Camping in Olanta, Pennsylvania sits amid the Moshannon State Forest region where elevations range from 1,200 to 2,300 feet. The area features numerous glacial lakes with distinctive tea-colored water caused by natural tannins. Most campgrounds in this part of central Pennsylvania operate seasonally with varying levels of amenities, though several offer year-round cabin options with advance reservations.
What to do
Fishing in unique tea-colored waters: Parker Dam State Park Campground offers excellent trout fishing opportunities in its distinctive lake. A camper noted, "The lake has good trout fishing and the beach area offers a nice place for a relaxing summer retreat." The park also provides boat and kayak rentals for those without their own equipment.
Elk viewing excursions: The Pennsylvania Wilds region near Parker Dam State Park Campground provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. "Spent time driving to Benezette - about 30 minute trip - to see the Elk. Great experience seeing approximately 100 elk. Several very large bulls," shares one visitor. The best viewing times are dawn and dusk during fall mating season.
Disc golf: Curwensville Lake Recreation Area has an unexpected amenity for outdoor enthusiasts. One camper mentioned, "I had no idea there was disc golf, I keep a couple in my truck and so i played more game then fished." The course offers a nice alternative activity when taking a break from water recreation.
What campers like
Family-friendly amenities: Crooked Run Campground at Prince Gallitzin State Park receives high marks from families with children. A reviewer stated, "Great place for kids! We love staying at crooked run campground. Has a beach on the lake. Affordable boat rentals. Bmx track for kids." The campground also features paved roads and sites, making it accessible for bikes and strollers.
Clean facilities: Woodland Campground maintains high standards of cleanliness that campers consistently appreciate. "Very clean, could be a bit more level. Great amenities, boat, fish, games, hike," notes one visitor. The campground offers a park-like setting with spacious sites that can accommodate larger rigs.
Peaceful environment: The low-key atmosphere at many campgrounds near Olanta provides a true escape. At Clearview Campground, one camper observed, "Even though there were quite a few other campers there it was very quiet and peaceful." Many sites in the region offer scenic valley views from hillside settings.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the Olanta region. At Black Moshannon State Park Campground, approximately 30 miles from Olanta, campers report: "No cell service is extremely limited" but this creates an opportunity to disconnect in nature.
Advance reservations essential: Particularly during summer weekends, campgrounds fill quickly. One camper advises, "Make a reservation way ahead of your date as this campground is very popular and sites book early. It has sites to accommodate any R.V. and lot of tent sites."
Limited tent pads at some locations: Not all campgrounds have designated tent spots. A review of Simon B. Elliott State Park noted, "It was a very small site and had no established spot to put our tent so we actually had to encroach on site 7... Everywhere else was unlevel/uneven/rocky/rooty/muddy/etc. They should put in tent pads."
Tips for camping with families
Group tent sites: For larger family gatherings, seek out designated group areas. At Crooked Run Campground, a visitor shared: "We used the group tent sites for our Girl Scout weekend. It was a fun weekend... The site was clean, decently level area for tents, accessible to potable water and bathrooms with showers."
Playgrounds for energy release: Multiple campgrounds feature playground equipment to keep children entertained. One camper at Curwensville Lake Recreation Area reported, "Solo with my dog and my canoe. Had a great time... The dog swimming area was pretty cool." The campground provides dedicated pet areas where both children and dogs can safely play.
Consider off-season visits: Camping near Olanta can be more peaceful during shoulder seasons. A visitor to DuBois/Treasure Lake KOA noted, "We went in the beginning of May so luckily, we mostly had the vicinity to ourselves." Many campgrounds have fewer visitors during weekdays and in spring/fall.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for big rigs: For those with larger RVs, specific areas work better. At Woodland Campground, a visitor observed, "The sights are spacious and can accommodate large rigs. There are back-in and pull-thru sites with FHU 30/50 amp." This campground lies just one mile north of Interstate 80 for easy access.
Be prepared for varied site conditions: Leveling can be an issue at some campgrounds. One RVer at Woodland Campground mentioned, "Very clean, could be a bit more level." Consider bringing additional leveling blocks, especially for older campgrounds in the region.
Check concrete pad availability: Some campgrounds offer premium sites with concrete features. A camper at DuBois/Treasure Lake KOA advised, "Some sites have concrete patio which I do recommend." These sites often cost more but provide better stability for larger rigs.
