Colonel Denning State Park - United States
Discover the RVezy RV rental marketplace
About Colonel Denning State Park
RV quick facts for Colonel Denning State Park
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Max RV length | Campground accommodates tents and trailers; sites are small and best suited to rigs under 30 ft |
| Full hookups | No full hookups; campground sites are non-electric |
| Dump station | Sanitary dump station available seasonally in the campground |
| Generator hours | Generators restricted during posted quiet hours, typically 9 p.m. to 8 a.m. |
| Cell service | Limited and spotty in the Doubling Gap valley due to surrounding ridges |
| Road restrictions | Access via PA-233 over Blue Mountain; winding mountain grades, no tunnels |
| Reservation window | Campsites bookable through the Pennsylvania State Parks reservation system up to 11 months in advance |
Featured RV rentals for Colonel Denning State Park
Best time to visit Colonel Denning State Park
Late May through early October is the prime window, with warm temperatures for swimming in Doubling Gap Lake, full campground operations, and open trails. September and early October bring cooler nights, lighter crowds, and fall foliage across Blue Mountain, which is ideal for RV travelers who prefer quieter sites. Spring, from April into May, is good for hiking and birding but can be muddy on the Flat Rock Trail. Winter visits are limited to day use, as the campground closes seasonally and mountain roads can be icy.
Campground closed, day-use only
Campground closed, day-use only
Campground closed, day-use only
Campground opens mid-April, trails can be muddy
Swim beach open, peak season begins
Peak season, reserve sites well in advance
Peak season, humid with afternoon thunderstorms
Cooler nights, crowds ease
Fall foliage, campground closes late October
Campground closed, day-use only
Campground closed, day-use only
Things to do at Colonel Denning State Park
- Flat Rock Trail StrenuousRV parking available
Flat Rock Trail is a strenuous hike of about 2.5 miles one-way that climbs Blue Mountain to a rocky overlook with sweeping views of the Cumberland Valley. The trail gains significant elevation on a rugged footpath and connects to the Tuscarora Trail at the ridge. Trailhead parking near the park office can accommodate day-use vehicles.
- Doubling Gap Lake Swimming Beach EasyRV parking available
The sand beach on Doubling Gap Lake is the park's main summer attraction and is open without a fee during the swim season. The 3.5-acre lake is shallow and calm, making it suitable for families. Changing facilities and a picnic area sit within walking distance of the campground.
- Doubling Gap Nature Trail EasyRV parking available
Doubling Gap Nature Trail is a short interpretive loop near the lake that introduces visitors to the forest ecosystems of the Blue Mountain gap. The path is relatively flat and suitable for most ages. Benches and signage make it a good warm-up hike from the campground.
- Warner Trail ModerateRV parking available
Warner Trail is a moderate loop of about 2 miles that climbs through hardwood forest and rock outcrops on the south side of the park. It offers a quieter alternative to Flat Rock and ties into the park's broader trail network. Expect some steep pitches and rocky footing.
- Lake Fishing EasyRV parking available
Doubling Gap Lake is open to fishing under Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission regulations and is stocked with trout in spring. Shoreline access is available around much of the lake, with a small dock near the beach. A valid Pennsylvania fishing license is required for anglers 16 and older.
- Tuscarora Trail Access StrenuousRV parking available
The long-distance Tuscarora Trail passes along the ridge above the park and is reachable via the Flat Rock Trail. Day hikers can sample ridge-top sections with views across south-central Pennsylvania. The trail ultimately runs roughly 250 miles to connect with the Appalachian Trail.
- Picnicking and Day Use EasyRV parking available
The park maintains shaded picnic areas with tables, grills, and pavilions near the lake and along Doubling Gap Run. Pavilions can be reserved in advance for groups. The setting is popular for family gatherings during summer weekends.
Top Hosts near PA, United States
Nick was very thorough with showing me all the features of the trailer and ensured I had no issues.
Timothy C. - Aug 2025
Nick is very responsive and a great communicator throughout the process. He even checked in on us during our stay to make sure everything was working and if we had any questions. Highly recommend!
Kori M. - Jul 2025
Great family to host their RV
Richard N. - Oct 2025
RV delivery to a campground, made simple
Skip the pickup. Skip the towing. Get an RV delivered and set up at your campsite so you can arrive, unpack, and start your trip stress-free.
Choose your perfect RV
Browse RVs that offer delivery to your site and book the one that fits your budget and adventure style.
Lock in your campsite
Reserve your campsite with the hookups and amenities you need. We’ll help you find RVs that meet site requirements.
Arrive and relax
Your host delivers and sets up the RV before you get there. Just show up and start enjoying your trip.
Find the perfect RV for these nearby campgrounds
RV Rentals Colonel Denning State Park
Colonel Denning State Park, PA, United States
How to get to Colonel Denning State Park
The park is roughly 25 miles west of Harrisburg, about a 40-minute drive via I-81 and PA Route 233 north through Newville. Carlisle is about 20 miles southeast, and Chambersburg is about 35 miles southwest. RV drivers should note that PA-233 climbs over Blue Mountain with winding grades and sharp curves near Doubling Gap, so larger rigs should take the approach slowly and avoid towing in snow or ice. Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) is the closest major airport for fly-and-rent travelers, about 45 miles to the east.
RVezy vs. Traditional RV rental
RVezy rentals
- Book directly from local RV owners
- Choose the exact RV you want
- Delivery to your campsite, home, or destination
- More variety: trailers, motorhomes, and campers
Traditional RV rental
- Limited fleet from a rental company
- Exact RV not guaranteed
- Pickup only at retail locations
- Fewer RV types and less availability