Northumberland, PA sits at the fork where the West Branch and North Branch of the Susquehanna River converge. It’s a small borough of about 3,500 people in the central part of the state, surrounded by rolling farmland, state parks, and river valleys that make this stretch of Pennsylvania a quiet draw for outdoor families.
The area doesn’t get the tourist buzz of the Poconos or Lake Erie. That’s part of the appeal. Campgrounds here sit along the river with real space between sites. Knoebels Amusement Resort, one of the last free-admission amusement parks in the country, is about 20 minutes away. Shikellamy State Park overlooks the river confluence from a dramatic bluff. And the pace of life lets you actually relax instead of fighting crowds.
Here’s what you need to know about the best campgrounds near Northumberland, PA, where to stay, what to do, and how to plan your trip.
Splash Magic RV Resort by RJourney
Splash Magic Campground by RJourney sits at 213 Aspen Lane in Northumberland, Pennsylvania, along the Susquehanna River where the West Branch and North Branch converge. The resort is owned by RJourney, managed by Advanced Outdoor Management, and led by general manager Jacqueline “Jackie” Woods.
The property is built around a full water park: water slides, splash pads, a kids’ pool, and a full-size swimming pool. Beyond the water, the activity list runs deep: glow-in-the-dark mini golf, bumper boats, paddle boats, a jumping pillow, pedal carts, an arcade, and an entertainment pavilion that runs a packed summer calendar of crafts, foam parties, pool volleyball, and outdoor movies.
Accommodations cover the full range: full-hookup pull-through and back-in RV sites with 30-amp and 50-amp service, tent sites, and a cabin/lodge inventory that runs from cozy two-person units to multi-bedroom villas like the Tubby Family Lodge for reunions and large groups. The Dolphin Cove cabins front the water with direct river views.
Nightly rates start at $37.80+. Winter monthly sites run $600/month from September through April, making the property a practical extended-stay option for seasonal workers and snowbirds breaking up the trip south.
Sites & Hookups
Splash Magic offers full-hookup RV sites in both pull-through and back-in configurations, with 30-amp and 50-amp electrical service to handle rigs of any size. Tent sites are available for guests who prefer to keep it simple. Long-term and seasonal extended-stay options work for snowbirds and workforce travelers — the winter monthly rate runs $600/month from September through April. Each RV site includes parking for two vehicles; overflow parking is available at $10/day near the lakeside area. Triple towing is not allowed. Maximum occupancy is eight per site, with four people included in the base fee and $8/day per additional guest.
What's On-Site
The water park is the headliner. Water slides, splash pads, a kids’ pool, and a full-size swimming pool give guests a reason to spend entire days without leaving the campground. The activity list runs deep beyond the water — glow-in-the-dark mini golf for evening play, bumper boats and paddle boats on the pond, a jumping pillow that draws a crowd of kids, pedal carts and rentable golf carts for cruising the property, and an arcade for rainy days.
The entertainment pavilion runs a full summer calendar: ceramics, tie-dye, pool volleyball, foam parties, adult bingo, and outdoor movie nights. The on-site camp store stocks essentials, snacks, and propane. Restrooms, showers, and laundry are on-property. Fishing access along the Susquehanna is direct from the campground. WiFi covers the property.
A staff tip worth keeping: the fish in the pond love hot dogs. Bring a pack from the camp store, break off small pieces, and watch the kids go wild.
What Guests Say
4.0 stars across 1,243 Google reviews.
Repeat visits are the strongest theme. Families come back year after year, often booking the next trip before they leave. The water park, pool area, and the sheer volume of kid-friendly activities pull the most praise; bumper boats, pedal carts, glow golf, and the jumping pillow keep children entertained for days. Cleanliness in the cabins and the helpfulness of the campground team are consistently evident. Long-term guests and extended-stay RVers highlight the riverfront sites and the relaxed atmosphere.
The campground draws families, groups, and solo RVers alike. It’s the kind of place where kids make friends on the first day, and parents finally get to sit in a camp chair.
