Russell P Letterman Campground offers tent and RV camping options in a forested setting with access to the 1,730-acre Foster Joseph Sayers Reservoir. Located in central Pennsylvania at an elevation of about 700 feet, this state park campground experiences mild summers with average temperatures around 80°F and cooler spring and fall seasons. The campground typically opens from the second Friday in April through mid-December and features multiple camping loops with varying levels of privacy and shade.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing on Pine Creek: Little Pine State Park Campground provides easy access to excellent kayaking and fishing spots. As one visitor noted, "It's one of my favorite places to go! It's so beautiful and most relaxing place! So many activities you can do, such as walks & hikes, swimming, and fishing!"
Eagle watching at Bald Eagle State Park: Wildlife viewing opportunities abound around the reservoir. "We love this park and usually rent a boat and swim and watch the eagles all day. One of the best experiences ever," shares one camper at Russell P Letterman Campground.
Bike the Rails to Trails: The Pine Creek Rail Trail runs alongside Pettecote Junction Campground, making it ideal for cycling enthusiasts. "Absolutely beautiful well kept campground situated between Pine Creek and the rail trail! Great facilities...there's even glamping tents!" remarks one reviewer.
What campers like
Spacious sites with adequate separation: Sites at Poe Paddy State Park Campground offer more privacy than many area campgrounds. A visitor shares, "I've stayed here twice for camping trips. It's a great small campground that has basic amenities. The experience is likely highly site dependent, as there are a few distinct areas to stay depending on your needs and luck."
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate the well-maintained bathrooms at area campgrounds. As one reviewer at Black Moshannon State Park Campground notes, "Clean showerhouses and bathrooms. Big Lake and a few miles of hiking and biking trails right from the campground."
Stream access: The sound of flowing water enhances many camping experiences near Castanea. "Would go back here again! Very primitive, only 2 sites with electric and no playground (but 4 swings), however the creek is beautiful and the kids were so happy to play in it. We had site 108 and had a site path right to the creek," shares a Poe Paddy camper.
What you should know
No cell service in some areas: Several campgrounds have limited or no connectivity. At Poe Paddy State Park, a visitor noted, "There is NO cell service and park rangers do 'rounds' but aren't stationed at the site. There are a couple of water pumps, several well-maintained pit toilets, and an emergency phone."
Weather conditions affect site quality: Prepare for varying conditions depending on recent weather. One reviewer at Little Mexico Campground shared, "We spent a weekend there. Our site was big. The pool is nice. That's about it. It had rained but there were so many mud puddles everywhere. They really need to fill in pot holes with some stones."
Reservation timing matters: Campgrounds in this region fill quickly during peak seasons. "Make a reservation way ahead of your date as this campground is very popular and sites book early. It has sites to accommodate any R.V. and lot of tent sites," advises a Black Moshannon State Park visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with dedicated children's activities: Some locations offer specialized programming for younger visitors. At Little Mexico, "My husband and our three sons usually camp here at least two times a summer. We always get a site by the creek and have a great time. The sites are always clean and the staff is great. They have a nice general store, pool, and family friendly activities."
Consider proximity to swimming areas: Access to safe swimming spots enhances family trips. A visitor to Buttonwood Campground notes, "Very nice campground with a lot of amenities for kids. Pool, bounce pillow, mini golf, and tubing down the river. You can purchase a wrist band that gets you unlimited access for $20."
Check playground facilities: Some campgrounds offer better options for children than others. "The kids had fun riding the bikes around the loop and taking the short cuts cut in around the loop. We had fun walking to the foot bridge to go fishing," shares a Russell P Letterman Campground visitor.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup availability varies: Check for availability of the power connections you need. At Little Pine State Park, a camper noted, "This is very rustic with electric options which is nice. The campsite we were at was very large probably better for a trailer but we enjoyed the space with our tent."
Site grading affects camping experience: Level sites make RV camping much easier. A Buttonwood Campground reviewer shared, "We found the sites to be spacious, well maintained (gravel pads) and very level. Our site was along the river, which provided us with a great view."
Road access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging approach roads. A Black Moshannon State Park visitor advised, "Our only trouble was our GPS brought us in the most difficult way. We suggest avoiding heading south from I80 on Casanova road."
