Brookville, Pennsylvania sits in the Allegheny Plateau region at approximately 1,290 feet elevation where the Sandy Lick and North Fork creeks merge to form Redbank Creek. Summer temperatures typically range between 55-83°F, with winter dropping to 17-35°F and annual precipitation averaging 42 inches. Camping options spread across forested terrain with many sites situated near waterways, creating high demand during Pennsylvania's vibrant fall foliage season.
What to do
Disc golf at Clear Creek: The 9-hole course at Clear Creek State Park Campground provides a recreational challenge through wooded terrain. "There is a great disc golf course, and moderate-to-light hiking trails," notes Caitlyn H. The course is free to use and accessible from April through December.
Attend ranger programs: Park naturalists conduct regular educational sessions during summer months. "There is a nature museum. Seek out Ranger Susanne—she is a really great teacher!" recommends Laura C. Programs include guided nature walks, wildlife presentations, and hands-on activities for all ages.
Fishing in stocked waters: Several campgrounds maintain private fishing ponds. At Lumber City RV Park, "there is a fishing pond on site for the kids to fish," reports Tim W. Clear Creek State Park also offers creek and river fishing opportunities with proper Pennsylvania fishing license.
Kayaking the Clarion River: The Clarion River's gentle flow makes it ideal for paddlers of all experience levels. "The Clarion is a crystal clear, shallow, rock bottom river perfect for a cool off, fishing or kayaking," writes Britt B. Two kayaking/tubing rental companies operate in Cook Forest area with trips ranging from 4 to 9 miles.
What campers like
Peaceful atmosphere: Campers consistently mention the quiet environment. "I was impressed by the quiet campers. Folks were very friendly, but nighttime was silent," notes Sara at Clear Creek State Park Campground. Many campgrounds enforce quiet hours starting at 10 PM.
Spacious sites: Several campgrounds offer generously sized campsites. At Rustic Acres, "the RV sites are large and the spacing is not crowded," according to Misty L. Campers appreciate the privacy afforded by adequate distance between sites.
Waterfront camping: Proximity to water remains a top draw. "The best un-powered RV site is site 40– private and waterfront. The best powered-RV site is 39– private and waterfront," recommends Britt B. about Clear Creek. Waterfront sites typically book months in advance, especially for summer weekends.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain high sanitation standards. "The campground is clean, the grass is kept cut, with no trash to be seen anywhere," reports Misty L. about Rustic Acres. Most parks clean bathhouses daily with hot showers available at established campgrounds.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds close during winter months. "A Pennsylvania favorite, Clear Creek State Park is a beautifully maintained, scenic park, right on the Clarion River," notes Britt B., but operates only from mid-April through mid-December like many state parks in the region.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity is unreliable throughout the area. "No phone reception at this one!" warns Britt B. about Clear Creek State Park. Prepare for limited or no service at most campgrounds, with stronger signals available in Brookville and Clarion.
Wildlife encounters: Black bears inhabit the forests surrounding campgrounds. "I did have two separate run-ins with bears but overall a great experience!" reports Caitlyn H. at Clear Creek State Park. Proper food storage in approved containers is essential at all camping areas.
Leveling requirements: Many campsites in this hilly region aren't perfectly flat. "Most of the spots will require leveling blocks," advises Isaac R. about Clear Creek. RVers should bring leveling equipment regardless of campground.
Tips for camping with families
Saturday children's programs: Family-oriented activities enhance weekend stays. At Rustic Acres, "our children enjoyed the Saturday kids program, crafts, snacks and games with other children," reports Misty L. Programs typically run from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Movie nights: Some campgrounds offer outdoor film screenings during summer. "The Park offers movies on an outdoor screen, regular nature talks and walks and has an onsite museum," notes Britt B. about Clear Creek State Park. Movies typically begin at dusk on Friday or Saturday evenings.
Playground access: Play areas provide entertainment for younger campers. At Kalyumet Campground, "it has a really nice pool and playground for the kids," according to Stephanie H. Most playgrounds are centrally located near bath houses or camp stores.
Beach swimming: Designated swimming areas offer safer water recreation. "It also has a designated swimming beach with sand," writes Britt B. about Clear Creek State Park. Note that most natural water bodies in the region remain quite cold even in summer months.
Tips from RVers
Water hose length: Standard hookups may require extra-long hoses at some campgrounds. At Kalyumet Campground, "our site (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," reports Ember M. Bring extension hoses and electrical cords regardless of reservation type.
Off-season availability: RV parks near Brookville, Pennsylvania offer more vacancy during spring and fall. At High Pines RV Park, "the owners are very nice and were able to get us in even though we didn't have a reservation," notes Ryan P. Off-season visits also mean fewer crowds at local attractions.
Amperage considerations: Power options vary significantly between rv parks. "Our site only had 30a power. Most seem to be that way. Looks like some updates are on the way," explains Nick O. about High Pines RV Park. Check specific site amenities when booking, as 50-amp service isn't universal.
Interstate proximity: Some campgrounds provide convenient overnight stops for travelers. "This campground is easy access to I-80, less than 10 minutes," notes Dave B. about Rustic Acres. For those using rv parks near Brookville as travel stops, call ahead as same-day availability can be limited during peak season.
