Gretna Oaks Camping Inc

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Are you a Pennsylvanian seeking a tranquil escape into nature, a peaceful spot to park your RV, or a family-friendly campground that truly understands hospitality? Look no further than Gretna Oaks Camping Inc in Manheim, PA. This hidden gem offers a uniquely relaxing and welcoming environment, making it a standout choice for locals looking to unwind and enjoy the simple pleasures of camping without venturing too far from home.

Gretna Oaks Camping Inc is praised by visitors for being "small but very relaxing" and "peaceful for the older generation," while also offering fantastic amenities for younger campers through its sister campground, Pinch Pond. The owner, Doug, is frequently highlighted in reviews for his exceptional hospitality and hands-on approach, ensuring every guest feels valued and well-informed. Whether you're a seasoned RVer, a tent-camping enthusiast, or someone new to the outdoor experience, Gretna Oaks provides a serene base for exploring the beauty of Lancaster County and beyond.

Gretna Oaks Camping Inc is conveniently located at 2649 Camp Rd, Manheim, PA 17545, USA. This address places it in the heart of Lancaster County, a region renowned for its picturesque farmlands, rich history, and vibrant Amish communities. Manheim offers a charming rural setting, providing a genuine escape from the hustle and bustle, yet remains easily accessible from major population centers across Pennsylvania.

For those traveling from cities like Harrisburg or Lancaster, the drive is relatively short and scenic, often less than an hour. Even from Philadelphia, the journey is manageable, typically around 1.5 to 2 hours, making Gretna Oaks an ideal destination for weekend getaways or longer vacations for many Pennsylvanians. The campground's location on "Camp Rd" suggests a dedicated, quiet area perfect for a relaxing retreat. Furthermore, its strategic positioning provides easy access to local attractions in the Lancaster, Hershey, and Gettysburg areas, allowing campers to combine their outdoor relaxation with sightseeing and cultural experiences.

Gretna Oaks Camping Inc is committed to providing a comfortable and convenient camping experience, offering a range of essential services to cater to various camping styles, from RVs to tents. The emphasis is on a well-maintained and hospitable environment.

• Diverse Campsite Options: The campground offers a total of 37 sites, accommodating RVs, pop-ups, and tents. This includes 14 full hookup sites, 6 electric-water hookup sites, and 20 tent sites, with 20/30/50 amp electrical service available. Each site typically includes a picnic table and a fire pit/fire ring, allowing for enjoyable outdoor living.

• Clean Restroom and Shower Facilities: Gretna Oaks provides well-maintained bathhouses with hot showers, ensuring comfort and cleanliness for all campers. These facilities are essential for tent campers and those seeking a refreshed feeling after a day of activities.

• Laundry Facilities: On-site laundry facilities are available, offering convenience for guests on longer stays or those who prefer to do laundry during their trip.

• Dump Station: A dump station is provided for RVs, making waste disposal easy and efficient.

• Potable Water Access: Fresh water hookups are available at the appropriate sites, and drinking water is accessible throughout the campground.

• Firewood: As noted by a reviewer, the owner, Doug, personally directed them to "some free extra wood," indicating that firewood is readily available, either for purchase or as a thoughtful offering, ensuring you can enjoy cozy campfires.

Gretna Oaks Camping Inc distinguishes itself with several key features and highlights that enhance the camping experience, focusing on relaxation, family enjoyment, and exceptional hospitality.

• Peaceful & Relaxing Atmosphere: Repeatedly described as "small but very relaxing" and "peaceful for the older generation," the campground's serene ambiance is a major highlight. It's ideal for those seeking a quiet retreat away from noisy crowds.

• Access to Sister Campground Amenities: A unique and highly valued feature is the access to amenities at its sister campground, Pinch Pond Family Campground, located less than 5 miles away. This includes:

  • Swimming Pool: Guests at Gretna Oaks can enjoy the swimming pool at Pinch Pond, a fantastic amenity, especially during warm summer days.

  • Playground: For children and grandchildren, the playground at Pinch Pond provides a fun and safe area for play and entertainment.

  • Game Room: Pinch Pond also features a game room, offering additional indoor entertainment options.

  • Fishing Pond: At Pinch Pond, there is a large fishing pond where no license is required, perfect for a relaxed afternoon of fishing.

