Shawnee State Park Campground

For Pennsylvanians eager to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that their state has to offer, Shawnee State Park Campground in Schellsburg, PA, stands as a premier destination. Nestled within the expansive 3,983-acre Shawnee State Park, this campground provides a diverse range of overnight accommodations, from traditional tent and RV sites to charming camping cottages and even a yurt. It's a perfect blend of modern convenience and natural serenity, making it an ideal choice for families, couples, and solo adventurers looking to explore the scenic Ridge and Valley Province of Pennsylvania.

The focal point of Shawnee State Park, and a major draw for campers, is the picturesque 451-acre Shawnee Lake. This sizable lake offers a plethora of water-based activities, from swimming and boating to fishing and kayaking, ensuring that there's always something to do for water enthusiasts. Beyond the lake, the park boasts an extensive network of trails, excellent for hiking and biking, allowing visitors to delve deeper into the lush forests and appreciate the local wildlife. The campground itself is meticulously maintained by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), ensuring a clean, safe, and enjoyable environment for all guests.

What makes Shawnee State Park Campground particularly appealing to local Pennsylvanians is its accessibility and the wide array of activities available right at their fingertips. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway with the kids, a peaceful retreat into nature, or an active adventure with friends, this state park campground provides the perfect base. Its commitment to providing a variety of camping styles, combined with its abundant recreational opportunities, solidifies its reputation as a beloved outdoor haven for residents across the Commonwealth.

Shawnee State Park Campground is precisely located at 132 State Park Rd, Schellsburg, PA 15559, USA. This address places it approximately ten miles west of the historic town of Bedford, along US Route 30. Its location in Bedford County, within the scenic Ridge and Valley Province of Pennsylvania, makes it a highly accessible destination for many residents across the state.

US Route 30, a major east-west highway, passes directly through Shawnee State Park, ensuring excellent road accessibility for all types of vehicles, including large RVs and those towing trailers. This straightforward access means less travel time and more time enjoying the park's amenities. For those using GPS, the coordinates Lat. 40.02622, Long. -78.63552 can also be used for precise navigation.

The park's proximity to Schellsburg and the historic town of Bedford offers convenient access to local services. Campers can easily resupply groceries, find gas, or explore local shops and dining options in these nearby communities. Furthermore, the broader Western Pennsylvania region is rich in history and natural attractions, providing opportunities for day trips beyond the park boundaries. For instance, the Flight 93 Memorial is within a reasonable driving distance, offering a solemn and significant historical site to visit. This combination of easy highway access and nearby town conveniences makes Shawnee State Park Campground an incredibly practical and appealing choice for Pennsylvanians planning their outdoor adventures.

Shawnee State Park Campground provides a comprehensive array of services and facilities designed to accommodate a wide range of camping preferences and ensure a comfortable stay:

• Campsites: Approximately 200 campsites are available, accommodating both tents and trailers. Each site includes a picnic table and a fire ring.
• Electric Service: Many campsites offer electric service (30-amp), providing convenience for RVs and modern camping equipment.
• Full-Hookup Sites: Some sites are equipped with full-hookup service, which includes sewer, water, and electricity, offering the utmost convenience for RV campers.
• Great Gathering Friends and Family Sites: Unique two-unit full-hookup sites are available, designed to accommodate two camping units (RV or trailer) plus tents, allowing up to 15 people to camp together.
• ADA Accessible Sites: Several campsites are designated as ADA accessible, ensuring inclusivity for all visitors.
• Camping Cottages: Three rustic yet comfortable camping cottages are available. Each sleeps five people with bunkbeds (single/single and single/double), has wooden walls and floors, windows, electric lights and outlets, electric heat, and a porch. Nearby shower house access is provided.
• Yurt: A unique round, canvas and wood yurt is available, sleeping five people. It includes a wood floor, four-burner electric range, microwave, refrigerator, countertop, cabinets, table and chairs, electric lights and outlets, electric heat, and a skylight/vent. It also has a porch, picnic table, fire ring, and nearby shower house access.
• Organized Group Tenting: A secluded area on the Kegg Run finger of the lake offers four rustic campsites for organized youth and adult groups, each with a capacity of 20 campers (total 80). These sites have non-flush toilets, a hand-pumped well, picnic tables, and fire rings, with easy access to fishing and canoe/kayak launching.
• Sanitary Dump Station: A centrally located dump station is available for RV waste disposal.
• Shower Houses: Centrally located shower houses provide flush toilets, showers with hot water, and large utility sinks for dishwashing, ensuring a comfortable experience for all campers.
• Camp Store/Check-in: A camp store is available, likely offering essential camping supplies and serving as the check-in point for reservations.
• Playground: A playground is located near the camp office, providing recreation for children.
• Amphitheater: An amphitheater is available for educational programs and evening activities.
• Boat Rentals: Boat rentals (for non-powered and electric boats) are available for use on Shawnee Lake, often from the Camp Office.

These comprehensive services, catering to various camping styles and needs, make Shawnee State Park Campground a versatile and appealing choice for any Pennsylvania outdoor enthusiast.

