Knoebels Amusement Resort in Elysburg, Pennsylvania, will mark its 100th birthday this summer.
America’s largest always-free admission park deserves a spot on your travel itinerary. Plan to stop and wish a “Happy Birthday” to folks at this wonderful attraction.
A little history
Knoebels’ story stretches back far before the opening of its amusement rides. The property began as farmland in the 1800s. That’s when the Knoebel family purchased this beautiful, wooded valley that became known locally as Peggy’s Farm.
Over time, visitors were drawn to the area’s creek-fed swimming hole and shady picnic grounds. This simple gathering place gradually evolved into a summer destination with refreshments, rental cottages, and recreational activities provided by the Knoebel family.
By the mid-1920s, the family took a major step forward by constructing the Crystal Pool. It also added a carousel, games, and food service. Those additions transformed the picnic grove into the amusement park that officially opened on July 4, 1926.
Over the following decades, the park expanded carefully, rather than rapidly. It added more attractions, entertainment venues, restaurants, campgrounds, and signature rides, all while maintaining its family-operated character.
Unlike many regional amusement parks that were sold to large corporations during the late twentieth century, Knoebels remained under the ownership and management of the Knoebel family. Generations of family leadership have focused on keeping the experience affordable while continuing to invest in new attractions and improvements.
Old school entertainment
Knoebels is the kind of place I love because it still feels refreshingly old-school. The park has free admission, free parking, and free entertainment. (It uses a pay-per-ride system with ticket books or select all-day ride passes.) We really appreciate the park’s “freebies.” (Our roller coaster experiences are better remembered than re-lived today!)
In addition to the “freebies,” Knoebels also welcomes visitors to bring their own food and coolers into the park. Budget-minded RVers love this convenience, as do folks on a restricted diet. You can bring along a picnic lunch, snacks, and your favorite beverage, too. (Just leave glass and alcohol back in your RV.)
The best!
What sets Knoebels apart is that it still feels personal instead of corporate. The park offers affordability, live entertainment, and a mix of rides, games, museums, golf, and swimming. It’s all found in a wonderful, wooded setting that has kept its charm for 100 years!
Note: Tripadvisor recently named Knoebels as the best amusement park in the United States for 2026.
Birthday party
Centennial celebrations are set for this weekend, July 3–5, 2026. This special weekend will include a parade, commemorative ceremonies, and a few surprises. If you cannot make that exact weekend, Knoebels says the celebration will continue all season long, which gives RVers a lot of flexibility.
Active or relaxed
If roller coasters and other wild rides are your preference, Knoebels has lots to offer, like the wooden coaster, Twister.
Folks who prefer a gentler pace also have plenty to do at Knoebels. Enjoy the Grand Carousel, a 100-year-old ride. Or take the Pioneer Train for a relaxed 1.5-mile trip through the woods. If you prefer steam engines, the Ole Smokey Train offers a leisurely and scenic ride.
Visitors to Knoebels will also enjoy the Mining Museum, the Crystal Pool, the 18-hole golf course, and the park’s live entertainment.
No matter what your preference, you can have a day that is as relaxed or as active as you want it to be at Knoebels.
Places to stay
For RVers looking to stay nearby, Knoebels Campground is the closest choice and lets you park an RV or camper just steps from the park. It also offers a shuttle through the campground to the covered bridge entrance.
Lake Glory Campground, Knoebels’ second campground in nearby Catawissa adds a lake setting and shuttle service.
J&D Campground in Catawissa offers a peaceful feel, spacious sites, and a convenient location near Knoebels.
Getting there
To get to Knoebels, you can set your GPS for 391 Knoebels Blvd., Route 487, Elysburg, PA 17824, and follow the directions.
A commonly used route from the I-80 corridor is Exit 232 to Route 42 south to Catawissa. Then take Route 487 south into the park.
From I-80 east, another familiar route is Exit 224 to Route 54 east, then Route 487 north to the entrance.
You should go!
Knoebels is the kind of stop that makes an RV trip feel like a “throwback vacation.” It’s an easy place to slow down, save money, and make a few good memories, too.
If you’re visiting September’s Hershey RV Show, perhaps add a stop at Knoebels.
Have you ever visited Knoebels? Tell us in the comments below.
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