Other Campgrounds Near Northumberland, PA
Nittany Mountain Campground
Located south of Northumberland near New Columbia, Nittany Mountain is a quieter option with wooded sites and basic amenities. It’s a good fit for tent campers and RVers looking for a more traditional campground experience without water parks and activity schedules. Hookups are available, and Knoebels is still an easy drive.
Hidden Valley Camping Resort
About 30 minutes east near Mifflinville, Hidden Valley offers a mix of RV sites, tent sites, and rental cabins. The campground has a pool, playground, and fishing pond. It’s a mid-range option that balances amenities with a more relaxed, wooded setting.
Knoebels Campground
Knoebels Amusement Resort operates its own campground adjacent to the park. If your trip revolves around the rides, this puts you within walking distance. Sites are basic, water and electric hookups are available, and the price reflects the location premium. It fills fast during summer weekends.
Things to Do Near Splash Magic RV Resort
- Fishing the Susquehanna River produces smallmouth bass, walleye, channel catfish, and panfish. The confluence near Northumberland is a productive stretch, accessible by boat or from the bank.
- Kayaking and canoeing on both branches of the Susquehanna. Several outfitters in the area rent boats and offer shuttle service for float trips.
- Shikellamy State Park marina provides public boat access for motorized and non-motorized watercraft. The marina is just minutes from the campground.
- Knoebels Amusement Resort (20 minutes east) is a must-visit. Opening day for 2026 is April 25th. Free admission, free parking, pay-per-ride pricing, and two world-class roller coasters. The park also has a massive pool complex, camping, and some of the best amusement park food in the country. Jackie Woods, the GM at Splash Magic, puts it simply: “Visit Knoebels!!!” It’s the single biggest draw in the area.
- Shikellamy State Park overlooks the river confluence from a 500-foot bluff. The overlook area has picnic facilities, a playground, and short trails. Below the bluff, the marina area offers more trails and river access.
- Lewisburg (15 minutes south) has a walkable downtown with shops, galleries, restaurants, and the Campus Theatre, an art-deco movie house that’s been running since 1941.
- Bloomsburg (25 minutes northeast) hosts the Bloomsburg Fair from September 25 through October 3, 2026, the largest fair in Pennsylvania with concerts, demolition derbies, agricultural exhibits, and carnival rides.
- Little League World Series (August 19-20, 2026) in Williamsport, about 45 minutes north. A bucket-list event for baseball families.
- Knoebels Amusement Resort (20 minutes east) is a must-visit. Opening day for 2026 is April 25th. Free admission, free parking, pay-per-ride pricing, and two world-class roller coasters. The park also has a massive pool complex, camping, and some of the best amusement park food in the country. Jackie Woods, the GM at Splash Magic, puts it simply: “Visit Knoebels!!!” It’s the single biggest draw in the area.
- Shikellamy State Park overlooks the river confluence from a 500-foot bluff. The overlook area has picnic facilities, a playground, and short trails. Below the bluff, the marina area offers more trails and river access.
- Lewisburg (15 minutes south) has a walkable downtown with shops, galleries, restaurants, and the Campus Theatre, an art-deco movie house that’s been running since 1941.
- Bloomsburg (25 minutes northeast) hosts the Bloomsburg Fair from September 25 through October 3, 2026, the largest fair in Pennsylvania with concerts, demolition derbies, agricultural exhibits, and carnival rides.
- Little League World Series (August 19-20, 2026) in Williamsport, about 45 minutes north. A bucket-list event for baseball families.
- Ricketts Glen State Park (about 1 hour north) features 22 named waterfalls along the Falls Trail, one of the most scenic hikes in Pennsylvania. Plan for a half-day minimum.
- Pine Creek Gorge (PA Grand Canyon) is about 90 minutes northwest. The overlook at Leonard Harrison State Park delivers a jaw-dropping view of the 1,000-foot-deep gorge. The Pine Creek Rail Trail at the bottom is a favorite for biking and hiking.
- Hersheypark (about 75 minutes south) pairs a major theme park with Chocolate World and the surrounding Hershey attractions. A solid full-day trip for families.
