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.
$20 - $130 / night
"For the most part, there isn’t a bad site (although we didn’t see any of the walk up sites, and I recommend not booking a site immediately next to the bathrooms since the ones without showers are more"
"There are paths leading down to the reservoir throughout the campground. The pit toilets and shower houses are well-located and very clean. There is firewood available for purchase on-site. "
"It rains a lot so keep your slip-ons near the door. Great hiking/biking. The spot next to the hiking trail has WiFi 70% of the time. I would give this a 5 star if it didn’t rain so much."
"Some you can drive your car in and tuck it back. Other spots you cant take your car at all. There are tons of logging roads that split off the main forest road."
$12 / night
"Cute little campground with a handful of drive up sites and many hike-in sites scattered along the beautiful Minister Creek in the Allegheny National Forest."
"The smallest of all of the campgrounds in the Allegheny national Forest, this little slice of heaven is just perfect! With only six campsites, it’s definitely “first come, first served.”"
$20 - $40 / night
"Didn’t see any rangers or park staff drive through, quiet hours were not enforced and we had a loud neighbor. Close to some nice trails."
"Fun little playground nearby too!
Also to note, we did not make reservations, but were able to drive through and pick open site we liked the most!"
$24 - $53 / night
"HIGHLIGHTS:
Paved loops great for bikes
Lake with small clean beach
Canoe/kayak rentals (closed 2022 season)
Several nice playgrounds
Clean, modern bathrooms
Several kayak/canoe launch areas"
"Nice lake provides good fishing. Peaceful and quiet. Very clean facilities and friendly staff. Close to may Attractions in the area."
$20 - $100 / night
"The site was spacious and was not close to other campers giving a feeling of secludedness and alone time in nature! Could easily walk to a nearby trail and down to the lake front!"
"Some sites had large high sided fire rings which take away from the fireside relaxation of a shorter camp chair. "
$12 / night
"While the surrounding area is somewhat remote there can be times when the sites are pretty full with luxury boat campers. If you are looking for peace and quiet stay away in July."
$20 - $67 / night
"Look at the campground map before you book your site if being close to a bathroom is important; ours was across the campsite behind us but we had to step in a rock set in the stream to get to it without"
"There is a pet trail through the woods that was really great to take our dog rather than walking around the campground."
"We loved the location, the registration and owner/ hosts. Clean, quiet and easily accessible."
"Twin Lakes is a beautiful spot, tucked away in a stream valley in the Allegheny National Forest. It's mainly locals who come here, since few outsiders know about it."
"Quiet are far from the highway."
TravelerNot bad at all for 20 bucks , spots with electricity cost more. Came on a week night without a reservation and was almost unable to get a spot , host was nice though! Quiet area
TravelerApple Maps brings you way far away, follow the pin and it will bring you. Way too grown in as of August . Didn’t end up staying here. May be a good spot in the fall once the grass dies. Secluded spot though
GuideThis camp area could be 5 Stars if you get lucky. We got here very late, and almost all the sites were full... the one nice one that was available had food everywhere. Don't do this! There were chicken carcasses and popcorn, eggs, and a bag of food in a fire ring. Having seen racoons & other wildlife on the road in, obviously we couldn't tent there. We car c(r)amped at another site. M7(?). There was no place for a tent & no fire ring at that spot. The river view in the morning was nice though. Had we arrived earlier or gotten lucky, this area is probably an awesome camp spot! There's an information station along River Rd with a pit toilet house. On the billboard you'll find a map of the designated camp spots along both River Rd and Millstone. Take a picture of it. There's no reception here but that's how you know it's a nice area!
GuideThe campground is quiet and spacious. The facilities are in need of updates but are definitely in working order
GuideThis campground was great! Throughout the week in the summer it is pretty quiet. Very close to the fire tower and other things to see around it. The Knotty Pine bar and restaurant was right down the road and had great food and drink.
GuideSuper friendly staff, great location. stocked lake with catch and release fishing. Loved it.
Stayed in May 2017
RangerOur campsite was waterfront and beautiful, but the majority were just a wooded setting. They all seemed decently spaced apart, or at least felt that way because they had trees between. Driveways had old pavement, some were not very level but wouldn’t be a problem if you can level. Our site didn’t have a good spot for a tent but some had grassy areas. Bathrooms were outdated but mostly clean, no paper towels or hand dryers. Didn’t see any rangers or park staff drive through, quiet hours were not enforced and we had a loud neighbor. Close to some nice trails.
RangerReally nice park. Spacious lots. Multiple places to access the Allegheny river (all waterfront areas were booked for our visit). QR codes labeling different trees on the property. Coming from Arizona this was a nice feature and something I’d never seen at another park.
GuideA little hard to find, decided not to stay. On the same road as hector falls.
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
Where can I find waterfront camping in Allegheny National Forest?
Twin Lakes Recreation Area offers beautiful waterfront camping in a secluded stream valley. Popular with locals but less known to visitors, this hidden gem provides peaceful lakeside sites that are especially quiet during spring and fall. The swimming beach can get busier during summer months. Tionesta Rec. Area Campground is another excellent waterfront option, particularly for fishing enthusiasts. The area provides access to some of Pennsylvania's best wilderness flyfishing opportunities. For boat-in camping experiences, consider Dewdrop campground, which offers both drive-in and boat-in access to waterfront sites with basic amenities including toilets and drinking water.
Is RV camping available in Allegheny National Forest?
Yes, RV camping is available at several locations in Allegheny National Forest. Loleta Recreation offers RV-friendly sites with electrical hookups, making it a good central location for forest activities. The campground provides amenities RVers appreciate including showers, firewood and ice for purchase, and fire pits at each site. Clear Creek State Park Campground also accommodates RVs but choose power sites as the non-electric sites aren't level enough for larger vehicles. Additionally, Kiasutha and Whispering Winds campgrounds can accommodate big rigs, though availability may be limited during peak seasons so reservations are recommended.
What are the best campgrounds in Allegheny National Forest?
Minister Creek Campground is frequently praised for its beauty and seclusion. This small campground features only six drive-up sites plus multiple hike-in options along the picturesque Minister Creek. Sites are well-spaced and the nearby scenic overlook hike offers stunning views. For a unique experience, Hearts Content Recreation Area provides spacious sites nestled among towering pine trees. Two sites even feature Adirondack-style shelters. While facilities are basic (vault toilets, no showers), the night sky viewing and peaceful surroundings make it an excellent choice for those seeking a more rustic experience in the heart of Pennsylvania's only national forest.
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