Cedar Run camping options range from rustic walk-in sites to RV-ready facilities with full hookups across Pennsylvania's mountainous terrain. At elevations between 600-1800 feet, the area experiences cold winters and mild summers with average July temperatures around 70°F. Cell service varies significantly throughout the region with some campgrounds experiencing limited or no connectivity.
What to do
Hiking into Pine Creek Gorge: Access Turkey Path Trail from Leonard Harrison State Park Campground for steep one-mile descent to the bottom of the canyon. "The campground had nice & clean restrooms and shower areas. And a larger room that's perfect for camping families with little ones so you can shower & use the restroom all in a single, larger secure room," reports a visitor who discovered the "Pennsylvania Grand Canyon" during their trip.
Fishing opportunities: Streams and small lakes provide good fishing spots near most campgrounds. At Little Pine State Park Campground, campers enjoy "kayaking, hiking & fishing and just miles from Pine Creek proper," according to one regular visitor. Sites are positioned along streams with electric hookups.
Cycling the Pine Creek Rail Trail: This paved trail runs through several small towns and offers scenic views of the canyon. "If you're a cyclist- definitely ride the nearby paved Pine Creek Trail. My husband rode a century on his own on Fathers Day while here. The trail goes through small towns and has spots to grab a bite to eat," notes a Leonard Harrison camper.
What campers like
Access to viewpoints: Many campers appreciate proximity to scenic overlooks. At Colton Point State Park Campground, visitors enjoy "incredible views, nicknamed the Grand Canyons of Pennsylvania." Another camper adds, "Beautiful views just 2 minute walk away overlooking PA Grand Canyon."
Privacy at rustic sites: Some campgrounds offer more secluded experiences. Colton Point provides walk-in sites that "take a small hike so don't over pack" but offer good separation between campers. One visitor notes, "I loved that you can pick your own tucked away spot within the camp area but yet still close enough to other people."
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention well-maintained bathrooms. Hyner Run State Park Campground receives praise for its "bathrooms and showers are very clean and modern (tiled, not concrete block for a change)." This campground also features creekside sites where "the sound of the burbling water lulled us to sleep every night."
What you should know
Wildlife awareness: Native wildlife includes timber rattlesnakes. At Hyner Run, campers reported "the quantity of timber rattle snakes that we encountered, one at our site and one in the woods nearby. Something to keep in mind if you have pets or small children."
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have limited connectivity. At Stony Fork Creek Campground, visitors note "No cell service and WiFi isn't reliable if that's what you need or are looking for."
Trail difficulty: Canyon trails can be challenging. Turkey Path at Colton Point "isn't 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."
Seasonal popularity: Fall foliage season fills campgrounds quickly. "Best campground for the fall," notes a Leonard Harrison visitor, adding the campground has "Sites are large with plenty of room."
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds: Several RV campgrounds near Cedar Run, Pennsylvania include play areas. Little Pine State Park has "a cute little playground onsite" and access to "huge picnic area" with "yurts you can rent to stay in."
Consider park activities: Canyon Country Campground offers family-friendly amenities and proximity to attractions. "A family atmosphere very clean and the best part is a mile walk to the rim of the canyon! Very dog friendly with a tower you can walk up to enjoy the view," reports one camper.
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with pools or swimming areas. Little Pine State Park features "a lake for swimming, kayaking and fishing" and remains open until "mid-December with electric sites situated along a stream."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some RV sites in Cedar Run area campgrounds require significant leveling. "Sites are not very level nor private, but the staff is great and the grounds are walking distance to the canyon," reports a Canyon Country camper.
Loop selection: RVers should check campground maps carefully. For stays at Jellystone Park PA Wilds (formerly Bucktail Camping Resort), one camper recommends "the outer part of the loop that circles the common areas. Woods and shade but very close to all the happenings."
Road access considerations: Access roads to some campgrounds can be challenging. "The entry road to the campground itself is a very steep, narrow road with a small curve at the top. It's well-maintained but keep an eye out for campers coming down. There's space for getting by but it's tight," notes a visitor describing the approach to Jellystone Park.
