monument
1 / 10

Newtown Battlefield State Park

4.6
·336 reviews·Elmira, United States

A serene park preserving the site of a Revolutionary War battle, offering camping, cabins, and clear night skies.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Fall mornings

Gorgeous scenery, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Loading map...
monument

Newtown Battlefield State Park

Best Time

Fall mornings

Gorgeous scenery, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene park preserving the site of a Revolutionary War battle, offering camping, cabins, and clear night skies.

4.6
(336 reviews)

"A treasure we stumbled onto on our road trip. A clean and beautiful wooded venue with some interesting revolutionary War history."

Vertical photo
TIP

Pack for Cold Nights 🥶

Cabins have no heat; bring extra blankets and warm clothing. Rangers are helpful if you have concerns.

Bug Spray is a Must 🦟

Expect plenty of bugs, especially when camping. Pack strong repellent for a more comfortable stay.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Revolutionary War Memorial

Revolutionary War Memorial

Honor the soldiers of the Battle of Newtown at this significant historical monument.

Battle Reenactments

Battle Reenactments

Witness history come alive with thrilling reenactments of the Battle of Newtown.

Stargazing

Stargazing

Experience incredibly clear and quiet nights perfect for observing the night sky.

Wooded Campsites & Cabins

Wooded Campsites & Cabins

Enjoy peaceful, secluded camping surrounded by beautiful fall scenery.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Plan for the Unexpected Weather

Cabins lack heating, so pack extra layers for chilly nights, even in warmer months. Bugs are also prevalent, so bring repellent. Rangers are attentive and helpful if issues arise.

Book Cabins in Advance

The secluded cabins offer a unique nature experience with basic amenities. They are popular, especially for stargazing and connecting with nature, so booking ahead is recommended.

Best Times

When
Fall mornings
Why
Gorgeous scenery, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
Ideal for stargazing
Crowd
Medium
When
During reenactments
Why
Experience history live
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Pack for Cold Nights 🥶

Cabins have no heat; bring extra blankets and warm clothing. Rangers are helpful if you have concerns.

Bug Spray is a Must 🦟

Expect plenty of bugs, especially when camping. Pack strong repellent for a more comfortable stay.

Book Cabins Early 🏕️

These popular, secluded cabins offer a great nature escape and book up fast.

Enjoy the Stargazing ✨

The clear, quiet nights make for exceptional stargazing opportunities.

Tips

from all over the internet

Pack for Cold Nights 🥶

Cabins have no heat; bring extra blankets and warm clothing. Rangers are helpful if you have concerns.

Bug Spray is a Must 🦟

Expect plenty of bugs, especially when camping. Pack strong repellent for a more comfortable stay.

Book Cabins Early 🏕️

These popular, secluded cabins offer a great nature escape and book up fast.

Enjoy the Stargazing ✨

The clear, quiet nights make for exceptional stargazing opportunities.

Check Reenactment Dates ⚔️

Plan your visit around the biannual battle reenactments for a unique historical experience.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(336 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Newtown Battlefield State Park for its beautiful wooded setting, peaceful atmosphere, and historical significance. The attentive rangers and opportunities for stargazing are frequently highlighted. However, the lack of heating in cabins and the prevalence of bugs are noted drawbacks, with some guests cutting stays short due to unexpected cold.

"A treasure we stumbled onto on our road trip. A clean and beautiful wooded venue with some interesting revolutionary War history. And as luck would have it, we were honored to experience the battle reenactment. A fantastic experience."

Paul Jacobson

"Chose this location to camp as I had a push to Maryland from here and it was convenient. Little did I know how much I would enjoy the Park and the Campground and wish I'd stayed longer than 4 nights! The Fall scenery was gorgeous, the Park was peaceful and the Staff was terrific."

Judy Grillo

"This was my first time visiting, and I do plan on revisiting with my friends! We rented cabins in pairs for a few days during an unplanned cold and rainy front. This campground is beautiful and quiet, very easy to feel close to nature. It’s beautiful at night to stargaze here and it’s a great place to be with friends and connect with nature. Be aware the cabins are close to the edge of a steep drop, with about ~10 feet of space between the porch and edge. I only wish the cabins were slightly farther away!!

PROS: secluded, attentive rangers (we were given a phone number and any concern was addressed quickly, like our trash cans being full or a question), great surroundings, not too far from town for supplies besides the normal camping supplies. The cabins each have a stovetop, refrigerator, storage, 4 twin beds available, and electric. The cabins also have a bathroom on the structure, but entered from the outside. The bathroom has a toilet with a sink that is controlled by flushing the toilet, an above head pull string light, and an automatic soap dispenser. The campsite has decent (average campground) bathrooms with showers. I did not use the public restroom for anything besides showering because of the cold. ALSO gorgeous nights for stargazing. So clear, so quiet.

CONS: the cabins have no heat and no ways to get heat as there are no portable heaters allowed. We ended our trip early because of the unexpected cold, but we had packed for warmer weather. The area does have a LOT of bugs, which is to be expected so close in nature. The cabins could use a bit more sealing of cracks, but i did notice there was effort to update that! I think if these are things you adequately plan for, you would be okay! We knew these things were possible and even with the very chilly weather experienced a fair amount of bugs.

It is definitely worth a visit to see the views here of the area. If you love camping and connecting closely with nature but still having electricity, a toilet, and a stove, you would love it here."

Sarah Jane (smorey)

What People Like

Beautiful wooded venue
Peaceful and quiet
Attentive rangers

What People Dislike

Cabins lack heat
Lots of bugs

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Newtown Battlefield State Park is accessible by car. It's located in a wooded area, offering a secluded feel. While not far from town for supplies, the park itself provides a natural escape. Specific driving directions can be found on most GPS apps.

