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The region surrounding Driftwood, Pennsylvania offers rugged camping experiences within the Pennsylvania Wilds area. Hicks Run campground, located directly in Driftwood, provides tent and RV sites with vault toilets in a primitive setting. Nearby Sinnemahoning State Park Campground in Austin features 35 electric hookup sites with showers and flush toilets. The broader area includes Kettle Creek State Park with upper and lower campgrounds, numerous state forest camping areas, and developed sites at Parker Dam State Park, providing options from basic tent sites to full-hookup RV camping and cabins.
Access to many campsites requires advance planning, especially during peak seasons from mid-April through December when most facilities operate. "There is zero cell service/WiFi at the park, or for at least 5-10 miles from it," notes one visitor to Sinnemahoning State Park, highlighting the remote nature of the region. The Pennsylvania Wilds area experiences cold winters with potential snow, while summers remain relatively mild with cooler temperatures in higher elevations. Many campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, with most state park facilities closing by mid-December. Roads to remote campsites can be narrow and challenging, particularly in state forest areas where high-clearance vehicles may be beneficial.
Wildlife viewing represents a significant draw for campers in the Driftwood region. Several visitors mentioned elk sightings directly from their campsites, particularly in the Benezette area. Campers at Hicks Run report excellent fishing opportunities and swimming holes in nearby creeks. The state parks provide hiking trails, fishing access, and boat launches for additional recreation. According to feedback, "Small, quiet and dispersed" camping areas like Hicks Run offer peaceful experiences, while the more developed state park campgrounds provide better amenities. Waterfront sites at Kettle Creek State Park remain particularly popular, allowing campers to "fish right from your site and in most cases it's easy to launch your kayak also." The diverse camping options throughout the Driftwood area range from secluded forest campgrounds to family-friendly sites with amenities, making it ideal for various camping preferences.
"Step inside to view elk bear birds and other wildlife! Learn about the building of the dam and the early days of the CCC camps."
"There are a few nice scenic trails that go to the lake and through the woods. Some are kid bike friendly. The nature center is great! Kid friendly and fun!"
from $26 - $33 / night
Check Availability"The lower campground is nicely situated right next to the creek, perfect for fishing. I will say some of the sites a very tight if you have a large camper. The bathhouse was very clean and modern."
"No water on sites but bibs near by to fill campers & jugs. Cindy in Admin VERY helpful."
from $31 / night
Check Availability"Some sites are closer together than others, campers were parked next to us and had quite a large crowd. We started on some of the hike and wished we could stay longer."
from $10 / night
Check Availability"The upper campground has a rustic feel, beautiful views and is a great location for wildlife encounters."
"It would be nice if the DCNR added some walk/hike-in sites, or even Adirondack shelters along the long-distance Donut Hole Trail that cuts through the park south of the dam.)"
from $22 - $29 / night
Check Availability"There’s a little lake there, and a stream and some trails but in general it’s all pretty uninspiring."
"These two sites are shaded, surrounded by trees and pretty much private to the rest of the "Modern" campground."
from $24 - $126 / night
Check Availability"Found this location while going to Elk State Forest for the elk bugling. Was very happy to find this location. Had clean bathrooms with running water and showers."
"We camped over Columbus weekend and got to see gorgeous fall leaves, brilliant night skies, and lots of elk right around the campground plus a bear that took a walk through the campground one evening."
"Each campsite had a fire pit and a picnic table and most had trees behind them. We stayed in a drive up site that was close to the restrooms and had a clear field near us to look up and stargaze."
"A little off the beaten path, but definitely a good find away from that light pollution and with other like minded souls!"
from $20 / night
Check Availability"Only one shower house in the mountain view entrance so it would be a short drive if you do not use your camper bathroom."
from $35 - $55 / night
Check Availability"Nice sit with fire pit, picnic table, and short walk to a beautiful creek so no need to bring water if you can filter it. Only 5-10 minutes away from Benezette and the PA elk herd."
"Have your own little driveway to park your car right next to the site. Comes with a picnic table and fire pit. Need lots of rope for setting up tarps as trees are far apart."
from $10 / night
Check Availability"Electric motorboats are permitted on Moshannon Lake. Boat rentals are available in season."
"Great hiking and a beautiful lake for kayaking. Site 22 is a full hookup. Utilities worked nicely. However, our picnic table had seen better days. "
from $24 - $159 / night
Check Availability
GuideIts was great, we stayed in new area, sites had ample room, not many trees at our spot so summer there wouldnt be much shade but we were next to a retention pond/drainage. We brought our dig whole loved running through there.
