Pymatuning Lake dominates the camping landscape around Linesville, Pennsylvania, covering 17,088 acres across the Pennsylvania-Ohio border. The region sits at approximately 1,010 feet elevation with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F during peak camping season. Lake levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting beach access and boat launches at several campgrounds from mid-April through October.
What to do
Fishing for multiple species: Pymatuning State Park Campground on the Ohio side offers excellent fishing opportunities with walleye, bass, and crappie. "Save that old loaf of bread so you can feed the carp. Look up to spot a bald eagle beautiful sunsets and sunrise's. Have to go at least 1time to this park. I will bet you that you will come back," notes Jim L.
Birdwatching along the shoreline: Jamestown Campground attracts many bird species, particularly bald eagles. "We have stayed in several sites. Love it. The bald eagles sit in the trees not at all bothered by us. Amazing," shares Mary M. who visited Pymatuning's Jamestown location.
Swimming at select beaches: While not all camping spots near Linesville have swimming access, Jeffco Lakes Campground offers a swimming pool as an alternative to lake swimming. "BEST PLACE for hot & humid days. Visited this camp site with my family on last vacation. Grounds are neat and clean also swimming pool," reports Mary E.
Boating and kayaking: Many campsites provide direct water access. "If you are looking to stay at a small state park campground and bring your boat near your site or launch your canoe and paddle board look no further. We loved our stay site 208 (electric only) it was big and near the water," writes Patience W. about Linesville Campground.
What campers like
Clean fish-cleaning stations: Linesville Campground provides facilities specifically for anglers. "Always look forward to a long weekend of fishing and kayaking. Showers, restrooms and fish cleaning station are always clean," reports Chelsea K. The campground even offers complimentary refrigerators and freezers for storing catches.
Spacious sites with lake views: Many campers appreciate the room between sites. "It does not have a pool or game room or any of those types of amenities and thats what we LOVE about this campground. it is simple camping. it has everything we need. a picnic table, fire ring and electric hookup. It's nice and quiet. There is a fair amount of room between sites so you don't feel crowded," notes AnnaMarie S. about Linesville.
Playground access for children: Wildwood Acres Campground provides recreational options for families. "Sites are large (we stayed at 300) well wooded w large mature trees. Much to do for children.. pool 4'-12' w dive board, volleyball, backstop for ball w large field, large playground, basketball court, small game room w air hockey and pool table couple arcade games," explains Joe F.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The lake area supports diverse wildlife. "The lake is fantastic for fishing. We have seen the most beautiful sunsets here that you won't see anywhere else. There is an eagles nest on one of the islands. If you take your boat or rent one at the marina you can go out on the lake and you will see eagles for sure!!" shares AnnaMarie S.
What you should know
Limited hiking trails: Several campgrounds lack dedicated hiking paths. "Wish there were more hiking trails; unless you fish or boat, there isn't a lot to do," notes Mary S. about the Ohio side of Pymatuning. For hikers, the Pymatuning Spillway trail offers an alternative outside the campgrounds.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies throughout camping spots near Linesville. "Very little, if any cell service," reports Mary S. who camped at Pymatuning State Park in Ohio. Service tends to be better near populated areas than along shoreline sites.
Site levelness varies: Some campsites require additional work to set up comfortably. "The site was not level, but we were able to get the tent trailer level without too much effort," explains Leah L. about her experience at Jamestown Campground.
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds close from mid-October through mid-April. Mosquito Lake State Park, about 30 miles west of Linesville, offers year-round camping as an alternative. "The sites are huge. The dog park is amazing. Theres so much to do here. Swimming, boating, fishing. We love it," states Courtney C.
Tips for camping with families
Designated pet areas: Pet policies affect where families with dogs can access amenities. "I didn't like that pets are not allowed in the non-pet area as that was where the playground and swimming beach was. Made it difficult to swim and play as a family since you can't leave dogs alone at the campsite," explains Jeani B. about Jamestown Campground.
Biking-friendly layout: Flat terrain makes biking an excellent activity. "Bringing our bikes was a blast as we were able to bike down to the beach for swimming and we took our bikes to Meadville to do the Ernst bike trail (recommended - a paved, flat, easy 6.3 mile cycling trail through the woods and along the river)," shares Leah L.
Reserve waterfront sites early: Prime locations book quickly, especially during summer weekends. "Nice and spacious sites. Great launch area from the campground to set out on your kayak or paddle board. Walkable to the marina and beach area. Beach area was small but clean and had new sand," notes Joni P. about Linesville Campground.
Entertainment options: Shangri La By The Lake Campground offers family-friendly activities. "Huge place. Lots of room with plenty of shaded sites. Well maintained with new owners who are very pleasant. Old fashioned camping with fire rings where no one bothers you," describes Samuel C.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Various levels of hookups exist throughout the area. "Bayshore Family Camping is one of my family's favorite places to camp. More of a neighborhood feel. Mostly all full hook up. Transient sites by the lake are our favorite," reports Michelle H.
Site selection for privacy: Some campgrounds offer more secluded options. "We stayed on the pet end and got a spot near the lake. But also this meant people were walking through our site to go walk to the water," explains Casey S. about Jamestown Campground.
Off-season considerations: Fall camping offers unique experiences. "5 stars just for the Autumn visuals. 1 star for the fact that we got in after dark and ALL the numbers for the electric sites are posted in non-reflective lettering. We couldn't find our spot," shares Lisa B. about her experience at Pymatuning State Park.
RV size restrictions: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. "Sites are large (we stayed at 300) well wooded w large mature trees," notes Joe F. about Wildwood Acres, which offers electric hookups but may have limitations for bigger vehicles due to its wooded setting.
