Like many of Lebanon County’s townships, South Londonderry is less of a unified neighborhood and more so a swath of forests and farmlands dotted by tiny towns and winding highways. “In South Londonderry, you’ve got some really small, rural towns like Lawn and Colebrook, where you might have one restaurant and a fire station, and that’s about it,” says Stephanie Butler, lifelong Lebanon County resident and Realtor with Suburban Realty. “But you’re also close to Campbelltown, which is one of the bigger towns, and Mount Gretna, which is very unique.” Mount Gretna sits on the eastern cusp of the township and is a summertime attraction for folks all over south-central Pennsylvania. Butler explains: “It used to be a Victorian resort town, so it wasn’t originally built for year-round living, but they’ve updated all the houses to accommodate for that. Nowadays, there’s Mount Gretna Lake, tons of hiking trails and all kinds of artsy events. It’s a bit eclectic and very charming.” Residents of this area benefit from nearby Campbelltown amenities, top-rated schools and Interstate 76 access but can still experience rural living and wooded summer getaways.
From rural cottages to spacious luxury homes
Homes in this township range from early 20th-century two-story cottages to newly built homes with stately brick exteriors. There’s plenty of variation in between, from 1970s ranch-style homes to mobile homes and even secluded log cabins. Across the area, however, one fact remains the same: larger lots surrounded by rolling fields or dense woodlands are a major part of South Londonderry’s appeal. “It has that country atmosphere, which makes it a good place for people who don’t want all the hustle and bustle,” Butler says. While houses in need of repairs can list for as low as $135,000, most renovated or well-maintained single-family homes are priced from $330,000 to $545,000. Luxury properties can also be found here, in subdivisions such as the Estates of Forest Ridge or the Timber Hills area of Mount Gretna. These spacious homes may have over 10 acres of land or over 4,000 square feet and list between $775,000 and $1.5 million. South Londonderry holds a CAP Index crime score of 1 out of 10, lower than the national average of 4.
1970s ranch-style homes with large lawns can be found in South Londonderry.
Newer subdivisions with spacious houses are popping up throughout South Londonderry.
1/2
Mount Gretna is a local summer destination
Tucked away in the woods at the far southeast corner of the township is Mount Gretna, a little borough that’s so old that much of it is only accessible by narrow walking paths. People from all over the nearby region come here in the summer to cool off at Mount Gretna Lake or lace up their skates at Mount Gretna Roller Rink. More than anything, though, Mount Gretna might be best known for its creative spirit. “The Mount Gretna Outdoor Arts Show is very prestigious,” Butler says. “Some people around here hate it because it gets so crowded that it’s hard to drive around, but it’s very popular. So many vendors apply that they get selected on a lottery system. Not just anyone can get in. You’ll see fancy wood carvings, pottery and jewelry.” During the summer, Mount Gretna is also especially popular for its dining options, which include the dinner theater at Timbers and ice cream at the Jigger Shop. “The Jigger Shop isn’t just any old ice cream shop,” Butler says. “Some of the things there are served flaming, like the baked Alaska. It’s only open seasonally, so I usually make a point to go once a year.”
A marching band performs for the patrons of the Mount Gretna Arts Fest near South Londonderry.
Mt Gretna Beach is a popular summer spot on Conewago Lake in West Cornwall.
1/2
Palmyra Area Schools are top-rated in the county
South Londonderry is part of the Palmyra Area School District, which Niche ranks as the No. 1 district out of six in Lebanon County. The nearest elementary school, Lingle Avenue Elementary, and Palmyra Area Middle each score an A grade from Niche. Palmyra Area High earns a B-plus and offers a student internship program in partnership with local employers, allowing students to receive high school credit for hands-on work experience in their selected profession.
Palmyra Area Senior High School has 1,181 students in grades 9-12.
Palmyra Area Middle School has a student-teacher ratio of 14 to 1.