Not much to say besides it was clean, not crowded (in November) and decent spacing between sites
GuideIt was overall good, Nice amenities, pool was clean (3ft-5ft) Splash pad, air pillow, playground, pond, etc
It has nice wooded areas but very compact, if you have a large camper id be concerned with trying to make some turns on the upper area
GuideStayed for 2 nights with my pup. Nice, private, walk up tent sites maybe 50 yards or so from the road. Didn’t find too much to do trails wise at the campground but the pond nearby has some lovely views and the park across the bridge has a nice beach for swimming.
TravelerThey have 30 amp sites. No water but there is a dump station. Bring your Starlink there is no cell signal. Bathrooms are decent. Good Stargazing(head to nearby Cherry Springs). This is one of the most “out of the way” places in the eastern US. Not quite boon docking but close. There is a guy on the corner that sells firewood. Download maps to get in and out. Listen for the Elk. Watch for Bears.
TravelerLeonard Harrison State Park sits directly on the ridge of the Pine Creek Gorge, also known as the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon. Great hiking trails 800 feet down into the gorge where there is a flat rail trail of 65 miles for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The campsites are roomy and set far apart. There are only about 30 sites and just 8 of them or so have electric. Bathrooms and showers are conveniently located and very clean. No cell service whatsoever, so bring your board games and cards.
RangerWhat a gorgeous area. Camp site has a path down to Medix Run (which seems quite clean) with a perfect spot to set out camp chairs and watch the water. Beautiful sounds of birds and spring wildflowers all over the site. Sites are well spaced. The road is surprisingly busy day and night, which did take away from the experience. Unfortunately that issue was dwarfed by other behavior.
Imagine you're sitting by the water on your campsite at 6pm, and a man is suddenly standing next to you. On your dispersed, state forest camp site. With a path only accessible by walking through the site. He tells you a beaver dam used to be here and goes into the water to fish. Weird things happen, but THREE different fishermen at different times used our campsite as their fishing base. Not the area next to it, the campsite. Even parked down the driveway next to our car.
Maybe you're not bothered by this. Maybe it's because you've read this and now had the chance to consider the possibility. However, I'd be willing to bet you'd rather not be surprised. Especially when there are no amenities and as a woman, you need to get partially undressed just to take a leak in the morning.
This is unacceptable behavior. There were other unoccupied campsites, turn offs and places to stop and fish. In all my life camping, no one has ever done this sort of thing. You stay off campsites when other people are there, unless you need help or want to pass on information.
If one person had done this, I wouldn't be writing such a cranky review but three instances warrants a warning for other campers. Good luck, folks.
TravelerWe arrived mid week for Memorial Day camping. No hookups obviously but beautiful large site with room for probably up to 30’ RV. The sites are WAY further apart than you think they are. Like spread more than 10 miles.
GuideMedium sized campground. All the sites are large and private ish. Not a bad or uneven site anywhere. Showers and bathrooms are clean. Ice and firewood available at the host. Easy access to the shoreline for fishing or boating. Their are 2 trading posts 1.6 miles outside the campground going towards Kane, PA. They are well stocked and have everything you forgot plus live bait.
GuideThe campground was decent enough, but I would probably skip it next time and stay in the state forest instead. The campsites are not especially private and while they are not directly on top of each other, you are definitely aware of nearby campers. That said, it is a great location for stargazing and the pit toilets are convenient if you prefer at least some amenities.
The biggest downside was the lack of firewood. None was available on site and there was little opportunity to gather any from the surrounding woods. After one night, I felt like I had gotten the experience. For my money, I would rather camp nearby in Susquehannock State Forest where you can find far more private and secluded spots for less cost. You give up amenities like toilets, but if privacy and a quieter camping experience matter more, the state forest feels like the better option while still keeping you close enough to enjoy the dark skies near Cherry Springs State Park.
One nearby spot that is absolutely worth the short drive is the Water Tank Vista overlook. The view alone makes the trip worthwhile, especially around sunset or on a clear day. If you are camping in the area, it is one of those places that feels like a hidden gem and adds a lot to the overall experience.
Camping near Driftwood, Pennsylvania provides access to the remote Pennsylvania Wilds region at elevations ranging from 800 to 2,000 feet. The terrain features dense forests dominated by oak, maple, and pine trees with numerous streams and reservoirs throughout. Most campgrounds in this region operate with limited or no cell service, requiring campers to prepare for true disconnection during their stay.
Elk viewing opportunities: Visit Benezette for reliable elk sightings, especially during fall rutting season. According to a visitor at Sinnemahoning State Park Campground, "During the fall at the nearby dam rangers set up an elk viewing spot with binoculars." The area around Driftwood provides regular wildlife encounters.
Boating and water exploration: Kettle Creek State Park offers reservoir access for kayaks and canoes. A camper at Lower Campground notes, "Large reservoir lake part of park 3 mi up from lower campground for more fishing/kayaking/electric trolling motors." Many campsites provide direct water access.
