Charcoal Hearth Campground

For Pennsylvanians seeking a blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and a touch of history, Charcoal Hearth Campground, nestled within Pine Grove Furnace State Park in Gardners, PA, offers an ideal destination. This isn't just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's an immersive experience in the heart of South Mountain, where the serene sounds of nature mingle with echoes of Pennsylvania's industrial past. Imagine waking up surrounded by towering oaks and white pines, with the invigorating mountain air filling your lungs, and the promise of a day filled with hiking, swimming, and exploring.

Charcoal Hearth Campground provides a modern and comfortable camping experience, featuring well-equipped sites suitable for tents, trailers, and RVs. It's a place where families can create lasting memories, and outdoor enthusiasts can find their peace. The campground's strategic location offers direct access to the park's two beautiful mountain lakes, Laurel Lake and Fuller Lake, as well as the renowned Appalachian Trail – famously marking its halfway point right within the park. With amenities like hot showers, flush toilets, and a seasonal camp store, Charcoal Hearth ensures a convenient stay while still offering an authentic outdoor feel. It's a testament to how Pennsylvania State Parks blend accessibility with preservation, inviting locals to discover and enjoy the rich heritage and natural splendor right in their own state.

Charcoal Hearth Campground is located at 101 Bendersville Rd, Gardners, PA 17324, USA, which is the address for Pine Grove Furnace State Park. This placement situates the campground in a historically significant and naturally beautiful region of Pennsylvania. Gardners is a small community in Adams County, nestled at the northern tip of the Blue Ridge Mountains, within an area known as South Mountain. The campground is specifically positioned next to Fuller Lake, one of the two mountain lakes within the park.

Accessibility to Charcoal Hearth Campground is quite convenient for Pennsylvanians. From major cities like Harrisburg, the state capital, the drive is relatively short and scenic, leading you directly into the serene mountain landscape. For those traveling from broader areas of Pennsylvania, such as Philadelphia or Pittsburgh, the journey typically involves utilizing major interstate highways like the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76), I-81, or US-15, before transitioning onto well-maintained state routes and local roads that lead into Gardners and directly to Pine Grove Furnace State Park.

The park's well-marked entrance and clear signage guide visitors directly to the campground. Once inside the park, the campground roads are designed to accommodate vehicles of various sizes, including RVs and trailers, though some internal roads or specific site approaches might require careful maneuvering, as noted by some experienced RVers. However, overall, the design aims to provide ease of access to the 70 available campsites. The presence of a sanitary dump station near the campground entrance further enhances accessibility for RV and trailer owners. The strategic location within Pine Grove Furnace State Park means that campers have immediate access to all the park's offerings without needing to drive off-site, making it a highly accessible hub for outdoor adventures in South Central Pennsylvania.

Charcoal Hearth Campground, as part of Pine Grove Furnace State Park, offers a comprehensive range of services and amenities designed to provide a comfortable, convenient, and enjoyable camping experience for all visitors.

• Modern Campsites: The campground boasts 70 modern campsites. These sites are versatile, capable of accommodating tents, trailers, and RVs.

• Electric Hookups: A significant portion of the campsites, 46 out of 70, are equipped with electric hookups (presumably 30 or 50 amp, common in state park campgrounds), providing essential power for RVs and other camping needs.

• Individual Site Amenities: Each campsite comes standard with a picnic table and a fire ring, perfect for outdoor dining and campfires (when burn bans are not in effect). Many sites also include a charcoal grill for cooking.

• Comfort Stations with Hot Showers and Flush Toilets: The presence of clean comfort stations featuring hot showers and flush toilets is a major convenience, enhancing the comfort level of the camping experience significantly. These are well-maintained for public use.

• Sanitary Dump Station: A dedicated dump station is available near the campground entrance, providing a convenient facility for RV and trailer campers to dispose of wastewater.

• Potable Drinking Water: Drinking water is available throughout the campground, ensuring campers have access to safe, clean water for their needs.

• Seasonal Camp Store: Located a quarter-mile from the campground, a seasonal camp store offers essential supplies, firewood, and refreshments, reducing the need for campers to leave the park for basic necessities.

