12 miles from Pine Ridge
Gettysburg National Military Park
Gettysburg National Military Park preserves the site of the pivotal 1863 battle. Tour the battlefield, visit iconic monuments, and understand why this place changed American history.
20 minutes drive from Pine Ridge Campground
Why Pine Ridge Campers Love It
Getting There
Gettysburg National Military Park
1195 Baltimore Pike, Gettysburg, PA 17325
Directions from Pine Ridge
From Pine Ridge, head south on Route 34 through Biglerville to Gettysburg. Follow signs to the Visitor Center on Baltimore Pike.
All distances measured from Pine Ridge Campground, 2635 Shippensburg Rd, Biglerville, PA
About Gettysburg National Military Park
Gettysburg National Military Park preserves over 1,000 acres where, in July 1863, the largest battle of the Civil War changed the course of American history. For Pine Ridge campers, this world-class historic site lies just 20 minutes away, offering endless opportunities for exploration and reflection.
The three-day battle saw nearly 165,000 soldiers clash across the rolling farmland and ridges. Today, over 1,300 monuments, markers, and memorials dot the landscape, each telling a piece of the story. The park offers multiple ways to experience this history - auto tours, guided tours, walking tours, and ranger programs.
Start at the Museum and Visitor Center, where the award-winning film and Cyclorama painting provide context for the battle. The museum's exhibits explain the causes, course, and consequences of the Civil War, while the Cyclorama's 360-degree painting creates an immersive battlefield experience.
On the field itself, key locations include Little Round Top, Devil's Den, the Peach Orchard, Cemetery Ridge, and the Angle - site of Pickett's Charge. Each location offers interpretive signs, but guided tours bring the stories to life with expert narration of tactics, personalities, and human drama.
For many visitors, Gettysburg is a once-in-a-lifetime destination. As a Pine Ridge camper, you have the luxury of returning again and again, discovering new stories with each visit.
What to Expect
- Preserved Battlefield: Over 1,000 acres of hallowed ground preserve the landscape where history was made. Walk the same fields where soldiers fought and fell.
- Monuments & Memorials: More than 1,300 monuments, markers, and tablets tell the stories of units and individuals who fought here. Each monument has a story.
- Museum & Cyclorama: The state-of-the-art museum provides context through exhibits and film. The restored Cyclorama painting creates an immersive 360-degree battlefield experience.
- Multiple Tour Options: Self-guided auto tours, Licensed Battlefield Guide tours, ranger programs, and walking tours offer experiences for every interest and schedule.
Insider Tips from Pine Ridge Campers
- 1Start at the Museum & Visitor Center for orientation
- 2Book Licensed Battlefield Guide tours in advance during peak season
- 3The free NPS app includes audio tour content
- 4Plan at least 3-4 hours for a thorough visit
- 5Bring comfortable walking shoes - the field is uneven
Visitor Information
Hours
Park grounds: Sunrise to sunset daily. Museum: 8 AM - 5 PM (hours vary seasonally)
Cost
Park grounds: Free. Museum/Cyclorama: Adults $15, Seniors $14, Youth $10
Phone
(717) 334-1124Website
Visit Official SiteSeasonal Notes
Battle anniversary (July 1-3) features special programs. Spring and fall offer comfortable touring weather. Winter provides solitude and unique perspectives.
What Campers Say
“We've been camping at Pine Ridge for three seasons and still haven't seen everything at Gettysburg. It's an inexhaustible treasure.”
Robert & Susan L. — History Enthusiasts
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I plan for a visit?
A basic overview takes 3-4 hours including the museum. History enthusiasts can easily spend full days or multiple visits exploring every corner of the battlefield.
What's included in the museum admission?
Admission includes the museum exhibits, the film "A New Birth of Freedom," and the restored Cyclorama painting. The battlefield grounds are free to visit separately.
Are dogs allowed on the battlefield?
Yes, leashed dogs are welcome on the battlefield grounds and trails. Dogs are not permitted inside the museum or Visitor Center.
What is a Licensed Battlefield Guide?
Licensed Battlefield Guides are experts who provide personalized tours in your vehicle. They bring deep knowledge and storytelling skills to bring the battle to life. Book through the Visitor Center.
Your Adventure Base Camp Awaits
With Gettysburg National Military Park just 20 minutes away, Pine Ridge Campground is the perfect base for your next adventure. Explore all day, then return to the comfort of your seasonal site.