Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Allegheny National Forest, PA has a lot to offer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Allegheny National Forest and user-submitted reviews.
Red Bridge Campground sits on the eastern shore of the Kinzua Arm of the Allegheny Reservoir in northwest Pennsylvania, offering a peaceful getaway for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
The campground offers swimming and bank fishing, with a boat launch nearby. For hikers, the North Country National Scenic Trail crosses SR 321 one-eighth of mile south of the campground. Over 4,000 miles long, the North Country National Scenic Trail stretches from New York to North Dakota. The Allegheny National Forest has nearly 100 miles of this trail between the New York state line and PA-66, maintained by volunteers from the Allegheny National Forest Chapter of the North Country Trail Association.
The Allegheny National Forest covers nearly half a million acres and is populated primarily with black cherry, maple and other hardwoods. The Kinzua Dam, built in 1965, impounds the Allegheny River to form the 25-mile-long Allegheny Reservoir. The campground is well wooded with mature black cherry, hemlock and birch trees. The grounds are off the Longhouse Scenic Byway, a 29-mile loop that circles the Kinzua Arm of the reservoir.
For facility specific information, please call (814) 363-9090.
Cancellations or changes must be made through Recreation.gov
$20 - $110 / night
$26 - $35 / night
This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site. Once on-site, you may be able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature. If this option is available, you will need to__first download the free Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your arrival__as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service.
$12 / night
Dewdrop Campground sits on the Kinzua Arm of the Allegheny Reservoir in northwest Pennsylvania, offering a popular getaway for boaters and families.
Water activities abound, including lake fishing, boating, and water skiing. A boat launch is available for convenient lake access for campers only. A 2.5 mile trail winds around the campground. Dewdrop is located on the Longhouse Scenic Drive, a winding loop around the Kinzua Arm of the reservoir that includes PA-59, PA-321, and Forest Road 262 (Longhouse Scenic Byway).
The Allegheny National Forest covers nearly half a million acres and is populated primarily with black cherry, maple and other hardwoods. The Kinzua Dam, built in 1965, impounds the Allegheny River to form the 25-mile-long Allegheny Reservoir. Dewdrop clings to the hillside above the water, providing a multi-level tiered campground.
The Kinzua Dam is a short drive to the west on PA-59. The Jakes Rocks Epic Mountain Bike Trail system connects to Dewdrop Campground and consists of trail loops built specifically for mountain biking on the mountain behind the campground. Hikers are also welcome on the trail but remember to keep an eye out for and give way to mountain bike riders. Kinzua Point Information Center is staffed by volunteers on most summer weekends and offers great views up the Allegheny Reservoir.
For facility specific information, please call (814) 363-9090.
Cancellations or changes must be made through Recreation.gov
$24 / night
This rustic campground is located on the east bank of the Allegheny Reservoir just east of Elijah Run Boat Launch on Morrison Bay a branch off of Kinzua Bay of the Allegheny Reservoir. It is accessible by boat via the Allegheny Reservoir and/or the Morrison Hiking Trail. The closest boat launch is Elijah Run directly west of the campground (access from the Longhouse National Scenic Byway - Forest Road 262). Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site. Once on-site, there are fee envelopes with a pay tube availabe or you may be able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature. If this option is available, you will need to__first download the free Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your arrival__as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service.
This rustic campground is located on the east bank of the Allegheny Reservoir just east of Elijah Run Boat Launch on Morrison Bay a branch off of Kinzua Bay of the Allegheny Reservoir.
$12 / night
Buckaloons Campground sits at the confluence of the Allegheny River, Brokenstraw Creek and Irvine Run in northwestern Pennsylvania. This 61-site campground offers access to the Allegheny Wild & Scenic River and opportunities for boating, fishing, wildlife watching, and relaxing in a quiet, country atmosphere.__
Water activities are a big draw to Buckaloons Recreation Area, including canoing, kayaying, rafting, and boating. The boat ramp provides easy access to the river. Buckaloons is the beginning of the second designated National Wild and Scenic RIver segment of the Allegheny River. The first segment is from Kinzua Dam to the Route 6 Glade Bridge on the east side of Warren, PA. The second segment runs from Buckaloons campground to Alcorn Island just upstream of Oil City, PA, a distance of nearly 50 miles. In this segment are the 6 islands of the Allegheny Islands Wilderness as well as many other publicly and privately owned islands. Several public boat launches are located within this segment to help you decide on the length of trip that's right for you. The Allegheny is a "family-friendly" river, with little to no whitewater - perfect for beginners or a lazy day of floating. Hunting, fishing, and trapping are permitted in the areas around the campground, subject to rules of the Pennsylvania Game Commission and the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission. Fishing includes walleye, trout, and bass. There is also hiking along the Seneca Interpretive Trail within the campground or at nearby Anders Run Natural Area.
