Camp Hill, PA, is a borough of roughly 8,100 residents located just west of Harrisburg in Cumberland County. Though modest in size, this community has long played an outsized role in the region’s commercial and cultural life. Incorporated in the late nineteenth century, it developed as a residential suburb connected to the capital city by trolley lines, traces of which still shape the layout of its streets. Today, it is widely known for its strong local business presence, walkable neighborhoods, and its proximity to both the Susquehanna River and the rolling farmland that defines much of south central Pennsylvania.
Tree-lined avenues and early twentieth-century homes reflect the borough’s steady growth during the streetcar era. Many houses feature deep porches and brick facades that speak to the craftsmanship of another time. The area has managed to maintain a distinct identity despite its closeness to the state capital. One lesser-known historical detail is that parts of the community once served as informal gathering grounds for Civil War militia units traveling through the region. Local lore even suggests that certain older properties near Market Street contain artifacts from that era, occasionally uncovered during renovations. While not every story can be verified, such tales contribute to a sense of continuity between past and present.
The downtown corridor along Market Street remains a focal point of daily life. Independent retailers and long-standing establishments give the borough its commercial character. Cornerstone Coffeehouse is a favorite gathering spot, recognized for its carefully crafted espresso drinks and house-made pastries. Its comfortable interior makes it a common meeting place for business discussions and casual afternoons alike. A short walk away, The Watershed Pub has built a reputation for its creative American fare and rotating selection of Pennsylvania craft beers. Diners often praise its seasonal menu items, especially dishes that incorporate local produce and meats.
For those who appreciate classic Italian cuisine, Cedars Lebanese Restaurant continues to operate as a mainstay, known for its delicious pasta dishes and traditional sauces prepared with time-tested recipes. Rakestraw’s Ice Cream Company draws steady crowds in warmer months, serving small-batch ice cream in flavors that range from traditional vanilla bean to inventive combinations featuring regional ingredients. Families frequently gather outside with cones in hand, catching up with neighbors and enjoying the relaxed pace of an evening stroll.
Recreation opportunities are woven throughout the area. Willow Park provides open green space, playground equipment, and walking paths that wind through mature trees. It is a popular site for youth sports practices and seasonal gatherings. The nearby West Shore Farmers’ Market, operating since the 1950s, offers fresh produce, baked goods, meats, and specialty foods from regional vendors. Shopping there has become something of a weekly tradition for many households, especially on Saturday mornings when the market buzzes with activity.
Annual events reinforce a sense of continuity and shared experience. Jubilee Day, held each summer, transforms Market Street into a pedestrian festival filled with food vendors, artisans, and live entertainment. It is recognized as one of the largest one-day street festivals on the East Coast. Residents often mark their calendars months in advance, anticipating the music, community booths, and charitable fundraising that accompany the celebration. Seasonal parades and holiday tree lightings further contribute to the borough’s civic life, offering opportunities for neighbors to gather and participate in longstanding customs.
Despite its developed character, the community maintains close proximity to wooded areas, creeks, and older properties that can attract wildlife. Changing seasons in Pennsylvania bring fluctuations in animal activity, from squirrels seeking shelter in attics to raccoons exploring crawl spaces. Managing these issues responsibly requires an understanding of both local building styles and regional wildlife behavior.
As a locally operating company, we understand the specific needs of property owners in Camp Hill. Our team approaches each situation with careful assessment and humane solutions designed to protect homes and businesses while respecting local regulations. If wildlife has become a concern on your property,
contact us at S&S Professional Wildlife Control Services today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help restore order and peace of mind in your surroundings.