  • Scheduled Activities: Pinch Pond offers a range of scheduled activities during summer months, including crafts, pool parties, and more, which Gretna Oaks campers can likely participate in.

• Exceptional Hospitality: The owner, Doug, receives glowing reviews for being "VERY HOSPITABLE" and personally greeting guests, providing information, and even assisting with firewood. This level of personalized service creates a truly welcoming and memorable stay.

• Well-Maintained Grounds: Visitors note that the campground is "in top shape" and "very well maintained," reflecting a commitment to cleanliness and upkeep that enhances the overall camping experience.

• Shade and Privacy: The campground is described as having "thick trees throughout the whole campground which provide great shade and privacy," offering a comfortable and secluded feel at each site.

• Pet-Friendly: While specific restrictions should be confirmed, campgrounds in this region are often pet-friendly, allowing furry family members to join the outdoor adventure.

• Seasonal Operations: Gretna Oaks Camping Inc is open from approximately April 15th to October 31st, providing a substantial window for enjoying spring, summer, and fall camping in Pennsylvania.

While explicit "promotions" for Gretna Oaks Camping Inc are not widely advertised in public data, their operational model and affiliation with Pinch Pond suggest certain benefits and opportunities for value, which are common in well-run private campgrounds.

• Access to Sister Campground Amenities: The ability to use the pool, playground, and potentially participate in activities at Pinch Pond (less than 5 miles away) is a significant added value. This essentially broadens the scope of amenities available to Gretna Oaks campers without additional direct cost for those facilities, making it a form of "special offer" on convenience and entertainment.

• Competitive Pricing: Public data suggests daily rates start around $35.00 - $38.00 (based on 2015 rates, so current rates should be confirmed). This competitive pricing, especially for the amenities and hospitable environment offered, can be considered a promotional draw for those seeking value.

• Seasonal Stay Options: While not a discount, the availability of sites for extended or seasonal stays often comes with a more favorable per-night rate compared to short-term bookings, providing a long-term value proposition for repeat visitors and locals.

• Personalized Service: The exceptional hospitality from the owner, Doug, and his willingness to go "above and beyond" (like offering free extra wood) can be seen as an invaluable perk that enhances the overall experience and provides a personal touch not often found in larger, more commercial campgrounds.

• Potential for Mid-Week or Off-Season Rates: Many campgrounds offer lower rates during weekdays or in the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) when demand is lower. It would be advisable to inquire directly with Gretna Oaks about any such flexible pricing options.

For the most current information on rates, availability, and any specific seasonal offers, direct contact with Gretna Oaks Camping Inc is always recommended.

Ready to experience the relaxing charm and hospitality of Gretna Oaks Camping Inc?

Address: 2649 Camp Rd, Manheim, PA 17545, USA

Phone: (717) 665-7120

Mobile Phone: +1 717-665-7120

It is always recommended to call ahead for reservations, especially during peak season or if you have specific site requirements. The personalized service mentioned in reviews suggests that direct communication will be very helpful in planning your stay.

For Pennsylvanians, Gretna Oaks Camping Inc offers an ideal blend of peaceful retreat and accessible amenities, making it a perfect choice for a local outdoor getaway. Its location in Manheim, PA, places it within easy driving distance for a significant portion of the state's population, transforming a long commute into a quick, stress-free journey to relaxation.

The campground’s intimate, "small but very relaxing" atmosphere provides a stark contrast to larger, more crowded resorts, appealing to those who genuinely seek tranquility. Yet, it cleverly extends its offerings through its sister campground, Pinch Pond, providing access to essential family-friendly features like a swimming pool and playground, ensuring that even if you bring the kids or grandkids, they’ll have plenty to do. This unique arrangement allows locals to enjoy the best of both worlds: the serene ambiance of Gretna Oaks and the vibrant activities of a larger campground.

Moreover, the personal touch and genuine hospitality from owner Doug and the well-maintained facilities create a welcoming and comfortable environment that encourages repeat visits. It’s a place where you can truly unwind, disconnect, and create lasting memories, all while enjoying the scenic beauty and attractions of Lancaster County. Whether you’re an experienced camper with an RV or a family trying out tent camping, Gretna Oaks Camping Inc provides a local, reliable, and delightful option for experiencing the joys of the Pennsylvania outdoors.

Gretna Oaks Camping Inc

2649 Camp Rd, Manheim, PA 17545, USA