Shawnee State Park Campground and its surrounding park offer an abundance of features and highlights that make it a standout destination for Pennsylvanians seeking outdoor recreation:

• 451-Acre Shawnee Lake: The centerpiece of the park, offering extensive opportunities for swimming (with a designated beach area), boating (electric and non-powered, with rentals available), and fishing for species like largemouth bass, catfish, bluegill, crappie, and trout.
• Diverse Water Activities: Beyond standard boating, the lake is suitable for kayaking, canoeing, and ice boating and ice skating in winter, ensuring year-round water recreation.
• Extensive Trail System: Over 12 miles of trails are available for hiking and biking, with options ranging from easy walks around the lake to more challenging routes suitable for cross-country skiing in winter.
• Disc Golf Course: A 9-hole disc golf course provides a fun and active recreational option within the park.
• Variety of Accommodations: From modern electric and full-hookup RV sites to secluded tent sites, cozy camping cottages, and a unique yurt, there's an option for every camping preference, including designated pet-friendly sites.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: Features like a playground, basketball and volleyball courts, and an amphitheater for programs ensure entertainment for all ages.
• Seasonal Activities & Environmental Education: The park environmental educator conducts a summer schedule of nature walks and evening programs. Curriculum-based programs are available for schools and groups, focusing on natural and historical resources.
• Wildlife Watching: The park's diverse habitats support various wildlife, offering opportunities for bird watching and spotting local fauna.
• Winter Recreation: The park remains open year-round, offering activities like cross-country skiing, sledding, and ice fishing when conditions permit.
• Shawnee Lodge: A two-story house on an island in Lake Shawnee, available for rent year-round, sleeping eight people, offering a more luxurious stay within the park.

These highlights collectively ensure that Shawnee State Park offers a dynamic and fulfilling outdoor experience, catering to active adventurers and those seeking peaceful natural beauty.

As a Pennsylvania State Park Campground, Shawnee State Park generally operates under fixed rates set by the DCNR rather than offering traditional "promotions" or "special offers" like private commercial campgrounds. However, it provides inherent value and specific booking policies that can be considered beneficial for Pennsylvanians:

• Affordable State Park Rates: State park campgrounds are generally known for their affordability compared to private campgrounds, making quality outdoor experiences accessible to more residents. Exact rates vary by site type (non-electric, electric, full hookup, cottage, yurt) and season, typically ranging from approximately $20 to $110 per night.
• Advance Reservations: Most campsites can be reserved up to 11 months in advance, allowing Pennsylvanians to plan their trips well in advance, especially for popular weekends and holidays. A two-night minimum stay is required for Saturdays during the summer season, and 14-night maximum during peak season (Memorial Day to Labor Day), 21 nights during non-peak.
• Year-Round Availability: The campground opens in mid-April and generally closes in late December, with some facilities like the Shawnee Lodge open year-round, offering flexibility for off-season camping.
• Senior Citizen Discount: While not explicitly stated for Shawnee, Pennsylvania State Parks often offer discounts for senior citizens (e.g., $2 off per day for ages 62 and older), which is a valuable benefit for eligible residents.
• Organized Group Tenting Rates: Specific rates apply for organized youth and adult groups utilizing the rustic group tenting area, providing a cost-effective solution for larger gatherings.

For the most precise and up-to-date information on rates, specific availability, and any booking policies, Pennsylvanians should visit the official Pennsylvania State Parks website or use their centralized reservation system. Any fees for pets (permitted at designated sites) would also be detailed there.

For Pennsylvanians seeking to plan their visit, make reservations, or obtain more detailed information about Shawnee State Park Campground, the following contact methods are available:

Address: 132 State Park Rd, Schellsburg, PA 15559, USA

Park Office Phone: (814) 733-4218

Pennsylvania State Parks Reservation Center (Toll-Free): 1-888-PA-PARKS (1-888-727-2757)

The Park Office phone number is ideal for specific questions about the park's current conditions, local programs, or specific campsite details. For reservations, cancellations, or changes to existing bookings, the toll-free State Parks Reservation Center is the primary point of contact and operates Monday to Saturday, 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Additionally, online reservations can be made through the Pennsylvania State Parks website, which provides comprehensive details on availability, rates, and park rules. This multi-channel approach ensures that locals have convenient ways to access all the information they need for a successful camping trip.

For Pennsylvanians, Shawnee State Park Campground represents an exceptionally suitable and highly cherished outdoor destination, offering a comprehensive and accessible camping experience right in their own backyard. Its multifaceted appeal caters to a broad spectrum of interests, making it a go-to choice for various types of local adventurers.

Firstly, its prime location within the vast and beautiful Shawnee State Park, anchored by the 451-acre Shawnee Lake, provides an immediate and diverse playground for outdoor activities. Locals can easily spend a day swimming at the beach, boating on the lake, or fishing for various species, all within steps of their campsite. The extensive network of hiking and biking trails invites exploration of the state's natural beauty, allowing Pennsylvanians to immerse themselves in the serene woodlands and picturesque landscapes. This abundance of on-site recreation means less travel and more quality time spent enjoying the outdoors.

Secondly, the campground's wide array of accommodation options ensures there's a perfect fit for every local family or group. Whether you prefer the rustic charm of tent camping, the comfort of an RV with full hook-ups, the convenience of a cozy camping cottage, or the unique experience of a yurt, Shawnee State Park Campground has thoughtfully provided choices. This versatility, combined with ADA accessible sites and pet-friendly options, underscores its commitment to inclusivity, allowing all Pennsylvanians to find their ideal retreat.

Finally, as a Pennsylvania State Park, Shawnee offers reliable, well-maintained facilities and a structured, safe environment, all at affordable rates. The consistent upkeep of shower houses, the availability of a dump station, and clear park rules contribute to a hassle-free camping experience. For Pennsylvanians seeking a convenient, amenity-rich, and family-friendly escape into nature, Shawnee State Park Campground isn't just a place to stay; it's a vital part of their local outdoor heritage, promising memorable adventures and a renewed connection to the natural wonders of their home state.

Shawnee State Park Campground

132 State Park Rd, Schellsburg, PA 15559, USA