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The Best Camping Sites in Erie, Pennsylvania

Thursday Jun 1st, 2023

Escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and camp under the stars in Erie PA.  Spend quality time with your families and friends breathing in the fresh air and roasting marshmallows over an open fire.  Whether you’re hooking up the RV or prefer tent camping, Erie campgrounds have the perfect space waiting for you to stretch out and become one with nature. Here are the top camping places to stay in the Erie area.

Erie KOA Kampgrounds

Camping at Erie KOA is filled with family fun! Their amenities include fishing boats, paddle boats, a catch and release pond, heated swimming pool, pedal carts, banana bikes and a recreation room with air hockey, billiards, ping-pong table and arcade games. Throughout the summer, Erie KOA offers daily movies, weekend ice cream socials and Sunday pancake breakfasts.

YMCA Camp Sherwin

Located near Lake City, PA in western Erie County, YMCA Camp Sherwin features 70 sprawling acres of campsites and cabins, swimming pool, spray and play splash pad, a catch and release fishing pond and playing fields. A YMCA membership is not required to enjoy the camp facilities.

Virginia’s Beach Lakefront Cottages & Camping

The picturesque views from Virginia’s Beach Campground on the shores of Lake Erie are nothing short of spectacular.  Located in North Springfield in western Erie County, guests are welcome to bring their own boat (18’ or less) and use the private boat launch to gain access to the best walleye, perch, bass, and trout fishing in the area. Other campground benefits include kayak rentals, children’s playground and 46 acres of woods with designated hiking and biking trails.

Folly’s End Campgrounds

Folly’s End is a scenic family campground set along the banks of Elk Creek.  Elk Creek is Pennsylvania's largest Lake Erie tributary and is a hot spot for fly fishing.  The campground has a fully stocked fly and tackle shop that also carries traditional camping supplies such as firewood, snacks and ice.

Lampe Campground

Enjoy waterfront camping at Lampe Campground. All 42 campsites have beautiful views of Presque Isle Bay and Lake Erie.  The campground features a free public boat launch, picnic tables, fire ring sites, laundry, shower facilities plus a convenient bike path that leads to Erie's Bayfront and Downtown districts and Presque Isle State Park.

Presque Isle Passage RV Park and Cabins
Presque Isle Passage offers campsites that can accommodate oversized RV’s, large family tents and your pets, too! Their spacious tent camping section features several wooded open field areas that are available on a first-come, first-served basis.  In addition to traditional RV and camp sites, visitors can reserve a partially furnished four or six person sized yurt.  

Partner Spotlight

erie events spotlight

Erie Events

Erie Events manages a four facility entertainment complex that includes the Warner Theatre, Erie Insurance Arena, Bayfront Convention Center and UPMC Park. These four venues host a variety of events that include world-class entertainment, family friendly shows and sporting events.

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Cart/Horse

Cart/Horse Distilling is a first-generation woman-owned distillery, pioneering the craft in Edinboro, Pennsylvania. Handcrafted care never goes out of style. We put that artistic attention into every bottle of our small batch spirits. Cart/Horse proudly produces rum, whiskey, vodka, gin, and several award-winning specialty liquors. Our robust cocktail menu uses the finest and freshest ingredients for each custom-built drink.

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AHN Saint Vincent- Award-Winning Medical Care

AHN Saint Vincent has been here from the beginning, providing award-winning inpatient and outpatient medical care. Need express care? We’ve conveniently placed AHN facilities on the west and east side of Erie, just walk-in! AHN Saint Vincent is not only recognized locally (Erie’s Choice- Best Hospital) but nation-wide, so you can expect high-quality care, greater safety, and better results.

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Oliver’s Bayfront Mini Golf

This 18-hole course is the newest addition to Oliver’s Beer Garden, offering stunning views of Erie’s Bayfront and the Bicentennial Tower. Play your round and then enjoy delicious food & drink from the snack bar or Oliver’s Food Truck!

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The Cove Bay-Side Restaurant & Tavern

The Cove Bay-Side Restaurant & Tavern is sure to give you an unforgettable and care-free dining experience. Enjoy a nautical atmosphere with a beautiful view of Presque Isle Bay.

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u pick 6 spotlight

U Pick 6 Craft Beer Pubs & Restaurants

Erie’s own local craft beer pubs are a must-visit! With 4 great locations, just pick one that’s convenient for you! A casual, family friendly dining experience with something for everyone! To view our menu, check out what’s on tap, or get to directions to our pubs, learn more now!”

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Port Farms Spotlight 400 x 300

Summer Days at Port Farms

Join us for Summer Days at Port Farms from August 5th through September 10th! Enjoy 5-acres of u-pick flowers, themed festivals every weekend, special events, dances, live music, farm treats, specialty drinks, 20+ farm attractions and more! There is something for everyone.

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UPMC Hamot - See What Makes Us Different

UPMC Hamot is a 458-bed hospital in Erie, Pennsylvania, offering a full complement of inpatient and outpatient services. The hospital serves as a regional referral hub and is the only accredited trauma center in the region.

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814 Photo

Showcasing the incredible year round beauty of the City of Erie and its surrounding areas, commonly referred to as its area code "the 814". Explore some of Erie County's most breathtaking landscape photography.

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Airport Image Spotlight

When you have an opportunity to fly, give Erie a try - support your hometown airport!

Direct daily flights to Charlotte. Erie International Airport is serviced by American Airlines with daily flights to Charlotte with connections to many other destinations.

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bayfront grille

Outdoor Dining at the Bayfront Grille

The Bayfront Grille Restaurant at the Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel is excited to announce that our Bayside Patio is open for Lunch and Dinner. Please check Open Table for reservations or contact the restaurant directly at 814-454-2005.

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Millcreek Mall

The Millcreek Mall features more than 160 stores, restaurants, and fun for the whole family on Upper Peach Street, Erie’s most popular shopping district! Shopping in Erie means no sales tax on clothing or shoes. Choose from a variety of hotels located on the Mall property and just minutes away at the intersection of Peach Street and Interstate 90.

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Dobbins Landing

Located on the southeast shore of Lake Erie, the Port of Erie has been promoting industrial, commercial, and recreational opportunities on the waters of Lake Erie since 1959.

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Mazza Vineyards and the South Shore Wine Company

The Mazza family welcomes you to explore 3 unique locations in Lake Erie Wine Country. Sip and savor award-winning wines at Mazza Vineyards and the historic South Shore Wine Company, both located in North East, PA, and be sure to visit their combination winery, distillery and brewery, Mazza Chautauqua Cellars/Five & 20 Spirits and Brewing, in nearby Westfield, NY.

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