45 minutes from Pine Ridge
Seasonal Camping Near Hersheypark
100% Seasonal RV Campground in Michaux State Forest
Hersheypark draws millions of visitors annually with its world-class roller coasters, chocolate attractions, and family entertainment. It's one of Pennsylvania's most beloved destinations, and families return year after year for the thrills and sweet memories.
But here's what savvy families have discovered: staying right in Hershey means expensive hotels, crowded campgrounds, and missing out on everything else Pennsylvania has to offer. What if your summer camping home gave you easy access to Hersheypark AND dozens of other adventures?
Pine Ridge Campground is about 45 minutes from Hersheypark - close enough for day trips, far enough to escape the tourist chaos. After a full day of roller coasters and chocolate, return to your peaceful seasonal site in the mountains where fireflies replace neon lights and your neighbors are friends, not strangers.
Why Choose Pine Ridge Over Hershey Campgrounds?
See how we compare
| Feature | Hershey Area | Pine Ridge |
|---|---|---|
| Campsite Type | Nightly rates, tourist turnover | 100% seasonal - your summer home |
| Environment | Near highways and commercial areas | 2,050 ft mountain elevation in state forest |
| Price | $50-100+/night during peak season | Seasonal rate works out to ~$15/night |
| Community | Different families every night | Season-long friendships for kids and adults |
| Other Activities | Limited to Hershey attractions | ATVs, hiking, swimming, wineries, Gettysburg |
| Amenities | Basic campground facilities | Pool, pavilion, fiber WiFi, full hookups |
Why Pine Ridge is the Smart Choice
Day Trip Ideas from Pine Ridge
Make the most of your seasonal camping experience
Ultimate Hersheypark Day
Full DayMaximum thrills from open to close.
- 1Early departure for park opening
- 2Morning rides before crowds build
- 3Lunch in the park
- 4Afternoon water park (summer)
- 5Evening rides with shorter lines
- 6Return to Pine Ridge for campfire stories
Chocolate Lover's Tour
Full DayFor those who prefer sweet over thrills.
- 1Morning at Chocolate World (free tour)
- 2Create your own candy bar experience
- 3Lunch at Hershey restaurant
- 4Afternoon at Hershey Gardens
- 5Hershey Story Museum
- 6Back to Pine Ridge with chocolate souvenirs
Family Mix Day
Full DayA little bit of everything.
- 1Morning rides at Hersheypark
- 2Lunch break and Chocolate World
- 3Afternoon at ZooAmerica
- 4Ice cream in town
- 5Return to Pine Ridge for pool time
What Else is Near Pine Ridge?
Your seasonal site is a base camp for endless adventures
Hersheypark
Pennsylvania's largest amusement park with 70+ rides, water park, and Chocolate World.
35 miles awayCaledonia State Park
Swimming pool, hiking trails, fishing, and historic sites in a beautiful mountain setting.
9 miles awayGettysburg National Military Park
Walk the hallowed ground of America's most famous Civil War battle.
12 miles awayAdams County Winery
Award-winning local winery with farm location and downtown Gettysburg tasting room.
12 miles awayWhat Campers Say
We used to stay at campgrounds right by Hershey and pay a fortune. Now we have our seasonal site at Pine Ridge and visit Hersheypark 3-4 times each summer. The kids love it because they have friends at camp all season long.
The Garcia Family
Lancaster, PA
Pine Ridge is the perfect home base for families. We do Hershey, we do Gettysburg, we ride ATVs, we swim in the pool. Way better than being stuck at one tourist campground.
Jennifer M.
York, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Pine Ridge from Hersheypark?
Pine Ridge is about 45 minutes (35 miles) from Hersheypark via Routes 34 and 39. It's an easy day trip that the whole family can enjoy.
Is it worth driving 45 minutes instead of staying closer?
Absolutely! Campgrounds right by Hershey charge premium nightly rates and are packed with tourists. Pine Ridge offers seasonal rates (works out to ~$15/night), a real camping community, and access to dozens of other attractions. Most families visit Hersheypark 3-5 times per season - the rest of the time they enjoy ATVs, hiking, swimming, and our mountain community.
What do kids do at Pine Ridge when not at Hersheypark?
Kids at Pine Ridge have the time of their lives! We have a pool, playground, and organized activities. But the best part is the friendships - since we're 100% seasonal, kids make friends they see all summer long. Many families say their kids prefer camp days to park days!
Can we visit Hersheypark multiple times from Pine Ridge?
Yes! Many seasonal campers buy Hersheypark season passes and visit multiple times throughout the summer. The 45-minute drive is easy, and you can hit the park for half days or full days as you like.
What other attractions are near Pine Ridge besides Hershey?
Pine Ridge is centrally located for so much more: Gettysburg (20 min), ATV trails (5 min), Appalachian Trail hiking (2 min), state parks with swimming (15 min), and the Adams County wine trail. You'll never run out of things to do!
Explore Other Destinations
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Learn moreReady to Make Pine Ridge Your Mountain Home?
Join our 100% seasonal community in Michaux State Forest. Day-trip to Hershey and dozens of other attractions, then come home to your peaceful mountain retreat.