Water activities are a big draw to Buckaloons Recreation Area, including canoing, kayaying, rafting, and boating. The boat ramp provides easy access to the river. Buckaloons is the beginning of the second designated National Wild and Scenic RIver segment of the Allegheny River. The first segment is from Kinzua Dam to the Route 6 Glade Bridge on the east side of Warren, PA. The second segment runs from Buckaloons campground to Alcorn Island just upstream of Oil City, PA, a distance of nearly 50 miles. In this segment are the 6 islands of the Allegheny Islands Wilderness as well as many other publicly and privately owned islands. Several public boat launches are located within this segment to help you decide on the length of trip that's right for you. The Allegheny is a "family-friendly" river, with little to no whitewater - perfect for beginners or a lazy day of floating. Hunting, fishing, and trapping are permitted in the areas around the campground, subject to rules of the Pennsylvania Game Commission and the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission. Fishing includes walleye, trout, and bass. There is also hiking along the Seneca Interpretive Trail within the campground or at nearby Anders Run Natural Area.
Once the site of an Indian trading post, the Buckaloons Recreation Center has numerous apple trees through the area, as well as mixed hardwoods. Water-loving species such as sycamore, willow, alder, silver maple, and butternut are frequent components of the riverine forest. Blue and green herons, bald eagles, egrets, and a variety of smaller birds can be seen along the Allegheny RIver. The Allegheny is classified as a warm-water fishery, but some cold-water species thrive as well. Freshwater mussels are abundant in species and number and indicate the high water quality of this river. Deer, bear, turkey, and squirrels are common, along with a variety of smaller mammals such as raccoon, opossum, and muskrat.
For facility specific information, please call (814) 363-9090.
$40 / night
Red Bridge Campground sits on the eastern shore of the Kinzua Arm of the Allegheny Reservoir in northwest Pennsylvania, offering a peaceful getaway for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
The campground offers swimming and bank fishing, with a boat launch nearby. For hikers, the North Country National Scenic Trail crosses SR 321 one-eighth of mile south of the campground. Over 4,000 miles long, the North Country National Scenic Trail stretches from New York to North Dakota. The Allegheny National Forest has nearly 100 miles of this trail between the New York state line and PA-66, maintained by volunteers from the Allegheny National Forest Chapter of the North Country Trail Association.
The Allegheny National Forest covers nearly half a million acres and is populated primarily with black cherry, maple and other hardwoods. The Kinzua Dam, built in 1965, impounds the Allegheny River to form the 25-mile-long Allegheny Reservoir. The campground is well wooded with mature black cherry, hemlock and birch trees. The grounds are off the Longhouse Scenic Byway, a 29-mile loop that circles the Kinzua Arm of the reservoir.
For facility specific information, please call (814) 363-9090.
Cancellations or changes must be made through Recreation.gov
$20 - $110 / night
$26 - $35 / night
Scout
Cooks forest is absolutely gorgeous. I look forward to returning as there are a lot of hiking opportunities we missed. We stayed in the pet friendly area, which was nice. There is a pet trail through the woods that was really great to take our dog rather than walking around the campground. Our site was right next to a drinking water spigot and a path to the bath house. The sites near ours were in a wooded area, which felt more private than many of the other sites we saw. There was a fore pit and a picnic table. Our fire pit was behind where the camper was parked, which also felt more private. There is no alcohol permitted in PA state parks, so alcohol is prohibited in the campground as well. It was a great spot, and we look forward to returning.
