A Sweet Retreat: How to Plan the Perfect Group Getaway at Hersheypark Campground
Curated By
Danielle Mutovic
Curator’s statement
Hersheypark Campground holds a special place in my heart as the perfect spot for families and friends to come together and truly unplug. With cozy cabins that make group gatherings easy, campfires that spark late-night laughter, and the thrill of Hersheypark just a shuttle ride away, it’s a destination that blends comfort with adventure. I’ve experienced firsthand how this setting creates space for multiple generations to connect—whether over a shared meal, a day of roller coasters, or simply relaxing in the Pennsylvania sunshine. It’s a sweet retreat where memories are made and traditions are born.
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Where to stay in Hershey, Pennsylvania
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Things to do in Hershey, Pennsylvania
The iconic Hersheypark entrance—where sweet adventures begin.
Stay in the two-bedroom cabins
Perfect for multi-generational families, these cabins sleep up to eight and offer a cozy living space, small kitchen, and private porch—all at an affordable price point.Enjoy campfire meals together
From taco bars to classic hot dogs and s’mores, the fire pits make it easy to share meals outdoors. It’s one of the best ways to connect as a group.Relax at the pool
The campground’s pools—one for little ones and one for bigger kids and adults—are a refreshing way to cool down on hot summer days.Ride the free shuttle to Hersheypark
Skip the parking hassle and enjoy the quick shuttle to the park entrance, with the bonus of early admission for campground guests.Explore Hersheypark
Roller coasters, family rides, and live entertainment make this park a hit with all ages. Keep in mind that ride options are limited for children under three.Splash at The Boardwalk waterpark
Included with your park ticket, this waterpark is a must on hot days. Arrive early to snag shady seating, or splurge on a cabana for a more private setup.Share communal outdoor space
Gather in the grassy circles between cabins for family games, group meals, or simply catching up around camping chairs and picnic tables.Make time for s’mores and stargazing
Simple but memorable—evenings at the fire ring with marshmallows, chocolate, and laughter under the stars are what make this trip truly special.Visit Hershey’s Chocolate World
Just outside the park gates, this free attraction offers chocolate-making tours, sweet souvenirs, and plenty of photo-worthy moments.Mix and match lodging styles
Combine the campground experience with family members staying at the nearby Hershey Lodge or Hotel Hershey, then gather together for meals at camp.
Places to eat & drink in Hershey, Pennsylvania
Gathering around the picnic tables at Hersheypark Campground—the heart of our shared meals and family fun.
Campground cookouts
Some of the best meals happen right at your cabin’s fire pit—think hamburgers, hot dogs, taco bars, casseroles, and, of course, s’mores under the stars. Perfect for group gatherings.Hersheypark dining
Inside the park, you’ll find everything from classic theme park bites like pizza and fries to more adventurous options. Quick snacks are easy, but plan a sit-down meal if you’re staying all day.The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar & Patio
Located at the entrance to Hersheypark, this family-friendly spot serves elevated comfort food and fun, chocolate-inspired cocktails, with a great view of the rides.Hershey’s Chocolate World Food Hall
A casual option with sweet treats, sandwiches, and plenty of chocolate desserts. Don’t miss customizing your own candy bar!Harvest at The Hotel Hershey
A farm-to-table restaurant with locally sourced dishes—a great option for families who want a break from camp cooking.The Circular at The Hotel Hershey
For a special night out, this elegant dining room offers upscale American cuisine in a historic setting.Fire & Grain at Hershey Lodge
Perfect for breakfast or dinner if you have family staying at the Lodge, offering hearty classics in a modern space.Troegs Independent Brewing
A local favorite just outside Hersheypark, Troegs offers craft beer, wood-fired pizzas, and hearty snacks—ideal for adults in the group.Houlihan’s Restaurant & Bar (Hershey)
A casual option right in town with a varied menu—great for families looking for something simple and dependable.Desserts everywhere
From milkshakes at Hersheypark to bakery treats at Chocolate World, dessert is part of the fun—and you’ll never be far from something sweet.
Need to know
A stay at Hersheypark Campground is all about planning ahead and packing smart so that your group can truly enjoy the experience. The most important tip is to book your two-bedroom cabins at least a year in advance. These cabins are in high demand, especially during the summer and fall, and they’re the best option for multi-generational families because they sleep up to eight comfortably with a mix of queen, bunk, and full-sized beds.
Keep in mind that the cabins are more like a rental home or Airbnb than a hotel stay. You’ll need to bring your own linens, pillows, and towels (bath, hand, and kitchen), as well as essentials like sponges, hand soap, and coffee pods for the Keurig. Each cabin comes with a small refrigerator, a cooktop (no oven), and basic cookware, but not every cabin is stocked the same—so plan to bring your own serving utensils and disposable plates or silverware for larger meals.
When traveling with a group, consider a meal-sharing plan. Preparing casseroles, taco fixings, or grilled favorites ahead of time makes it easy to feed everyone without spending all day cooking. The fire pits and grills provided at each site are perfect for reheating and communal dinners. Just remember that outside firewood is not allowed; you’ll need to purchase it directly from the campground for safety reasons.
For group dynamics, cabin layout matters. While the campground offers cabin circles that seem perfect for gathering, not all porches face inward. If being able to sit together outdoors is important, request cabins where porches open toward the shared space. Bringing along camping chairs, pop-up tents for shade, and foldable tables can make meals and gatherings far more comfortable.
Other details worth noting:
Parking rules are strict. Only one vehicle is allowed per cabin, and additional vehicles must be parked in an overflow lot for a fee.
Mosquitoes are common in the summer—pack bug spray and bring small fans to help keep them at bay.
The pool complex is a nice perk for hot days, with both a children’s pool and a larger family pool.
Bathrooms and showers are available for tent campers, while cabin guests have a private stall shower in their unit.
The shuttle bus is a game-changer: It runs regularly, is included in your stay, and drops you right at the Hersheypark entrance.
For the theme park itself, know that children under three have limited ride options, but everyone in your group will enjoy access to both Hersheypark and The Boardwalk waterpark. Cabanas at the waterpark are available for rent but pricey—so arrive early to claim shaded seating and keep sunburns at bay. Tickets are most affordable when purchased in advance, and in some cases, a season pass costs only slightly more than a two-day ticket, making it a smart choice for families planning multiple visits.
Finally, if camping isn’t for everyone in your group, remember that Hershey also offers the Hotel Hershey and Hershey Lodge, both of which include early park admission perks. Families can mix lodging options but still gather for dinners and shared time at the campground.
In short, Hersheypark Campground is one of the best destinations for multi-generational families or groups of friends looking to combine the joy of camping with the fun of an amusement park. With the right preparation, it strikes the perfect balance between affordability, convenience, and the sweet magic of Hershey.
Travel Advisor
Danielle Mutovic
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