20 minutes from Pine Ridge
Seasonal Camping Near Gettysburg
100% Seasonal RV Campground in Michaux State Forest
Gettysburg draws millions of visitors each year to walk the hallowed grounds where the Civil War's most decisive battle took place. The battlefield, museums, ghost tours, and charming downtown make it one of Pennsylvania's top destinations.
But here's what most visitors don't realize: the best way to experience Gettysburg isn't from a crowded hotel or a transient campground packed with tour buses. It's from a peaceful seasonal campsite nestled in the mountains, just 20 minutes away.
Pine Ridge Campground sits at 2,050 feet elevation in Michaux State Forest, offering the perfect balance: easy access to Gettysburg's historic attractions with the tranquility of mountain living. Spend your days exploring the battlefield, then retreat to your own seasonal site where the only sounds are birdsong and campfire crackling.
Why Choose Pine Ridge Over Gettysburg Campgrounds?
See how we compare
| Feature | Gettysburg Area | Pine Ridge |
|---|---|---|
| Campsite Type | Nightly/transient sites with constant turnover | 100% seasonal sites - your neighbors become friends |
| Environment | Flat, open fields near busy roads | 2,050 ft mountain elevation in Michaux State Forest |
| Community | Different faces every night | Season-long relationships, community events |
| Amenities | Basic facilities | Pool, pavilion, fiber WiFi, full hookups |
| Noise Level | Tour buses, highway noise | Peaceful forest sounds |
| Additional Activities | Limited to Gettysburg attractions | ATV trails, hiking, fishing, wineries all within 15 min |
Why Pine Ridge is the Smart Choice
Day Trip Ideas from Pine Ridge
Make the most of your seasonal camping experience
History Buff's Perfect Day
Full DayImmerse yourself in Civil War history from morning to evening.
- 1Start at the Museum & Visitor Center (9 AM)
- 2Watch the Cyclorama film
- 3Drive the 24-mile auto tour
- 4Lunch at a downtown restaurant
- 5Walk Little Round Top and Devil's Den
- 6Evening ghost tour
- 7Return to Pine Ridge for campfire time
Family Adventure Day
Full DayA mix of history and fun for all ages.
- 1Morning at the battlefield visitor center
- 2Picnic lunch at a scenic overlook
- 3Afternoon at Mr. Ed's Elephant Museum
- 4Ice cream in downtown Gettysburg
- 5Back to Pine Ridge for pool time
Quick Morning Trip
Half DayPerfect when you want afternoon relaxation at camp.
- 1Early breakfast at camp
- 2Drive to Little Round Top for sunrise views
- 3Walk the High Water Mark trail
- 4Browse downtown shops
- 5Back to Pine Ridge by lunch for pool and pavilion
What Else is Near Pine Ridge?
Your seasonal site is a base camp for endless adventures
Gettysburg National Military Park
Walk the hallowed ground of America's most famous Civil War battle.
12 miles awayGettysburg Ghost Tours
Experience the haunted side of America's most famous battlefield.
12 miles awayDowntown Gettysburg
Charming shops, restaurants, and history in the heart of Civil War country.
12 miles awayAdams County Winery
Award-winning local winery with farm location and downtown Gettysburg tasting room.
12 miles awayWhat Campers Say
We chose Pine Ridge specifically because of its location near Gettysburg. We can visit the battlefield whenever we want, but we come home to peace and quiet every night. Best of both worlds.
The Martinez Family
Baltimore, MD
After trying campgrounds right in Gettysburg for years, we discovered Pine Ridge. The difference is night and day. Actual camping in the mountains, not a parking lot next to a gift shop.
Robert K.
Northern Virginia
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Pine Ridge Campground from Gettysburg?
Pine Ridge is just 20 minutes (15 miles) from downtown Gettysburg and the National Military Park Visitor Center. It's an easy drive down Route 34 through scenic Adams County.
Can I camp right at Gettysburg instead?
There are campgrounds closer to Gettysburg, but they're primarily transient sites designed for tourists passing through. Pine Ridge offers a completely different experience: 100% seasonal camping in Michaux State Forest with a real community feel. You get the best of both worlds - easy access to Gettysburg plus genuine mountain camping.
Is Pine Ridge open during Gettysburg's busiest seasons?
Yes! Our season runs April 1 through October 31, which covers all of Gettysburg's peak events including Memorial Day, the Anniversary of the Battle (July 1-3), and the Remembrance Day weekend in November.
What else can I do near Pine Ridge besides Gettysburg?
Pine Ridge sits in Michaux State Forest, so you have immediate access to 40+ miles of ATV trails, the Appalachian Trail, state parks with swimming, and the Adams County wine trail. Many campers spend one day at Gettysburg and the next hiking or riding ATVs.
Do you offer nightly camping for Gettysburg visitors?
No, Pine Ridge is 100% seasonal camping only. We accept yearly leases, which creates a tight-knit community rather than constant turnover. If you're looking for a seasonal camping home base for exploring Gettysburg and the region, we'd love to have you join us.
Ready to Make Pine Ridge Your Mountain Home?
Join our 100% seasonal community in Michaux State Forest. Day-trip to Gettysburg and dozens of other attractions, then come home to your peaceful mountain retreat.