Chapman State Park offers glamping experiences from mid-April to mid-December with tent sites, cabins, yurts, and RV options. Located in the Allegheny National Forest region at 1,300 feet elevation, the park's wooded setting provides a cooler microclimate during summer months. While several sites feature electrical hookups, visitors should pack appropriately for the park's seasonal temperature variations.
What to do
Kayaking at Red Bridge Recreation Area: Located on the Allegheny Reservoir, the campground offers direct water access. "My wife and I stayed here for a long weekend and somehow ended up booking a full hookup site that was really great... if you bring your kayaks you can launch right from the campground," notes Kevin C. from Red Bridge Recreation Area.
Hiking the Minister Creek Trail: This popular trail system offers routes ranging from short walks to extended hikes. "Great loop trail ranging from a few miles to 7 miles depending on the loop, starts right behind the campground," reports Monika L. from Minister Creek Campground.
Wildlife watching: The Allegheny region hosts diverse wildlife including black 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," shares Katie from Dewdrop Recreation Area.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Many campgrounds offer privacy between sites. "The sites are private, flat, surrounded by trees, and have plenty of space. The ground is quite rocky though, so bring plenty of heavy duty tent steaks," advises Sheila P. from Red Bridge Recreation Area.
Stargazing opportunities: The remote location allows for exceptional night sky viewing. "Perfect spot for star-gazing. So set the alarm for 2am and enjoy," recommends Brannon M. from Minister Creek Campground.
Access to water: Multiple campgrounds feature waterfront sites. "We 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 a camper from Chapman State Park.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have limited or no cell coverage. "You are literally in the mountains and it is so peaceful! There is no cell service so you really get to be away from all the hustle for a weekend," notes Sarah K. from Dewdrop Recreation Area.
Reservations recommended: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during peak season. "First time here but found the campground to be quite nice. Sites were decently sized and some backed up to very beautiful evergreen forest," reports Kevin E. from Chapman State Park.
Varying bathroom facilities: Bathroom quality differs between campgrounds. "Bathroom quality varies from flush toilets with hot showers to primitive vault toilets. "Bathhouse needs repair or replacement," warns Chris A. about Red Oak Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "Very nice quiet family camp ground featuring tent, camper full hook ups. On sight dump station. Fishing boating, hiking family fun all around," mentions Michelle E. from Chapman State Park.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer nature programs. "This is also a great place to go year-round for kids interested in learning about nature. There is a nature museum. Seek out Ranger Susanne—she is a really great teacher!" recommends Laura C. from Clear Creek State Park.
Creek exploration: Children enjoy exploring shallow waterways. "We also had a tiny steam where the kids explores salamanders and toads," shares Jenn G. from Dewdrop Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most campgrounds offer limited full-hookup sites. "Couple full hookup sites, some electric but most are rustic, great tent sites! No playgrounds etc, just camping in the woods!" notes David A. from Red Bridge.
Site leveling challenges: Many sites require leveling equipment. "The pulls ins are a bit of a draw on levelness, but none are horribly unlevel. I was in the 'B1' and it's a bit larger than the others as it's on the corner," advises Tracy S. from Red Oak Campground.
RV size considerations: Some campgrounds accommodate larger rigs better than others. "Its a nice place, great creek and woods. Most of the spots will require leveling blocks," warns Isaac R. from Clear Creek State Park.