Nancy's Camp Boat to Shore

nancy's boat to shore campground

Introduction / Overview

For Pennsylvania outdoor enthusiasts who truly seek to escape the ordinary and embrace a unique connection with nature, **Nancy's Camp Boat to Shore** on Raystown Lake offers an unparalleled experience. This isn't your typical drive-up campground; as its name suggests, it is accessible exclusively by boat, providing a true secluded getaway that sets it apart from other destinations in the Keystone State. Imagine the thrill of navigating the pristine waters of Raystown Lake, pulling up to your campsite, and knowing you've arrived at a peaceful haven away from public roadways and the usual crowds. This campground is renowned for its "no frills camping" approach, focusing on the raw beauty of the natural surroundings and the serenity of a lakeside setting. Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, it emphasizes a rustic, primitive camping style, ideal for tent campers who are self-sufficient and appreciate the quiet solitude that boat-in access affords. Whether you're an avid angler, a hiking enthusiast, or simply someone looking to disconnect and recharge amidst central Pennsylvania's stunning landscapes, Nancy's Camp Boat to Shore promises an unforgettable adventure, offering a distinct and immersive way to experience Raystown Lake.

Location and Accessibility

Nancy's Camp Boat to Shore is uniquely located in **James Creek, PA 16657, USA**, nestled on the western shoreline of Raystown Lake. What truly defines its location and accessibility is that it is a **boat-in only facility**, meaning there is "no motor vehicle access." This crucial detail shapes the entire camping experience, making it a truly remote and secluded destination for Pennsylvanians. The campground is situated roughly halfway on Raystown Lake, between lake markers 15 and 16, away from public roadways. The nearest public boat launches for accessing Nancy's Camp are **James Creek Boat Launch** (accessible via PA994 near Entriken) and **Aitch Boat Launch** (accessible from PA26 in Marklesburg). Many campers prefer James Creek for its proximity and ample parking. For those traveling from various parts of Pennsylvania, reaching these boat launches is straightforward, then the adventure truly begins as you launch your watercraft to reach your campsite. This unique access method ensures a quieter environment and draws a specific type of camper who embraces the journey as part of the experience. While it requires planning your supplies carefully since potable water needs to be brought along, the reward is an unparalleled sense of wilderness and privacy on the shores of Pennsylvania's largest lake.

Services Offered

Nancy's Camp Boat to Shore embraces a "no frills" and "primitive camping" philosophy, meaning the services provided are fundamental, designed to facilitate a natural outdoor experience. For Pennsylvania campers, it's essential to understand these offerings to prepare adequately:

• **Boat-In Access**: The defining service is the exclusive boat-in access, allowing campers to moor their vessels for free anywhere along Nancy's Camp shoreline. This unique access provides a remote camping experience.
• **Designated Campsites**: The campground offers 50 designated campsites, each identified by a post.
• **Picnic Table and Campfire Ring**: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a campfire ring, essential for outdoor cooking and gathering.
• **Vault Toilets**: "Vault toilets are available" and have been noted as "new construction and well maintained" in recent reviews, though some report them being a "bit of a walk from the one side of the camp."
• **Ranger Patrols**: "Doug and several other rangers came every afternoon to check on campers." This provides a sense of security and helpful assistance from courteous and informative staff.
• **Free Camping in Off-Season**: Outside of the peak reservation season (April 1 to October 30), "you can stay for free" from November through March, offering an accessible option for adventurous cold-weather campers.
• **Access to Seven Points Beach Shower House**: While there are "no showers at camp ground," Nancy's campers have "free access to the showers located at Seven Points Beach Shower House," which is about a "20 minute boat ride" away.
• **Good Cell Service (Xfinity)**: At least one review noted "3 bars on my xfinity cellphone," suggesting that connectivity, while not guaranteed for all providers, can be available.

It is important to note that "there are no electric hookups" and "potable water must be brought along to the campground as no water is currently available."

