreats or a practical option for attending university events.

What makes Camp Golden Pond particularly suitable for local Pennsylvanians is its incredible versatility and dedication to outdoor education and community. For families, especially those involved in Girl Scouts or other youth organizations, the camp's rich history and continued focus on youth development, combined with opportunities for canoeing, hiking, and various workshops, offer invaluable experiences. Adults aren't left out either, with specialized Adult Enrichment Weekends providing a chance to learn practical outdoor skills like campfire cooking and knot tying, fostering mindfulness and connection with like-minded individuals.

The variety of lodging options, from comfortable cabins to more rustic tabins and primitive tent sites, ensures that every local camper can find an accommodation style that fits their preference and budget. The availability of diverse facilities for large group events, such as family reunions or weddings, positions Camp Golden Pond as a unique local resource. With opportunities to rent canoes or kayaks on Lake Louise, explore miles of hiking trails, and participate in engaging educational workshops, Camp Golden Pond is more than just a place to stay; it's a dynamic outdoor learning and recreation center that truly enriches the lives of those who visit, making it an invaluable asset for the Pennsylvania community.

Camp Golden Pond

5126 Eberle Rd, Petersburg, PA 16669, USA