Pillow Campground

For Pennsylvanians seeking a comfortable, no-frills camping experience with a personal touch, Pillow Campground in Pillow, PA, offers a cozy retreat along the picturesque Mahantango Creek. This small, independently run campground has a story of resilience, having recently reopened after a hiatus due to flood damage. Now, under dedicated management, it’s steadily rebuilding its charm and welcoming campers who appreciate a quiet, relaxed atmosphere over extensive amenities. It’s a perfect spot for locals who enjoy genuine outdoor relaxation, fishing, and the simple pleasures of being by the water.

Pillow Campground is more than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it’s a testament to the enduring spirit of local businesses and the appeal of Central Pennsylvania's natural beauty. Customer reviews paint a clear picture of a campground in a phase of revitalization, praised for its affordability and the personal care provided by its manager, Butch. One reviewer noted, "Nice little campground, but still working on getting back on its feet. Campground was closed for several years, then purchased and reopened this year. There is a lot of polishing needed yet, but the price is good for what you get." Another highlighted the positive management: "Butch is the park manager and he goes out of his way to make sure everyone has an enjoyable visit." While acknowledging some areas that are still being improved (like dated bathhouses and potential creek debris from past floods), campers appreciate the core offerings: "It's a nice small and cozy campground. $40 per night for campers with electric and water hookup, you can dump the tanks on the way out." For Pennsylvanians who value a friendly, quiet environment and are willing to embrace a campground that's passionately on the mend, Pillow Campground offers a unique and authentic escape.

Pillow Campground is conveniently located at 307 Market St, Pillow, PA 17080, USA. This address places it directly within the charming small town of Pillow in Dauphin County, Central Pennsylvania. Its location right on US-209, a major route through the region, ensures straightforward accessibility for Pennsylvanians traveling from various parts of the state.

For those driving from major Pennsylvania cities, the accessibility is quite favorable:

• From Harrisburg: Approximately a 45-minute to 1-hour drive, making it a very convenient weekend destination for residents of the state capital.
• From Lancaster: Expect a drive of about 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, a comfortable distance for a family getaway.
• From Philadelphia: The journey typically takes around 2 hours to 2 hours 30 minutes, a feasible drive for a longer weekend or extended stay.
• From York: Roughly 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes.
• From Reading: About 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes.

The campground's direct access from US-209 minimizes complicated navigation, though some road noise can be heard, as noted by reviewers ("You can hear noise from the road, sounds like a highway sometimes but it's not a heavily traveled road therefore it's not constant"). Its prime location along the Mahantango Creek provides a scenic backdrop and natural recreation opportunities. While it offers a feeling of being in a quiet, rural setting, essential amenities like a 7-Eleven (about 5 miles away) and a Walmart (about 7 miles in the opposite direction) are within a short driving distance, ensuring you can easily restock supplies.

Pillow Campground provides essential services for campers, focusing on core necessities for a comfortable outdoor stay, especially as it continues its recovery and revitalization efforts. Based on recent customer reviews, the following services are available:

• RV Sites with Electric & Water Hookups: Most, if not all, sites offer 30 amp electric service and non-potable water hookups. Campers should be prepared for a single power drop and water tap serving two sites, potentially requiring longer cables/hoses depending on parking.
• Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available on your way out of the campground for RV waste disposal. There's also a "honey wagon" service available for a fee ($25 per dump), which is useful for longer stays or for those without direct sewer hookups.
• Tent Sites: Dedicated sites are available for traditional tent camping.
• Seasonal Sites: The campground accommodates seasonal campers, and there appear to be openings for those interested in a longer-term spot.
• Cabin Rental: At least one cabin is available for rent, providing a less rustic option for those without camping equipment or who prefer more comfort.
• Bathhouse: A single bathhouse is located at the front of the campground. While described as "outdated" in appearance, it is noted to be clean.
• Pay-to-Use Laundry Facilities: A washer and dryer are available for a fee, offering convenience for campers on longer trips.
• Trash Disposal: A dumpster is provided for trash disposal, encouraging campers to keep the grounds clean.
• Children's Playgrounds: Two small, though described as "dated," playgrounds are available with swings and slides, providing space for kids to play.
• Fire Rings: Each site includes a fire ring for campfires, perfect for cooking or enjoying the ambiance (campers should bring their own tables).
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are generally welcome, though specific rules (leashing, waste disposal) would apply.
• Personalized Management: Butch, the park manager, is noted for being very helpful and going "out of his way to make sure everyone has an enjoyable visit."

It's important to note that the camp store and restaurant are permanently closed, so campers should bring all necessary supplies.