Features / Highlights

• **Exclusive Boat-In Access**: This is the paramount feature, making Nancy's Camp truly unique. Being "accessible only by boat" ensures a secluded and tranquil environment, away from road noise and crowds, appealing directly to those seeking a true wilderness escape on Raystown Lake.
• **Raystown Lake Frontage**: The campground is directly on the shoreline of Raystown Lake, providing immediate "waterfront access" and the convenience of having your "boat right there ready to go." This is a significant draw for fishing, paddling, and general lake enjoyment.
• **Primitive, No-Frills Camping**: It offers a genuine primitive camping experience, focusing on fundamental necessities (picnic tables, fire rings, vault toilets). This minimalist approach appeals to campers who prefer to be self-sufficient and immerse themselves in nature without distractions.
• **Year-Round Availability (Seasonal Reservations/Free Off-Season)**: The campground is "open year-round," with reservations required and a fee during the peak season (April 1 to October 30), but it's "free" to camp during the off-season (November through March). This flexibility caters to different camping preferences and budgets.
• **Well-Maintained Basic Facilities**: Despite its primitive nature, recent work during the drawdown indicates improvements like "new fire rings and new shore wall have been installed." Vault toilets are described as "new construction and well maintained," signaling a commitment to basic upkeep.
• **Active Ranger Presence**: The regular presence of courteous and helpful "Rangers came every afternoon to check on campers" provides a reassuring layer of safety and information, enhancing the overall experience.
• **Excellent Fishing Opportunities**: Raystown Lake is renowned for its fishing, with "excellent" opportunities for various bass, muskies, striped bass, and brown trout, making it a prime spot for anglers.
• **Proximity to Other Raystown Lake Attractions**: While secluded, campers can easily boat to other popular areas like Seven Points Recreation Area, which offers amenities like a swimming beach and a shower house, providing a balance of remote camping and accessible facilities.

Promotions or Special Offers

For Pennsylvania residents looking at Nancy's Camp Boat to Shore, the most notable "special offer" is its unique seasonal pricing structure: you can **stay for free outside of the reservation season**, specifically from November 1 to March 31. During the peak reservation season (April 1 to October 30), sites are reservable and typically cost around $15.00 per night. This free off-season camping is a significant draw for adventurous campers who are prepared for cooler weather and enjoy the added solitude that comes with fewer visitors. It essentially acts as a major promotion, allowing access to this beautiful lakeside primitive campground without a fee for several months of the year. While specific group discounts or long-term stay promotions are not explicitly detailed in the provided information, the core value proposition of Nancy's Camp is its unique boat-in access, the natural setting, and this valuable off-season free camping option. For current rates and to make reservations during the peak season, Pennsylvania campers should utilize the official reservation system managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Recreation.gov) or call their designated contact number. It’s always advisable to book well in advance for peak season stays due to the campground's popularity and the unique nature of its access.

Contact Information

To plan your unique boat-in camping adventure at Nancy's Camp Boat to Shore, Pennsylvania residents can use the following contact details, primarily for general inquiries about Raystown Lake campgrounds managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers:

Address: James Creek, PA 16657, USA (Note: This is the general area; access is by boat only from nearby launches).

For campground inquiries, the relevant phone number for the Raystown Lake Project Office, which manages Nancy's Camp, is often listed as:

Phone: (814) 658-3405

Mobile Phone: +1 814-658-3405

For reservations during the peak season (April 1 to October 30), it is highly recommended to use the official online reservation system at **Recreation.gov** or call their toll-free number: **(877) 444-6777**. This ensures you secure your desired campsite, especially given the popularity of this unique Pennsylvania camping experience. Direct contact with the park office can also provide valuable insights into current lake conditions, water levels, and any specific alerts for primitive camping.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Pennsylvania residents, Nancy's Camp Boat to Shore offers a uniquely compelling and highly suitable camping experience, particularly for those seeking true seclusion and an immersive connection with Raystown Lake. Its defining characteristic – being **accessible only by boat** – immediately filters for campers who appreciate a more adventurous and quiet outdoor setting, away from the typical roadside traffic and crowds. This ensures a peaceful environment where you can truly unwind, free from the usual campground hustle. The fact that it's "nice and quiet" and provides "no frills camping" speaks directly to a local preference for authentic natural experiences over extensive, developed amenities. The recent work on "new fire rings and new shore wall" demonstrates a commitment to maintaining the natural appeal and functionality of the sites, even in a primitive setting. For anglers, having your "boat right there ready to go" combined with "excellent access to stream fishing" is an irresistible draw. The availability of "3 bars on my xfinity cellphone" means that while you're remote, you're not entirely cut off, offering a balance many find appealing. Furthermore, the option to **camp for free during the off-season** provides an incredible value proposition for adventurous Pennsylvanians willing to brave cooler temperatures for solitude. With courteous rangers checking on campers and the overall management by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers ensuring a well-maintained natural space, Nancy's Camp Boat to Shore is an ideal choice for locals who cherish privacy, embrace rustic camping, and want to experience Raystown Lake in its most unspoiled form, creating lasting memories with a truly unique Pennsylvania outdoor adventure.

Nancy's Camp Boat to Shore

James Creek, PA 16657, USA