Clarington's camping spots sit within the Allegheny Plateau region at elevations ranging from 1,300 to 1,800 feet. The area receives approximately 45 inches of annual precipitation, creating lush forest conditions. Many campgrounds remain open from April through December, with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 75°F during peak camping season.
What to do
Hiking at Minister Creek: Short and longer loops available from the Minister Creek Campground trailhead. "Great loop trail ranging from a few miles to 7 miles depending on the loop, starts right behind the campground," notes one camper at Minister Creek Campground.
Disc golf course: Clear Creek State Park offers a disc golf course for visitors seeking recreational activities beyond hiking and water sports. "Beautiful location... disc golf course, and moderate-to-light hiking trails," according to a visitor to Clear Creek.
Fishing for native trout: The smaller streams in the region provide fishing opportunities for native brook trout. A Minister Creek Campground visitor reports, "The sites back up to Minister Creek. Home to some of the scrappiest brook trout I have fished for."
Evening astronomy: The region offers excellent stargazing opportunities due to minimal light pollution. "Perfect spot for star-gazing. So set the alarm for 2am and enjoy," recommends a visitor to Minister Creek Campground.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Many campgrounds offer tent sites with separation from neighbors. At Clear Creek State Park Campground, a visitor appreciated that "I got a lone site tucked half way up a hill, hidden under a dark canopy and at least 500 yards away from my nearest neighbors."
Clean facilities: Maintained bathrooms and showers rate highly among visitors. A camper at Forest Ridge Campground noted, "The bathrooms were extremely clean, the pool is amazing and clean, and the campsites are comfortable and well kept."
Wildlife encounters: Black bears are frequently spotted throughout the region. "I did have two separate run-ins with bears but overall a great experience!" reported one visitor to Clear Creek State Park Campground.
Affordable dispersed camping: Free and low-cost options exist throughout the national forest lands. A visitor to Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite shared, "I've been camping here for 5 years now and it's always a good time."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most camping areas have minimal or no cellular coverage. At Clear Creek State Park, a camper noted, "None of the major carriers have service here, but I needed to 'get away' for the night so it was perfect."
Seasonal considerations: Weather conditions can change rapidly, particularly in spring and fall. "We stayed here in March, so there weren't leaves back on the trees yet which meant we could see the road (and the road could see us). Not a huge deal, just not very private. It was also extremely muddy," reports a visitor to Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite.
Alcohol restrictions: Several established campgrounds prohibit alcohol consumption. A camper at Kalyumet Campground advised, "Don't get caught boozing. They're pretty strict."
Terrain challenges: Many tent sites require leveling for comfortable setup. At Clear Creek State Park, a camper observed, "It's a nice place, great creek and woods. Most of the spots will require leveling blocks."
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Ranger programs offer learning experiences for children. "This is also a great place to go year-round for kids interested in learning about nature. There is a nature museum. Seek out Ranger Susanne—she is a really great teacher!" recommends a visitor to Clear Creek State Park.
Swimming areas: Several campgrounds offer designated swimming locations. A camper at Cook Forest State Park Campground & Cabins shared, "Great cabins and very clean! So many things for the kids to do and just float the river."
Scheduled activities: Organized events provide entertainment options at certain campgrounds. At Kalyumet Campground, one camper appreciated that "The kids loved the arcade and the candy scavenger hunt."
Playground accessibility: Multiple campgrounds feature playground equipment for children. One visitor to Rvino - Campers Paradise mentioned, "The playground is conveniently located. The swimming pool is always cold but feels great on a nice hot day."
Tips from RVers
Hookup distance issues: Some campgrounds have poorly positioned utility connections. At Kalyumet Campground, an RVer noted, "Our only complaint would be the site we were in (11) and others next to it were quite far from the water and cable hookups. I ended up having to run 60ft of water hose and 50ft of cable in order to get a connection."
Site selection for large rigs: Several campgrounds accommodate larger vehicles but site selection matters. A visitor to White's Haven Campground and Cabins shared, "Used campground for one night stay, definitely off season, and had pretty good choice of site. Friendly check-in and escort."
Road access considerations: Access roads vary significantly in quality throughout the region. At Cook Forest State Park, a camper observed, "Sites are fairly large and rather quiet. You will not be disappointed staying here. Lots to do in the area."
Reservation timing: Book well in advance for prime camping spots near Clarington, especially during peak seasons. "We have a group of about 20 friends who take over the back 'cul de sac' of the campground (section 180s) each year. In spite of a completely booked holiday weekend, the campground is spread out, secluded and quiet," noted a Cook Forest visitor.
