Camping cabins near Curwensville, Pennsylvania are scattered throughout the dense forests of Clearfield County, where elevations range from 1,200 to 2,300 feet above sea level. The region experiences all four distinct seasons, with winter temperatures regularly dropping below freezing from November through March. Most cabin camping areas lie within a 30-mile radius of Curwensville, situated among the pine and hardwood forests that characterize Pennsylvania's Allegheny Plateau.
What to do
Wildlife viewing: Elk watching near Parker Dam State Park provides extraordinary opportunities to see Pennsylvania's elk herd. "Small campground just inside of the PA Wilds. Scenic Elk drive just north with high probability of spotting the majestic animal," notes Travis S., who also warns visitors to watch for timber rattlesnakes commonly seen on roads and trails during warmer months.
Water activities: Kayaking on the Clarion River at Clear Creek State Park offers a refreshing way to explore the region. The river features a "crystal clear, shallow, rock bottom" that's "perfect for a cool off, fishing or kayaking," according to Britt B. Two kayaking companies in nearby Cook Forest provide rental equipment for floats ranging up to 9 miles.
Mountain biking: Allegrippis Trails at Seven Points campground features extensive professionally-designed trails just above the camping areas. Travis S. explains they're "IMBA standard built trails that are open year round and in any weather" providing "a full day of fast flowing singletrack." The campground also includes a mountain bike skills park for riders wanting to practice techniques.
What campers like
Shaded sites: Black Moshannon State Park campers appreciate the wooded settings that provide natural cooling. Lisa L. shares that "spaces are clean and spacious" and the campground is "very peaceful and well maintained." The park runs "a ton of classes for different things like fly fishing, hiking, etc."
Water proximity: Clear Creek State Park offers sites situated near moving water. "A beautiful campground with site not far from the Clarion river. There is a stream that runs down through the park," explains Peter P. Several reviewers mention the campground's waterfront sites, including two very private tent sites classified as "Kayak In" that are both "waterfront, shaded with fire rings."
Rustic charm: At Simon B. Elliott State Park, campers enjoy the old-fashioned camping atmosphere. Casey L. notes, "We really liked the vintage vibe the park had," adding that while "the park is small with not much in regard to activities/amenities," it's "nice for just a laidback/relaxed camping trip."
What you should know
Limited or no cell service: Many cabin areas have spotty cellular connectivity. At Clear Creek State Park, visitors report "no phone reception at this one!" At Parker Dam, reviewers note "limited cell service." This isolation can be appealing to those seeking to disconnect, but requires advance planning since you can't rely on internet access for information once there.
Weather preparedness: The region's elevation means cooler nights even in summer. One camper at Simon B. Elliott noted their campsite was "swampy" with "the only dry places are the gravel pads in the sites." At Cook Forest, a reviewer recommends "going off-season" specifically "in the Fall" to enjoy "beautiful colored foliage."
Reservation timing: Popular cabins book quickly, especially for summer weekends. At Seven Points campground, a visitor explained: "We wanted a waterfront site but even trying to reserve the first day we could for this weekend, they were all taken." For Parker Dam, one camper advises: "If you want to stay in September, book early."
Tips for camping with families
Beach swimming: Prince Gallitzin State Park's Crooked Run Campground offers a designated beach area for children. Jackie W. calls it a "great place for kids" noting it "has a beach on the lake, affordable boat rentals, BMX track for kids." Another camper mentions the "private beach for the campgrounds" that makes it "a nice vacation spot."
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas near cabin sites. At Campers Paradise, a visitor shares that "the playground is conveniently located" and mentions the swimming pool "feels great on a nice hot day." Consider choosing cabin sites near these amenities for convenience with young children.
Educational programs: Many state parks offer ranger-led nature activities. At Clear Creek State Park, Laura C. recommends seeking out "Ranger Susanne—she is a really great teacher!" The park "is a great place to go year-round for kids interested in learning about nature" and includes "a nature museum" with educational displays.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Across the region's state parks, many RV sites require adjustment. At Clear Creek State Park, Isaac R. notes: "Most of the spots will require leveling blocks." Similarly, at Simon B. Elliott State Park, campers indicate uneven terrain throughout much of the campground, though they do provide "decently sized" sites.
Hookup availability: RVers should check specific parks for utility connections. DuBois Treasure Lake KOA offers "large campground right off route 80" with "RV spots" that have "zero trees/shade" according to Julie K. Bill B. notes the "rock sites mostly level" with "most sites are huge" and recommends sites "with concrete patio."
Site selection strategies: At Seven Points campground, Tim J. advises carefully reviewing site layouts before booking: "Depending on where the camper site was located, some had their picnic table and fire ring either above or below them. Definitely worth looking at the pictures." He also mentions Ridge Camp has "spacious sites" that are "perfectly level" with limestone pads.