Pillow Campground, while still in a phase of renewal after its reopening, offers several distinctive features and highlights that appeal to a specific type of Pennsylvanian camper—one who values affordability, a quiet atmosphere, and a personal touch.

• Resilient & Rebuilding Spirit: A key highlight is the campground's recent reopening and ongoing efforts to get "back on its feet" after flood damage. This indicates a dedicated management and a sense of progress, offering campers a chance to support a local business.
• Affordable Rates: Priced at approximately $40 per night for RVs with electric and water hookups ($35 for tents), Pillow Campground offers a budget-friendly option for those seeking an outdoor escape.
• Riverside Location on Mahantango Creek: Its direct frontage on the Mahantango Creek is a significant draw, providing opportunities for fishing and potentially "swimming at your own risk." The presence of the creek enhances the natural beauty and tranquility of the setting.
• Small & Cozy Atmosphere: Described as a "nice small and cozy campground," it fosters a more intimate and less overwhelming environment compared to large resort parks. This appeals to campers who prefer to "relax at your campsite and not be bothered."
• Personalized Management by Butch: The park manager, Butch, is consistently highlighted in reviews for his helpfulness and dedication to ensuring an enjoyable visit. This personal touch and attentive service can significantly enhance the camping experience.
• Quiet and Relaxed Vibe: Campers noted that "the campers here pretty much keep to themselves and it's overall pretty quiet," making it ideal for those truly looking to unwind and disconnect from noise.
• Basic but Functional Amenities: While some facilities are dated, the presence of 30-amp electric, non-potable water at sites, a dump station, laundry facilities, and fire rings provides the essential conveniences for a comfortable stay.
• Children's Playgrounds: Despite being small and dated, the swing sets, slides, and play cabins offer a designated space for kids to enjoy themselves.
• Seasonal Site Availability: The existence of seasonal sites and apparent openings allows Pennsylvanians to establish a long-term camping spot, fostering a consistent outdoor retreat.

As Pillow Campground is in a phase of re-establishment, publicly advertised "promotions" or "special offers" in the traditional sense might not be widely available. However, the inherent value proposition of the campground lies in its affordability and unique charm. Pennsylvanians considering a stay should focus on the consistent pricing and what that provides.

The core "offers" include:

• Competitive Nightly Rates: At around $40 per night for RV sites with electric and water, and $35 for tents, the pricing is noted as "good for what you get," making it an accessible option for many budgets.
• Seasonal Site Availability: For Pennsylvanians looking for a more permanent outdoor escape, the availability of seasonal sites (with rates that likely provide long-term value) is a significant draw, especially since there appear to be openings.
• Direct Contact with Management: The consistent advice to call Butch, the park manager, directly is a form of personalized "special offer." It allows prospective campers to discuss their specific needs, potentially leading to the best site for them, or to understand any unadvertised flexibility.

There are no mentions of specific discounts like holiday specials, loyalty programs, or group rates in the provided information. Therefore, the best course of action for Pennsylvanians interested in any potential flexibility or unlisted deals is to directly contact the campground and speak with the manager. This proactive approach will yield the most accurate and up-to-date information on rates and availability.

For all inquiries, reservations, or to gather more specific details about site availability and the unique offerings at Pillow Campground, please use the following contact information. Speaking directly with the park manager, Butch, is highly recommended, as he is noted for his helpfulness and personal approach.

Address: 307 Market St, Pillow, PA 17080, USA

Phone: (570) 758-2040

Mobile Phone: +1 570-758-2040

As highlighted by reviewers, reaching out to the park manager directly via the provided phone numbers will ensure you get immediate and accurate assistance. This direct line of communication is invaluable for confirming specific site features, understanding the current state of amenities, and making your reservation for a peaceful camping experience by the Mahantango Creek.

Pillow Campground stands out as an exceptionally suitable destination for Pennsylvanians seeking a quiet, affordable, and authentic camping experience. Its ongoing revitalization, coupled with the dedicated and personalized management by Butch, offers a unique opportunity to support a local business while enjoying the tranquility of Central Pennsylvania. For locals, this means a convenient and unpretentious escape that is both budget-friendly and welcoming.

The campground particularly appeals to those who prioritize relaxation at their campsite, appreciate the natural beauty of a creekside setting, and don't require a constant stream of organized activities. The option for seasonal sites makes it an ideal choice for Pennsylvanians who desire a semi-permanent outdoor retreat, fostering a familiar and peaceful community. While it's still polishing some areas, its core strengths—affordability, a friendly manager, and a serene location—make Pillow Campground a charming and valuable option for anyone in Pennsylvania looking to unwind and reconnect with nature without breaking the bank.

Pillow Campground

307 Market St, Pillow, PA 17080, USA