FAQ's
Is Alcohol Allowed?
Yes. Guests 21 or older may responsibly bring and consume alcohol at River Rock Recreation Campsite. No open containers or alcohol consumption is allowed in public areas. (I.e. Trail or Road) Overly intoxicated guests will not be tolerated and will risk being banned and/or arrested for their resulting behavior. Underage drinking will not be tolerated and will be reported to the authorities.
What is Dry Camping?
When tent camping, dry camping is camping without electricity or water.
When RV camping it is often referred to as Boondocking, or camping without hook ups.
(No water, sewer or electric hook ups of any kind)
When RV camping it is often referred to as Boondocking, or camping without hook ups.
(No water, sewer or electric hook ups of any kind)
How many tent pads are there?
There are 5-6 designated tent pads at River Rock Adventures Recreation.
Two are river front decks, one river side deck and three are river side organic ground tent sites.
Two are river front decks, one river side deck and three are river side organic ground tent sites.
What are the tent pads made of?
The two river front tent pads are 10' x 12' wood decks.
The one river side pad is 20'x24' wood deck.
The three river side tent pads are organic, leveled ground.
The one river side pad is 20'x24' wood deck.
The three river side tent pads are organic, leveled ground.
what is your smoking policy?
Cigarette smoking and Vaping are allowed at the River Rock Recreation Campsite. However please dispose of your butts properly, at no time, in any place is it okay to flick your cigarette butts on the ground.
can I bring a drone?
Yes. Be sure you are following all PA rules, laws and regulations regarding flying a drone. We are not responsible for any damages or any issues resulting from your choice to fly your drone at River Rock Recreation Campsite. No trespassing.
do you have quiet hours?
No, there are no official quiet hours at River Rock Recreation Campsite. Although campers must follow the local noise ordinance which prohibits excessive, unnecessary and unreasonable noise from 10pm-7am. Failure to do so may risk being banned and/or issued citations from local authorities for their resulting behavior.
can my friends come and visit?
Yes! However, the number of guests staying the night MUST match the number of paid guests on your reservation or you will be charged the difference.
do you have wifi?
No. There is no Wifi available at River Rock Recreation Campsite.
Trade some screen time for green time!
Trade some screen time for green time!
are fireworks allowed?
No fireworks of any kind are allowed or to be used at the River Rock Recreation Campsite.
what forms of payment are accepted for my reservation?
We are currently accepting reservation through HipCamp.
Cash can be accepted as payment for purchasable amenities onsite.
No personal or other checks will be accepted.
Cash can be accepted as payment for purchasable amenities onsite.
No personal or other checks will be accepted.
where do I get firewood?
Firewood included in your reservation will be exchanged at check in. You can purchase extra firewood bundles then or if needed during your stay you can reach River Rock Recreation personnel by phone during the day. (Texting is okay!) Some firewood can be found around the campsite, but please do not cut down live trees.
*Burning fresh/live wood can be dangerous.
*Burning fresh/live wood can be dangerous.
how many vehicles are allowed on the campsite?
There are four designated parking spots within the campsite. Any other vehicles will have to be parked in the stone or in the driveway.
do I need a fishing license?
A valid PA Fishing License is Required for anyone age 16 and older. Children under the age of 16 may fish without a license under the supervision of an adult who has their PA fishing license. Be sure to follow all PA Fish & Boat rules, laws and regulations.
is there a store on the premises?
There is no store on the premises.
is the campsite private?
River Rock Recreation is a privately-owned campsite situated on wooded private property. There is only ONE CAMPSITE at River Rock Recreation, that ensures seclusion and privacy. The site is surrounded by wooded area, but there is a functionable open area. (Partial Sun & Shade) We strive for balance, to not only provide a pleasant camping site as well as preserve the natural landscape.
is there a cancellation fee?
If cancellation is received with 7 days or more notice of your reservation you will be refunded in full. If cancellation is received 7 days or less notice of your reservation you will be refunded less a 30% service fee.
how many campsites are available?
There is ONE CAMPSITE available for rental at River Rock Recreation.
That means the only crowd you can expect during your camping trip is your own!
That means the only crowd you can expect during your camping trip is your own!
are fires allowed?