1/2
Renovated restaurants in Campbelltown
When running errands, most South Londonderry residents head into Campbelltown, where they can stock the fridge at Redner’s Warehouse Markets or dine at one of many local restaurants. “Most people think of Campbelltown as just a little town on the way to Hershey, but it has more than you’d think,” Butler says. “Rising Sun Bar & Kitchen used to be such a dive, and they’ve renovated it and now it’s become a place where families go. They’ve expanded into this old building and taken out the upper floor to open it up so you can see all the bricks and beams. It has a real rustic vibe. And it’s unique because they serve all the usual bar food plus sushi, too.” The restaurant is situated along U.S. Highway 322, alongside numerous small businesses and eateries such as Hauz ‘O Hoagies and Soprano’s Pizza. “Soprano’s has the best garlic bread ever. It comes with these big hunks of garlic on it, and the rigatoni is practically three meals’ worth!” Butler says.
Rising Sun Bar & Kitchen is a historic watering hole with a modern look near South Londonderry.
Pizzas are made to order at Soprano's Pizza next to South Londonderry.
1/2
Hiking on the Lebanon Valley Rail Trail
Small community playgrounds can be found in the towns scattered across South Londonderry, including ones in Colebrook and Lawn. Both playgrounds are connected by the Lebanon Valley Rail Trail, a mixed-use path that follows the region’s former railroad corridor. Spanning more than 20 miles through the Lebanon Valley, the trail is a popular place to jog, bike or walk the dog beneath the shade of the trees. More hiking trails can be found at the Park at Governor Dick east of Mount Gretna, while more parks are situated in Campbelltown. In October 2023, volunteers came together to build a brand-new playground at Campbelltown Community Park, incorporating interactive features such as slides, a zipline and a xylophone with sheet music. Other park amenities include soccer fields, a baseball field, basketball courts and volleyball courts.
Campbelltown Community Park sits outside of South Londonderry and has a gravel walking path.
The Lebanon Valley Rail Trail in South Londonderry is a popular spot for a run.
1/2
Along the Pennsylvania Turnpike
Two national highways run through South Londonderry: U.S. Highway 322 and Interstate 76, also known as the Pennsylvania Turnpike. State highways such as Pennsylvania Route 241 and Pennsylvania Route 117 also crisscross through the heart of the area. Save for select walkable sections of Mount Gretna, a car is practically a must for getting around rural South Londonderry. Downtown Lebanon is roughly 8 to 13 miles away, while Harrisburg is approximately 20 to 30 miles west. Harrisburg International Airport is the nearest place to catch a flight, though between Mount Gretna and Hersheypark, some residents find they don’t have to travel far for a getaway. Philadelphia is about 85 to 90 miles east via the Pennsylvania Turnpike.
Written By
Elliot Schorr
Photography Contributed By
Justin Schmidt
Video By
Alex Jacobsen
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Anne M. Lusk,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Nothing to do here but relax! This extensively updated property offers modern amenties and enhanced efficiency. The kitchen features new appliances, a beautiful butcher block topped center island, and updated lighting. Bathrooms received new concealed trap toilets and the primary bath includes a quartz topped vanity. The home boasts smart thermostat and lighting features, new ceiling fans, custom
Solid three bedroom, two and a half bath ranch home with two car garage in Wheatstone Community and Palmyra School district. This single family ranch home has a lot to offer featuring a beautiful sunroom, living room with gas fireplace, formal dining room, fully equiped kitchen includess all appliances and a cozy dining area and breakfast bar, Primary bedroom boasts a walk in closet and private
Endless possibilities await on this truly extraordinary 3.61-acre estate located in the highly desirable Palmyra Area School District—where refined living, open space, and unmatched versatility come together in a way few properties can offer.Whether you envision a boutique hobby farm, a private countryside retreat, or an elevated everyday lifestyle surrounded by nature, this one-of-a-kind
Welcome to 36 My Way Drive, located in the sought-after Hershey Estates 55+ Community! This beautifully renovated 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom single-wide mobile home offers 846 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space. Enjoy a stylish, modern interior with recent updates throughout, making this home truly move-in ready and ideal for easy, low-maintenance living. Conveniently located near the
Welcome Home to this great double wide situated in a 55+ community and is at the end of Reo, which allows the use of the large yard, privacy and creek! Home has many major upgrades with a new roof, windows, water heater, Heating & C/A, Bath and an updated Kitchen. Offers 2 Bedrooms, 2 full baths, Lg Kitchen with all appliances/oak cabinets and lg pantry, Dining area w/views, open Living room, a
Wendy Feaser-RyanIron Valley Real Estate of Central PA
Spacious 7 Bedroom Home on 1+ Acre — Now $649,900!Set on over an acre of peaceful, landscaped grounds, this well maintained 7 bedroom home offers generous living space and flexible living options across three finished levels for a variety of needs. The main floor includes hardwood flooring, comfortable living, dining, and den areas, first floor laundry, a half bath, and a private primary
Gorgeous building lot for home to be built offers a private setting, with wooded back yard. Build the home of your dreams with Greystone Construction, a truly custom builder. Meet with their designer to blend unique lot characteristics with your aesthetic design requirements. Just 8 miles from the Hershey Medical Center. 11 additional building lots remaining. Call list agent for more information.
