The Clarington area sits within the Allegheny National Forest region at elevations between 1,300-1,800 feet, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing, while summer highs typically reach the mid-80s with moderate humidity. Campgrounds in this area feature a mix of lakeside, creek-adjacent, and densely forested sites with most requiring reservations from April through October.
What to do
Fly fishing opportunities: Minister Creek Campground provides direct access to quality brook trout fishing in the namesake creek. "Awesome tiny campground! Only 6 spots all first come first serve and very cheap! What a wonderful find! Right along the creek where native brook trout reside. Great fly fishing in the area and the hiking is beautiful!" notes reviewer Monika L.
Mountain biking at Jake's Rocks: Camping near Dewdrop Recreation Area gives convenient access to the mountain biking trail system. "Boating and biking all accessible from the grounds. No need to drive to the trails at Jakes Rocks," reports Travis S. The trail system offers over 30 miles of purpose-built biking terrain for various skill levels.
Stargazing away from light pollution: The remote location of these campgrounds creates exceptional night sky viewing. At Minister Creek Campground, one camper recommends: "Perfect spot for star-gazing. So set the alarm for 2am and enjoy :)" The area has minimal light pollution, allowing for clear views of the Milky Way on cloudless nights.
What campers like
Waterfront camping options: Many visitors appreciate the direct water access at several campgrounds. At Tionesta Rec. Area Campground, campers enjoy creek-adjacent sites: "We had sites #46 and 48 right above the creek surrounded by tall trees. Incredibly quiet. Great for those traveling with dogs," writes Lauren R.
Heated bathrooms in cooler months: Luxury glamping in Clarington, Pennsylvania often includes access to climate-controlled facilities. "Weather appropriate heated/cooled indoor real bathrooms and shower rooms," notes Michelle E. about Chapman State Park Campground, making it suitable for extended-season camping.
Quiet, secluded atmosphere: The area's campgrounds maintain a peaceful environment away from urban noise. "Very quiet at night. No road noise. A few drive-in and walk-in sites have their own short paths to the reservoir. Can drive to a number of nice hiking and mountain biking trails," observes Gary G. about Red Bridge Recreation Area.
What you should know
Bear activity is common: Wildlife encounters, particularly bears, are reported frequently. "Clear Creek State Park is an amazing little gem right outside of Cook Forest. Most of the campsites are right on the water, beautiful bridges, a great disc golf course, and moderate-to-light hiking trails. I will say that I did have two separate run in with bears but over all a great experience!" shares Caitlyn H.
Spotty cell reception: Most campgrounds in the area have limited connectivity. At Minister Creek, campers report no cell service, making it ideal for disconnecting. Other areas like Red Bridge Recreation Area have 1-2 bars of service: "reception is great (we have Verizon)," notes one camper.
Limited shower facilities: While upscale glamping near Clarington offers better amenities, many campgrounds have basic or no shower facilities. "Showers available. Bears congregate frequently. Trails nearby, as are quite a few other natural areas," reports Bill G. about Clear Creek State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Disc golf with kids: Several campgrounds offer disc golf courses suitable for family play. "Clear Creek State Park is an amazing little gem right outside of Cook Forest. Most of the campsites are right on the water, beautiful bridges, a great disc golf course, and moderate-to-light hiking trails," recommends Caitlyn H.
Nature education programs: Look for scheduled educational activities at Clear Creek State Park Campground. "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!" suggests Laura C.
Playgrounds and swimming areas: Many campgrounds include kid-friendly recreational facilities. "Swimming was nice. There is a playground near campsites and cabins if you would like one," notes Mike T. about Clear Creek State Park, making it ideal for families seeking luxury glamping accommodations with amenities.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many camping areas require equipment for leveling. "Its a nice place, great creek and woods. Most of the spots will require leveling blocks," advises Isaac R. about Clear Creek State Park Campground.
Hookup distance issues: At Kalyumet Campground, be prepared for extended utility connections. "Our family loved Kalyumet and there was plenty to do for everyone including some great activities for children... our only complaint would be the site we were in (11) and others next to it were quite far from the water and cable hookups. I ended up having to run 60ft of water hose and 50ft of cable in order to get a connection," warns Ember M.
Advance bookings required: Popular RV sites fill quickly during peak season. "We arrived on a Sunday afternoon around 3:00 PM and the COE entrance building was not manned, so we took a picture of the CG map and proceeded to back-in site 100 with 50 AMP FHUs," shares MickandKarla W. about Tionesta Recreation Area, emphasizing the need to understand check-in procedures.