Best Campgrounds near Butler, PA

The rolling hills surrounding Butler, Pennsylvania feature a mix of state parks, private campgrounds, and recreation areas that accommodate various camping styles. Moraine State Park, located about 15 miles north of Butler, offers group camping and cabins with lake access and hiking trails. Nearby, Bear Run Campground in Portersville provides 300 sites for tents, RVs, and cabins with full hookups, operating from mid-April through October. Smaller operations like Smith Grove and Breakneck Campground offer more intimate camping experiences, with the latter providing access to McConnells Mill State Park's scenic gorge and hiking trails. Family-friendly options include Indian Brave Campground in Harmony with 185 sites and Jellystone Park at Kozy Rest in Harrisville with over 300 sites and themed activities.

Most campgrounds in the Butler area operate seasonally from mid-April through mid-October, with a few exceptions like Mountain Top Campground which remains open year-round. Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for summer weekends and holiday periods when facilities reach capacity. Pennsylvania state parks in the region prohibit alcohol consumption, a regulation that is actively enforced by rangers. Cell service varies significantly throughout the area, with limited connectivity in more remote locations. "We love staying here when we visit family in Butler. It's a quiet family-run park, very affordable and bathrooms are clean," notes one visitor about Smith Grove. Winter camping options are limited, with overnight temperatures in early spring and late fall often dropping into the 40s.

Water access represents a significant draw for many campgrounds in the region. Shenango Recreation Area provides numerous waterfront sites with "endless places to put kayaks into the water," according to one camper. Fishing opportunities abound, with several reviewers highlighting the quality of trout streams in the surrounding areas. Site privacy varies considerably, with some campgrounds offering well-spaced, wooded sites while others feature more open layouts. Families appreciate the recreational amenities at larger facilities like Bear Run, which offers "themed events, game nights, arts and crafts, a swimming pool and playground for kids." Bathhouse quality and maintenance emerge as common concerns in visitor reviews, with facilities at some locations described as dated but functional.

Best Camping Sites Near Butler, Pennsylvania (89)

    1. Bear Run Campground

    14 Reviews
    Portersville, PA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (724) 368-3564

    $30 - $300 / night

    "The nightly RV sites are close to the park entrance and are relatively flat. The campground hosts themed events, game nights and arts& crafts."

    "I always camp near the horses as i like a bit more privacy. The front of the campground is a bit too packed for my liking. They also have a primative area that is quite nice."

    2. Breakneck Campground

    16 Reviews
    Portersville, PA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (724) 368-3233

    $10 - $20 / night

    "We wanted a secluded site and close to Pittsburgh. 

    We arrived around 7pm and there was no check in, we drove around for a while trying to find a spot with a fire ring per some helpful campers."

    "My husband and I camped here on a whim, after our original location got rained out. We picked a nice big lot by the dirt road."

    3. Group Camping and Cabins — Moraine State Park

    9 Reviews
    Prospect, PA
    11 miles
    Website

    "It is right next to the bike trail and has access to the lake. I have enjoyed my time at Moraine and will enjoy it every time I visit."

    "In fact my family used to own property near by. This park has an awesome trail system for walking or biking"

    4. Smith Grove

    2 Reviews
    Cabot, PA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (724) 285-3600

    $30 - $95 / night

    "We love staying here when we visit family in Butler it’s a quiet family run park . It is very affordable and bathrooms are clean"

    5. Buttercup Woodlands Campground

    3 Reviews
    Homeacre-Lyndora, PA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (724) 789-9340

    6. Indian Brave Campground

    5 Reviews
    Harmony, PA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (724) 452-9204

    $30 - $55 / night

    "They have an Olympic sized swimming pool, nature trails, playground, basketball court, recreation hall and walking distance to harmony and all the live music and nightlife that Harmony and Zelienople have"

    "The site was quiet and even though you were close to your neighbors it didn’t feel like it to us!"

