About NANCY'S BOAT TO SHORE CAMPGROUND (PA)
Overview The Nancy's Boat to Shore Campground, in the central region of Raystown Lake, is the perfect secluded getaway camping spot accessible only by boat. Located near both James Creek and Aitch Boat Launch areas, the campground is situated on the shoreline of Raystown Lake away from public roadways. Nancy's camp map Recreation Fishing is excellent with small and large mouth bass, muskies, striped bass, and brown trout, abundant in the lake. Trough Creek State Park is nearby across the lake; Seven Points and Lake Raystown Resort are both within 8 lake miles. Nearby trails, including Lower Trail (Rails to Trails), Terrace Mountain Trail, Old Loggers Trail and Mid State Trail, attract plenty of traffic.Facilities Campsites are accessed by boat only. Although remote and primitive, each campsite offers a picnic table and campfire ring. Maximum of two tents permitted per campsite. There are no electric hookups. Vault toilets are available. Some of the campsites are located in open, grassy areas while others are tucked into wooded areas. Potable water must be brought along to the campground as no water is currently available. Natural Features Raystown Lake is in the ridge and valley province of Pennsylvania. The lakeshore is lined with an old oak-hickory forest giving way to mountain ridges and cliffs. The man-made lake is fed by the Raystown Branch tributary of the Juniata River and is the largest lake completely in the state of Pennsylvania. Nearby Attractions Aitch Boat Launch, James Creek Boat Launch, Seven Points Recreation area, Raystown Lake Visitor Center, Lake Raystown Resort & Conference Center and Trough Creek State Park are all nearby.
How to Get There
The campground is a boat to shore facility and therefore is not accessible by driving. Nearest ramps for launching are Aitch and James Creek at Raystown Lake. Aitch is accessible from PA26 in Marklesburg and James Creek is accessible via PA994 near Entriken.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
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Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
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Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
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Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
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High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
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Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
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Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to NANCY'S BOAT TO SHORE CAMPGROUND (PA)
Heading to NANCY'S BOAT TO SHORE CAMPGROUND (PA)? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for NANCY'S BOAT TO SHORE CAMPGROUND (PA)?
No central reservation system listed for NANCY'S BOAT TO SHORE CAMPGROUND (PA). Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/251963) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to NANCY'S BOAT TO SHORE CAMPGROUND (PA)?
The campground is a boat to shore facility and therefore is not accessible by driving. Nearest ramps for launching are Aitch and James Creek at Raystown Lake. Aitch is accessible from PA26 in Marklesburg and James Creek is accessible via PA994 near Entriken.
How do I contact NANCY'S BOAT TO SHORE CAMPGROUND (PA)?
You can reach the park at phone: 814-658-3405 or email: allen.gwinn@usace.army.mil.
References & Official Resources
