J&D Campground

j&d campground, j and d campground pa

For many Pennsylvania families, the quintessential summer experience involves packing up the RV or trailer and heading to a beloved campground, a place where memories are made under the open sky. In the heart of Central Pennsylvania, J&D Campground stands out as a well-established and highly-regarded destination for campers seeking comfort, cleanliness, and a welcoming atmosphere. This family-owned and operated retreat, proudly serving campers since 1970 across three generations, embodies the very essence of a traditional American camping vacation.

Located at 973 Southern Dr Rt. 487 in Catawissa, PA, J&D Campground has built a strong reputation, consistently praised by visitors for its well-maintained facilities and friendly environment. Reviews highlight the "Huge clean bathroom/shower house," a "Great pool very clean and well kept," and "Wonderful playgrounds," all pointing to a commitment to guest satisfaction. The presence of "Friendly staff and friendly atmosphere!" is a recurring theme, suggesting that the campground prioritizes creating a welcoming and comfortable space for all its visitors, whether they are stopping for a weekend or settling in for a season.

What sets J&D Campground apart is not just its amenities, but the palpable sense of pride and dedication from the family that runs it. Having grown from 30 to 250 sites over decades, it's clear that this is a place crafted with care, designed to provide a serene and enjoyable escape. This deep-rooted family involvement contributes significantly to the peaceful and well-maintained environment that campers return to year after year. For Pennsylvania locals seeking a reliable, clean, and activity-rich camping spot that feels like a home away from home, J&D Campground presents a highly compelling option.

This article will delve deeper into what makes J&D Campground such a suitable choice for locals, exploring its convenient location, the extensive range of services it offers, its standout features and highlights, and how it caters to various camping preferences.

Location and Accessibility

J&D Campground is ideally situated at 973 Southern Dr Rt. 487, Catawissa, PA 17820, USA. This location in Columbia County, Pennsylvania, places it within a region renowned for its natural beauty and family-friendly attractions, making it an excellent base for exploring Central Pennsylvania.

The campground's address on Route 487 (Southern Drive) ensures excellent accessibility. Route 487 is a key state highway that provides direct links to nearby towns and major routes. For campers traveling on Interstate 80, the campground offers clear and straightforward directions. From I-80 West, campers are advised to take Exit 232 (Bloomsburg) and follow Route 42 South to Catawissa, then cross the bridge to PA 487 South, leading directly to J&D Campground. For those coming from I-80 East, the recommended exit is 224 (Danville), followed by PA 54 East through Danville, then a left turn towards Elysburg and another left onto PA 487 North at the traffic light. This well-established road network is crucial for RVers and those towing trailers, ensuring a smooth journey to their destination. The campground's website even offers specific warnings to avoid certain GPS routes that might lead to narrow or dangerous roads, demonstrating a commitment to safe travel for its guests.

One of the most significant advantages of J&D Campground's location is its proximity to major regional attractions. Most notably, it is just a short drive—approximately 1.5 miles—from the beloved Knoebels Amusement Resort, "America's Largest Free Admission Amusement Park." This makes J&D Campground an ideal choice for families planning multiple visits to Knoebels during their stay. Beyond Knoebels, the campground is also conveniently located for accessing other local points of interest, including the Bloomsburg Fairgrounds (approximately 12 miles away), the Children's Museum, and various state parks like Ricketts Glen State Park for hiking enthusiasts (about 30 miles away). The Cree-Mee Freeze, a popular family-run ice cream shop since 1959, is located directly across the street, offering a delightful treat within easy walking distance. This combination of peaceful rural setting and access to vibrant attractions makes J&D Campground an exceptionally well-placed destination for Pennsylvania locals.

Services Offered

J&D Campground prides itself on offering a comprehensive suite of services and amenities designed to ensure a comfortable, convenient, and enjoyable camping experience for all its guests. The family-owned and operated nature of the campground means that these services are managed with a personal touch and a focus on cleanliness and guest satisfaction.

