Nancy'S Boat To Shore Campground (Pa)
4.2653 reviews6145 Seven Points Road, Hesston, PA, 16647, USA
Nancy'S Boat To Shore Campground (Pa)
$0.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fees are $15.00 per night during the peak season (April through October). Camping is free during the off-season (November through March).
About this campground
Escape to Nancy's Boat to Shore Campground, where adventure begins with a boat ride across the shimmering waters of Raystown Lake. This hidden gem, accessible only by watercraft, rewards intrepid campers with 50 pristine sites nestled along Pennsylvania's largest lake. Each thoughtfully placed campsite comes equipped with a picnic table and fire ring, perfect for those seeking an authentic back-to-nature experience away from the crowds and chaos of traditional campgrounds.
Nancy's Boat to Shore Campground is a primitive, boat-in-only facility designed for tent campers. The campground offers 50 designated sites.
Historical SignificanceRaystown Lake stands as a testament to Pennsylvania's vision for outdoor recreation, transforming the Juniata River valley into central Pennsylvania's premier water playground. Since its creation, this man-made marvel has become the heart of the region's tourism industry, drawing generations of families who return year after year to fish its depths, explore its hidden coves, and hike the surrounding ridges. The lake has woven itself into the cultural fabric of the area, creating countless memories and traditions.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints a different portrait at Nancy's Boat to Shore. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and crisp, clear days perfect for exploration. Summer brings warm, languid afternoons punctuated by dramatic thunderstorms that roll across the lake. Fall transforms the surrounding ridges into a tapestry of gold and crimson under brilliant blue skies. Even winter has its charm—those brave enough to venture out in the cold months discover a peaceful solitude rarely found, with the entire lake seemingly reserved just for them.
ElevationPerched within Pennsylvania's distinctive ridge and valley region, the campground offers a dynamic landscape where ancient mountain ridges rise and fall like waves frozen in stone. This undulating terrain creates intimate camping spots at varying elevations, each offering its own unique perspective of the surrounding wilderness and water below.
Natural Features and SceneryMajestic oak and hickory trees, some centuries old, form a living cathedral around Nancy's Boat to Shore Campground. These ancient sentinels frame spectacular views of Raystown Lake—all 8,300 acres of pristine water that stretches like a sapphire ribbon through the valley. The Juniata River feeds this aquatic wonderland, while dramatic cliffs and mountain ridges create a stunning backdrop that changes with every shift of light. Morning mists rise from the water, eagles soar overhead, and sunset paints the limestone cliffs in shades of rose and gold.
Geological RegionThe campground sits within Pennsylvania's remarkable ridge and valley province, where millions of years of geological forces have sculpted a landscape of parallel ridges and fertile valleys. Ancient oak-hickory forests blanket the shoreline, their roots gripping the weathered rock that tells the story of countless seasons. These verdant slopes give way to dramatic mountain ridges and sheer cliffs that plunge toward the water, creating a diverse ecosystem where forest meets lake in spectacular fashion.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is no explicit information provided about accessibility features. The primitive and boat-required nature may make the campground less accessible for individuals with mobility challenges.
Sites SizeCampsites are designed for tent camping and can accommodate a maximum of two tents per site.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary. Some sites are in open, grassy areas, while others are in wooded areas that provide more seclusion.
Total Campsites50 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampers suggest choosing waterfront sites for easier boat access and avoiding higher-numbered waterfront sites due to shallower depths and rocky bottoms.
Best CampsitesSite #1 is recommended for easy kayak access. Sites #1, #5, and #6 are noted for their proximity to the water.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Standard check-in time begins at 3 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is required by 12 PM.
Stay Limit
Campers may stay up to 14 consecutive nights within any 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of two tents permitted per campsite.
Groups
No specific group camping information is provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are either open and grassy or tucked into wooded areas. Waterfront sites provide mooring options.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations from April 1 to October 31. Closed for reservations during the off-season (November through March), but camping is free during this time.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at Recreation.gov or via their mobile app. Phone reservations can be made by calling the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability; all reservations must be made in advance during the peak season.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled at any time before the check-in date. A $10 cancellation fee applies, and late cancellations incur the loss of the first night’s fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a range of outdoor activities, with a focus on fishing, wildlife viewing, and hiking nearby. Boating is the primary method of accessing the campsites.
