Merritt Pond Campground

The Great Outdoors

For easy access to outdoor fun, stop by the 4,000-acre Shawnee State Park, just 20 minutes' drive from the campground. Hike to an amazing overlook for sweeping views of the forest or launch a canoe to explore the calm waters of Shawnee Lake. Popular pastimes here include picnicking, swimming, fishing, and wildlife watching. In the winter, visitors can go cross-country skiing, ice skating, and sledding.While you're camping near Bedford, you might also enjoy a visit to Raystown Lake Recreation Area near Hesston. Tranquil waters await for boating, fishing, and swimming in this massive 8,300-acre area. Beautiful hiking trails weave through the forest and around the lake. Multiple boat launches, campgrounds, and spots for hunting or fishing make it easy to appreciate this sprawling natural space.Another fantastic area to see while you're here is Rocky Gap State Park, just over the Maryland border near Flintstone. Lake Habeeb is known for its vibrant cerulean water; rolling bluffs tower over the lake, and the rugged terrain can be toured on foot along the park's many trails. This park is a popular spot for hunting, hiking, boating, fishing, and the sandy beach is an excellent place to soak up some sun while enjoying the views.

Explore the City

Once you've experienced some of the region's best outdoor attractions, head into some of the cities for some culture and entertainment. The restaurant scene in Bedford is relatively diverse; with Italian eateries, fine dining options, a variety of American-style offerings, and a few fast-food restaurants, you'll have a lot to choose from just minutes from your campsite at Merritt Pond Campground.Also in Bedford, The National Museum of the American Coverlet highlights the history and design of these woven works of art. More than just bed coverings, these fabrics feature unique color variations, geometric designs, and different textures. View dozens of coverlets on display, learn about the history of the bedspread, and see the techniques used to create the intricate patterns of these decorative and functional pieces.Learn a little bit about some Pennsylvania history at the Fort Bedford Museum while you're here. Commemorating the French & Indian War fort built on the site in 1758, this historical gem is full of exhibitions and collections that highlight the history of the region and America as a whole. Check out historical programs and hands-on interpretive exhibits; with over 4,000 objects from the area's important past, there’s enough to keep you busy. If you happen to be camping in Bedford during the winter holiday season, you might be able to enjoy one of the museum's special events.If you are looking for more action, you can head up to Altoona and spend a day at Lakemont Park, one of the state's most exciting amusement parks. Here you can check out the world’s oldest surviving roller coaster, Leap the Dips, and try the many other coasters and rides too. You can find something for everyone to enjoy, with a water park, concert events, and dining options. Altoona is also home to a few interesting museums, including the Castle Halloween Museum, the Baker Mansion History Museum, and Railroaders Memorial Museum. If you've got kids along for the camper rental ride, you can set aside some time to explore A Quaint Corner, Altoona's children's museum.