Campfires are allowed in the provided fire ring ONLY. No open fires outside of the fire ring.
“Only you can prevent forest fires.” -Smokey the Bear
“Only you can prevent forest fires.” -Smokey the Bear
what should I bring with me?
Bring your camping gear including; tents, cots, sleeping bags, chairs. Make sure to bring all of your cooking, drinking and bathing water with you. There is no water onsite. Don’t forget emergency items, food and drinks, although there are grocery stores and road side produce nearby. Games, activities and recreational sports gear might be a good idea too. It really depends on what you have in mind for your camping experience. Find out How more about planning an epic camping trip here.
Don't have basic camping gear? River Rock Recreation rents limited camping gear!
You can find our gear rentals in the purchasable amenities section, just select your desired gear and check out. All gear rentals will be exchanged at check in and collected at check out. Gear rentals are intended for use at River Rock Recreation Campsite during your stay.
Don't have basic camping gear? River Rock Recreation rents limited camping gear!
You can find our gear rentals in the purchasable amenities section, just select your desired gear and check out. All gear rentals will be exchanged at check in and collected at check out. Gear rentals are intended for use at River Rock Recreation Campsite during your stay.
can I bring my dog?
Yes, we gladly welcome domesticated pets. Your pets are your responsibility. They must NEVER be left unattended at the campsite, not left to roam (PA has leash laws), be under your control at ALL times and most importantly cleaned up after. Find out more about Pa dog laws here.
do you have a weekly rate?
Unfortunately, we do not currently offer a weekly rate.
do you have electric hook ups?
There are NO hook ups of ANY kind available at River Rock Recreation.
However, generators are permitted onsite.
However, generators are permitted onsite.
are there grills or grates on the fire ring for cooking?
There is a charcoal grill separate from the fire ring. Find out more about Amenities here.
what are the minimum and maximum stay lengths?
There are no minimum or maximum length of stay requirements. Although check in and check out times are strictly enforced. We reserve the right to implement any restrictions on length of stay, at our discretion.
what if I have more than 10 guests?
If your group included more than 10 guests please reach out to us! We will do our best to accommodate your needs within reason. Reach us by phone, email or any of our social media outlets.
do you allow RV camping?
If you are interested in RV camping reach out to us! Depending on your size, we will do our best to accommodate your needs within reason. Do be aware that there are no hook ups. Dry camping/boondocking.
what time is check in & check out?
You may CHECK IN no sooner than 2pm. You are expected to CHECK OUT promptly, NO LATER than 11 am.
Can I bring my boat, kayak, Bike, ect.?
You are welcome to bring your own boats, kayaks, paddleboats, canoes and SUP’s to use on the river. There are 8 boat ramps in Lancaster County on the Susquehanna river. You are also welcome to bring any type on nonmotor-powered bike/cycle to use on the Northwest Lancaster County River Trail.
can you swim in the Susquehanna river?
Although it is considered a dangerous activity and not generally encouraged, you can legally swim in the Susquehanna river in Lancaster County. Swimming or any other use of the Susquehanna River is at your own risk. Swimming is not permitted at any boat launch or public access.
what happens in bad weather conditions?
To check weather conditions go to www.weather.com and type in our zip code, 17502. To check river stages, call Penn State College at 1-888-881-7555. In the event or anticipation of severe weather or river conditions, for safety reasons River Rock Adventures may opt to cancel and/or reschedule your stay with little to no notice.
Check out our Inclement Weather Policy:
“There is no bad weather only inadequate gear.” Making the call is about health and safety, not comfort or convenience.
When it’s more than a little rain. Common Sense;
Some of the best campouts occur when conditions are not ideal. However dangerous weather conditions absolutely require a change of plans. If the weather or river conditions are a risk, River Rock Recreation reserves the right to make last minute changes to your reservation, in this event, your reservation will be rescheduled or can be refunded in full. We won’t allow any activity if we are not confident it will be safe for all participants.
It is important for campers to understand and be aware of the weather and river conditions. No one should be on the river when there is thunder or lightning in the vicinity.
Check out our Inclement Weather Policy:
“There is no bad weather only inadequate gear.” Making the call is about health and safety, not comfort or convenience.
