Person relaxing in a tent decorated with lights, overlooking a snowy forest.

Christmas Camp: Planning a Winter Family Vacation in Huntingdon, PA

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The holiday season is all about spending time with family, but it can be hard to find the time and space to reconnect. This is why family Christmas vacations have become a popular alternative to traditional celebrations. 


Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania, is the perfect setting for a family camping getaway. Can you picture it? Cozy cabins surrounded by snow-covered forests, frozen lakes and rivers, close to small towns covered in twinkling lights. 


If you want a winter vacation you’ll remember for years to come, here’s why you should take your family camping this Christmas.



Who is this for?

Families looking for a fun and affordable winter vacation.


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Santa hat on a rock in front of snow-covered mountains under a clear blue sky.

Winter Wonderland

Every winter, Central Pennsylvania transforms into a snowy playground, making it an ideal destination for families seeking fun in the frosty air. Here are some of the best ways your family can bond under the winter sun.

Cross-Country Skiing


Pennsylvania is a land of rolling hills and serene woods, making it ideal terrain for cross-country skiing. Families can glide through quiet landscapes, enjoy gentle paths perfect for a casual family outing, or challenge themselves on longer forest routes. Many local trails are beginner-friendly, making this a great activity for kids learning to ski.

Snowshoeing and Hiking


If you’re looking for a slightly more accessible winter adventure, try taking a winter hike. Bundle up, strap on snowshoes (or warm, waterproof boots), and head into the wilderness. Snowshoeing is perfect for exploring deep-snow areas, while well-marked hiking trails offer peaceful walks through frosted woodlands. Keep your eyes open! You may spot deer, foxes, or winter birds while you trek.

Snowmobiling


For families that want an adrenaline rush, Huntingdon’s snowmobile-friendly paths offer miles of open winter scenery. Gear up and cruise across frozen fields and forest tracks. It's a thrilling way to see the region’s rural beauty, but make sure your routes are approved for snowmobiling before you head out.

Ice Skating


If you’re worried about the weather, you can still enjoy winter sports indoors at the ice arenas. Whether you love hockey, figure skating, or just gliding across the ice, the Kirk S. Nevin Arena in Greensburg and the Galactic Ice Arena in Altoona offer open-skate days you can enjoy with the family. 

Snowman in a snowy field with a knitted hat and scarf, arms outstretched. Two wooden buildings in the distance.

Winter Hunting and Fishing

For families more into hunting game than playing them, Central Pennsylvania is rich with opportunities for sport. Imagine sitting down to a holiday meal featuring fresh game you hunted together. Here are a couple of options near Raystown, PA.

Ice Fishing

The Pennsylvania cold turns local waterways into frozen fishing hubs each winter. We’ll be honest– ice fishing isn’t for everyone, but it is a unique, hands-on activity many kids and adults enjoy. So bundle up and break out the poles! Even if you don’t catch dinner, the experience is unforgettable.

Man ice fishing, removing a fish from hook on a frozen lake.
Hunter in orange vest looks through binoculars in snowy forest.

Winter Hunting

Winter may not be the height of hunting season, but there’s still plenty of game to be found. With proper licensing and safety measures, visitors can hunt small game like rabbits, grouse, pheasants, and quail. You may also get lucky with a late-season deer!

Woman holding a child, both looking up at a lit Christmas tree.

Christmas in Huntingdon County

Huntingdon County comes alive with holiday cheer every year. Local events bring small-town charm and heartwarming tradition to your Christmas camp experience. You can check Raystown’s annual events calendar for full details and dates, but we’ll highlight a few of our favorites below.

Christmas in Coal Country at East Broad Top Railroad


Don’t just watch or read The Polar Express, but live it with the Christmas in Coal Country Railroad. A truly magical Christmas experience, this beloved event features train rides through historic rail country. This unique experience celebrates the miners of yesteryear and the simple pleasures they enjoyed during the holiday season, even in the hardest of times. Your ticket includes a 1-hour train ride, hot chocolate, a cookie, and a gift from Santa for each child.

Snow-covered railway tracks disappearing into a winter forest; a yellow warning sign on the right.
Christmas market stall with ornaments and bells hanging from the ceiling.

Holiday Festivals


Is there anything more iconic than a treelighting? Every November, after the Turkey has been carved and the pumpkin pie eaten, Bryan Park is transformed into the North Pole. Come meet Santa Claus, pet reindeer, and listen to live carols under the twinkling of a thousand lights. 

Festival of Ice


What’s cooler than Ice? Nothing. Every year, the Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau presents the Festival of Ice, where local artists bring the holidays to life with ice sculptures. The theme changes every year, adding variety to this annual experience. Mark your calendar so you can come enjoy the artistry, atmosphere, and magic of the season at this frosty festival.

Ice sculptures of arches and chess pieces under a clear blue sky.
Snowy scene: Children near a cabin prepare to sled. Snow-covered trees and ground.

Christmas Cabins

Staying in a cozy cabin is the heart of a Christmas camp experience. Imagine watching the snow fall in a quiet forest, sipping cocoa or cider around a campfire, while you snuggle up in blankets. Whether you choose a rustic camper or a full-glamping getaway, here are some ways you can get the Christmas cabin experience.

Around the Fire


Gather around an outdoor firepit or indoor fireplace to share stories, sing carols, and exchange early holiday surprises. Hot cocoa, warm blankets, and firelight create the atmosphere for memories you’ll cherish for years.

Campfire setup with food, mugs, and decorations on evergreen boughs in a snowy forest.
Family in matching plaid pajamas watches a Christmas movie projected on a screen in a festive, decorated bedroom.

Holiday Movie Night


Bring your favorite Christmas DVDs or stream classics in the cabin for a cozy movie night. Pair your favorite movies with festive snacks like peppermint hot chocolate, gingerbread cookies, or popcorn mixed with holiday candies to make the evening extra sweet!

Silent Night 


After the day’s excitement, slow down and soak in the peaceful winter surroundings. Central Pennsylvania’s rural skies are far from city lights, making them ideal for stargazing with the family. Cuddle up on the deck, share whispered wishes, and marvel at constellations shimmering above. It’s a magical, calming way to round out the perfect holiday getaway.

Person wrapped in a blanket, seated on a chair, drinking from a mug, in front of a cabin, lit by string lights.
A welcome to greene hills camp sign is in the middle of a grassy field.

Christmas at Greene Hills Resort and Campground

If you’re looking for a family-friendly campground for your winter vacation, come to Greene Hills Resort and Campground. Located on the Little Juniata River in Alexandria, PA, our camping resort is a haven for families all year round.


Whether you're a couple looking for a romantic winter getaway or an extended family reuniting for the holidays, we have accommodations to fit your needs. From intimate A-frames to cozy cabins, and even a full-size manor, we have space for families of all sizes. 


Remember the reason for the season, and book your holiday stay at Greene Hills Resort and Campground.

Amanda Orban taking a selfie in front of a tent.

About the Author

Amanda Orban is a local teacher and campground manager in Pennsylvania. In her free time, she loves nothing more than pitching a tent under the stars, hitting scenic trails, and cheering on the Nittany Lions at Penn State.