This free hike-in shelter site operates within Oil Creek State Park, managed by Pennsylvania's Bureau of State Parks. Campers access Cow Run Shelters on foot, making advance reservations available through the state system. The site provides basic toilet facilities and picnic tables for overnight stays.
Located in northwestern Pennsylvania's oil heritage region, the shelters serve backpackers and hikers exploring the park's trail network. For those planning extended stays in the area, campgrounds around Oil Creek State Park include drive-in options with additional amenities. The no-cost camping appeals to budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts willing to carry gear to their site.
Description
This shelter is an Adirondack style lean-to shelter with a stone fireplace.
The backpacking shelter and tent sites can hold 4 people per site. A group can be no larger than 12 people and requires purchase of enough sites to accommodate your group.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundCow Run Shelters — Oil Creek State Park is located in Pennsylvania
Coordinates
41.5390385 N
79.6509242 W
Connectivity
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T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
VerizonLTESome Coverage- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors- T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Group
- Cabins
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Toilets
FREE established camping
Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Cow Run Shelters — Oil Creek State Park needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 14 min from Erie, PA
- 1 hr 27 min from Youngstown, OH
- 1 hr 47 min from Pittsburgh, PA
- 2 hrs 11 min from Weirton, WV
