Tent campsites near Curwensville, Pennsylvania range from primitive forest sites to established park campgrounds throughout the Allegheny Plateau region. This area features elevations between 1,100-2,000 feet with mixed hardwood forests dominated by oak, maple and cherry trees. Spring camping often brings temperature fluctuations between 30-70°F with frequent rainfall, while summer nights typically cool to 50-60°F even after warm days.
What to do
Fishing access: Clarion Wild and Scenic River offers primitive camping with direct access to Class I-II rapids and excellent smallmouth bass fishing. During spring high water, portions become challenging Class III sections requiring advanced paddling skills.
Mountain biking: Mountain View Camps provides camping near multiple trail systems. According to Richard C., you can "hit the mountain bike track, explore the ruins on the game lands, and might even see an albino fawn."
Streamside relaxation: Long Acres on Clover Creek provides secluded tent sites alongside a gentle stream. Sarah A. notes, "The secluded area combined with the creek nearby made for a great escape from reality. The stars are so bright out here and the tent was absolutely fabulous!"
Forest exploration: Deeper forest roads throughout Susquehannock State Forest offer pull-off camping spots. Scott K. reports, "All the roads in the forest are drivable gravel with many pull off spots for camping!" This allows campers to position themselves near various hiking trails.
What campers like
Solitude on weekdays: Penn Roosevelt State Park Campground offers particularly quiet midweek camping. Chuck M. shares, "I arrived on a Wednesday evening. I had my pick of campsites, because I was the only person there! It was so secluded, I heard nothing but nature for over an hour before a plane flew over."
Weatherproof experiences: Many roadside sites remain accessible during challenging weather. Brittney W. describes her experience: "We spent the night during a tropical storm and got the pleasure of hearing the rain on the tent out in this peaceful spot!"
Boat-accessible sites: Nancy's Boat To Shore Campground offers a unique water-access camping option. John H. notes, "This campground is accessed by boat only. But it has a maintenance road and is patrolled by college kids with summer jobs. Follow the rules and you will have a wonderful time."
Winter camping: Several tent areas remain open year-round with reduced usage. Paige L. reports about Penn Roosevelt: "Stayed during the winter so the park wasn't very busy but there was one other group of campers. The sites are tent only and pretty close together but some still feel secluded."
What you should know
Spring mud challenges: Early season camping at forest sites requires preparation. Anne W. warns about Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite: "We stayed here in March, so there weren't leaves back on the trees yet which meant we could see the road. It was also extremely muddy. Not bad on the main track in but swampy everywhere else."
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites lack amenities. Denise D. advises about Penn Roosevelt: "It's a bit primitive having only bathrooms and water in several spots in the campground. Make sure you bring everything you need as there isn't a store nearby."
Site selection strategies: Position within campgrounds significantly affects experience. For tent camping at Penn Roosevelt, Joann reports, "Get a site on the outside towards the water. They are spaced out and peaceful. Has restrooms (no shower), picnic table, and fire pit at each site."
Road visibility: Many forest campsites have varying degrees of road visibility. Todd H. notes about Loleta Road: "The only real downside is the road near by, but the traffic is at a minimum."
Tips for camping with families
Day-use alternatives: Several areas offer picnic options before committing to overnight stays. Jill R. explains about Penn Roosevelt: "Went there for a picnic with the young ones and it was quite a fun evening. There were not many people around so the kids could frolic and be slightly loud without bothering any other people."
Evening stargazing: Clear nights offer exceptional astronomy opportunities. At Wilson Hollow Boondock, minimal light pollution creates ideal conditions for identifying constellations and observing meteor showers, particularly during the Perseids in August.
Noise considerations: Some water-access sites experience variable noise levels. Kristen H. mentions about Nancy's Boat To Shore: "Some weekend get slightly loud because of college kids, but most are mindful of younger children if you ask them to keep it down."
Grass management: Seasonal conditions affect ground comfort at some sites. At Loleta Road, Excelsior X. reports, "When we went, the grass was growing tall, we only stayed for a night. And it was a lil muddy."
Tips from RVers
Trailer access limitations: Forest roads often restrict larger vehicles. Chuck M. warns about Penn Roosevelt: "If you have a trailer, I do not recommend this spot. There is a very tight hairpin turn on the way in. My six foot long trailer barely made the turn!"
Van camping options: Smaller self-contained vehicles can utilize roadside spots. Brent notes about Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite: "Living in a van looking for spots to stay this wasn't a bad one at all, good bit off the road, couple trails."
Pull-off selection: Multiple roadside options allow choosing ideal locations. Derek O. recommends: "I pulled off about a half mile past the noted google maps pinpoint. Great time for the dogs and I."
Access road conditions: Most forest roads remain passable for standard vehicles but may require clearance. Dylan H., a regular at Loleta Road, adds, "I've been camping here for 5 years now and it's always a good time."