Seasonal Guide for Camping Near Northumberland
May Through September (Peak Season)
Summer is prime time at Splash Magic and campgrounds across the region. The water park and pool are in full swing. Daytime highs sit in the 70s to mid-80s, with warm evenings perfect for campfires. Knoebels operates its full ride schedule during this window. Weekend sites book quickly, especially around holidays, so reserve 2 to 4 weeks ahead for summer stays.
September and October (Fall)
Fall in central PA is stunning. The Susquehanna River valley lights up with foliage, and temperatures drop into comfortable hiking range (50s to 70s). The Bloomsburg Fair runs in late September. Knoebels opens weekends through October for its Hallo-Fun and pumpkin festivals. Campground rates often dip after Labor Day, making this a smart time to visit.
November Through April (Off-Season)
Most campgrounds in the Northumberland area operate seasonally and close for winter. Splash Magic’s season typically runs spring through fall. If you’re planning a winter trip, check availability and open dates directly with the campground. The area still has appeal for cold-weather activities, including hiking, hunting season, and holiday events in nearby towns.
Practical Tips for Camping Near Northumberland, PA
Summer weekends and holiday weeks fill early. Book 2 to 4 weeks out for peak season. Extended stays and seasonal sites should be booked as far ahead as possible.
Dollar General and Surplus Outlet are both within a 5-minute drive for basics. Weis Markets and Walmart are in Northumberland/Sunbury, also about 5 minutes out.
Mateo's Pizza, right across the road from the campground, offers a 10% discount to Splash Magic guests (excludes specials). Grab a pizza after a long day at the pool and skip the cooking.
Coverage is solid in town on major carriers. Signal can weaken in valleys and hollows as you head into more rural areas.
Route 11 and Route 147 are the main roads serving Northumberland. Both handle RVs and trailers without issues. The campground entrance on Aspen Lane is straightforward.
Splash Magic's water park activities require wristbands. Check current pricing when you book. Arrive early on hot days for the best pool deck spots. The WiFi password and pool hours are provided at check-in.
Available for purchase on-site at the campground.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best campground near Northumberland, PA?
Splash Magic Campground by RJourney is the top-rated option in the area, with a 4.1-star rating across over 1,200 reviews. It offers full hookup RV sites, tent camping, cabins, an on-site water park, glow-in-the-dark mini golf, bumper boats, and a packed activity calendar for families. It’s located right along the Susquehanna River.
Does Splash Magic Campground have a water park?
Yes. Splash Magic features an on-site water park with water slides, splash pads, a kids’ pool, and a full-size swimming pool. The water park is one of the campground’s biggest draws and a major reason families return year after year. Wristbands may be required for certain water park activities.
How much does it cost to camp at Splash Magic?
Nightly rates at Splash Magic Campground start at $37.80+. Pricing varies based on site type (tent, RV, cabin, lodge), season, and length of stay. Summer weekends and holidays are the most popular. Call (412) 730-2170 for current rates and availability.
Are there campgrounds with full hookups near Northumberland, PA?
Yes. Splash Magic Campground by RJourney offers full hookup RV sites with water, sewer, and electric (30-amp and 50-amp service). Pull-through and back-in sites are both available. Other campgrounds in the area offer varying levels of hookups, so confirm with each park before booking.
Is Splash Magic Campground pet-friendly?
Yes. Splash Magic welcomes dogs at RV and tent camping sites. Specific pet policies for cabins and lodges may vary, so contact the campground directly for details. The campground and surrounding area offer plenty of space for walking dogs along the river.
Are there campgrounds near Knoebels Amusement Resort?
Splash Magic Campground is about 20 minutes west of Knoebels, making it a popular base camp for families visiting the amusement park. Knoebels also operates its own campground adjacent to the park with basic hookup sites. Both options give you easy access to the rides, pools, and food that make Knoebels a central PA institution.
Ready to Book Your Northumberland Camping Trip?
Splash Magic Campground by RJourney puts your family on the Susquehanna River with a water park, glow golf, bumper boats, and enough activities to fill a full week. Full hookup RV sites, cabins for every group size, and 20 minutes to Knoebels.
Check Availability at Splash Magic Campground (412) 730-2170