Camping near Fallentimber, Pennsylvania offers diverse opportunities across elevations ranging from 1,200 to 1,700 feet in the Allegheny Mountains. The region experiences notable temperature fluctuations between day and night, particularly at higher elevations where campground temperatures can drop 10-15 degrees below surrounding areas. These local microclimates create unique camping conditions throughout the extended season that typically runs April through October.
What to do
Disc golf adventures: Black Moshannon State Park Campground features an easily accessible course that's ideal for beginners and casual players. "The park also runs a ton of classes for different things like fly fishing, hiking, etc," notes Lisa L., highlighting additional structured activities for those wanting guided experiences.
Boating experiences: Seven Points Campground provides extensive water recreation with its marina and expansive lake system. "We took a drive around through the other six campgrounds and decided Point was our favorite, but obviously crowded because it is right on the lake," shares Tim J., emphasizing the popularity of waterfront sites during peak seasons.
Mountain biking trails: Access the Allegrippis Trail system directly from Ridge Camp at Seven Points, where "IMBA standard built trails that are open year round and in any weather" offer reliable recreation regardless of conditions. These purpose-built trails feature "fast flowing singletrack" that can provide a full day of riding without leaving the immediate area.
Wildlife photography: Canoe Creek State Park offers excellent bird watching opportunities, particularly around the lake area. "The main part of the park has a nice little lake and we saw herons during our visit," reports one visitor, with night skies providing "fairly decent stargazing despite its proximity to Altoona's light pollution."
What campers like
Secluded waterfront options: Crooked Run Campground at Prince Gallitzin State Park offers lake access with dedicated spaces for campers. "Great place for kids! We love staying at crooked run campground. Has a beach on the lake. Affordable boat rentals. BMX track for kids," mentions Jackie W., highlighting the family-friendly amenities beyond just water access.
Well-designed sites: Many campgrounds in the region feature thoughtfully configured camping pads. "One backup attempt into the site and (according to our LevelMatePRO app) it was perfectly level...that was definitely a first for us. We set our chocks and started our setup. The picnic table had a new seat on one side and was in great shape. Our pad was limestone and very flat and level," reports a camper at Seven Points.
Clean facilities: Curwensville Lake Campground maintains its amenities well. "Clean of clutter and well taken care of. Sizable camp area for activities. Camp store has a decent amount of items if looking for items for camp," notes Tim W., while another visitor mentions "Clean campground, clean bathrooms, no privacy but not right on top of each other."
Year-round accessibility: Black Moshannon State Park extends its camping season longer than most facilities in the area. "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," advises Denise D., emphasizing the importance of planning ahead.
What you should know
Boat noise considerations: When selecting sites at lakefront campgrounds, be aware of potential noise levels. "There was obviously boat noise at times but you're at the lake. In fact, several sites allowed for boat tie ups right at your site," explains a camper describing Seven Points, indicating how proximity to water activities impacts the camping experience.
Seasonal hunting activity: Some parks permit hunting during appropriate seasons. At Canoe Creek, one visitor noted: "The grounds are open to hunting and we were surprised by a bird hunter and his dog who was running around off leash, creating a little havoc for us while walking our two dogs on the trail. If you visit in the fall, be sure to bring some hunter orange if you plan on exploring the trails."
Cabin preparation requirements: If staying in cabins at Canoe Creek State Park, come prepared. "These cabins are not equipped with any type of consumables, cookware or linens. You really need to bring everything if you're planning on actually using the bathroom or kitchen," advises Sarah C., though noting "There is toilet paper though."
Terrain variability: Campgrounds in the region often feature significant elevation changes. At Crooked Run Campground, some loops have challenging terrain: "Senoia camp was tied with Ridge, but only the lower portion. Once you go up the hill to sites above #231, it gets very steep and far away from the water. Probably not too safe for kids on bikes."
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Clearfield County Curwensville Lake Recreation Area features convenient play spaces. "Our kiddo loved playing at the playground right by our campsite. Clean campground, clean bathrooms, no privacy but not right on top of each other. Lots of trails to hike. Decent camp store," notes one family's experience.
Educational opportunities: Prince Gallitzin provides structured activities for children. "We used the group tent sites for our Girl Scout weekend. It was a fun weekend. We participated in the Outdoors for Everyone event... Rangers were wonderful to work with in setting up teaching opportunities for the girls," reports Nicole F.
Swimming areas: Campgrounds with dedicated swim spaces provide safer water recreation. "The lake is so clean and refreshing and we have such beautiful views from our camp site. We went down to the swim beach and our kiddo made sand castles and swam in the clear water," shares Jennifer D. about Seven Points.
BMX opportunities: Unique to this region are dedicated bicycle tracks for younger riders. "Great place for kids! We love staying at crooked run campground. Has a beach on the lake. Affordable boat rentals. BMX track for kids," mentions a visitor to Prince Gallitzin State Park.
Tips from RVers
Multi-lane dump stations: Seven Points campground features an efficient waste management system. "We filled up the fresh water tank at the ultra-cool 4 lane dump station... The dump station, as noted above had wide lanes and made the experience an easy and clean one," reports Tim J., noting the well-maintained facilities.
Loop selection strategy: When camping at larger facilities, research specific loops before booking. "We liked this campground so much that I tried booking for our last seasonal weekend in October, but there was nothing in Ridge or Point," explains a camper, who later secured "a site across and up the hill a few sites from where we stayed."
Site topography considerations: Many campgrounds feature multi-level sites. "Looking at some of our neighbor's sites, depending on where the camper site was located, some had their picnic table and fire ring either above or below them. Definitely worth looking at the pictures," advises an experienced RVer, emphasizing the importance of researching site layouts before arrival.
Non-traditional camping options: For off-road enthusiasts, specialized campgrounds like Clayworks offer direct trail access. "Located in Rock Run Recreation park, our site (#14) was not the greatest, it had a lot of length, but no real level side room... We'll be back for sure because it's convenient to ride right from your camper."
