HARRISBURG, PA — Camping demand in Pennsylvania’s state parks and forests has surged, with the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) reporting a 10% increase in campsite reservations this year, including a 60% rise in some areas. Over 5,400 additional bookings have been recorded, reflecting the state’s growing allure for outdoor recreation.
The closure of federally managed campgrounds, including Raystown Lake and nearby Cowanesque Lake, has driven more visitors to Pennsylvania’s 124 state parks. Since March, parks within an hour of Raystown saw a 33% rise in reservations, with Trough Creek State Park experiencing a 60% spike.
To meet rising demand, DCNR added 149 full-service campsites with electric, water, and sewer hookups across four locations since June 2024. Key additions include 89 sites at Pymatuning State Park and 20 each at Bald Eagle, Lackawanna, and Ohiopyle State Parks.
“Camping is more popular than ever in Pennsylvania, and we’re working hard to meet that demand,” said DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn. “These new full-service sites help us better serve today’s campers and expand access to high-quality outdoor experiences across the state.”
The DCNR’s “Still Open. Still Awesome.” initiative further underscores the state’s commitment to affordable, accessible recreation. With 7,100 campsites and no entrance fees, Pennsylvania’s parks welcome visitors year-round, offering a range of camping options, including pet-friendly facilities.
This strategic expansion ensures Pennsylvania’s parks continue to attract campers and bolster tourism, even as federal sites shutter.
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