• Full Hookup RV Sites: The campground features 255 RV-only sites, all equipped with full hookups. This includes water, sewer, cable TV, and electric hookups (20/30/50 amp options available at each site). This is a significant convenience for RVers, allowing for extended stays with all the comforts of home.
• Clean Restrooms and Shower House: A standout feature highly praised in reviews is the "Huge clean bathroom/shower house." The commitment to cleanliness in these essential facilities is a top priority, ensuring a pleasant experience for all campers.
• Supervised Swimming Pool: A large, clean, and "well kept" swimming pool is a major draw, especially for families. The pool is supervised, adding an extra layer of safety and peace of mind for parents.
• Modern Laundry Room: For the convenience of campers, especially those on longer stays, J&D Campground provides a "SPACIOUS, MODERN LAUNDRY ROOM" with washers and dryers, centrally located near the shower rooms, playground, and swimming pool.
• Free Wireless Internet Service: Each site benefits from complimentary basic Wi-Fi through TengoInternet, allowing campers to stay connected. For those who need more bandwidth for streaming, an upgrade option is available for a nominal charge.
• Cable TV at Each Site: All RV sites include cable TV hookups, providing entertainment options during downtime or inclement weather.
• Site Features: Every site at J&D Campground comes with a picnic table and a fire ring, essential for outdoor cooking and evening relaxation. Sites are also described as "level campsites with trailers parked on stone," ensuring ease of setup.
• Firewood, Ice, and Propane Sales: For convenience, firewood bundles are available for purchase (with nominal charge and delivery to site). Ice and propane are also readily available at the camp office, meaning campers don't have to leave the grounds for these essentials.
• On-site Dump Station and Pump-out: An onsite dump station is provided, and scheduled pump-out services for RVs are also available, ensuring proper waste management for all guests.
• Trailer Storage: For seasonal campers or those who wish to store their RVs between visits, trailer storage services are offered for a daily fee. The campground also provides options for moving and storing campers during winter months for a small fee.
• Recycling Program: J&D Campground encourages voluntary recycling, with one-stream recycling bins available for various materials, promoting environmental responsibility among its guests.

Features / Highlights

J&D Campground offers a wealth of features and highlights that contribute to its reputation as a premier family-friendly camping destination in Pennsylvania. These attributes cater to a variety of interests, ensuring there's something for everyone.

• Family-Owned and Operated Since 1970: This multi-generational family ownership creates a unique, welcoming, and stable atmosphere. The consistent presence of the family (Curt, Lori, Barbara, Carissa, Aleaha, Brianna) ensures a personal touch in management and a vested interest in the campground's quality and guest satisfaction.
• Meticulously Maintained Grounds: Reviewers consistently praise the campground's cleanliness and upkeep, noting "neat, well-maintained lawns" and a general sense of tidiness. The family takes "immense pride in maintaining the campground's beauty, dedicating countless hours to landscaping and upkeep."
• Spacious, Level Sites: The campground is praised for its "very large sites" that are "well spread out" and "level campsites with trailers parked on stone." Many sites offer "lots of mature trees for shade," providing comfort and privacy, ensuring campers are "not on top of anyone."
• Supervised Swimming Pool: A central highlight is the "Supervised Swimming Pool," described as "very clean and well kept." This provides a safe and refreshing option for cooling off during warm Pennsylvania days.
• Multiple Playgrounds: The campground features "Wonderful playgrounds," including a "brand-new playground with five slides, seven swings and plenty of climbing opportunities," and a second playground by the pond. These cater to children of various ages, providing ample space for fun and activity.
• Vintage Mini Golf Course: A charming and engaging feature is the "Cute vintage mini golf" course (available for a nominal fee). This 18-hole course provides hours of family-friendly competition and entertainment.
• Fishing Opportunities: J&D Campground boasts a one-acre fishing lake and two streams, stocked four times per year with trout. The pond contains bass, sunfish, catfish, bluegill, and perch. Fishing is permitted without a license in their pond, making it accessible for all ages and skill levels.
• Dog Park: For guests traveling with their "fur babies," a dedicated dog park is available, offering an off-leash area with an agility course for pets to exercise and play.
• Sports Courts: Active campers can enjoy facilities for basketball, volleyball, tetherball, and shuffleboard, providing diverse options for recreation and friendly competition.
• Regular Campground Activities: The campground hosts a variety of organized activities throughout the season, including Wine and Painting events, wine tastings with local vineyards (Three Dogs Vino, Whispering Oaks Vineyard, Coal Region Winery), food truck visits (REBZ Pizza, Son of a Butcher BBQ, Village Donut, Bellum's Bubble Waffles), craft shows, and special events like their "Fourth of July celebration, parade, games etc." and "Illumination Spectacular." They use their Facebook page for up-to-date activity announcements.
• Proximity to Knoebels Amusement Resort: Being "approximately 1 1/2 miles from J&D Campground" to Knoebels is a huge draw for families, allowing easy access to the renowned amusement park without long drives.
• The Cree-Mee Freeze Across the Street: This family-run ice cream shop is a convenient and delicious highlight, offering soft and hard ice cream, milkshakes, sundaes, and an extensive hot food menu, making it perfect for a quick bite or treat.
• Well-Maintained Roads: The campground features "Blacktop campground roads - great for bike riding," ensuring smooth travel and enhancing the overall aesthetic and safety of the park.

Promotions or Special Offers

J&D Campground offers a transparent and structured pricing system for various stay durations, and while they may not advertise traditional "flash sale" promotions, their value is built into their seasonal and extended stay rates, along with ongoing benefits for guests.

