Heritage and history are some of the mainstays of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Dating back to the early 1700s, the region was settled by Swiss German immigrants, who sought religious liberty in the colony of Pennsylvania. Today, Lancaster County, the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, is considered one of America's favorite places to visit.
With diverse attractions, scenic beauty, inviting towns, covered bridges, and farms, Lancaster County provides every vacationer with loads to see and do. The following information and links should assist you in planning an RV & Camping vacation you will never forget.
Description/Facts
Lancaster County, located in southeastern Pennsylvania, consists of a hilly piedmont region bounded by the Susquehanna River to the west. Visitors to the region see farm landscapes that match up to, or likely surpass, any farm vistas in the United States. Situated within an easy drive from New York, Washington DC, Pittsburgh, and Baltimore, it's a great area to visit for a quick camping getaway.
Driving Distances:
Between Lancaster, PA, and: Albany, NY - 270 miles
Baltimore, MD - 70 miles
Boston, MA - 377 miles
Hartford, CT - 279 miles
New York City - 160 miles
Philadelphia, PA - 65 miles
Providence, RI - 342 miles
Washington D.C. - 106 miles
Weather:
Winter - snow covered farms, Spring - warm breezes and blooming flowers, Summer - fresh summer produce and green fields and Fall - flaming oranges, yellows and reds…
Average annual temperature: 53 degrees.
Average July temperature: 78 degrees.
Average January temperature: 32 degrees.
Average annual precipitation: 38 inches.
Average annual snowfall: 7.5 inches.
Industry
The economic diversity of Lancaster County ranges from farming to tourism, industrial manufacturing to commercial printing. Of course, leading the way is travel and tourism. With over 4 million visitors a year and over 18,000 residents working in the industry, Lancaster County specializes in making your trip enjoyable & memorable.
Places to Camp
Here are a few of our favorite campgrounds located in the region.
Spring Gulch Resort Campground
Red Run Campground
Mill Bridge Village and Camp Resort
Pinch Pond Family Campground
Outdoor World
The Amish
Lancaster County is home to the oldest, second largest in population and by far the most visited Old Order Amish settlement in North America.
The Amish people originated in Europe. Seeking religious freedom, they migrated to America in the early 1700s. Today, some 22,000 Amish people live in Lancaster County. Their presence has made this area a national, even an international, tourist destination.
The numerous Amish and plain communities, give Lancaster County a whole different ambience. The Plain people as a whole are not as materialistic as modern society today. Instead, they adhere to more traditional ways and family values. Their influence is felt throughout the local society.
Things To Do
Whether you want to enjoy the scenic beauty or spend your time visiting museums and shops in the inviting towns, Lancaster County has something for everyone. Here are some ideas:
Outdoor Enthusiasts
Bird Watching (Susquehanna River is a key resting and feeding location for migrating birds
Fantastic Golf
Speedwell Forge Lake (Popular with fisherman and canoeists)
Hiking (Miles of trails throughout the county - i.e. Holtwood Pinnacle)
Bicycling (Miles upon miles of road to tread)
Swimming (Campgrounds offer a variety of pools and lakes)
Kayaking & Canoeing (Rivers, streams, lakes & ponds)
Scenic Drives (Rated in the top 10 in the U.S.)
... the list is endless!
Attractions/Museums
Balloon Flights Daily
Dutch Wonderland Family Amusement Park
Mill Bridge Village
National Toy Train Museum
People's Place Quilt Museum
Discover Lancaster County History Museum
Hands-on House Children's Museum
Hersheypark
When To Visit
Throughout the seasons, Lancaster County, has strived at providing visitors for plenty to do and see. Of course, late summer and fall is just a beautiful time to visit the area. With the deep greens of the fields late in the summer and the earth tone hues of fall. I find a special attraction to the beauty of it all.
Informative Links
Coupon Savings at myclipper.com
Pennsylvania Dutch Convention & Visitors Bureau
Pennsylvania Dutch Country Welcome Center
Pennsylvania Tourism
Visit Lancaster Online
Covered Bridges of Lancaster County
The Heart of Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission
Lancaster Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Happy Trails!