• Amphitheater: The campground features an amphitheater, likely used for interpretive programs, ranger talks, or evening entertainment, enriching the educational and recreational aspects of the stay.

• Playground: A designated playground is available for children, offering a safe and fun area for younger campers to expend energy and socialize.

• Firewood Advisory: While firewood is not provided, it can typically be purchased at the camp store. The park advises against bringing outside firewood to prevent the spread of non-native insects and diseases, promoting forest health.

These services collectively ensure that Charcoal Hearth Campground offers a well-rounded and enjoyable experience for a wide variety of campers.

Charcoal Hearth Campground, situated within the expansive Pine Grove Furnace State Park, boasts an impressive array of features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for Pennsylvanians seeking outdoor adventure and historical immersion.

• Historic Iron Furnace Community: The park itself is steeped in history, having once been a charcoal-fired iron furnace community in the 19th century. Visitors can explore historic buildings, including the furnace stack, and delve into the fascinating past that gives the campground its name. The Appalachian Trail Museum, housed in the park's historic grist mill, further enriches this historical experience.

• Appalachian Trail Halfway Point: A major highlight for hikers, Pine Grove Furnace State Park is the famous halfway point of the 2,186-mile Appalachian Trail. Campers can literally step onto this legendary footpath, whether for a short day hike or to witness thru-hikers embarking on the second half of their epic journey.

• Two Mountain Lakes (Laurel Lake & Fuller Lake): The campground offers direct access to two beautiful lakes. Fuller Lake, adjacent to the campground, and Laurel Lake provide opportunities for:

  • Swimming: Designated beach areas are available for swimming in both lakes, offering a refreshing respite during warmer months.

  • Boating: Canoeing, kayaking, and rowboating are popular activities, with boat rentals available at the park. Non-motorized boating is a great way to explore the serene waters.

  • Fishing: Both lakes are stocked with various fish species, including pickerel, perch, bass, and trout, providing excellent fishing opportunities for anglers. Mountain Creek, flowing through the park, also offers coldwater species.

• Extensive Trail System: Beyond the Appalachian Trail, the park and the surrounding Michaux State Forest offer miles of diverse hiking and biking trails, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging treks, suitable for all skill levels.

• Wildlife Viewing: The varied landscape of the park – forests, wetlands, and open areas – attracts abundant wildlife. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, spotting various waterfowl, warblers, and even a variety of woodpecker species, along with deer and other forest creatures.

• Picnic Facilities: Numerous picnic tables are available throughout the park, including by the lakes and historic district, with charcoal grills, drinking water, and restrooms nearby. Reserved picnic pavilions are also available for larger gatherings.

• Seasonal Activities & Events: The park hosts various educational programs, and notable events like the "Fall Furnace Fest," where hundreds of jack-o-lanterns float on Fuller Lake, add unique seasonal appeal. Cross-country skiing and ice skating are also possible in winter.

• Surrounded by State Forest: Being encircled by the 85,000-acre Michaux State Forest significantly expands the recreational opportunities, allowing for hunting, more extensive hiking, and a true sense of being immersed in nature.

These features collectively make Charcoal Hearth Campground and Pine Grove Furnace State Park a diverse and appealing destination for a wide range of outdoor interests.

As Charcoal Hearth Campground is a component of Pine Grove Furnace State Park, which is managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), it typically operates under a standardized fee structure for state park campgrounds. Therefore, it does not offer traditional "promotions" or "special offers" in the way a private commercial campground might. However, there are inherent values and potential savings available to Pennsylvanians who utilize state park facilities:

• Affordable Camping Rates: Pennsylvania State Parks aim to provide accessible outdoor recreation. The camping fees at Charcoal Hearth are generally competitive and more affordable than many private RV resorts, offering excellent value for the amenities and natural beauty provided.

• Pennsylvania State Parks Annual Pass/Discount Programs: While direct "promotions" for Charcoal Hearth aren't common, the DCNR sometimes offers various discount programs or passes for frequent park visitors, seniors, or specific groups. Pennsylvanians should check the official DCNR website or contact the park office for details on any statewide pass programs that could offer overall savings for multiple park visits.

• Off-Peak Season Savings: Camping rates at state parks are often lower during the off-peak season (typically outside of the busy summer months and major holidays). For Pennsylvanians with flexible schedules, visiting in the spring or fall can provide a more serene experience at a reduced cost.