    7. Rose Point Park Cabins & Camping

    9 Reviews
    Portersville, PA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (724) 924-2415

    $32 - $60 / night

    "They have a nice heated large pool, hiking trails close to some great places like McConnells mill, Morane state park, Fishing the shenango river."

    "It is close to Moraine State Park."

    8. Jellystone Park at Kozy Rest

    13 Reviews
    Boyers, PA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (724) 735-2417

    9. Mountain Top Campground

    6 Reviews
    Russellton, PA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (724) 224-1511

    $48 / night

    "What amazing views from this location! It actually does really sit at the mountain top and gives you pretty good views of the valleys and surrounding areas from any of the rim campsites."

    "Was a little concerned as I was driving off the highway to get there. However once there, it’s a very nice place."

    10. Peaceful Valley Campground

    3 Reviews
    Hilliards, PA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (724) 894-2421
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Showing results 1-10 of 89 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Butler, PA

416 Reviews of 89 Butler Campgrounds



Guide to Butler

Camping near Butler, Pennsylvania, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. With beautiful parks and campgrounds, you can enjoy nature while making lasting memories with family and friends.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the scenic trails at Cook Forest State Park Campground. One camper shared, "There are soooo much family things to do here in this state park," highlighting the great hiking options available.
  • Fishing: Head to Pymatuning State Park Campground for some fishing fun. A visitor noted, "We love being near the water when camping," emphasizing the park's beautiful lake views.
  • Kayaking: Rent a kayak at Mosquito Lake State Park Campground for a day on the water. One reviewer mentioned, "The lake was great for kayaking and paddleboarding," making it a perfect spot for water activities.

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers at Keystone State Park Campground. A visitor remarked, "Bathrooms were updated, but could use a good cleaning," indicating that cleanliness is a priority.
  • Spacious sites: Many enjoy the roomy campsites at Raccoon Creek State Park Campground. One camper said, "Campsites are large," which is great for families needing extra space.
  • Quiet atmosphere: Campers often mention the peaceful environment at Clear Creek State Park Campground. A reviewer noted, "Folks were very friendly, but nighttime was silent," making it a relaxing getaway.

What you should know:

  • Limited electric sites: If you're looking for electric hookups, be aware that some campgrounds, like Raccoon Creek State Park Campground, have fewer options. One family mentioned, "There weren't that many electric sites overall."
  • Sloped terrain: Many campgrounds, such as Cook Forest State Park Campground, have hilly areas. A camper advised, "The spots are very sloped so bring your Lego blocks," suggesting that leveling gear might be necessary.
  • Nearby amenities: While some campgrounds are secluded, others, like Pymatuning State Park Campground, are close to local shops and restaurants. A visitor mentioned, "There is some quaint Amish shopping nearby," which can be a nice bonus.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose spacious sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites, like Mosquito Lake State Park Campground. A camper shared, "The sites had plenty of space and nice views," making it easier for kids to play.
  • Plan activities: Make sure to have a list of family-friendly activities. One family at Keystone State Park Campground enjoyed hiking, swimming, and biking, ensuring everyone had something to do.
  • Pack for comfort: Bring along items like games and outdoor toys. A camper at Breakneck Campground mentioned, "I felt safe and no present danger," which is reassuring for families.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site levels: Before booking, look for reviews about site levels. One RVer at Tomlinson Run State Park Campground noted, "Most aren't level," which can be a concern for larger RVs.
  • Utilize dump stations: Make sure to know where the dump stations are located. A visitor at Pymatuning State Park Campground appreciated the "two lanes which was nice when checking out."
  • Bring extra supplies: Some campgrounds, like Mill Creek Camping, may not have a market nearby. One camper advised, "Wish they had more electric sites," indicating that stocking up before arrival is wise.

Camping near Butler, Pennsylvania, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Butler, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Butler, PA is Bear Run Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 14 reviews.

What parks are near Butler, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 13 parks near Butler, PA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.