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Best Campgrounds near Clarion, PA

481 Reviews

The Clarion, Pennsylvania area features multiple campgrounds with a range of accommodation types for travelers seeking outdoor experiences. Cook Forest State Park Campground & Cabins provides tent, RV, and cabin camping options within a forested setting approximately 15 miles northeast of Clarion. Rustic Acres and Wolfs Camping Resort offer family-friendly established camping with full hookup capabilities. For those seeking more remote experiences, the Allegheny National Forest region contains dispersed camping options such as Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite, where primitive tent camping is permitted without developed facilities.

Camping seasons in the region typically run from April through December, with most established campgrounds closing during winter months. Several campgrounds including Cook Forest State Park operate from early April to mid-December, while Rustic Acres remains open year-round for cold-weather camping. Hook-up accessibility varies significantly between campgrounds, with some requiring extended water hoses and electrical cords to reach connection points. Fire regulations are enforced at all sites, with most campgrounds providing firewood for purchase to prevent the spread of invasive species. "Some sites require over 50 feet of hose and multiple power cords to reach power boxes due to the great amount of trees providing good shade throughout the campground," noted one camper regarding Kalyumet Campground.

The region's mixed-use campgrounds receive positive feedback for their recreational amenities. Swimming pools are highlighted in multiple reviews as popular features during summer months. Family activities represent a common draw, with several campgrounds organizing regular weekend programs. "We were thrilled to find they had a children's program on Saturday mornings. Our children had a ball making crafts, playing games, finding items on a scavenger hunt," wrote one visitor about Rustic Acres. Quiet settings and clean facilities receive consistent mention across campground reviews. Proximity to natural attractions including Cook Forest State Park provides additional outdoor recreation opportunities for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Seasonal campgrounds often host themed weekends throughout their operating season, with Halloween celebrations receiving particular praise in visitor reviews.

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Best Camping Sites Near Clarion, Pennsylvania (112)

    1. Cook Forest State Park Campground & Cabins

    51 Reviews
    Cooksburg, PA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (814) 744-8407

    $20 - $67 / night

    "Look at the campground map before you book your site if being close to a bathroom is important; ours was across the campsite behind us but we had to step in a rock set in the stream to get to it without"

    "Located within the state park, the location is perfect access to hiking, the water tower and overlook, and the Clarion river for fishing, kayaking, canoeing."

    2. Kalyumet Campground

    14 Reviews
    Lucinda, PA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (814) 744-9622

    "We enjoyed the pool the walking/hiking trails, a trip into Cooks Forest, and even spent some time at the arcade (costs money)."

    "A short path through the woods leads you to their mini-golf/pizza/ice cream shop."

    3. Rustic Acres

    8 Reviews
    Shippenville, PA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (814) 226-9850

    $39 - $69 / night

    "This campground is easy access to I80, Less than 10 minutes. It is very clean, amazingly helpful staff, mix of seasonal, weekly, and overnight. Nice playground for the kids."

    "Close to I80."

    4. Clear Creek State Park Campground

    20 Reviews
    Clarington, PA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (814) 752-2368

    $22 - $57 / night

    "A must do when camping in Pennsylvania. The Clarian river is great for kayaking . Multiple trails off of park."

    "The park is on the scenic Clarion River and offers tent camping, some sites are paddle in only, RV sites, small and larger rustic cabins, and even a couple of yurts."

    5. Wolfs Camping Resort

    5 Reviews
    Shippenville, PA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (814) 797-1103

    $55 - $250 / night

    "Super friendly staff, great location. stocked lake with catch and release fishing. Loved it. Stayed in May 2017"

    6. Rvino - Campers Paradise

    9 Reviews
    Clarington, PA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (814) 752-2393

    $40 - $245 / night

    "This campground is just far enough away from home that it feels worlds away while still being convenient for forgotten items."

    "The store front has anything you can think of, and the playground is conveniently located. The swimming pool is always cold but feels great on a nice hot day"

    7. Tionesta Rec. Area Campground

    11 Reviews
    Tionesta, PA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (814) 755-3512

    $30 - $46 / night

    "So I’ll be honest: Sometimes I camp just so I can get close to flyfishing. This particular review has less to do with the specifics of the site (although this campground is great!)"

    "From I-80, take the exit for PA-36 then follow the signs to Tionesta and once you get near you'll see the Tionesta Recreation Area Signs."