• Inclusive Amenities: The camping fee at Charcoal Hearth includes access to modern amenities such as hot showers, flush toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings at each site. The use of the playground, access to hiking trails, and entry to the lakes for swimming (during season) are generally included in the camping fee, representing significant value compared to places that might charge extra for these facilities.

• Free Interpretive Programs: Pine Grove Furnace State Park regularly offers free or low-cost interpretive and educational programs, including guided hikes, nature talks, and historical tours. These programs, often led by park rangers, enhance the visitor experience and provide excellent educational value without additional charges beyond the camping fee.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on fees, reservation policies, and any potential statewide DCNR programs that could offer value, Pennsylvanians should always consult the official Pennsylvania State Parks reservation website (ReserveAmerica, where PA State Parks reservations are made) or contact the Pine Grove Furnace State Park office directly.

For those interested in planning a visit to Charcoal Hearth Campground within Pine Grove Furnace State Park, here is the essential contact information:

• Address: 101 Bendersville Rd, Gardners, PA 17324, USA (This is the main address for Pine Grove Furnace State Park, where the campground is located).

• Park Office Phone: While a specific phone number for "Charcoal Hearth Campground" is not separately listed, the general park office number for Pine Grove Furnace State Park would be the primary contact. This number is typically found on the Pennsylvania DCNR State Parks website. For general inquiries and up-to-date park conditions, calling the main park office during business hours is recommended.

• Camping Reservations: Reservations for campsites at Charcoal Hearth Campground (and other PA State Parks campgrounds) are typically made through the central Pennsylvania State Parks Reservation System. You can usually make reservations online or via a dedicated phone number. The current general reservation number for PA State Parks is 1-888-PA-PARKS (1-888-947-2757). Online reservations can be made via the official Pennsylvania State Parks website, often managed through ReserveAmerica.

It is highly recommended to make reservations in advance, especially for peak season (summer weekends and holidays), as this is a very popular campground. Checking the official state park website for current operating hours, specific instructions, and any alerts (such as burn bans or trail closures) before your visit is always a good practice.

For Pennsylvanians, Charcoal Hearth Campground at Pine Grove Furnace State Park is an exceptionally suitable and enriching destination, offering a multifaceted outdoor experience that caters to a wide range of interests right in their home state. Its unique blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and historical significance makes it a prime choice for locals seeking a memorable getaway.

Firstly, the campground's strategic location in Gardners, within the scenic South Mountain region, ensures convenient accessibility for residents across Pennsylvania. This means less time spent traveling and more time enjoying the serene environment, whether it's a quick weekend escape or a longer family vacation. The ease of access to modern campsites with amenities like electric hookups, hot showers, and flush toilets, provides a comfortable camping experience that balances the ruggedness of the outdoors with essential conveniences, making it appealing for both seasoned campers and those new to the experience.

Secondly, the sheer breadth of activities available directly within Pine Grove Furnace State Park sets Charcoal Hearth apart. From swimming and boating in Laurel and Fuller Lakes to challenging hikes along the legendary Appalachian Trail (including its halfway point), there's an endless array of options for outdoor enthusiasts. The historical elements, including the preserved charcoal furnace and the Appalachian Trail Museum, offer a unique educational dimension, allowing locals to connect with Pennsylvania's rich heritage while enjoying its natural wonders. This makes the park not just a camping spot, but a place for exploration, learning, and active recreation.

Finally, as a well-maintained Pennsylvania State Park, Charcoal Hearth Campground provides excellent value. The affordable camping rates and the inclusion of numerous amenities and activities within the park fee make it a cost-effective choice for families and individuals. The dedication of the DCNR in preserving and presenting such a valuable resource ensures that Pennsylvanians have access to a high-quality outdoor experience year after year. Whether you're looking for a peaceful lakeside retreat, an adventurous hiking base, or a place to teach your family about history and nature, Charcoal Hearth Campground at Pine Grove Furnace State Park truly stands as a local gem, inviting residents to discover and rediscover the beauty and heritage of their state.

Charcoal Hearth Campground

101 Bendersville Rd, Gardners, PA 17324, USA