Camping options near Westfield, Pennsylvania range from rustic tent sites to developed RV facilities across several distinct areas. The region sits within the Allegheny Plateau at elevations between 1,300-2,000 feet, experiencing cool summers and moderate rainfall even during peak camping months. Forests of maple, oak and white pine dominate the landscape, creating natural privacy barriers at many campgrounds.
What to do
Hiking into the canyon: Leonard Harrison State Park Campground features the Turkey Path trail leading to Pine Creek. "The campground is located at the entrance to the vista area. It is a small campground, 20 or so sites. There is a hiking trail that will take you down into the canyon. It is a mile or so and pretty steep, but well maintained. Portions are steps. There are a few waterfalls to view on the way down," notes one camper.
Fishing opportunities: Access to quality fishing spots exists directly from some campgrounds. "At the bottom you will pass the rails to trail and run into pine creek. If you walk to the left to where it gets deep. You will find some of the best fishing ever," reports a visitor to Leonard Harrison State Park Campground.
Mountain biking: The Pine Creek Rail Trail offers excellent biking through the canyon. "If you're a cyclist- definitely ride the nearby paved Pine Creek Trail. My husband rode a century on his own on Fathers Day while here. The trail goes through small towns and has spots to grab a bite to eat," shares a camper at Colton Point State Park Campground.
Recreation amenities: Some campgrounds offer on-site activities beyond hiking. Stony Fork Creek Campground provides "fishing and pedal boat rentals. The pool was nice and the rec center had a lot of activities for kids," according to recent visitors.
What campers like
Canyon views: Direct access to Pennsylvania's Grand Canyon draws many visitors. "My family of 4 stopped at the Leonard Harrison campground for a 2-night camp while on our way to Maine from Indiana. It was a lovely 2-night stay and awesome area to explore as we discovered the 'Pennsylvania Grand Canyon'!!! Who knew!?" shares one surprised camper.
Wildlife encounters: Local campgrounds offer opportunities to view native wildlife. "There is a lot of wildlife around. Deer come right through the campsites. Many raccoons too so you must stow your food in the evening," warns a visitor to Leonard Harrison State Park.
Privacy at certain sites: Canyon Country Campground receives positive reviews for site layout. "Our trip to Canyon Country Campground was fantastic! The owners were very friendly and helpful. Our site was well laid out. The campground was neat, clean and quiet."
Cleanliness: Campers frequently mention facility upkeep. "The campground had nice & clean restrooms and shower areas. And a larger room that's perfect for camping families with little ones so you can shower & use the restroom all in a one single, larger secure room," notes a visitor.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds in the region close during winter months. Stony Fork Creek Campground maintains more reliable schedules: "We arrived on Saturday and departed the following Friday. The campground was exceptionally maintained, bathrooms and showers virtually spotless and the pool was clearly and consistently maintained at all times."
Cell coverage limitations: Many campgrounds have poor connectivity. "No cell service and WiFi isn't reliable if that's what you need or are looking for," notes a camper at Stony Fork Creek Campground.
Terrain challenges: Some campgrounds have steep access roads. "The entry road to the campground itself is a very steep, narrow road with a small curve at the top. It's well-maintained but keep an eye out for campers coming down. There's space for getting by but it's tight," reports a visitor about Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park.
Site leveling issues: Prepare for potentially uneven sites. "Sites are not very level nor private, but the staff is great and the grounds are walking distance to the canyon," mentions a Canyon Country Campground visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Hickory Hill Camping Resort receives high marks for family amenities. "There is a lot to do at Hickory Hill and everything is included in your site fee. The staff is helpful. They have multiple pools, a sprayground, mini golf, crafts, clean bathrooms and dog stations throughout the grounds," notes one visitor.
Choose sites strategically: At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, site selection matters. "We always get a site on the outside of the main circle by the tower slide. There's lots of shade and optimum view of both playgrounds to keep an eye on the kiddos. It does get very crowded on the weekends so make sure your kiddos know car safety."
Check playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas. "The campground had a cute little playground onsite. And the ranger station was next to the campground with friendly staff giving trail maps, advice and directions," notes a visitor to Leonard Harrison State Park.
Tips from RVers
Campsite dimensions: For RV sites near Westfield, Pennsylvania, accurate measurements matter. "The site we booked online had bad measurements, so when we got there we found our trailer wouldn't fit. The camp map is close but not very accurate, so calling them to book if you have any questions is the way to go," advises a camper at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park PA Wilds.
Navigation challenges: Some campgrounds require careful attention when arriving. "Standard GPS directions for this campground are wrong, (coming from 15N they have you turn right at the end of the ramp, you need to turn left) So plot your route before you go. Otherwise it guides you to a gravel road with a no campers sign," warns another Jellystone visitor.
Site placement: At Tompkins Campground, expect "All roads and parking pads are paved. The sites are closer together than most other COE parks where we've stayed. We stayed in the Bench Loop which is very busy since it is waterfront. Our first week, we were on site 54 (W/E 50A) and waterfront."