JAMES ST. HILAIREBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Homesale Realty
Gorgeous building lot for home to be built offers a private setting, with wooded back yard and potential walk-out basement. Build the home of your dreams with Greystone Construction, a truly custom builder. Meet with their designer to blend unique lot characteristics with your aesthetic design requirements. Just 8 miles from the Hershey Medical Center. 11 additional building lots remaining. Call
JAMES ST. HILAIREBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Homesale Realty
Gorgeous building lot for home to be built offers a private setting, with wooded back yard and potential walk-out basement. Build the home of your dreams with Greystone Construction, a truly custom builder. Meet with their designer to blend unique lot characteristics with your aesthetic design requirements. Just 8 miles from the Hershey Medical Center. 11 additional building lots remaining. Call
JAMES ST. HILAIREBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Homesale Realty
Welcome to 21 Crest Lane in Palmyra, a ranch-style home set on nearly an acre and packed with potential. This property offers a unique opportunity for buyers looking for space, flexibility, and room for hobbies, vehicles, or recreational toys. The property features multiple garage spaces, a large 4-car carport, and workshop areas, making it ideal for car enthusiasts, hobbyists, or anyone in need
Discover unparalleled privacy and luxury in this stunning mountain stone single-family home, nestled on 10.76 breathtaking acres in Hershey. Just 15 minutes from the conveniences of downtown Hershey, this one-of-a-kind estate offers over 8,000 finished square feet, a 4-car garage, 6 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, an inground heated saltwater pool, dual geothermal heat pumps, a whole house generator, and
Welcome to the highly desirable Rockledge community, featuring the Nantucket model—where comfort meets carefree living! Enjoy the ease of zero exterior maintenance, giving you more time to relax and enjoy your home. This charming residence offers a spacious and inviting layout, complete with a cozy fireplace—perfect for relaxing evenings. The bright, sun-filled kitchen seamlessly opens to the
Welcome Home to this charming 4-bedroom, 1.5 bath cottage in the historic Mt Gretna Chautauqua, offering the classic summer living style. Designed for three-season enjoyment, the home features central air and forced air heat on the first floor, while the second floor is equipped with baseboard heat and window units to keep everyone comfortable. Having generous living space and a porch that wraps
Discover the charm of this beautifully renovated 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom manufactured home in Palm City Park. With a major renovation just completed, this residence boasts an open floor plan consisting of the living room, breakfast area, and kitchen. All new luxury vinyl plank flooring and carpet throughout. The kitchen features quartz countertops, new cabinets, stainless steel appliances,
This charming townhouse in the Rockledge Palmyra community offers a delightful blend of comfort and convenience. With 1,208 square feet of thoughtfully designed space including 2 bedrooms and 1 1/2 baths. The well-appointed white kitchen with stainless steel appliances, pantry and a pass thru bar area adds practicality to your culinary adventures. The 2nd floor laundry ensures ease and efficiency
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