Scout
Red Bridge is stunning and wonderfully maintained! Every time they drove by, site hosts would pull over and chat with you! I love watching movies and TV shows on my favorite app, Baixar Freecine Apk, and there were plenty of clean bathhouses with plenty of hot water.
TravelerThe Red Bridge Recreation Area, located within the Allegheny National Forest in Pennsylvania, is a picturesque destination that offers a wide range of outdoor activities. Nestled along the Allegheny River, this area features beautiful scenic views, picnic spots, and access to hiking trails. For more information if anyone want to know about baixar freecine visit here https://baixarfreecine.com/
Traveler
Better off just pulling off the side of the road. Nothing here worth the $25 out of state fee.
Scout
This is my first time dispersed camping and the spot is nice for a first go. Was able to drive in which I why I chose this area. Currently finish up the night and once the fire dies down I’ll head to bed. As some one has mentioned the only real downside is the road near by, but the traffic is at a minimum.
Ranger
Came in on a Sunday afternoon and nobody was there. Several hunters drove past but no other campers.
There is no vaulted toilet at this site any more. Repeated vandalism resulted in its closure.
Overall a nice secluded camping spot.
ScoutRed Bridge is beautiful and VERY WELL KEPT!! Site hosts were always driving around and would stop to talk with you! Numerous bathhouses were clean, and lots of hot water.
Guide
Has everything you need, amazing place to stay!
Guide
Any worker over the age of 20 was super rude and they did NOT Re-Book Our Reservation For Next Year The Website sates that it is now being managed by a company called Oasis Marianas. There Are Signs Falling Apart And They Pool Was Water Orange! The Arcade was completely broken the showers were tiny and the entire place is in disrepair. The Gate was taken off the Opener And thrown into the weeds DISAPPOINTING And This Place was NOT CHEAP And Was Super RunDown.
Scout
Happy to as soon as I get to stay
Legend
Although this is a KOA Holiday, we used it as a KOA Journey on our way to the Catskills. Not too far from the Interstate & there was no highway noise at the campground.
We arrived right at 5pm, which is when they close up, but Victoria went above & beyond & took us right to our site. Good thing, since we were at the back of a confusing layout.
There are sites in this section that have a partial view of the lake, but they looked like seasonal sites. All the sites looked well cared for. We had a pull through on Chestnut Drive. Y1
If you have kids, most of the activities they would be interested in are at the front entrance. If you don't have a golf cart, you may have to drive to the front for the pool, mini golf, basketball court & jumping pillow.
It doesn't look like they have many cabins.
There's another playground in the back that was getting used. There was supposed to be a splash pad, but I didn't see an evidence of that.
The bathroom/shower house are duel toilet/showers. Not my favorite, but we didn't have any trouble getting in.
We used the back exit on our way out, which was convenient. At least we didn't have to go back to the front entrance!
BTW, Victoria is a treasure! She's friendly & goes above& beyond for customer service. We really appreciated the time she took with us.
Scout
I have a 25-foot travel trailer and found several suitable spots on SF-160. Since it rains frequently here, keep your slip-on shoes handy near the door. This area offers great hiking and biking opportunities. The campsite next to the hiking trail has WiFi about 70% of the time. Experience duck life right now!
Scout
What a beautiful campground with the sweetest owners, Jack and Debbie! Our 3 night stay was just not long enough. We will definitely be back! Shout out to Debbie for being highly instrumental in the creation of the High Pines App, which is absolutely amazing and chock full of useful information. Another shout out to both Jack & Debbie for warmly welcoming our South African Mastiff despite her intimidating size and appearance. We appreciated that we, the owners, would be judged. Not the dog and certainly not her breed. Thank you for a wonderful camping experience!
GuideIf you don’t mind roughing it a bit, it’s really quite nice. Sites are first come first serve and there is a bit of day traffic to get to Hector Falls. Which is a nice little 2 mile hike. Some good exploring. Bring tick/bug spray. Found several on my boys and me.
GuideA dingy place. The ground was swampy the only dry places are the gravel pads in the sites. I wouldn't tent camp here.
