Cabin accommodations near Clarendon, Pennsylvania offer year-round options amid the Allegheny National Forest region. Located at elevations between 1,300-2,000 feet, this area experiences dramatic seasonal changes with colorful fall foliage and snow accumulation from December through March. The forest terrain creates natural noise barriers between most camping areas, contributing to the quiet atmosphere noted by many visitors.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: 3 miles from Red Bridge Recreation Area, Bent Run Waterfalls offers a family-friendly hiking experience. "The restrooms with showers were beautiful and the whole place was well kept. The camp isn't far from many attractions in the area. Including the kinzu skywalk which is about a 30 minute drive," notes Kevin C.
River paddling: Access points throughout the region provide kayak and canoe launches. At Willow Bay Recreation Area, "You'll get a chance to relax as there is no cell service or wifi available. The closest town is about 15 miles away so stock up before you get there. Don't forget your bicycles because the campground and surrounding area is great for riding," advises Amy W.
Night sky viewing: Low light pollution makes this region ideal for stargazing. "A night sky that you can see the Milky Way and more stars then I remember. Wildlife is all around and the area offers a variety of activities within a short drive," shares Denise D. about Dewdrop Recreation Area.
What campers like
Waterfront cabins: Privacy and access at Kinzua reservoir. "Our site was right along the water. We have sites 76, 77, 78. Some pros were water access, fire pits having grates, privacy," says Emma about Willow Bay.
Nature trails: Multiple difficulty levels connect directly to campsites. "There are several hiking trails that depart right from the campground. One of them takes you right to the state game lands (29 I think?). I'll have to remember that for future hunting seasons," Kevin E. mentions about Chapman State Park.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk are prime times for spotting deer, birds, and occasionally black bears. "We did a walk to campsite as we wanted a little more privacy, which was nice, we were fairly spread out while only being 150 feet from the showers," notes Spencer S. about his first camping experience at Chapman State Park Campground.
What you should know
Cell coverage varies dramatically: Many areas have no service. "This campground is above average for KOA campgrounds. My biggest complaint is the sites are very close and offer little privacy," notes Nick D. about Kinzua East KOA.
Reservation windows: 8-9 months advance booking needed for summer and holidays at most locations. "We were able to drive down from Western NY and were able to choose from 1 of 2 campsites. We lucked out and ended up with a beautiful site in view of the reservoir," shares Nate about Red Bridge Recreation Area.
Bear safety protocols: Required at all campgrounds in the region. "Coming from out of state, even though I am an avid nature explorer, I had never thought twice about encountering bears... a mom and two cubs ran directly through our camp while having breakfast one morning. Only 10 foot away when the mom stopped to size up our threat level," warns Katie about Dewdrop Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly hiking trails: Shorter loops under 2 miles are marked with blue blazes. "We tent camped at site 76. Secluded and beautiful. We had the whole side of the upper loop to ourselves! Bumped up against the nature trail for a quick hike," shares Caitlin M. about camping at Chapman State Park.
Swimming areas with gradual entry: Several campgrounds offer designated swim zones with lifeguards during summer months. "The beach is awesome and the facilities were good. Vicki our host was great with suggestions. This side of the reservoir is louder and busier than the other side, but still enjoyable," explains Scott M. about Kiasutha.
Entertainment options: Weekly programs run from Memorial Day through Labor Day. "Cute little campground on the lake. 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," reports Tessa O. about Dewdrop Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Pack extra blocks for the uneven terrain. "Sites are spacious and separate from neighbors! Plenty of space for 2 tents! And everything including the restrooms are clean!" shares Katie about Kiasutha Recreation Area.
Limited full hookup availability: Book months in advance for the few sites with sewer connections. "Whispering winds provides convenient hookup sites with fire pits and level gravel lots all along a beautiful rolling stream that provides natural music to create a relaxing environment," explains Donna M. about Whispering Winds Campground.
Fresh water planning: Fill tanks before arrival as spigot distances vary widely between sites. "We ran low on fresh water, so a 75' hose was long enough to reach the fresh water spigot. The other campers used the spigot, but they toted water carriers," advises Tim J. from Willow Bay.