Star gazing: The minimal light pollution makes this region ideal for astronomy. A camper at Cherry Springs State Park Campground reported, "I woke up in the middle of the night to the bright beautiful stars. The campground is beautiful and we had a great view of the sunset." The park hosts dedicated star gazing events throughout the year.
Disconnection from technology: The lack of connectivity creates a true wilderness experience. A visitor at Sinnemahoning State Park Campground mentioned, "The campground is very small, and cell service is non-existent, but that's what we were looking for - a quiet getaway." This digital detox is consistent across most camping areas around Driftwood.
Wildlife encounters: Campers frequently report close animal sightings directly from their sites. At Medix Run Camping Area, a camper shared, "Only 5-10 minutes away from Benezette and the PA elk herd. Town itself has a store and restaurants." Bear, deer, and various bird species are commonly spotted.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer interpretive programs. A Parker Dam visitor explained, "Adults and Children alike will love the park office / Wildlife Center at Sinnemahoning State Park. Learn about this buildings green construction (LEED)geo thermal heat, rain water harvesting system, recycled materials and more!"
Reservation requirements: Many sites fill quickly, especially during prime seasons. A camper at Hicks Run reported, "Sites reserved and it was booked solid for early trout season. I imagine same in the fall for elk viewing." Make reservations 3-6 months in advance for weekend stays.
Weather preparedness: The mountainous terrain creates variable conditions. A visitor at Kettle Creek State Park noted, "So relaxing! Small state park campground. Lower campground has 50 amp electric. Well-kept, clean restroom/showers." Pack layers as mountain temperatures can drop significantly at night, even in summer.
Limited amenities: Many campgrounds offer minimal facilities. According to a Medix Run camper, "This is a free site with no amenities but in a beautiful area. You need to contact the forestry district for availability and to reserve." Bring adequate supplies as nearest stores can be 20-30 minutes away.
Interactive nature centers: Several parks offer child-friendly educational facilities. A visitor to Parker Dam State Park Campground shared, "My kids love riding their bikes here. There are a few nice scenic trails that go to the lake and through the woods. Some are kid bike friendly. The nature center is great! Kid friendly and fun!"
Swimming opportunities: Natural water features provide recreation options. A Hicks Run visitor mentioned, "There is a swimming hole in the small creek that's great! Kids loved it! Also the river is just down on 555 with a kayak launch." Always supervise children around water areas.
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. At Black Moshannon State Park Campground, "This campground is so beautiful with plenty to do for everyone, tons of hiking along the whole park. Spaces are clean and spacious, bath house is very well kept."
Site selection considerations: Many campgrounds have limited space for larger vehicles. At Cherry Springs State Park Campground, campers note, "The campsites themselves were of ideal size and mostly everyone respected the use of red lights instead of their night vision killing white lights!" Research site dimensions before arrival.
Hookup availability varies: Electric sites are more common than full hookups. A camper at Lower Campground explained, "While it had a hookup that we didn't need/use, we did pay extra for it--but well worth the seclusion." Most state forest campgrounds have no hookups, while state parks typically offer electric sites.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds provide sanitary dump facilities. A visitor to Parker Dam State Park Campground mentioned, "Full hookup sites & pet friendly. Close to dam where the fish are plentiful. Nice level sites." Plan your route to include dump stations if staying at primitive campgrounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Driftwood Campground located in PA?
Driftwood Campground is located in the Pennsylvania Wilds region of north-central Pennsylvania, near the small community of Driftwood in Cameron County. It sits in proximity to Sinnemahoning State Park Campground and Hicks Run. This region is known for its beautiful forested landscapes, wildlife viewing opportunities (particularly elk), and access to outdoor recreation along waterways. The area is part of Pennsylvania's extensive state forest system, offering visitors a true wilderness experience.
What facilities and amenities are available at Driftwood Campground?
Driftwood Campground offers basic camping amenities similar to other campgrounds in the Pennsylvania Wilds region. Visitors can expect access to toilet facilities, fire rings, and picnic tables. For reference on typical amenities in the area, Little Pine State Park Campground provides electric hookups, convenient water fill-up locations, and dump stations. Hemlock Acres Camp Ground in the same region offers clean bathrooms with running water and showers. Many campgrounds in this area feature access to creeks or streams, providing opportunities for fishing and wildlife viewing.
How is Driftwood Campground laid out and what are the camping options?
Driftwood Campground offers a rustic camping experience with a layout typical of Pennsylvania wilderness campgrounds. The camping options likely include tent sites and limited RV sites, similar to nearby Ole Bull State Park Campground which features flat campsites with varied sun exposure. Some sites are in full shade while others are more open. Upper Campground — Kettle Creek State Park provides a good reference for the area with its rustic feel, beautiful views, and wildlife viewing opportunities. In this region, campgrounds typically offer a mix of primitive sites and some with basic amenities like electricity, though hookups are often limited.
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