Public transportation options to Newtown Battlefield State Park are limited due to its rural and secluded location. It is best accessed by private vehicle.

The park has marked trails and roads leading to the monument, cabins, and campsites. Rangers are available to provide maps and guidance on navigating the park's various areas.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the park itself is generally free, allowing access to the grounds and monument. However, fees may apply for camping, cabin rentals, and special events like reenactments.

The park grounds are typically open from dawn to dusk. Specific hours for the visitor center or any interpretive facilities may vary, so it's advisable to check the official park website or contact them directly.

Camping fees vary depending on the type of site (tent, RV) and whether you are a resident or non-resident. Cabin rental costs are separate and generally higher than tent sites. Check the park's official booking portal for current pricing.

Yes, the park offers cabins for rent. These cabins are equipped with basic amenities like beds, a refrigerator, and a stovetop, but do not have heating. Booking in advance is highly recommended.

Discounts may be available for certain groups, such as seniors or military personnel, for camping or cabin rentals. It's best to inquire directly with the park staff or check their official website for any applicable discount programs.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The park preserves the site of the Battle of Newtown, a crucial campaign during the Revolutionary War. It commemorates the soldiers who fought there and offers insights into this lesser-known but important historical event.

While specific guided tours might not be regularly scheduled, rangers are often available to provide information. The memorial monument itself serves as an interpretive point, and special events like reenactments offer immersive historical experiences.

Beyond its historical significance, the park is ideal for camping, enjoying nature, and stargazing. The wooded surroundings offer a peaceful environment for relaxation and connecting with the outdoors.

Yes, families can enjoy the historical aspects, camping, and the natural beauty of the park. The battle reenactments are particularly engaging for children. However, be mindful of the cabin proximity to steep drops.

Campsites typically have access to shared bathrooms with showers. Cabins are equipped with a stovetop, refrigerator, storage, four twin beds, and an exterior bathroom with a toilet and sink. Electricity is provided in cabins.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no restaurants or food services directly within Newtown Battlefield State Park. Visitors should plan to bring their own food and supplies.

Yes, campsites often have fire rings or grills for cooking. The cabins are equipped with a stovetop and refrigerator, allowing for meal preparation. Remember to bring your own cooking utensils and ingredients.

The nearest town is a short drive away and offers grocery stores for stocking up on supplies and various dining options for those who prefer to eat out. Rangers can usually provide recommendations for local establishments.

📸 📸 Photography

The memorial monument offers a striking focal point. The wooded areas, especially during fall, provide beautiful natural scenery. The clear night sky is also a prime subject for astrophotography.

Absolutely! The park's secluded location and lack of light pollution make it an excellent spot for capturing stunning night sky photos, including stars and the Milky Way.

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or videography may require special permits. Always be respectful of the historical site and other visitors.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Newtown Battlefield State Park offers a blend of history and nature that can be engaging for families. The battle reenactments are a highlight, providing a dynamic and educational experience for children. The park's wooded setting is also great for exploring and enjoying the outdoors.

When staying in the cabins, be aware of the steep drop-offs near the cabin edges and ensure children are supervised. Packing plenty of bug spray and extra layers for the cabins is crucial for a comfortable family visit. The peaceful environment is conducive to connecting with nature, making it a memorable trip for all.

🏕️ Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Newtown Battlefield State Park offers an affordable way to experience history and nature. Camping is generally less expensive than cabin rentals, providing a cost-effective accommodation option. The park grounds themselves are free to enter, allowing visitors to explore the historical monument and natural beauty without significant expense.

While there are no on-site dining facilities, bringing your own food and utilizing the cooking amenities in the cabins or at campsites can further reduce costs. The value lies in the immersive historical experience and the serene natural environment, making it a worthwhile destination for those looking to travel economically.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History of the Battle of Newtown

Newtown Battlefield State Park commemorates a pivotal, though often overlooked, engagement during the American Revolutionary War. The Battle of Newtown, fought on September 3, 1777, was part of the larger Philadelphia Campaign. American forces, under the command of General John Sullivan, attempted to halt the advance of British General Sir William Howe's army, which was marching towards Philadelphia after landing at Head of Elk.

The battle was fierce, with both sides suffering significant casualties. While the American forces ultimately retreated, their determined resistance delayed the British advance and inflicted considerable losses, demonstrating the resilience of the Continental Army. The park's memorial monument stands as a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers who fought on this hallowed ground, offering visitors a chance to connect with this important chapter of American history.

Visitors can explore the battlefield grounds and learn more about the strategic importance of this engagement. The park aims to preserve the historical integrity of the site and educate the public about the Revolutionary War. Special events, such as reenactments, further bring the history to life, allowing attendees to witness firsthand the tactics and atmosphere of the era.

Camping and Cabin Experience

Newtown Battlefield State Park offers a unique camping experience, blending nature with historical significance. The park features both traditional campsites and rustic cabins, providing options for different preferences. Campers can enjoy the peaceful, wooded surroundings, making it an ideal spot for those seeking to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature.

The cabins, while basic, offer a comfortable base for exploring the park. They come equipped with essential amenities like beds, a refrigerator, and a stovetop, but notably lack heating. This means visitors must be prepared for cooler temperatures, especially during evenings and off-season months. The exterior bathrooms are a unique feature, with a toilet and sink system. Despite the lack of heating, the cabins are praised for their secluded feel and proximity to nature, making them popular for stargazing and quiet retreats.

Campers and cabin guests benefit from the attentive park rangers who are readily available to address concerns and provide assistance. The park's location offers a balance of seclusion and accessibility, with nearby towns providing necessary supplies. The overall camping experience is described as peaceful and restorative, with many visitors expressing a desire to extend their stay and fully appreciate the park's tranquil atmosphere.

You may also like

1 of 2