When it’s more than a little rain. Common Sense;
Some of the best campouts occur when conditions are not ideal. However dangerous weather conditions absolutely require a change of plans. If the weather or river conditions are a risk, River Rock Recreation reserves the right to make last minute changes to your reservation, in this event, your reservation will be rescheduled or can be refunded in full. We won’t allow any activity if we are not confident it will be safe for all participants.
It is important for campers to understand and be aware of the weather and river conditions. No one should be on the river when there is thunder or lightning in the vicinity.
will I have phone service?
You can expect to have cell service at River Rock Recreation Campsite.
do you rent camping equipment?
Yes! River Rock Recreation rents camping gear! You can find our gear rentals in the purchasable amenities section, just select your desired gear and check out. All gear rentals will be exchanged at check in and collected at check out.
Gear rentals are intended for use at River Rock Recreation Campsite during your stay.
Gear rentals are intended for use at River Rock Recreation Campsite during your stay.
what is the operating season?
Our 2021 season will run from April 30th through September 30th.
Can I bring my own firewood?
No. Unfortunately Lancaster County is officially under quarantine because of the Spotted Lantern Fly invasion.
No firewood should cross county lines. We encourage all campers to educate themselves on the spotted lantern fly here.
Some firewood is included in your rental and more is available for purchase. There are countless roadside stands to purchase firewood within Lancaster County.
Absolutely no cutting trees while staying at the River Rock Recreation campsite. Some firewood can be found around the campsite.
No firewood should cross county lines. We encourage all campers to educate themselves on the spotted lantern fly here.
Some firewood is included in your rental and more is available for purchase. There are countless roadside stands to purchase firewood within Lancaster County.
Absolutely no cutting trees while staying at the River Rock Recreation campsite. Some firewood can be found around the campsite.
are there any stores nearby?
Yes, there are a variety of grocery, convenient stores, road side stands and gas stations in the area.
(I.e. Turkey hill, Giant and Weis in Elizabethtown are only a few miles away. Sheetz, 711, Sharp Shopper and Karns are located in Middletown are only a few miles away. Sheetz, Rutter's and Herr's gas station/convivence stores are located in Marietta. As well as mom and pop shops throughout the surrounding river towns)
(I.e. Turkey hill, Giant and Weis in Elizabethtown are only a few miles away. Sheetz, 711, Sharp Shopper and Karns are located in Middletown are only a few miles away. Sheetz, Rutter's and Herr's gas station/convivence stores are located in Marietta. As well as mom and pop shops throughout the surrounding river towns)
what is there to do?
Here are some popular ideas;
At the Campsite:
Relax around the campsite in a hammock or your favorite chair. You can bird watch or fish from the river bank. Bring your favorite outdoor games like corn hole, ladder ball, horse shoes, bocce, frisbee, card games and many more. Get lost in a good book. Photograph wildlife or natural landscapes and features. Practice meditation, earthing, forest bathing and/or yoga. Tell stories and cook over the campfire. Star Gaze.
On the River:
Bring your boat. There are 10 boat launches on the Susquehanna River in Lancaster County. Bring your paddleboats, kayaks, canoes, and SUP’s. Launch them right off the river bank at the campsite. Paddle up the river to Conewago Falls to explore the sculptured rocks and potholes. Then float back down river to River Rock Adventures campsite. Explore and Fish the Susquehanna and surrounding areas.
Around the Campsite:
The Northwest Lancaster County River Trail runs parallel to the campsite. The trail stretches 14 miles from Columbia to Falmouth, PA. On the trail you will find informational and historical markers, bald eagle viewing point, as well as the beautiful river Landscape to enjoy. Bring your bike or non-powered cycle to explore the trail. Walk or Hike the trail and even geocache along the way. Discover the edible garden on the trail. Explore Chickies Rock County Park off of the trail between Columbia and Marietta, PA. Venture to the White Cliffs of Conoy off of the trail in Locust Grove, Conoy Township, PA. You will find a number of parks, playgrounds, picnic areas and green spaces along the trail and surrounding areas.
Get off the beaten path and explore the local River Towns Nearby.
