Campers near Clymer, New York find themselves in the northwestern corner of Pennsylvania's hardwood forest region at approximately 1,400 feet elevation, where seasonal temperature fluctuations can be dramatic. The area experiences lake effect snow from nearby Lake Erie during winter months, with annual precipitation averaging 42 inches. Camping options range from primitive tent sites to full-service RV accommodations, with many facilities closing between late October and April.
What to do
Fishing at multiple locations: The Allegheny Reservoir at Willow Bay Recreation Area provides excellent fishing opportunities. "The campground services tent sites, RV sites as well as small cabins with electricity. These sites are less than a mile from the North Country Trail," notes Bill G., who adds that "places to visit are too numerous to mention."
Water activities on Lake Erie: Lampe Marina Campground offers direct access to Presque Isle Bay. "This place is a great place to watch the sunset. Lake Erie has the best sunsets east of the Mississippi lots of things to do from fishing for walleye or perch or just out on a watercraft," writes Jim L. The campground provides "large spaces and easy access to the pier (ramps available for all to enjoy)," according to Joelle V.
Playground activities for children: For families with young children, Erie KOA features multiple play areas. "The playground got 2 thumbs up from a 4 and 6 year old. There was a movie night every night," reports Afshar Y. Another camper, Jennifer O., mentions "a nice playground with a bounce mat that our kids loved."
What campers like
Waterfront camping spots: Willow Bay Recreation Area has several sites directly on the water. "Our site was right along the water. We have sites 76,77,78. Some sites were better than others. Some pros were water access, fire pits having grates, privacy," shares Emma, who gave the campground five stars.
Clean facilities: Presque Isle Passage RV Park maintains well-kept restrooms and common areas. "3 day stay. Clean, nice, stuff for kids. Room for big rigs, and tents. Yurts and cabins available," notes David R. Another reviewer, Tom C., described it as having "clean facilities, friendly, wooded, and many rentals including 2 yurts."
Accommodating staff: West Haven RV Park and Campground staff receive positive feedback for their helpfulness. "Arrived with no reservation after a long day (5-22-2021). Had our fur baby Zeke, 5yo East GSD with us. Jodi placed us in a very nice spot right next to huge freshly mowed field in the rear of the park. She came by later to check on us and see if we needed anything," writes Pete D.
What you should know
Privacy levels vary significantly: Many RV sites near Clymer, New York offer limited separation between campsites. At Sparrow Pond Family Campground, "spots are VERY close together despite the fact it was off season, owners packed everyone into a single location. Most around us where very long term with many having permanent structures," according to Mommy D.
Cell service considerations: Unlike the inconsistent Verizon and AT&T coverage mentioned in the existing description, some campgrounds have no service at all. At Willow Bay, "the Hemlock loop has literally zero Verizon coverage. If you walk up to the entrance of the loop, you'll get 2 bars," reports Tim J., who adds that "We already drove by our future campsite and it registered 3 bars."
Bathroom quality varies: While some campgrounds maintain excellent facilities, others have more rustic options. At Willow Bay, Emma noted that "some cons were the bathrooms were stinky porta potty things that never had toilet paper or lights at night and the hike to your car from your site."
Tips for camping with families
Consider campground activities: Erie KOA offers multiple family-friendly amenities. "Fun little campground with friendly staff and wide open spaces. Clean bathrooms, great pool, fun little game room," writes Afshar Y., adding that "The KOA is close to Presque isle and the amusement park, which is a fantastic place for kids."
Select sites based on accessibility: Some campgrounds require significant walking between parking and tent sites. At Willow Bay, Sean C. notes "you have to unload the car then walk everything to the camp. There is no drive up access for tent camping. A wagon is highly encouraged."
Check for specific recreational facilities: Wildwood Acres provides water and electric hookups with a sanitary dump station. ".! E !." simply states it "Has everything you need, amazing place to stay!" Look for campgrounds with fishing ponds, playgrounds, or swimming areas to keep children entertained.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness varies significantly: At several campgrounds near Clymer, RVers report challenges with unlevel sites. At Willow Bay, Tim J. noted "A couple of extra tongue blocks would've been useful since the site slopes in the front and at the back."
Spacing between RV sites: RV sites near Clymer often place rigs close together. At Presque Isle Passage RV Park, Bill B. observed that "Sites are not level and are close to each other. They do have a pool but that's it."
Check tent camping restrictions: Not all RV parks accommodate tent camping well. At Presque Isle Passage, Fred J. reported "Lots of RVs, not many tents. Small section in the back of the campground for tents. Also the worst part is being so close to the gas station/truck stop. Very bright lights on all night."
