Shawnee State Park Campground: Your Premier Outdoor Escape in Schellsburg, PA

Shawnee State Park Campground Introduce

Introduction / Overview

For Pennsylvanians seeking a quintessential outdoor experience that balances natural beauty with modern conveniences, Shawnee State Park Campground in Schellsburg, PA, stands as a highly recommended destination. Nestled in the scenic Ridge and Valley Province of the Appalachian Mountains, this "very nicely maintained state park" offers a vast and welcoming environment for all types of campers, from those pitching a tent to those enjoying the comforts of an RV or even a cozy cabin.

Shawnee State Park is a sprawling 3,983-acre haven, with the impressive 451-acre Shawnee Lake at its heart. This focal point provides a wide array of water-based activities, making it a perfect spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors consistently praise the campground's cleanliness and the helpfulness of its staff, creating an inviting atmosphere that makes check-in "easy" and stays truly "delightful." With "Great camping and day use facilities," and a commitment to providing planned activities every weekend, Shawnee State Park Campground ensures that every visit is filled with opportunities for relaxation, adventure, and memorable moments in the heart of Pennsylvania's natural beauty.

Location and Accessibility

Shawnee State Park Campground is ideally situated at 132 State Park Rd, Schellsburg, PA 15559, USA. This prime location places it approximately ten miles west of the historic town of Bedford, within the picturesque Bedford County in South Central Pennsylvania. For residents across the Keystone State, the campground offers excellent accessibility, making it a convenient and desirable destination for outdoor escapes.

The park's proximity to major transportation routes, including U.S. Route 30 and Pennsylvania Route 96 which pass directly through the park, makes it straightforward to reach from various parts of Pennsylvania. Whether you're traveling from Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, or even Philadelphia, the drive to Shawnee State Park is manageable, ensuring that you spend less time on the road and more time enjoying your camping adventure. This ease of access is a significant advantage for locals seeking a quick weekend getaway or a longer vacation.

The surrounding region is part of Pennsylvania's scenic Ridge and Valley Province, characterized by rolling hills, forested mountains, and fertile valleys. This natural setting provides a beautiful backdrop for camping and a wealth of opportunities for outdoor exploration. While the campground offers a serene escape, it's also close enough to the charming town of Bedford, which boasts historical sites, local shops, and dining options, allowing campers to easily combine their outdoor pursuits with cultural and culinary experiences. The balance of accessibility and natural immersion makes Shawnee State Park Campground a highly attractive option for Pennsylvanians looking to connect with the outdoors.

Services Offered

Shawnee State Park Campground provides a comprehensive array of services and amenities designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for all visitors:

Diverse Campsite Options: With approximately 293 sites, the campground accommodates various preferences:
- Tent Sites: Ample space for traditional tent camping. Some may be slightly slanted, but there are plenty to choose from.
- Electric Hookup Sites (65 available): Sites with electric hookups (likely 30 amp, potentially some 50 amp) for RVs, trailers, and pop-ups.
- Full Hookup Sites: Several sites offer full hookups including electric, water, and sewer for maximum convenience.
- Cabin Rentals: Well-made cabins with amenities like ceiling fans, heat, porches with tables, and wooden tables inside. Some are ADA accessible.
- Yurt Rentals: Two yurts are available, offering a glamping experience with electric range, microwave, refrigerator, heat, and bunk beds.
- Group Camping Areas: Two group camping areas (up to 15 people) with full hookups and four tent-only group campsites (up to 20 people per site).
Clean Restrooms and Hot Showers: Reviewers consistently praise the "clean bathrooms" and "flush toilets" and "hot showers" available in centrally located washhouses.
Sanitation Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available for RVs and trailers.
Drinking Water: Access to drinking water is provided throughout the campground.
Camp Store: A camp store is available, typically selling firewood, charcoal, camping supplies, and other essentials (open Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day).
Firewood Sales: Firewood is available for purchase at the camp store.
Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring for outdoor meals and campfires.
Playground: A dedicated playground area provides entertainment for children.
Swimming Beach: Access to a designated swimming beach on Shawnee Lake (unguarded).
Boat Launches and Mooring: Multiple boat launches are available on Shawnee Lake, and boat mooring is possible in cabin and group tenting areas.
Planned Weekend Activities: The park often organizes "activities planned every weekend," providing structured entertainment for campers.
Pet-Friendly Sites: A maximum of two pets are permitted on all sites in loops B and G, and at designated campsites in Loop A, for an additional fee. Pets are prohibited in swimming areas and buildings.
Laundry Tubs: Centrally located washhouses include laundry tubs for convenience.

These extensive services contribute to a comfortable and engaging camping experience, catering to a wide range of preferences and needs.

