Camping at Camping Cottage

Location and Overview

Gifford Pinchot State Park, located in York County, Pennsylvania, is a scenic park spanning over 2,338 acres complete with a 340-acre lake. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, boating, fishing, and, most relevant to your interest, camping. Specifically, the park offers the Camping Cottage as one of its accommodations.

Camping Cottage Features

Size and Capacity: The cottages in Gifford Pinchot State Park typically sleep five people and include a single room with a wooden floor, providing a solid shelter from the elements.

Amenities:

• Beds without mattresses (bunk and single)
• Windows
• Porch
• Lights and electric heat for comfort during cooler weather
• A picnic table, fire ring, and grill are provided outside for outdoor enjoyment and meals.

What to Bring: Since the camping cottages provide only basic amenities, campers will need to bring their own bedding, mattresses or sleeping pads, cooking equipment, and any other camping essentials.

Reservation Information

Booking Process: Reservations for the Camping Cottage can be made online through the Pennsylvania State Parks reservation system or by calling the park office or reservation service. Reservations can typically be made up to 11 months in advance.

Check-In and Check-Out Times: Check-in and check-out times vary and should be confirmed at the time of booking or by contacting the park office. Generally, check-in for the cottages is in the afternoon, while check-out is by noon.

Rules and Regulations

Pets: Pets may be allowed at specific cottages with the appropriate reservation and fee, but you should confirm the pet policy prior to booking as rules may change or vary.

Smoking: Smoking is typically not permitted inside the cottages. Visitors should smoke outside and dispose of cigarette butts properly.

Occupancy: The cottages have a specific maximum occupancy, and exceeding this may lead to eviction or fines.

Noise and Conduct: To maintain a family-friendly environment, quiet hours are often enforced. Any disruptive behavior could result in eviction from the park.

Campfires: Campfires are permitted in designated areas, and fire regulations must be followed to prevent wildfires.

Activities and Attractions

Hiking Trails: Gifford Pinchot State Park boasts a network of trails for all skill levels, so hikers can enjoy the natural beauty of the park.

Water Recreation: With the large lake within the park, visitors can go boating (electric motors only), swimming, or fishing.

Educational Programs: The park may offer educational programs about local ecology and history. These are often seasonally available.

Nearby Attractions: Outside the park, visitors can explore local historical sites, additional hiking trails, or other outdoor recreation areas.

Additional Tips

• It's always a good idea to check the weather forecast prior to embarking on your camping trip and to pack accordingly.
• Ensure that your cottage reservation aligns with your travel plans to avoid any date discrepancies or booking errors.
• Familiarize yourself with park maps, attractions, and potential danger areas like steep trails or swimming advisories.

For the most current and detailed information about the Camping Cottage and other facilities within Gifford Pinchot State Park, you should contact the park directly or visit the official Pennsylvania State Parks website.