    8. White's Haven Campground and Cabins

    2 Reviews
    Cooksburg, PA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (814) 752-2205

    9. Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite

    9 Reviews
    Marienville, PA
    20 miles

    "Great little roadside campsite to get away. We spent the night during a tropical storm and got the pleasure of hearing the rain on the tent out in this peaceful spot!"

    "Was able to drive in which I why I chose this area. Currently finish up the night and once the fire dies down I’ll head to bed."

    10. Loleta Recreation

    6 Reviews
    Marienville, PA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (814) 927-6628

    $16 - $80 / night

    "The site we picked was off the beaten path so we had nice privacy. The site was large with plenty of space for 6 people and 4 tents. The views were gorgeous. The bathroom was clean."

    "We really enjoyed walking around the recreation area constructed by CCC. Beautiful. Easy to get to."

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Recent Camping Photos near Clarion, PA

202 Photos of 112 Clarion Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Clarion, PA

481 Reviews of 112 Clarion Campgrounds

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 16, 2025

    Redbank Valley Municipal Park

    Mid September No one around

    We came here after finding this campsite on the dirt app. When we arrived, there was no one around. There are no rules or payment stations. There are a lot of RVs that seem to be set up in a permanent location. We camped on a field and haven’t seen anyone. There are bathrooms and showers and they are open. It looks like this is the site of the fairgrounds and maybe it is a hopping place in the summer? I will update this review if anyone comes by.

  • Daniel S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2025

    Curwensville Lake Campground

    Amazing

    Having PTSD and serious anxiety. This spot allows you to relax without to much concern,dogs welcome ,boating and swimming was awesome for around this area. Camping is great especially at night with boats on the water.

  • Bettina A.
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Bear Run Campground

    Options.

    This is an amazing campground with reasonable prices, an array of camping options to suit different camping needs as well as budget range. I am unsure if I just happen to have gotten lucky and decided to go camping during a special weekend, but it’s Labor Day weekend and I am loving that there is a calendar of events for campers to participate in if they choose to. Activities include wagon rides to the lake, talent show, karaoke…etc, as well as church! This was an unexpected gem as we are from Florida and were blessed enough to stumble upon the right person in a parking lot when my husband asked if they knew of any places that we could possibly camp at nearby and that gentleman told us about Moraine Park. Upon making our way out to here, we found Bear Run and have loved our experience so far. Love it!

  • Jennifer H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Mountain Top Campground

    Solitude peace and quiet

    You come up a winding road and emerge atop the mountain. It’s cute. Wide open grass land with sites around the perimeter. Half a dozen of them (premium) are at the edge and have a nice view to the hills beyond. Basic amenities. Some ice and fire wood that are self serve. We’re just here for the night and are hoping to catch an uber into the city for a pirates game. Place is full - ish but is super quiet. If you’re looking for a place to hang a hammock and read a book. This is it. Nice fire holes with a view.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 13, 2025

    Red Bridge Recreation Area - Allegheny National Forest

    Not bad for 20 bucks

    Not bad at all for 20 bucks , spots with electricity cost more. Came on a week night without a reservation and was almost unable to get a spot , host was nice though! Quiet area

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 13, 2025

    Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite

    Don’t recommend

    Apple Maps brings you way far away, follow the pin and it will bring you. Way too grown in as of August . Didn’t end up staying here. May be a good spot in the fall once the grass dies. Secluded spot though

  • Dani T.
    Aug. 7, 2025

    Clarion River Campground

    Possibly 5 Stars IF...

    This camp area could be 5 Stars if you get lucky. We got here very late, and almost all the sites were full... the one nice one that was available had food everywhere. Don't do this! There were chicken carcasses and popcorn, eggs, and a bag of food in a fire ring. Having seen racoons & other wildlife on the road in, obviously we couldn't tent there. We car c(r)amped at another site. M7(?). There was no place for a tent & no fire ring at that spot. The river view in the morning was nice though. Had we arrived earlier or gotten lucky, this area is probably an awesome camp spot! There's an information station along River Rd with a pit toilet house. On the billboard you'll find a map of the designated camp spots along both River Rd and Millstone. Take a picture of it. There's no reception here but that's how you know it's a nice area!

  • Sienna L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 22, 2025

    Cook Forest State Park Campground & Cabins

    Great Getway

    This campground was great! Throughout the week in the summer it is pretty quiet. Very close to the fire tower and other things to see around it. The Knotty Pine bar and restaurant was right down the road and had great food and drink.

  • Erik W.
    Jul. 21, 2025

    Wolfs Camping Resort

    Absolutely beautiful

    Super friendly staff, great location. stocked lake with catch and release fishing. Loved it.

