Glamping near Cedar Run, Pennsylvania offers distinctive accommodations in the northern Pennsylvania wilderness at elevations between 800-1,700 feet. The area sits within the Pine Creek Gorge region, known for dramatic topography with steep canyon walls dropping 800-1,000 feet to the creek below. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing, with summer highs typically reaching the upper 70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit.
What to do
Explore Pine Creek by water: Kayaking on Pine Creek provides a unique perspective of the canyon walls. At DB Adventures, "Great for trout fisherman, and those with dogs who love water like ours. Sites right on the creek!" according to camper Patch. The campground offers creek-side sites perfect for anglers.
Discover wildlife viewing areas: The Pennsylvania Grand Canyon region hosts diverse wildlife including eagles. At Russell P Letterman Campground, one visitor noted, "We usually rent a boat and swim and watch the eagles all day. One of the best experiences ever." Wildlife viewing platforms and designated areas allow for observation of native species.
Hike challenging canyon trails: Turkey Trail at Colton Point State Park offers a demanding but rewarding experience. "Unlike Leonard Harrison's trail it's not so easy for EVERYONE to access, so you won't see near as many tourists. It's a rougher climb but you follow a small stream filled with waterfalls down into the canyon," writes Sadie S. This trail drops 800 feet in elevation over approximately one mile.
What campers like
Private tent sites: The tent camping areas at Colton Point State Park provide seclusion. Emily S. explains, "The campsites are private and you get to hike in (varying amounts of distance). The trails aren't built up with steps and the like." These walk-in sites require carrying gear but reward with greater privacy.
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness ranks high in visitor feedback. At Canyon Country Campground, "The owners were very friendly and helpful. Our site was well laid out. The campground was neat, clean and quiet," notes Sheilah C., who traveled five hours to visit and immediately booked a return trip.
Nature programming: Educational activities enhance the camping experience. At Little Pine State Park, visitors appreciate the naturalist programs: "The rangers offer educational programs that are free of charge," shares Amanda H. These include guided walks, wildlife talks, and environmental education suitable for all ages.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cellular service is extremely limited throughout the region. A visitor to Sinnemahoning State Park noted, "There is zero cell service/WiFi at the park, or for at least 5-10 miles from it." Plan communications accordingly and download maps in advance.
Site surfaces vary: Tent campers should check site composition before booking. At Sinnemahoning, "Tent pads are of rocky packed earth which makes staking and guying out your tent a bit of a challenge," reports John V. Some glamping sites offer wooden platforms instead of ground sites.
Seasonal facilities: Most campgrounds and glamping operations close during winter months. Exceptions include Happy Acres Resort, which maintains "year-round operations" according to their website. A camper noted, "We tent camped and they had openings on Memorial Day weekend. The weather turned out to be bad for camping but management was very accommodating with our requests to change dates."
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated play areas: Many campgrounds offer kid-friendly facilities. At Little Pine State Park, "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 Erik E. The park includes multiple playground areas.
Consider yurts for easier family camping: Yurts provide a camping alternative with more amenities. "We stayed in yurts, which are round tents ($38 per night). We had a cozy wooden deck and slept four people in two bunk beds. We also had a cooking stove, refrigerator, heat and electricity," explains Joshua L. about Little Pine State Park.
Check for family programming: Naturalist activities engage children in learning. At Sinnemahoning State Park, "They offer a free pontoon boat tour of the lake, reservations needed because spots fill up fast! During the fall at the nearby dam rangers set up an elk viewing spot with binoculars," reports Amber N.
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: RV sites vary significantly across the region. At Pettecote Junction Campground, "We stated in one of the water/electric hook-up sites along the creek, which was wonderful. Very flat and larger than average in size, which was nice not being on top of your neighbor," notes Craig F.
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited but increasing. At Little Pine State Park, James P. explains, "Electric only but water fill up is in convenient locations. Dump station is provided. Well maintained and clean." Always verify specific hookups when booking.
Road width and access: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. Little Pine State Park visitor James reports that it's "very affordable" with "easy access to camp ground." However, at Bald Eagle State Park, Greg J. mentions, "Roads were a little narrow but manageable."
