Campsites near Brookville, Pennsylvania provide access to Pennsylvania's Allegheny National Forest area, with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 1,600 feet above sea level. This region experiences cool summers with average July temperatures around 70°F and receives approximately 45 inches of rainfall annually. Many campgrounds feature sites on rocky terrain requiring leveling equipment, with several locations offering direct water access to the Clarion River and Allegheny Reservoir.
What to do
Hiking trails for all levels: Minister Creek Campground offers direct access to loop trails ranging from a few miles to 7 miles. "Perfect spot for star-gazing. So set the alarm for 2am and enjoy," suggests one camper at Minister Creek Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple access points for fishing exist along Tionesta Creek and the Allegheny Reservoir. "Pennsylvania is home to some of the best wilderness trout streams that you're ever going to find. The area is just plain beautiful," notes a visitor to Tionesta Rec. Area Campground.
Disc golf course: Chapman State Park offers an on-site disc golf course along with multiple hiking trails. A visitor mentioned that the park has "miles of hiking trails accessible right from the campground" and is "only 20 minutes from the Kinzua Dam and 1 hour from the Kinzua Skywalk."
Outdoor recreation gear rental: Paddle boats and canoes are available for rental at Silver Canoe Campground. According to one visitor, "It's very clean and well maintained. All campers have been respectful each time. It's not loud and crazy once 10pm hits. Family friendly and there's a little fishing lake."
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Red Bridge Recreation Area offers secluded camping with water views. "We had a great spot right by the water. There are walk up spots and way more drive up to car camping spots," notes a visitor to Red Bridge Recreation Area. Another visitor mentioned, "The sites are private, flat, surrounded by trees, and have plenty of space."
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness is frequently mentioned in reviews. "The facilities are always clean, with large shower areas and always fully stocked with tissue," reported one visitor to Clear Creek State Park Campground.
Natural features: Camping among mature trees and natural settings. "Very nice campground with full hook ups. Close to a large recreational lake with hiking trails and a boat launch," mentioned a visitor at Tionesta Rec. Area Campground. Another camper at Red Bridge noted the "beautiful and clean" reservoir.
Wildlife viewing: Opportunities to see local wildlife in natural settings. One visitor to Minister Creek Campground called it "a slice of heaven," while another at Chapman State Park enjoyed "a small beach" and "miles of trails" with "zero cell reception!"
What you should know
Alcohol policies vary: Some campgrounds like Clear Creek State Park prohibit alcohol consumption. A camper noted, "Don't get caught boozing. They're pretty strict."
Limited water and hookup access: At several campgrounds, utility hookups can be difficult to reach. "Some sites require over 50' of hose and multiple power cords to reach power box due to the great amount of trees providing good shade throughout camp ground," reported a visitor to Kalyumet Campground.
Site leveling requirements: Many campsites in the area require leveling equipment. A camper at Clear Creek State Park noted, "Its a nice place, great creek and woods. Most of the spots will require leveling blocks."
Reservation systems: While many sites are reservable online, some operate on a first-come, first-served basis. A camper at Minister Creek Campground explained, "Only 6 spots all first come first serve and very cheap!"
Cell service limitations: Several campgrounds have limited or no cell reception. A visitor to Clear Creek State Park mentioned, "No phone reception at this one!" while another at Chapman State Park appreciated having "zero cell reception!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. At Crooked Run Campground, a visitor noted, "Great place for kids! We love staying at crooked run campground. Has a beach on the lake. Affordable boat rentals. Bmx track for kids."
Swimming options: Most lakeside campgrounds offer swimming areas. "There is a designated swimming beach with sand," reported a camper at Clear Creek State Park, while another mentioned that "the swimming pool is always cold but feels great on a nice hot day" at Campers Paradise.
Educational programs: Nature programs for children are available at several locations. "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!" shared a visitor to Clear Creek State Park.
Safety considerations: Be aware of wildlife including bears. A camper at Clear Creek State Park reported, "I did have two separate run in with bears but over all a great experience!" Consider bringing bear-proof food storage when glamping near Brookville, Pennsylvania.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose sites carefully based on size and hookup accessibility. At Rvino - Campers Paradise, one camper recommends verifying all fees in advance, mentioning "the store front has anything you can think of, and the playground is conveniently located."
Extended hookup equipment: Bring extra-long water and electrical cords. A camper at Kalyumet Campground advised bringing "60ft of water hose and 50ft of cable in order to get a connection."
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups or dump stations. "Sites were fairly level no issues with power fluctuations and sewer worked great!" reported a visitor to Tionesta Rec. Area Campground.
Campground approach planning: Note that some roads leading to campgrounds have unmarked speed bumps. A visitor to Tionesta Rec. Area Campground warned about "3 dirt speed bumps with no signs. You hit them pulling a camper and it was horrible."
