The Allegheny National Forest encompasses the majority of camping options near Clarendon, Pennsylvania, with elevations ranging from 1,300 to 2,300 feet and a diverse forest ecosystem of northern hardwoods mixed with hemlock and white pine. Summer temperatures typically reach the mid-80s during the day with cooler nights in the 50s and 60s, making sleeping comfortable even during July and August. Many campgrounds are situated along the Allegheny River and Kinzua Reservoir, providing waterfront access with varying levels of amenities.
What to do
Paddle the Allegheny River: Launch from Buckaloons Recreation Area, where the campground connects directly to the river. "The campground is right on the Allegheny River and there's a boat ramp onsite. If you're a paddler make sure to visit Allegheny Outfitters just up the road in Warren and get a river guidebook. Given its location on the river this is a great place to make several different runs down the river," notes George from Buckaloons.
Fishing for native trout: Minister Creek Campground provides access to quality brook trout fishing in a natural setting. "Several of the sites back up to Minister Creek. Home to some of the scrappiest brook trout I have fished for. Such a great place to get away," explains Brannon M. from Minister Creek Campground.
Star-gazing opportunities: The remote nature of many campgrounds creates ideal night sky viewing conditions. "First place I was ever able to actually see the milky way. Night sky's are so clear," writes Chuck H. about Kiasutha Recreation Area. Another camper adds, "Quick Tip: Perfect spot for star-gazing. So set the alarm for 2am and enjoy."
Explore Hector Falls: Located near the Forestry Road Dispersed sites, this waterfall is accessible via a short hike. "It's about 3/4 a mile hike into the woods. The falls are really cool to look at, and has some cool rock formations. Be careful the cliffs are about a 20 ft straight drop," advises Bob J.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Red Bridge Recreation Area offers generous campsites with natural separation. "Very nice campground with some huge old trees. Large sites, good privacy between, mostly full out partial shade. Trees for hammocks. Very quiet at night. No road noise," reports Gary G. from Red Bridge Recreation Area.
Cost-effective camping: Forestry Road Dispersed sites provide free camping options with basic amenities. "The spot I stayed is right on the marker. There are multiple spots along the main forest road. Some you can drive your car in and tuck it back. Other spots you can't take your car at all," explains Bob J. about these Forestry Road Dispersed sites.
Modern bathroom facilities: Unlike some primitive sites in the area, Hearts Content Recreation Area maintains clean facilities. "The campground has a couple pit toilets that have been very well maintained by campground hosts each year we've been there. Zero smell or problems here, they appear to be looked after daily," notes Matthew from Hearts Content.
Walk-in sites for seclusion: Dewdrop Recreation Area offers more isolated camping spots away from the main road. "We had a walk in site which was kind of hard to find in the dark but when we did it was good. These sites were more secluded. Lots of trees for hammocks," shares Tessa O.
What you should know
Bear safety is essential: Multiple campgrounds report bear activity, requiring proper food storage. "We did not make reservations, but were able to drive through and pick open site we liked the most! The front gate workers were kind and informative with giving advice on how to best explore the area!" explains Katie about Kiasutha Recreation Area.
Cell service limitations: Internet connectivity varies widely throughout the region. "INTERNET: One bar of usable Verizon 4G LTE and T-Mobile 4G LTE suitable for slow web browsing and e-mail, but little else. Because of the very dense tree cover here, Starlink is not really a viable option," reports Matthew about Hearts Content Recreation Area.
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds close during winter months, typically operating from May through October. "This campground can fill up quite easily, but if you head onto the trail, I see nearly zero possible situation in which you couldn't find a campsite! There is plenty of room," advises Skooma M. about Minister Creek.
Water availability varies: Some sites have no drinking water sources. "Bathrooms are vault toilets. No showers. No water either. Bring what you need! The closest town is about 30 minutes away," warns Bill G. about Hearts Content.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. "Fun little playground nearby too!" mentions Katie about Kiasutha Recreation Area. Other campsites like Buckaloons feature open areas where children can safely play.
Bike-friendly loops: For families with children who enjoy cycling, look for campgrounds with paved roads. "The road is one way throughout the loops so there's no big traffic. Lots of kids riding bikes, adults walking and chatting. Tons of friendly dogs," describes Amie M. about Buckaloons.
Kid-friendly hiking options: Morrison Campground offers accessible hiking even for younger children. "I hiked in with my kids. Easy hike and doable with kids if they are used to hiking. Lots of spaces, but it can get crowded on the weekends. The vault toilets were convenient," shares Megan B. from Morrison Campground.
Swimming opportunities: Many campgrounds provide lake access perfect for family recreation. "Kiasutha state park - Beautiful campground on the Allegany river. Very quiet and relaxing atmosphere. The campsites are not on top of each other and are separated by plenty of trees and brush," explains Chuck H.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookups: Buckaloons offers electrical sites for larger rigs. "Electric sites for surprisingly large rvs and trailers, mostly wired, shaded, and private," notes Kelly C.
Dump station locations: Several campgrounds provide sanitary dump facilities. "Large sites, good privacy between, mostly full out partial shade. Trees for hammocks. Very quiet at night. No road noise," describes Gary G. about Red Bridge Recreation Area.
Site leveling challenges: Be prepared to level your RV at many campgrounds in this area. "We were in spot #39, which is near the end of the loop. Finding fresh water outlets was a challenge since they were not easily labeled, so we ended up circling the loop a second time to fill up the fresh water. We realized on the way out there was a fresh water hookup at the dump station with plenty of space to easily park and not taking up space in the loop. Electric was 30A and our site was not level, but we were able to find the right spot," advises Tim J. about Buckaloons.