Features / Highlights

Shawnee State Park Campground is rich with features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for Pennsylvania campers:

Beautifully Maintained State Park: Visitors consistently commend the park for being "very nicely maintained," reflecting the dedication of the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) to providing a clean and appealing environment. This includes well-kept day-use and camping facilities.
451-Acre Shawnee Lake: The expansive lake is a central feature, offering a plethora of water-based activities. Campers can enjoy boating, fishing, kayaking, paddle-boarding, and swimming at the designated beach. Boat rentals (rowboats, canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, pedal boats) are available from the camp store.
Spacious and Shaded Campsites: Reviewers highlight "Larger sized lots too" and that "The sites have trees and shade!" Many sites are "easy to back into with a camper," ensuring comfort and convenience for RVers. Even the cabins are "well made" with amenities like ceiling fans and porches.
Diverse Accommodations: Beyond traditional tent and RV sites (with electric and full hookup options), the park also offers camping cottages, yurts, and even a lodge, catering to a wide range of preferences and comfort levels. This flexibility allows for different types of "camping" experiences.
Abundant Recreational Opportunities:
- Extensive Trails: The park boasts numerous trails for hiking and biking, inviting exploration of the surrounding natural landscapes.
- Playground: A dedicated playground keeps younger campers entertained.
- Disc Golf: An 18-hole disc golf course is available for a fun, active pastime.
- Winter Sports: During colder months, the park offers opportunities for cross-country skiing, sledding, and ice skating, extending the recreational season.
Planned Weekend Activities: A significant highlight is the park's commitment to "activities planned every weekend." This provides engaging and organized entertainment for families, from nature programs to themed events, enhancing the overall camping experience.
Clean and Modern Facilities: The "clean bathrooms" with "hot showers" are a welcomed convenience for campers, especially after a day of outdoor adventures.
Friendly and Helpful Staff: Visitors consistently commend the "Nice rangers" and helpful park personnel, contributing to an "easy check in" and a "delightful experience" overall.

These features collectively make Shawnee State Park Campground a versatile and highly enjoyable destination for diverse outdoor enthusiasts and families.

Promotions or Special Offers

As a Pennsylvania State Park campground, Shawnee State Park operates under the pricing and discount policies set by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR). While they don't typically offer seasonal "promotions" in the commercial sense, there are established pricing structures and discounts available to various groups:

Tiered Pricing for Sites and Amenities:
- Base Campsite Price: Standard nightly rates apply for basic campsites.
- Additional Charges for Amenities: There are additional nightly fees for specific amenities such as:
  - Electricity: For sites with electric hookups.
  - Water: For sites with water hookups.
  - Water and Sewer: For full hookup sites.
  - Designated Pet Campsite Fee: A small additional charge for bringing pets to designated pet-friendly sites.
  - Extra Vehicle: A fee for an additional vehicle at a campsite.
- Lodge, Cabin, and Yurt Rates: These accommodations have their own specific nightly rates, which vary by type and capacity.
Discounts Available:
- Weekly Discount: A discount is applied for weekly stays (per 7 consecutive nights).
- Seniors and People with Disabilities: Reduced rates are available for Pennsylvania residents aged 62 and over, and for individuals with disabilities.
Reservation System: Most campsites and lodging can be reserved up to 11 months in advance through the Pennsylvania State Parks reservation system (ReserveAmerica). This allows for planning well in advance, especially for popular weekends and during peak season.
Minimum Stay Requirements: During the summer season (Saturday before Memorial Day to Labor Day), a two-night minimum stay is required if a reservation includes a Saturday. Holiday weekends typically require a three-night minimum stay.
Seasonal Operation: The camping season at Shawnee State Park usually begins the second Friday in April and extends through late December, offering opportunities for spring, summer, and fall camping.

For the most current and precise pricing information, including any specific details on rates for different site types or any updates to discount policies, it is always best to visit the official Pennsylvania DCNR website or use the Pennsylvania State Parks reservation system.

Contact Information

To plan your visit, make reservations, or gather more specific information about Shawnee State Park Campground, you can use the following contact details:

Address: 132 State Park Rd, Schellsburg, PA 15559, USA
Park Office Phone: (814) 733-4218
Mobile Phone: +1 814-733-4218
Pennsylvania State Parks Reservation Center: For campsite and lodging reservations, it is often best to use the central state park reservation system. You can typically find this information on the official Pennsylvania DCNR website or by searching for "PA State Parks Reservations."

It is highly recommended to check the official Pennsylvania DCNR website for Shawnee State Park for the most up-to-date information on park alerts, operating hours, specific facility availability, and reservation policies. Calling the park office directly can also provide valuable insights into current conditions or specific site details.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Pennsylvanians, Shawnee State Park Campground stands out as an exceptionally suitable and appealing destination for a diverse range of outdoor enthusiasts. Its blend of natural beauty, extensive amenities, and convenient accessibility makes it a prime choice for locals seeking memorable adventures right in their own state.

Firstly, its location in South Central Pennsylvania, near the historic town of Bedford and easily accessible via major routes, means that a rejuvenating escape is never far from home. This allows Pennsylvanians to plan spontaneous weekend trips or extended vacations without the hassle of long-distance travel, maximizing their time spent enjoying the outdoors. The "easy check in" and helpful rangers further streamline the arrival process, ensuring a smooth start to any stay.