• Flexible Stay Options with Tiered Rates: The campground provides nightly, weekly, monthly, and seasonal rates, allowing campers to choose the option that best suits their needs. The longer the stay, the more cost-effective the rate generally becomes, inherently offering a form of "promotion" for extended visits. For example, a monthly stay at $1290.00 (plus metered electric) offers significant savings compared to booking nightly for an entire month, and seasonal rates at $3300.00 (plus metered electric) provide the best value for long-term campers.
• Seasonal Camper Discounts: J&D Campground explicitly mentions "2025 Camper Discounts (pdf)" available for download on their website, indicating that seasonal campers benefit from specific reduced rates or packages tied to their long-term commitment. This is a significant advantage for Pennsylvania locals looking to establish a regular summer retreat.
• Transparent Pricing: Their website clearly lists current rates for 2025, including nightly ($75.00 for full hookup with 50 amp electric), weekly ($475.00), and monthly/seasonal options. This transparency allows prospective campers to easily compare costs and plan their budget without hidden surprises.
• Early Booking Advantages: While not a discount, the option to "rebook your current site for the following year before leaving the campground" and taking "new reservations... 50 weeks in advance" provides a distinct advantage for securing preferred sites, especially during peak seasons or holidays. This peace of mind and guaranteed spot can be considered a valuable benefit.
• Value-Added Inclusions: All sites, regardless of stay length, include water, 50 amp electric, sewer, cable TV, and free wireless internet service. This comprehensive set of inclusions provides excellent value, as many campgrounds charge extra for some of these amenities.
• Group or Event-Specific Offers: While not explicitly detailed as "promotions," the campground's robust activity schedule, including events with live entertainment and food trucks, can be seen as value-added experiences included in the camping fee, enhancing the overall visit without additional direct charges for entry to these events (though food/wine purchases from vendors would be separate). They also have large picnic pavilions that can be rented, which might have package deals for groups.

Prospective campers are encouraged to visit the J&D Campground website for the most up-to-date rate information and to download any specific seasonal discount documents. Direct contact via phone can also clarify any current availability or specific booking incentives.

Contact Information

For anyone in Pennsylvania eager to experience the welcoming atmosphere and extensive amenities of J&D Campground, or to inquire about reservations and seasonal availability, direct contact is highly recommended. The friendly staff are ready to assist with any questions you may have.

Address:973 Southern Dr Rt. 487Catawissa, PA 17820, USA

Phone:(570) 356-7700

Mobile Phone:+1 570-356-7700

It is advisable to call during standard business hours for the most efficient service. Additionally, prospective visitors can explore their official website (jdcampground.com) for detailed information on rates, rules, a calendar of activities, and downloadable documents for seasonal campers. Following their Facebook page can also provide real-time updates on events and availability.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Pennsylvania locals, J&D Campground in Catawissa stands out as an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination for a fulfilling camping experience. Its decades-long history as a family-owned and operated establishment has cultivated a unique atmosphere of warmth, reliability, and community that resonates deeply with the values cherished by residents of the Commonwealth.

The primary appeal lies in its unwavering commitment to cleanliness and maintenance. Reviews consistently laud the "Huge clean bathroom/shower house" and the "very clean and well kept" pool, which are paramount for a comfortable camping stay. This dedication to high standards ensures a pleasant and worry-free environment, allowing local families to truly relax and enjoy their time outdoors without concerns about facility upkeep. The well-maintained grounds and blacktop roads further enhance the overall aesthetic and usability of the park, making it ideal for everything from bike rides to leisurely strolls.

Beyond the physical amenities, J&D Campground excels in fostering a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. The "Friendly staff and friendly atmosphere!" are not just fleeting impressions but a hallmark of this multi-generational family business. This sense of genuine hospitality creates a welcoming space for both new visitors and returning seasonal campers, fostering a community where neighbors feel comfortable and connected. For Pennsylvania locals, this translates into a truly enjoyable escape where they can unwind in a supportive and pleasant environment.

The campground's robust activity schedule, featuring live entertainment, food trucks, various tournaments, and creative activities for all ages, means there's always something engaging happening right on site. This rich program of events caters to diverse interests and ensures that boredom is never an option, making it a perfect spot for local families seeking constant entertainment and opportunities for interaction without having to leave the campground.

Crucially, J&D Campground's strategic location is a significant advantage for Pennsylvania residents. Its close proximity to the iconic Knoebels Amusement Resort (just 1.5 miles away) allows for unparalleled convenience, enabling easy day trips to the park without long commutes. Furthermore, its accessibility via major state routes like PA 487 and close connections to I-80 make it an easy drive from various parts of Pennsylvania. This combination of a serene camping environment with effortless access to a world-class amusement park and other regional attractions truly offers the best of both worlds.

In essence, J&D Campground provides a quintessential Pennsylvania camping experience that balances comfort with activity, and a friendly atmosphere with professional management. For locals seeking a clean, well-appointed, and family-oriented campground with abundant activities and convenient access to regional highlights, J&D Campground in Catawissa stands as an excellent and highly suitable choice for creating lasting memories.

J&D Campground

973 Southern Dr Rt. 487, Catawissa, PA 17820, USA