Camping spots near Brockway, Pennsylvania spread across elevations of 1,500-2,100 feet within the Allegheny National Forest region. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing from November through March, with summer highs rarely exceeding 85°F. Most forest service roads close during winter months, while spring brings considerable mud and potentially impassable conditions for non-4WD vehicles.
What to do
Swimming opportunities: 5 miles from Brockway at Parker Dam State Park Campground, where campers appreciate the lake area. "The lake has good trout fishing and the beach area offers a nice place for a relaxing summer retreat," notes a visitor, who adds that the park also features "boat/kayak rentals, a snack bar/camp store, and a large modern bath house/changing building down near the beach."
Elk viewing: 30-minute drive from Loleta Recreation to Benezette. "Spent time driving to Benezette - about 30 minute trip - to see the Elk. Great experience seeing approximately 100 elk. Several very large bulls," reports one camper who recommends this trip to everyone.
Disc golf: Free course available at Clear Creek State Park Campground with moderate terrain. A visitor mentions it's "a beautiful campground with site not far from the Clarion river" and notes that "there is a stream that runs down through the park and bear rocks has some beautiful views of the forest."
What campers like
Riverside camping: Direct access at several sites along the Clarion River. At Clarion River Campground, campers can secure riverside spots. "We were lucky to snag a spot on the side of the river-with our RV. We had direct River access!" one visitor reports, adding that "there were some people kayaking in the river."
Secluded forest sites: Multiple options for privacy seekers at Loleta Road. According to one camper who stays regularly: "I've been camping here for 5 years now and it's always a good time." Another visitor appreciated that "this site was close enough to the road to feel safe but far enough away to have privacy."
Wildlife viewing: Common deer sightings throughout the region's campgrounds. At Cook Forest State Park, one camper shares an off-season experience: "Went there off-season which I recommend everyone do. In the Fall. Beautiful colored folage. Woke up to find I was surrounded by a huge herd of deer. Outstanding!"
What you should know
Road conditions: Limited access on forest roads during wet seasons. At Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite, campers note seasonal challenges: "We stayed here in March, so there weren't leaves back on the trees yet which meant we could see the road. Not a huge deal, just not very private. It was also extremely muddy."
Cell service: Minimal connectivity throughout most camping areas. A visitor at Parker Dam State Park noted "limited cell service" while another at Clarion River Campground reported "no reception here but that's how you know it's a nice area!"
Trash management: Pack-out required at dispersed sites. For Clarion River sites, one camper advises: "Clean up and take your trash with you when you go." At another site, a visitor warned about previous campers who left "chicken carcasses and popcorn, eggs, and a bag of food in a fire ring."
Tips for camping with families
Educational programs: Regular offerings at some state parks. At Cook Forest State Park, a visitor noted: "Each Memorial Saturday, a meet and greet is recreated with an American historical figure. Good fun for all."
Kid-friendly water options: Shallow areas for younger children. One parent mentioned that the Clarion River "offers a nice place for a relaxing summer retreat" with "a nice beach for kids."
Playgrounds: Multiple locations at established campgrounds. A camper at Rvino - Campers Paradise highlighted that "the playground is conveniently located" making it easier for parents to supervise children while still enjoying their campsite.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Research before booking to ensure appropriate size and amenities. At Parker Dam, an RVer observed: "Sites are all paved and many overlapping with fire rings right on the line between sites. Research your site before reserving."
Hookup availability: Variable options across different parks. A camper at Cook Forest State Park noted: "235 sites, many with electric. Most seem pretty level and big rig friendly. Good ATT & Verizon cell service."
Off-season advantages: Lower rates and fewer crowds from September through early November. "We arrived on a Thursday and, in advance, reserved one of the few remaining sites," reported an RVer at Parker Dam, adding that weekends get "pretty busy" while weekdays offer more solitude.
