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.
What to do
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.
What campers like
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!"
What you should know
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.
Tips for camping with families
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."
Tips from RVers
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.