At the Campsite:
Relax around the campsite in a hammock or your favorite chair. You can bird watch or fish from the river bank. Bring your favorite outdoor games like corn hole, ladder ball, horse shoes, bocce, frisbee, card games and many more. Get lost in a good book. Photograph wildlife or natural landscapes and features. Practice meditation, earthing, forest bathing and/or yoga. Tell stories and cook over the campfire. Star Gaze.
On the River:
Bring your boat. There are 10 boat launches on the Susquehanna River in Lancaster County. Bring your paddleboats, kayaks, canoes, and SUP’s. Launch them right off the river bank at the campsite. Paddle up the river to Conewago Falls to explore the sculptured rocks and potholes. Then float back down river to River Rock Adventures campsite. Explore and Fish the Susquehanna and surrounding areas.
Around the Campsite:
The Northwest Lancaster County River Trail runs parallel to the campsite. The trail stretches 14 miles from Columbia to Falmouth, PA. On the trail you will find informational and historical markers, bald eagle viewing point, as well as the beautiful river Landscape to enjoy. Bring your bike or non-powered cycle to explore the trail. Walk or Hike the trail and even geocache along the way. Discover the edible garden on the trail. Explore Chickies Rock County Park off of the trail between Columbia and Marietta, PA. Venture to the White Cliffs of Conoy off of the trail in Locust Grove, Conoy Township, PA. You will find a number of parks, playgrounds, picnic areas and green spaces along the trail and surrounding areas.
Get off the beaten path and explore the local River Towns Nearby.
are there group rates?
Not currently. Our campsite is ideal for larger groups, since it is a single 2 acre campsite.
You have free reign of the campsite and can choose to place additional tents in any open areas. Although placing tents outside of designated areas effects the overall function of the campsite, it is your prerogative how you use the campsite during your stay.
If your group includes more then 10 people just reach out to us! If you are part of a scout group, troop or any other organization, reach out to us! We will do our best to accommodate your needs.
We are always considering additional options for the future.
You have free reign of the campsite and can choose to place additional tents in any open areas. Although placing tents outside of designated areas effects the overall function of the campsite, it is your prerogative how you use the campsite during your stay.
If your group includes more then 10 people just reach out to us! If you are part of a scout group, troop or any other organization, reach out to us! We will do our best to accommodate your needs.
We are always considering additional options for the future.
how old do you have to be to make a reservation?
You have to be 21 or older to make a reservation at River Rock Recreation.
what geographical features are important to know about the campsite?
The campsite borders the Susquehanna River, as the river stages change so does the shoreline, and flooding can occur in a short time. There are railroad tracks in proximity and you can expect to hear the trains as they roll through. (frequency varies)
is there a restroom onsite?
There is a Portable Restroom Stall onsite. (Port-A-Potty)
It is serviced weekly and kept squeaky clean!
“Shout out to River Rock Recreation for an amazing weekend!! I was fortunate enough to find this local gem while browsing “camping near me”. They describe it as primitive camping which it is but, it’s so much more.
Let’s talk bathrooms!! Super clean porta pot. Is it really a pandemic? Not there! Plenty of TP and hand sanitizer!!” -James B.
It is serviced weekly and kept squeaky clean!
“Shout out to River Rock Recreation for an amazing weekend!! I was fortunate enough to find this local gem while browsing “camping near me”. They describe it as primitive camping which it is but, it’s so much more.
Let’s talk bathrooms!! Super clean porta pot. Is it really a pandemic? Not there! Plenty of TP and hand sanitizer!!” -James B.
what does "solar shower bag compatible" mean?
It is a rustic, one person, wood shower and changing area. Solar shower bags can be purchased at many retailers and are a popular camping product. You will be able to hang your shower bag in the shower area for use.
WHAT IS READY CAMP?
Ready Camp is a gear rental & service rolled into one. It's a purchasable amenity you can add to your reservation when staying at River Rock Recreation Campsite. Find out more here.
Need to buy more firewood? Do you have a question or concern? River Rock Recreation personnel is just a phone call or text away during your stay. Staff can help answer your questions, address concerns and serve your needs during the day. We want campers to have the best possible experience. Still have a question? Email Us!