On the plus side, strong AT&T and T-Mobile cell signals. (I don't have a verizon device)
Guide
Wolf's Camping Resort Is The Perfect Campground For Family's To Stay At With Its large Swimming Pool And It's Large Game room It is prefect for kids young and old! It has a large store with helpful employees and it sits on a large plot of land that includes a small mini golf corse and a full sized 18 hole golf course with many activities and themed weekends that you can find on their Facebook it is the perfect place to come!
RangerMany disbursed spots along the river over several miles. Size od camping spots ranges from large open fields with fire pits to spots on the shoulder of the road
We came in on a Saturday and found one of the road side sites open. Not much traffic and very friendly people in the area.
The river was basically brown like pudding the only signs of life were insects. While a very beautiful area, the river was king of yucky looking.
Ranger
We came I to the area on a Monday and this camp was completely empty. We picked the biggest site next to the creek. The tree canopy over our site was dense enough that w3 did not get very wet when it rains.
This campground had several designated sites and most have a fire ring and picnic table.
There was a porti-poty on site that had plenty of paper was pretty clean.
We had a few hikers come through and one other camper that chose not to stay.
Guidenice little hideaway , it is however right across from where people have made a make shift shooting rang, which I thought to bea bonus.
Traveler
Like the other review, this site has a lot of litter. Clearly people are camping here at times but there are posted signs that say Day Use Only. It was quiet and dark.
TravelerThe site was fine, fire pit, primitive spot so no services. We arrived late at night so couldn’t see so well but stopped in a clearing on the road toward the coordinates.
Kind of a gross site, the previous people who stayed at our site were messy and left litter, but it served its purpose as a free place to sleep along a longer trip.
Scout
Nice campground with full hook ups. Close to a large recreational lake with hiking trails and a boat launch. Sites were fairly level no issues with power fluctuations and sewer worked great!
Scout$20/night basic site has a picnic table and fire ring. Each loop has. Pit potty on it. Shower facility in the park, very very hot water. Quiet, friendly people. Dog friendly. Bear area..,take note. Some sites have water access.
Traveler
It was fairly full when I went, the staff was very friendly and helpful. There was a band playing in the middle of the campground at dusk which made for a great experience. Great campground overall!
Traveler
First time staying at Clear Creek State Park and had a spot just below where the Creek empties into the River. We were able to turn the RV so the door/awning faced the River. We saw a two different Merganser mamas with young, a green heron fishing, and a bald eagle go up the River. We were right across from the showerhouse but noise was minimal. Our dog had the riverbank to explore on her camp leash of course. Hiking above the campground was very nice and we did an easy loop of almost 6 miles. Mountain Laurels were in bloom. Very clean park. Showerhouse was well-kept. Bringing the kayaks next time.
Scout
Hidden gem! Love the seclusion of this campground. Very clean restrooms. Fantastic lake for kayaking, fishing, swimming, etc. Currently, our favorite local escape destination!
Scout
Nice quiet & small campground on a hillside. Loved how remote this location was, but be prepared to be a billy goat when trekking to the restroom no matter your site location. Even though it was a busy holiday weekend, it was a very peaceful weekend. Very clean restrooms. No signage to sites if you aren't familiar with the campground. Terrible "slow bumps" in/out of campground . . . a little excessive. Beautiful lake/area, but must drive from campground to water's edge. Will likely visit again! PS--Currently issues with potable water; must bring your own.
Camping near Allegheny National Forest, Pennsylvania, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're into hiking, fishing, or just relaxing by the campfire, there's something for everyone.
Camping near Allegheny National Forest, Pennsylvania, is a great way to enjoy nature and create lasting memories. Just be prepared for the unique quirks of each campground!
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Allegheny National Forest?
According to TheDyrt.com, Allegheny National Forest offers a wide range of camping options, with 119 campgrounds and RV parks near Allegheny National Forest and 11 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Allegheny National Forest?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Allegheny National Forest is Red Bridge Recreation Area - Allegheny National Forest with a 4.8-star rating from 25 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Allegheny National Forest?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 11 free dispersed camping spots near Allegheny National Forest.
What parks are near Allegheny National Forest?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 parks near Allegheny National Forest that allow camping, notably Tionesta Lake and Crooked Creek Lake.