Hiking
Hiking trails near the campground include the Lower Trail, Terrace Mountain Trail, Old Loggers Trail, and Mid State Trail. These trails attract significant traffic and offer various levels of difficulty.Fishing
Fishing at Raystown Lake is highly regarded, with opportunities to catch small and large mouth bass, muskies, striped bass, and brown trout. The lake is described as an excellent fishing destination.Boating
Boating is essential for accessing the campground. Campers can moor their vessels for free along the Nancy's Camp shoreline. However, some reviews highlight challenges like rough waters and limited mooring space.Wildlife viewing
The campground provides opportunities for wildlife viewing, including animals like bears, raccoons, skunks, and birds such as eagles. A review noted, 'We got to watch the eagles.'Winter Activities
During the off-season (November to March), camping is free and the area is less crowded, making it suitable for activities like quiet wildlife observation.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like canoeing and kayaking are popular. A user mentioned paddling 3 miles to the campsite from James Creek Boat Launch.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed only in designated fire rings. Dead wood on the ground may be used for firewood, but cutting standing trees is prohibited.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife such as bears, raccoons, and skunks. Campers are advised to store food securely. The campground’s shoreline may be rocky, and wake zones can damage moored boats.
Active alertsUser reviews frequently mention noise issues during holiday weekends and busy seasons. Some campers have reported debris blocking shoreline access for mooring vessels.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 43%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest hospital: J.C. Blair Memorial Hospital in Huntingdon (~18 miles). Nearest police station: Huntingdon Borough Police (~19 miles). Ranger station: Raystown Lake Visitor Center (~8 miles by water).
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1 through October 31.
Trash and recyclingNo specific information is provided about trash and recycling facilities. However, campers are advised to store food securely due to the presence of wildlife like bears, raccoons, and skunks.
Proximity to water featuresAll campsites are along the shore of Raystown Lake, offering direct access for boating, fishing, and swimming.
Common complaintsNoise from groups and parties during peak season; vault toilets can emit strong odors during high usage periods; lack of potable water onsite.
HostRangers visit daily during peak season to check on campers. Specific rangers like Doug and Emily have been praised for their friendliness and support.
Campground Map
6145 Seven Points Road, Hesston, PA, 16647, USA
Driving directionsThe Nancy's Boat to Shore Campground is accessible only by boat. The nearest ramps for launching are Aitch (accessible from PA26 in Marklesburg) and James Creek (accessible via PA994 near Entriken).
This campground is exclusively accessible by boat, with no motor vehicle access. Roads leading to the boat ramps are paved and suitable for standard vehicles.Nearby places
Hesston: Approx. 10 miles (20 min drive to the nearest boat ramp), Marklesburg: Approx. 5 miles (10 min drive to the nearest boat ramp), Entriken: Approx. 12 miles (25 min drive to the nearest boat ramp).
Nearby supplies
Groceries and camping supplies: Seven Points Marina (~8 lake miles). Fuel: Entriken (~12 miles driving).
Camper Reviews
4.3
53 reviews
Nancy'S Boat To Shore Campground (Pa) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the natural beauty and secluded nature of the campground but express concerns about noise from other campers, lack of staff enforcement of quiet hours, and the absence of potable water and mooring facilities. The overall sentiment is mixed but leans positive for those seeking a primitive camping experience.
Review Summaries
Based on 53 reviews
What Campers Love
Many reviewers praised the secluded, primitive experience, the natural beauty of the lake, and the opportunity for fishing and wildlife viewing. Some appreciated the clean vault toilets and the...
Based on 53 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include noise from other campers (especially during holiday weekends), the lack of potable water, insufficient mooring facilities, and the poor condition of vault toilets during...
Based on 53 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own potable water, firewood, and boating essentials like fenders. Avoid holiday weekends if you prefer a quieter experience. Consider off-season visits for a more tranquil stay.
Based on 53 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Off-season camping (November to March) is described as peaceful and less crowded, while peak season sees noise issues and busy conditions. Weather challenges like rough waters are also more common in...
Based on 53 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'The view of the lake is nice. However, don't go there if you actually want any sleep.' (Michael Steward) - 'Very nice primitive campground! Restrooms are clean!' (Michael Hinton) - 'Bring your own...
Based on 53 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Numerous specific sites were reviewed: Site 1 ('New fire rings'), Site 31 ('Very nice,' clean restrooms), Site 46 (noisy on holiday weekends), Site 50 (recommended for its waterfront location).
Based on 53 reviewsAccessibility Features
No direct reviews addressing accessibility features were found.
Based on 53 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed. A negative review described issues with off-leash dogs causing disturbances and safety concerns.
Based on 53 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025