    Stayed in May 2017

Guide to Clarion

Camping near Clarion, Pennsylvania, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Cook Forest State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "If you're into hiking, there's lots to see here."
  • Kayaking and Canoeing: The Clarion River is perfect for water activities. A visitor at Clear Creek State Park Campground said, "The Clarion River is great for a tube or canoe trip."
  • Fishing: Many campgrounds, like Red Bridge Recreation Area, are located near water, making them ideal for fishing. One reviewer noted, "The campground is settled right on the Allegheny Reservoir, so if you bring your kayaks, you can launch right from the campground."

What campers like:

  • Natural Beauty: Campers love the tall trees and peaceful atmosphere at Cook Forest State Park Campground. One happy camper said, "You can tell it's different as soon as you enter the state park... It's so peaceful, friendly, and quiet here."
  • Family-Friendly Amenities: At Crooked Run Campground — Prince Gallitzin State Park, families enjoy the private beach and playground. A reviewer mentioned, "This is a great campground. Private beach on the lake for campground guest use only as well as a playground."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and shower facilities. A visitor at Parker Dam State Park Campground said, "Multiple bathhouses throughout. Ours was nice, clean, and modern."

What you should know:

  • Site Proximity: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A camper at Parker Dam State Park Campground noted, "This campground feels very crowded."
  • Limited Cell Service: Many areas, like Minister Creek Campground, have little to no cell service. One visitor mentioned, "Absolutely no cell signal."
  • Reservations Recommended: Popular spots can fill up quickly. A camper at Clear Creek State Park Campground advised, "It is often challenging to reserve a site unless done far in advance."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and swimming areas. A parent at Bear Run Campground shared, "The heated pool & camp store are great. He especially enjoyed the 'rock mining.'"
  • Plan for Quiet Time: Choose sites that are a bit further apart to avoid noise. A camper at Breakneck Campground said, "Despite being just a minute's walk from our truck, we felt incredibly secluded."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having snacks on hand can keep kids happy. A visitor at Kalyumet Campground mentioned, "The campground seemed nice... the kids loved the arcade and the candy scavenger hunt."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Keystone State Park Campground noted, "Sites are a little tight if you have a larger camper."
  • Use Electric Hookups: Many campgrounds offer electric hookups, which can be a lifesaver. A visitor at Parker Dam State Park Campground appreciated the "full hookup sites."
  • Explore Nearby Attractions: Look for campgrounds near fun attractions. A camper at Red Bridge Recreation Area mentioned, "The camp isn't far from many attractions in the area."

Camping near Clarion, Pennsylvania, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campgrounds near Clarion, PA?

The Clarion area offers several excellent camping options. Cook Forest State Park Campground & Cabins is a popular choice about 10-11 miles from Clarion, featuring beautiful pine forest surroundings and access to numerous hiking trails. For those wanting convenient interstate access, Rustic Acres is less than 10 minutes from I-80 with clean facilities, helpful staff, and a nice playground for children. Both locations are well-maintained and provide easy access to the natural beauty of western Pennsylvania while being close to Clarion for supplies and amenities.

Can you camp along the Clarion River in Pennsylvania?

Yes, you can camp along the scenic Clarion River at several locations. Clear Creek State Park Campground offers beautiful riverside camping with tent sites, RV spots, and even some paddle-in only sites directly on the water. The campground provides excellent access for kayaking, fishing, and tubing on the river. Another option is Tionesta Rec. Area Campground, which provides additional riverfront camping opportunities. These riverside campgrounds are especially popular during summer months when water activities are in full swing.

Do I need a reservation for camping in Clarion, PA?

Reservations are highly recommended for camping in the Clarion area, especially during peak seasons (late spring through early fall) and on weekends. Kalyumet Campground and Wolfs Camping Resort both operate reservation systems that help secure your spot. State parks like Cook Forest can fill up months in advance for summer weekends and holidays. While some campgrounds may have first-come, first-served sites available, the area's popularity as an outdoor destination makes advance planning essential to avoid disappointment, particularly if you're traveling with an RV or require specific amenities.

Are there cabins available for rent on the Clarion River?

Yes, several locations offer cabin rentals along the Clarion River. Clear Creek State Park Campground features small and larger rustic cabins as well as yurts right on the scenic Clarion River. The cabins provide convenient access to water activities and hiking trails. White's Haven Campground and Cabins is another option offering cabin rentals in the area. Cabins typically include basic amenities like beds, electricity, and sometimes kitchenettes, though specifics vary by location. Most require advance reservations, especially during summer months when they're in high demand.

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