Secondly, the park's "very nicely maintained" facilities and "clean bathrooms" underscore the commitment to providing a comfortable and hygienic environment. This attention to detail is highly valued by campers, ensuring a pleasant experience whether you're tenting, RVing, or staying in one of their "well made" cabins or yurts. The "Larger sized lots" with "trees and shade" also provide the ideal setting for relaxation and privacy.

Furthermore, the vast 451-acre Shawnee Lake and the numerous "Great camping and day use facilities" offer an endless array of activities right at your doorstep. From swimming at the beach and various boating opportunities on the lake to exploring miles of hiking trails and enjoying the playground, there's something for every member of the family. The presence of "activities planned every weekend" is a significant bonus, ensuring there's always something engaging and fun happening.

In essence, Shawnee State Park Campground offers Pennsylvanians a comprehensive and high-quality outdoor experience. It's a place where they can easily connect with nature, enjoy a wide range of recreational pursuits, and create lasting memories, all within the beautiful and accessible landscapes of their home state. Its popularity among locals is a testament to its consistent quality and broad appeal.

Shawnee State Park Campground Photos

Shawnee State Park Campground Location

Shawnee State Park Campground

Pennsylvania Bedford County Schellsburg State Park Road

132 State Park Rd, Schellsburg, PA 15559, USA

Shawnee State Park Campground Reviews

Very nicely maintained state park. Great camping and day use facilities.
Apr 19, 2025 · Phil Goldblum
Easy check in. Nice rangers helped us find out site. The sites have trees and shade! Larger sized lots too from what I can tell. Most lots like easy to back into with a camper. A few of the tent sites look like they are slanted, but there are over 300 sites to choose from. There is a playground, a beach, and trails. They had activities planned every weekend. The bathrooms were clean. We are staying in one of the cabins. Mattress seems fine. Will be sleeping in it tonight. The cabin was well made and had a ceiling fan. The cabin had a porch with a nice table. There is also a nice wooden table inside. The cabin had heat, but we won’t be using it unless it drops too low at night. So far a delightful experience.
Jun 02, 2023 · James Marland
My first time at Shawnee at site 182, and it’s pleasant, but not without issues.The good:1. There is ice and wood available at all hours, but you need cash for the ice ($2). The wood is in some kind of vending machine that takes cards and $5 and $1 bills only (no change). You can’t buy kindling, so you have to walk around and find sticks.2. It’s pretty quiet throughout the week (not sure about the weekend).3. Bathrooms and showers are clean and have a sink to do dishes, but the bathroom locations are sparse throughout the campground.4. It’s pretty big, which is cool for folks who wants to ride bikes or skate in the campground.5. The lake isn’t too far away and there is a beach with a swimming area and an inexpensive place to rent boats. The beach, however, has bizarre fencing a where the sand meets the water with gates to go through to enter the water. Why? I cannot find a single reason this is needed.The not so great:1. If you’re camping in a tent, well, it’s rough. Most sites are on an incline, so you don’t have a flat space to put your tent. Also, the ground is full of jagged and sharp rocks, so sleeping on the ground is perilous. Bring a cot and not a blowup mattress. I think whomever created the sites did not have tent campers in mind.2. Many folks have mentioned the smell, and they are correct. It’s a sewagey smell, but it’s not constant.3. Many sites do not have electricity.4. Many sites do not have much shade or trees to hang hammocks.5. The park rangers wear bulletproof vests. I’ve never seen a park ranger wear those in any of the state parks I’ve visited across the country. It makes me feel unsafe. If the park rangers need to wear them, what is going on here?6. There’s no camp store to get last minute needs.7. If you like hiking and are looking for good trails, they are not here. If you like taking a pleasant walk, you can walk around the lake, which is paved (I think the whole loop), so it’s accessible for folks in wheelchairs and with difficulty walking.8. The campground map is not very helpful and the signage around the camp is also not helpful. It was difficult to find the Lost Antler trail because the map wasn’t clear and the one sign was off the road behind a campsite.9. At the lake, there are maps to the hospital. A curious choice, considering most people have a phone which will tell them where the hospital is and how to get there.In conclusion, I will not come back unless I have a camper or RV.
Jul 25, 2024 · Punchy O'Guts
Great location off of RT 30 and RT 31. Choice lots for RVs. Electric and access to potable water and dump station. Both Verizon an T-Mobile 5G 300-600mbs for streaming.
Apr 24, 2025 · Daniel Farrell (Sr)
Mostly flat gravel pads. I was on a pull-through with tons of additional space after parking. Very large park with a lake and water rentals. The bathrooms were clean but a little dated. The staff were very friendly. I hit my fair share of low branches inside the park but they were only twigs, no damage done.Enjoy!
Jul 03, 2023 · Ryan Svolto