The Brockway, Pennsylvania area sits at approximately 1,800 feet elevation in the northwest region of the Allegheny Plateau. The surrounding forests include ancient stands of white pine and hemlock, with camping areas tucked among wooded hills and valleys. Weather can change quickly in this region, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 55-80°F and higher humidity levels during July and August.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Red Bridge Recreation Area, multiple water access points make it a prime location for anglers. "Nice location near the water. Campground has three sections to it. Once you come in the main enterance, off to your right are nice walk in tent sites," notes Christine J.
Boulder exploration: The unique geology at Minister Creek Campground creates natural climbing and exploration opportunities. "The sites are well proportioned (not right on top of each other), and perfectly situated at the base of the trailhead," shares Brannon M., who adds it's "home to some of the scrappiest brook trout I have fished for."
Scenic trails: Numerous hiking routes connect throughout the region. The North Loop at Minister Creek Trail offers variable terrain and camping options. Matthew D. explains: "When we went there in August of 2020 and backpacked the North Loop of the Minister Creek Trail, we camped at the (unbridged) stream crossing... There were tons of great pre-made campsites as the trail approached and crossed the stream."
Kayaking access: Multiple waterways provide paddling routes with varying difficulty levels. "The Kinzua Reservoir is murky and had oil film from all the motor boats. Not good swimming," notes Gary G. of Red Bridge Recreation Area, though he praises the "very nice campground with some huge old trees."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacious layout at Chapman State Park Campground. "Sites were decently sized and some backed up to very beautiful evergreen forest. There are several hiking trails that depart right from the campground," shares Kevin E.
Clean facilities: Consistently maintained bathhouses are frequently mentioned across multiple locations. At Clear Creek State Park Campground, visitors note the well-maintained grounds: "Always a clean and up kept park. Lots to do in the area," mentions Jeremiah R., who has "stayed in camper, tent, yurt, and cabins."
Wildlife viewing: The region's forests provide habitat for diverse wildlife. Clear Creek State Park camper Caitlyn H. reports: "Most of the campsites are right on the water, beautiful bridges, a great disc golf course, and moderate-to-light hiking trails. I will say that I did have two separate run in with bears but over all a great experience!"
Year-round accessibility: Some locations maintain seasonal accessibility beyond summer. Chapman State Park camper Spencer S. notes, "It was my wife's first time tent camping and the cleanliness of the campground really helped her want to camp again. We did a walk to campsite as we wanted a little more privacy, which was nice."
What you should know
No cell service areas: Many campsites have limited or no connectivity. Sara from Clear Creek State Park Campground mentions: "None of the major carriers have service here, but I needed to 'get away' for the night so it was perfect."
Reservation timing: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "Make a reservation way ahead of your date as this campground is very popular and sites book early," advises Denise D. about Black Moshannon State Park.
Variable site conditions: Ground features differ significantly between sites. At Tionesta Rec. Area Campground, Tim J. cautions: "Reserved site 30, which was on a corner and entrance to the loop. The back of our camper was 15' from our neighbor's camper, so no real privacy. Our fire pit ring was also just a few feet from theirs."
Seasonal rules: Regulations change throughout the year. "We noticed during our 4-day stay towards the end of June that restaurants and other sights such as museums may be closed Monday, Tuesday, and/or Wednesday," shares MickandKarla W. about the Tionesta area.
Tips for camping with families
Nature programs: Educational opportunities enhance family experiences. Laura C. from Clear Creek State Park recommends: "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!"
Water activities: Multiple swimming and paddling options exist. "The park has tent sites, RV sites and cabins. Clear Creek runs through the campground and is a perfect spot for a BBQ or Picnic. It also has a designated swimming beach with sand," explains Britt B., who rates Clear Creek State Park 5 stars.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Kalyumet Campground, Stephanie H. mentions: "We really enjoy this campground. Not far from the River and has a number of things for the kids to do at the campground. It has a really nice pool and playground for the kids."
Kid-friendly trails: Shorter hiking routes accommodate younger campers. Chapman State Park visitor autumn L. shares: "My family has headed to this spot for years… it family friendly, has decent fishing, miles of trails, and a small beach. Also zero cell reception!"
Tips from RVers
Hookup distances: Some sites require extended utility connections. Ember M. cautions about Kalyumet Campground: "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."
Level sites: Terrain varies significantly between campgrounds. Isaac R. notes about Clear Creek State Park: "Its a nice place, great creek and woods. Most of the spots will require leveling blocks."
Site selection strategy: Careful site choice enhances the glamping experience near Brockway. "We plan to return but just wanted to let others know if you are booking in the first 2 rows plan to have a really long water connection and possibly electric as well," advises Ember M. about Kalyumet.
RV length limits: Size restrictions affect larger vehicles. Lauren R. describes Tionesta: "Beautiful level sites, spaced nicely apart, full hook ups, with big picnic tables and fire rings with multi-tiered grate. We had sites #46 and 48 right above the creek surrounded by tall trees."
